Glen Harvey can't help but speak exuberantly about his latest condo project, Jefferson Avenue Condominiums.
That's because a pair of buildings built back in the 1960s have literally been made new again, thanks to a series of extensive renovations.
"The two buildings (610 and 620 Jefferson) have been totally retrofitted from top to bottom," he says. "The exterior of the building now has a new (two-tone) stucco covering with a five-inch foam insulation wrap and new triple-pane windows for each unit. Each suite was also taken down to the studs so that R20 insulation could be installed in the interior walls."
Add the exterior and interior insulation together, and the R-value becomes very impressive, he adds.
"The combined insulation value is going to be in the neighbourhood of R50. That's going to make for very energy-efficient buildings. And because these are concrete buildings, you won't hear anyone beside, above or beneath you. With new electric baseboard heat, the cost of heat and hydro figures to be cheap, too."
Although the buildings are over 40 years old, Jefferson Avenue Condominiums exude a like-new feel. For starters, the foyers have been redone in a rich-looking slate tile, while the hallways sport new carpeting and fresh earth-tone paint on the cinderblock walls. As well, an HVAC system on the roof of each building will ensure there's a constant flow of fresh air -- and pressurize hallways to minimize odor transfer.
Then there are the units themselves: one- and two-bedroom suites that measure in at about 650 and 850 sq. ft. respectively. Not only are they a good size, but they've also been completely remodelled, says Harvey.
"I would have to say this project represents the highest degree of retrofitting we've ever done. The plumbing and wiring in each unit is brand new, and all the finishes are new as well. Take the one-bedroom units -- when we drywalled, we even created a tray ceiling (with pot lights) above the living room. All the doors are new, and so is the carpeting."
Attention to detail in the units is impressive. Take the galley-style kitchens, for example. While it would have been easy to just put in vinyl flooring, laminate countertops and melamine cabinets, Harvey and company chose to go the extra mile.
"We wanted to do things right, and with style, so we put in new, dark-espresso maple cabinets, black granite countertops and Italian tile floors -- plus a gorgeous glass tile and four stainless-steel appliances, which are included in the selling price. I think it looks great."
While looks are important, so too is layout. Both the one- and two-bedroom units make good use of the available space, with both suites having generous dining areas off the kitchen with new, dark hardwood-style flooring. The living rooms are bright and spacious, with plenty of room for furniture, TV and accent pieces.
The master suite in the one-bedrooms is surprisingly large, while the two-bedroom units sport two good-sized bedrooms. Bathrooms in both units feature tile floors and surround, pedestal sinks and elegant vanities.
"Everything here has been redone -- nothing else in the city offers this kind of value," Harvey maintains. "Additional amenities will include a cappuccino lounge and exercise room downstairs, plus ample storage. There will also be a centre court between the two buildings with a deck, barbeques and patio furniture for residents to enjoy."
Most importantly, Jefferson Avenue Condominiums will offer an affordable alternative to renting, he says.
"Our goal is to convert renters into owners. With a five-per-cent down (and a new first mortgage of $142,405 at variable interest rate of 2.25 per cent over a 30-year amortization), you can own a one-bedroom unit for about $739 a month (including a mortgage payment of $541, condo fees of $118.70 and estimated (net) taxes of $80).
"With Jefferson Avenue Condominiums, what you see is what you get -- a totally redone condo complex that's a smart alternative to renting."
lewys@mts.net
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DETAILS
Address: 610 Jefferson Avenue
Style: Apartment-style condominiums
Size: 650 sq. ft. or 850 sq. ft.
Bedrooms: 1 or 2
Bathrooms: 1
Price: $149,900 to $169,900
Condominium Fees: $118.70 to $146.40
Contact: Glen or Bruce Harvey @ 477-0500
