New Homes
New Homes
Housing starts in Manitoba shoot upward
Housing permit numbers in Winnipeg were up significantly in December 2010 over the same month in 2009. That marks 11 of the 12 months where last year was ahead of the previous year.
Given the 2009 economy, that is hardly surprising. However, it is the magnitude of the increase that catches one's attention. For the calendar year 2010, the Winnipeg metropolitan area experienced an increase of 27.6 per cent in single-family detached starts. Combined with multi-family units, there was an overall increase of 59.6 per cent.
The multi-family sector, which was almost invisible in 2009, exploded in 2010. In fact, there was talk of various projects that were originally scheduled for this coming year that started early due to demand.
If the first three weeks of 2011 are any indication, it looks like this year could also be a banner year for new housing throughout the province. It remains to be seen if the multi-family sector can keep that torrid pace, but the single-family detached appears well on its way. This is good news for economic activity, training and jobs.
All projections point to another strong year for the residential construction industry, whether the numbers are superior to this past year or not.
In fact, all Western Canada experienced a very positive 2010 as it pertained to housing starts. Saskatchewan grew commensurate with Manitoba and British Columbia and Alberta also enjoyed significant growth.
However, it must be remembered that B.C. and Alberta fell a lot harder than Manitoba in 2009, so their comeback, although positive, still leaves them well behind the pace they set in previous years.
In addition to new home construction, the renovation market continues to be robust throughout Manitoba. We're still known as the renovation capital of Canada and more Manitobans renovate each year than those in any other province.
Although there have been calls for a slowdown in renovation activity on a national level, there is no sign of it happening here. If the lineup at the Ask a Renovator booth at the recent Kitchen Bath and Renovation Show was any indication, there is going to be lots of work to do in 2011.
Mike Moore is president of the Manitoba Home Builders' Association.
New Homes
Planning a reno? Here's where to start
Saturday and Sunday are the last two days of the Kitchen Bath and Renovation Show at the Winnipeg Convention Centre. The show runs today from 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. and on Sunday from noon to 5 p.m. If Friday's crowds are any indication, this may be the most popular show in recent memory.
This show has always kicked off the new year for home renovations, and Manitobans lead the nation in that department. Manitoba is the only province where more money is spent on renovations than new home construction on a consistent basis.
The KBR Show is unique in that it provides a free avenue for consumers to test the renovation market. The Ask a Renovator segment of the Manitoba Home Builders' Association booth is staffed with two professional RenoMark renovators available to answer your questions about a job you may be planning.
They are there to provide free 15-minute consultations to help steer you in the right direction toward an enjoyable and exciting upgrade to your home. Just come to the show and you will be able to pick the brains of one of Manitoba's finest renovators.
Whether the job is big or small; whether it's something you're committed to or just thinking about; whether you are a do it yourselfer or looking for a professional to help, this is the perfect place to start.
Along with presenting sponsor FloForm Countertops, we are proud to feature Sarah Richardson, star of HGTV's Sarah's House and Sarah 101. Last night, over 800 people were wowed by her fabulous presentation. Today
(Saturday) at 1 p.m. is your last chance to see Sarah in person.
Tickets are available for $20 plus agency fee at Ticketmaster in the Convention Centre. It's rush seating and doors will open at 11:30 a.m., so come early and stay late as your ticket to see Sarah Richardson also gets you into the KBR Show.
Tickets for the grand prize are being sold by volunteers from Variety'the Children's Charity. Tickets are two for $5, which enter you to win the Ultimate Kitchen Experience, valued at almost $20,000.
The Kitchen and Bath Renovation Show is today and Sunday, so don't miss your chance to see Manitoba's best suppliers located in one convenient place.
Mike Moore is president of the Manitoba Home Builders' Association.
New Homes
Bigger, Better, Best at 10th KBR Show
January is always a time of fresh starts and new beginnings. What better way to start than at the 2011 Kitchen Bath and Renovation Show, presented by Floform Countertops at the Winnipeg Convention Centre Jan. 14 to 16?
As the show manager for the Manitoba Home Builders' Association, I've travelled to shows throughout Canada and had the opportunity to meet with show producers from across North America. 2011 promises to bring forward-thinking designs that will continue to reshape and surprise us as the year unfolds.
It's KBR's 10th anniversary and we wanted to celebrate in style. Our theme this year is Bigger Better Best. There is only one Canadian decorator who fit the bill. We set our sights high and we are really excited to welcome Sarah Richardson, host of Sarah's House on HGTV to our home show this year. Sarah is delightful and I know you will enjoy her presentations on Friday at 7 p.m. and Saturday at 1 p.m. Tickets are available at Ticketmaster for $20 plus GST.
KBR offers consumers a one-stop shopping experience all under one roof.
We will showcase hundreds of exhibits with the best and most innovative products and services in our marketplace. No matter how small or grand your renovation plans are, we can make your dreams a reality.
The Ask A Renovator feature, sponsored by U Need Space, is offering free 15-minute consultations with a certified renovator. To book an appointment, please go to our website at www.kitchenandbathshow.com.
Bring along your plans and get the advice you need from the professionals. The Inclusive Design Group will also be on hand to assist with your decorating dilemmas.
Join us at the Western Paint Lifestyle Stage for informative and entertaining presentations from local experts. Please check our website for details.
I am really excited to see the growth and direction KBR has taken. By far, we are one of Canada's number one kitchen, bath and renovation shows.
Whether you are on a quest for cutting edge design or a place where family and friends can gather, I hope that we can provide you with the ideas to give your home the heart and soul you envision.
See you at the show.
Jan Currier is show manager at the Manitoba Home Builders' Association.
New Homes
Thanks to all who made this past year a success
As 2010 ends and a new year begins, the Manitoba Home Builders'Association wants to take this opportunity to recognize and thank those who made this past year a success.
The residential construction industry is a huge part of Manitoba's economy, accounting for a $2.8 billion impact, over 24,000 jobs, over $1 billion in wages and generating hundreds of millions of dollars in government tax revenue.
Of course, initial kudos must go to the volunteers and staff that drive the MHBA. There are 10 standing committees of the association with approximately 10 representatives per committee. That means 100 people are giving their time and expertise to the MHBA each year. That means that numerous companies recognize the importance of being involved in their professional association. It doesn't work without this kind of commitment.
The MHBA presents both large and small events. The Spring and Fall Parades of Homes are the largest and best run in Canada. The Home Expressions Show in March and the Kitchen and Bath Renovation Show in January are the largest events held in the Convention Centre. Tens of thousands of people participate in these four very public events.
At the other end of the spectrum, the MHBA hosts housing forums, educational seminars, awards evenings, dinner meetings, golf and curling outings and a variety of other activities that encourage interaction and professional development among members. A huge thank you goes to all of the sponsors, too many to list but many can be found in the individual categories of the MHBA website.
Legislation, policies, practices and procedures can be frustrating at the best of times. However, without full consultation, they can be almost impossible. Recognition and thanks must go to the open door policies of Premier Greg Selinger and the many ministers and their staff whose portfolios have a tremendous impact on the residential construction industry.
Similarly, across the floor, Hugh McFadyen and Jon Gerrard ensure that all sides are being heard. Mayor Sam Katz, the executive policy committee and everyone at planning, property and development are the absolute best.
This past year was a tremendous one for the housing industry after a tough 2009. Residential construction rebounded well and showed strength and resilience. However, Manitoba succeeds on partnerships and so here's looking to an even better 2011.
Mike Moore is president of the Manitoba Home Builders' Association.
