Minto development pushes net zero homes into the main stream and sales through the roof in Markham

Phase 2 of Union Village in Unionville 'significant milestone in sustainability'

Yorkregion.com
May 25, 2021
Heidi Reidner

Despite a 12-per-cent drop in sales in May from the previous month, real estate is still a hot commodity.

Case in point: Phase 2 of Minto Communities GTA's Union Village development in Unionville sold out in record time last month.

But there was something very unique about select models of the single-family homes, rear-lane townhomes and traditional townhomes starting at $1.1 million in the second phase of the 412-acre, master-planned community located at 16th Avenue and Kennedy Road.

Homes included an option for net zero upgrades for the first time.

“This a significant milestone in sustainability for Minto Communities GTA, and we’re proud to offer this option to purchasers,” says Roya Khaleeli, director of sustainability and innovation.

“Eliminating carbon emissions and improving our carbon footprint is critical. Through a net zero home, residents can save up to 4.5 tons of carbon every year without sacrificing comfort, the equivalent of driving nearly 30,000 kilometres in a Ford F-150.”

Net zero homes are designed to produce as much energy as they consume, made possible through a number of interacting mechanical systems, including hyper-efficient insulation, triple-paned windows, state-of-the-art heating and cooling, smart ventilation and solar panels.

Touted benefits include better indoor comfort and air quality, lower energy costs for the homeowner, and less impact on the planet -- resulting in a home that’s up to 80 per cent more energy-efficient than a regular home.

Net zero ready packages are also available, which are homes built to comply with net zero standards featuring zoned HVAC, without the higher-performing mechanical systems or solar panels.

Minto is ahead of the curve with its net zero homes, a relatively niche category to date. They are expected to surge over the next decade, fuelled by legislative change and changing consumer preferences, according to industry observers.
The federal government has indicated it is working with provinces and territories to develop net zero energy ready (NZER) building codes by 2030 that will progressively specify higher energy-efficiency targets.

And today’s home buyers are putting an increasing value on sustainability features, according to the Canadian Home Builders’ Association's annual consumer surveys.

“Certified by an energy program” made the top 10 list of consumer preferences on its Home Buyer Preference Study, along with four other energy-efficient features, including appliances and windows.

Minto officials believe an increasing popularity in net zero homes and trend in multi-generational living helped propel the rapid sell out of its second phase of Union Village last month.

“We are seeing home buyers become more conscious of improving their environmental impact as seen in the interest in net zero homes, which is something we’re excited about,” says Mike LaPlante, vice-president of land development.

“While we continue to deliver on our commitment to sustainability by introducing the upgrades as an option, it was also important for us to offer flexible floor plans and open up new possibilities for future residents to live with extended family or to support aging-in-place.”

So in addition to the smart home systems -- including remote management, thermostat and water leak sensors, HVAC monitoring and door locks -- homebuyers have the option of adding elevators and secondary suites to floor plans.

Floor plans were also designed in consultation with international Feng Shui expert Paul Ng to ensure “harmony and positive energy in every home.”

LaPlante says the response to Union Village has been very rewarding for the company.

“As a developer, we are always seeking to build community, and this thoughtful approach has resonated with purchasers.”

Phase 2 is slated for completion in the fall 2023. Multiple parks and landscape features, as well as a trail system and skating rink, are part of the overall development.