AFFORDABLE ABODES–TRC Projects Ltd. is the development company behind six new homes in Radium that are being built by Invermere-based Kris Newman Contracting.
Those looking for new affordable housing, look no further as TRC Projects Ltd. broke ground on Monday, September 12th for their six-home development project located in the heart of Radium Hot Springs.
TRC Projects Ltd. is owned by Kevin Blackwell, who said they have been working in the Radium area since 2001 and he owns property there with his family. He said part of what makes Radium an attractive option for prospective homeowners is the peace and tranquility thats absent from a city atmosphere.
I live in Calgary myself, but weve owned property out in Radium since 2001 and at different times of the year weve stayed visiting as a recreation market, living there and working there, its a nice laidback atmosphere, he said. Its not the hustle and bustle of the city and there are some really good trades out there that do some good work.
After acquiring the development property in 2010, which is located close to The Springs Golf Course, Mr. Blackwell said he had considered doing a multi-family project on the land but realized the local market didnt need any more condominiums in the area.
It wasnt until April of this year that he proposed the idea for a six-house development to Radium council with the aim of providing affordable townhouse style homes in the community without having to pay strata fees (also known as condo fees that require homeowners to pay a fee for services such as lawn maintenance and other communal expenses for the development). Mr. Blackwell said he thinks this will be an enticing option for people looking to purchase a new home in the Radium area.
That gives you freedom where you dont have in other places, like this is your own home, you own the land, he said. If you want to paint your house pink, theres no restrictions for that; if you want to do whatever you want in your backyard, take out your grass and put wash rock and put more trees in there, you dont have to ask for permission.
Clara Reinhardt, mayor of Radium Hot Springs, said discussion with TRC Projects Ltd., was productive earlier this year and that council was pleased to move forward with this project.
Any new development is good for the community, she said, noting that this development is a great avenue to round out the housing market in the village.
Theres something for everyone. You can rent, you can buy, you can have an apartment style, you can have a townhouse-style, a garage, small lots or large lots. Theres little bit for everyone and I think that really makes for a very viable community, she said.
Four of the six houses will be bungalows with two two-storey models completing the development. Mr. Blackwell said these types of houses will be great for first-time homeowners or even recreational buyers. With construction having just started, prospective buyers will be able to move in the spring of 2017 but are able to work with Mr. Blackwell to select custom flooring, counters, paint and appliances prior to January 1st.
Those interested in learning more information can visit www.trcprojects.ca or call Mr. Blackwell at 403-816-6007.
