Picking upgrades in our condo.

[davecanada]

We are pickiung our colours and upgrades this Friday. Any advice from those that have done this in the past?

Anything we should def. upgrade?

Anything we should stay away from?

We were originally looking at a jacuzzi tub but for $1600 I know I won't use it more that 2-3 time a year. (I am a shower kind of guy, not a bath)

Also if anyone else can give me an idea of how much things cost to upgrade, that would be great.

Dave

[TrevorK]

My friends have always gone by the logic of, if you can (And want to) do it yourself then don't pay the builder to do it.

So for stuff like a jacuzzi, if you want it, but don't want to install yourself, might as well get the builder to do it.

[rdarkman68]

It depends on what you have got, what is available at what price. A lot of it is personal preferences.

Hardwood flooring is a must for me. But others can't live without carpet. Counter top are nice, but usually expensive. Extra lighting/mirrors are worth considering.

A lot of these things are hard to upgrade once you moved in. Others are easier, so that's my starting point.

Have fun.

[gman]

It depends on what you have got, what is available at what price. A lot of it is personal preferences.

Hardwood flooring is a must for me. But others can't live without carpet. Counter top are nice, but usually expensive. Extra lighting/mirrors are worth considering.

A lot of these things are hard to upgrade once you moved in. Others are easier, so that's my starting point.

Have fun.
I think if you want hardwood flooring, you can do it better and cheaper using outside contractor. You can pick the material you like instead of whatever the builder throws to you. Even if they give you some choices to choose, it will be limited. Just my $0.02.

[mroosman]

Get the jacuzzi too much hassle to do it after as requires different plumbing line. Get a credit for the appliances and private message me to understand how to get that at builder prices, as we must upgrade appliances!!!!, but not through builder. Granite is a must, and take the upgraded one. Get connections for central vac as it is a huge seller. Also make sure you tell them not to put in the toilet roll and towel holder as they put the cheapest one. P. msg me if you need more help.

[davecanada]

It depends on what you have got, what is available at what price. A lot of it is personal preferences.

Hardwood flooring is a must for me. But others can't live without carpet. Counter top are nice, but usually expensive. Extra lighting/mirrors are worth considering.

A lot of these things are hard to upgrade once you moved in. Others are easier, so that's my starting point.

Have fun.


We may actually be looking at polished concrete floor.

[Venusia]

If you're talking about acid etching the slab, check your condo rules for that first. Some condos require a sound dampening layer below hardwood or tile, and so finishing the slab itself would be out of the question.

I would upgrade any builder-grade plumbing fixtures, especially the toilet and faucets.

[davecanada]

If you're talking about acid etching the slab, check your condo rules for that first. Some condos require a sound dampening layer below hardwood or tile, and so finishing the slab itself would be out of the question.

I would upgrade any builder-grade plumbing fixtures, especially the toilet and faucets.

Thanks, the builder would be the one finishing the concrete so hopefully it will be ok.

we probably will upgrade the faucets for sure.. this may be a dumb question, but how can you upgrade the toilet?

[Keigotw]

Get the jacuzzi too much hassle to do it after as requires different plumbing line. Get a credit for the appliances and private message me to understand how to get that at builder prices, as we must upgrade appliances!!!!, but not through builder. Granite is a must, and take the upgraded one. Get connections for central vac as it is a huge seller. Also make sure you tell them not to put in the toilet roll and towel holder as they put the cheapest one. P. msg me if you need more help.

So if I want to upgrade a fridge and the builder doesn't have what i like
I can get credit for the appliances?? and buy it somewhere else???
how???

thanks

[thelefteyeguy]

just did the upgrades for condo at Monarch

$$$$ for counter top
$$$$$$ for engineer flooring
$ extra lighting above counter top
-$ credit for appliance (the appliance are through the supplier at Home Show)

[davecanada]

just did the upgrades for condo at Monarch

$$$$ for counter top
$$$$$$ for engineer flooring
$ extra lighting above counter top
-$ credit for appliance (the appliance are through the supplier at Home Show)


Well luckily our countertops are marble in all areas..whew.

Our flooring comes with laminate and as stated earlier polished concrete may be an option.

Will be interesting to see the appliance credit.

Dave

[Venusia]

we probably will upgrade the faucets for sure.. this may be a dumb question, but how can you upgrade the toilet?

Not sure I understand your question. Do you mean that you think all toilets are the same quality, or you don't know if the builder would give you a credit for a fancier toilet?

Example, if you just get builder grade Crane or American Standard, I would definitely upgrade, my personal preference is Toto, with insulated bowl (no condensation), elongated seat (for comfort), etc.

[thelefteyeguy]

Well luckily our countertops are marble in all areas..whew.

Our flooring comes with laminate and as stated earlier polished concrete may be an option.

Will be interesting to see the appliance credit.

Dave

let me guess DNA?

[Keigotw]

just did the upgrades for condo at Monarch

$$$$ for counter top
$$$$$$ for engineer flooring
$ extra lighting above counter top
-$ credit for appliance (the appliance are through the supplier at Home Show)

that much for $$$$$$ for engineer flooring???
what was the sq ft?

how much would to upgrade 180 SQ. FT. to hard wood floor ? (I mean what do they usually charge for upgrade)

[thelefteyeguy]

well the home design lady scared the hell out of me...plus i didnt want to spend like 2 days of laying down laminate (the quality stuff 12mm thick)

scare tactic used: you have to rip out the side boards; you have to get a contractor / installer to talk to the site super before you install; etc
plus laying down laminate through out the suite scared me since there are lots of doors and corners and closets.

anyways monarch had 3 grades of engineered flooring to choose I got their highest grade for just about 300 sqft (only living/dining area)...and is costing me in the area of $5K...so like about 16$/sqtf...

if i laid laminate it would have cost me at most 5$/sqft...but i did check engineered flooring...it would have cost me a good 10+$/sqft...


the marble counter top killed me too....they charge you like crazy on top of the countertop...different sink, underlay, cutting, etc...but it was a little less than the flooring.

[thelefteyeguy]

that much for $$$$$$ for engineer flooring???
what was the sq ft?

how much would to upgrade 180 SQ. FT. to hard wood floor ? (I mean what do they usually charge for upgrade)

depending on your builder and grade im thinking a good

3000-4000


So over the weekend I went to look at EQ1...and they had free laminate flooring and granite counter top upgrade...what a joke the design lady told me they didnt recommend laminate flooring...and thats why they didnt carry it...so i had to choose engineered flooring....lying crook of $hit.

well at least my condo went up in price since 2 yrs ago.

[jed]

From what I've read, engineered flooring is better than laminate in that you get the top half of real oak, but the same base as what you would find on laminate. I'd say you got the better stuff by getting engineered. Too bad she was such a biatch tho.

When I go into a home with laminate all I think of is why did they put a kitchen countertop on the floor?

[davecanada]

let me guess DNA?


You guessed correctly. WOW. I hope you use your physcic ability for good...

[thelefteyeguy]

You guessed correctly. WOW. I hope you use your physcic ability for good...

thats coz...i read a article on the Star is past weekend about polished cement ^_^ at DNA...i really wanted polished cement for my condo...but option not available ...

[north77]

Awesome thread. I'm learning alot. :)
Ques: Are many (or all) condo's built with no overhead lighting the the bedroom(s)? Or is that lighting an extra option? :confused:

[grant]

We may actually be looking at polished concrete floor.

Oh dear... cold, drab, and sure to piss off your neighbours when you drag or drop things. The ultimate in "developer cheapness" it turns burber carpet into an "upgrade"!! I would never live in a condo that offered cement floors... i value my peace & quiet too much.

Why do you feel "lucky" you have marble counters? You were forced to buy it as part of the condo price, it's not like you got it for free! :D

[davecanada]

Oh dear... cold, drab, and sure to piss off your neighbours when you drag or drop things. The ultimate in "developer cheapness" it turns burber carpet into an "upgrade"!! I would never live in a condo that offered cement floors... i value my peace & quiet too much.

Why do you feel "lucky" you have marble counters? You were forced to buy it as part of the condo price, it's not like you got it for free! :D


Actually Grant the polished concrete was the upgrade, hardwood was standard. (carpet was not offered)


As far as the granite goes, yes I do feel lucky, for the pricepoint I paid in the location I will be in it very easily could have been (and is at most similar sites) laminate counter tops.

[davecanada]

Awesome thread. I'm learning alot. :)
Ques: Are many (or all) condo's built with no overhead lighting the the bedroom(s)? Or is that lighting an extra option? :confused:


Neither of our bedrooms have overhead lighting they both have 2 lightswitches controlling 2 outlets.

[grant]

Actually Grant the polished concrete was the upgrade, hardwood was standard. (carpet was not offered)

Can you explain why that is? Is it simply a supply/demand issue (i.e., people for some strange reason want a concrete floor) .. or is there actually more expense in polishing than in installing another type of floor?

Obviously i can not see any allure to it at all. For a hundred years people have covered concrete to improve their floor, this concept seems like a step backwards.

[davecanada]

Can you explain why that is? Is it simply a supply/demand issue (i.e., people for some strange reason want a concrete floor) .. or is there actually more expense in polishing than in installing another type of floor?

Obviously i can not see any allure to it at all. For a hundred years people have covered concrete to improve their floor, this concept seems like a step backwards.


I am not exactly sure, I know there is an intensive process involved in selaing, finishing and polishing the floor. It is becoming very popular in Toronto right now though. We decided against it based on the concrete colour selection and also the fact that we will be starting a family in a couple of years and for some reason I just see our kid smacking their head on concrete a lot.

Dave

[thelefteyeguy]

capped lighting in bedroom is not standard in all condos...i know I heard some complains at Daniels homeowners at Bayview and Sheppard (the 4 towers)...you would think that Daniels building so-called luxury condos would provided capped lighting in bedrooms....but they didnt.

our condo from monarch included capped lighting with fixtures in the bedrooms...but I also added a capped lighting (without fixture) on top of the countertop/kitchenette and a separate switch not linked to the kitchen lightning for only <350$.

So if you want lighting for the bedrooms...you'lll need to pay for it if not standard.

[thelefteyeguy]

I am not exactly sure, I know there is an intensive process involved in selaing, finishing and polishing the floor. It is becoming very popular in Toronto right now though. We decided against it based on the concrete colour selection and also the fact that we will be starting a family in a couple of years and for some reason I just see our kid smacking their head on concrete a lot.

Dave


thats a problem for kids :lol: if there is concrete...i didnt even think about that hehe.

[thelefteyeguy]

Can you explain why that is? Is it simply a supply/demand issue (i.e., people for some strange reason want a concrete floor) .. or is there actually more expense in polishing than in installing another type of floor?

Obviously i can not see any allure to it at all. For a hundred years people have covered concrete to improve their floor, this concept seems like a step backwards.

polished concrete looks awesome...go to the need flagship store in downtown toronto (on Richmond/king st on parliment)

also the website has a bit of polish concrete on the front page http://upcountry.com/home.php

[Keigotw]

capped lighting in bedroom is not standard in all condos...i know I heard some complains at Daniels homeowners at Bayview and Sheppard (the 4 towers)...you would think that Daniels building so-called luxury condos would provided capped lighting in bedrooms....but they didnt.

our condo from monarch included capped lighting with fixtures in the bedrooms...but I also added a capped lighting (without fixture) on top of the countertop/kitchenette and a separate switch not linked to the kitchen lightning for only <350$.

So if you want lighting for the bedrooms...you'lll need to pay for it if not standard.

The one I am bought says "Elegant ceiling light in bedroom "
guess I don't have to worry then

[Keigotw]

Since were talking about condo here

look at these 2 floor plan. Both is listed as 837 SQ. FT. (not counting balcony)
but some how I have a feeling that the 1st one has more livable space then the 2nd?
What do you guys think??


1st
http://img242.echo.cx/img242/6562/8371bl.th.jpg (http://img242.echo.cx/my.php?image=8371bl.jpg)


2nd
http://img242.echo.cx/img242/3951/837sq9oh.th.jpg (http://img242.echo.cx/my.php?image=837sq9oh.jpg)

[davecanada]

Since were talking about condo here

look at these 2 floor plan. Both is listed as 837 SQ. FT. (not counting balcony)
but some how I have a feeling that the 1st one has more livable space then the 2nd?
What do you guys think??


1st
http://img242.echo.cx/img242/6562/8371bl.th.jpg (http://img242.echo.cx/my.php?image=8371bl.jpg)


2nd
http://img242.echo.cx/img242/3951/837sq9oh.th.jpg (http://img242.echo.cx/my.php?image=837sq9oh.jpg)


I kind of like the second, of course we are not placing a dining room table in our condo (maybe a small 2 person) so the seperation of the living room/ dining room in the first seems weird to me. Of course if you plan on dining there it makes sense. I also like the fact that the 2nd has a tub in the master as my wife likes to take baths.

On the plus side the 1st is a corner unit and it looks like the 2nd is behind the elevator (can anyone share whether the noise is a factor as ours is right behind it also)

Both very nice, when are you choosing?

Dave

[Keigotw]

I kind of like the second, of course we are not placing a dining room table in our condo (maybe a small 2 person) so the seperation of the living room/ dining room in the first seems weird to me. Of course if you plan on dining there it makes sense. I also like the fact that the 2nd has a tub in the master as my wife likes to take baths.

On the plus side the 1st is a corner unit and it looks like the 2nd is behind the elevator (can anyone share whether the noise is a factor as ours is right behind it also)

Both very nice, when are you choosing?

Dave

Wow just by looking at the picture, you can guess that the 1st is conner unit?? (or you found the site of the builder?)

2nd one you got wrong. Is not behind a elevator ( but close guess)
it is actually next door to the unit that is infront of the elevator
(so is diagonally across)

Already choose the 2nd one.

But been looking around to see if so other condo of same size would have the same livable space or not..

[thelefteyeguy]

easy to figure out first one is corner suite =)

just look at the windows....from 2/4 condo walls.
where as the second one will tend to be dark...

the big problem is the master bedroom on the first suite...really its 10x10...you spend a good 50% in your master bedroom (most of the time asleep) but you will feel cramped. Also the dinning area in the 1st suite can become a non usuable space if you dont eat at the dinning table (for couples)...hehe i eat in front of the TV =)

and yes...problems with the second one is lack of sunlight...and potential elevator noise

[grant]

Ya, the first one has more "living" space and less "sleeping" space. good call!

[davecanada]

Wow just by looking at the picture, you can guess that the 1st is conner unit?? (or you found the site of the builder?)

2nd one you got wrong. Is not behind a elevator ( but close guess)
it is actually next door to the unit that is infront of the elevator
(so is diagonally across)

Already choose the 2nd one.

But been looking around to see if so other condo of same size would have the same livable space or not..


Maybe I also liked the 2nd because it reminds me of mine. We move in in January. Here is our picture: (be kind I just spent a crap load of money on this)

http://img50.echo.cx/img50/2436/dna9vo.th.jpg (http://img50.echo.cx/my.php?image=dna9vo.jpg)

[Keigotw]

Ya, the first one has more "living" space and less "sleeping" space. good call!

in Livable, I mean the overal thing
yeah I know 1st one, the bedrooms are small.
but I am looking to see if 2 condos of same size would have same livable space.

on the 2nd one. I calculate it to have about 720 SQ. FT. of livable space.
even thought is listed as 837 SQ. FT. Condo

[Keigotw]

Maybe I also liked the 2nd because it reminds me of mine. We move in in January. Here is our picture: (be kind I just spent a crap load of money on this)

http://img50.echo.cx/img50/2436/dna9vo.th.jpg (http://img50.echo.cx/my.php?image=dna9vo.jpg)

Yeah the left side (master bedroom) is similar
but you got 2 bedroom and a den, nice
how many SQ. FT. in total?

[davecanada]

Yeah the left side (master bedroom) is similar
but you got 2 bedroom and a den, nice
how many SQ. FT. in total?


810 not including balcony.

[thelefteyeguy]

Yeah the left side (master bedroom) is similar
but you got 2 bedroom and a den, nice
how many SQ. FT. in total?


let me guess...you werent happy to see venting above the windows? (heating vents run from the living room/2nd bedroom to the master bedroom?) and vents running on the headboard side of the bedrooms :cheesygri

i will eventually have the same problem :cry:

[Keigotw]

let me guess...you werent happy to see venting above the windows? (heating vents run from the living room/2nd bedroom to the master bedroom?) and vents running on the headboard side of the bedrooms :cheesygri

i will eventually have the same problem :cry:

What problem?? :confused:
is the big "X" in your master bedroom??
but aren't most condo, with the venting on the wall ?


Weird, I don't see the big "X" on the 1st pic I posted

[Keigotw]

810 not including balcony.

I Estimated that you have about 655 SQ. FT. of livable Space (not counting the balcony)

[thelefteyeguy]

What problem?? :confused:
is the big "X" in your master bedroom??
but aren't most condo, with the venting on the wall ?


Weird, I don't see the big "X" on the 1st pic I posted


in his condo...he has an X in the living room/2nd bedroom...which means (most new condos will only have 1 vent in the suite unless its a luxury / large unit)...therefore it is manditory to have heating vents in all bedrooms....therefore to connect the X to the masterbedroom...there is probably ceiling venting that runs across the window in the living room

also since there are 2 bathrooms without windows for exhaust fans...most likely there are exhaust vents that run on the ceilings of the bedroom (on the headboard side that exits out the windows.

but the vents are not a concern if the suit is 9ft ceilings...for 8 ft ceiling....it just means the washrooms are 7ft ...and living rooms with venting on the ceiling by the window could mean that there is less sunlight going inside....

i will have that problem...also. But it is something you learn after you purchase your first condo...and move in

[thelefteyeguy]

Yeah the left side (master bedroom) is similar
but you got 2 bedroom and a den, nice
how many SQ. FT. in total?


btw this is a great suite....chinese ppl love the "4-4-phon-phon" ones ^_^
i love this too...my future suite is very similar 90%

[davecanada]

in his condo...he has an X in the living room/2nd bedroom...which means (most new condos will only have 1 vent in the suite unless its a luxury / large unit)...therefore it is manditory to have heating vents in all bedrooms....therefore to connect the X to the masterbedroom...there is probably ceiling venting that runs across the window in the living room

also since there are 2 bathrooms without windows for exhaust fans...most likely there are exhaust vents that run on the ceilings of the bedroom (on the headboard side that exits out the windows.

but the vents are not a concern if the suit is 9ft ceilings...for 8 ft ceiling....it just means the washrooms are 7ft ...and living rooms with venting on the ceiling by the window could mean that there is less sunlight going inside....

i will have that problem...also. But it is something you learn after you purchase your first condo...and move in

My ceilings are 9ft. Do you think I will still have a problem (although we did decide to leave the ceilings as exposed concrete so this may be weird)

ps- what is "4-4-phon-phon"?

[Keigotw]

My ceilings are 9ft. Do you think I will still have a problem (although we did decide to leave the ceilings as exposed concrete so this may be weird)

ps- what is "4-4-phon-phon"?

"4-4-phon-phon" Meaning that a nicelly square. So you can optimized the space

like your master bedroom - square
but your living room is curved by the window. so that is not "4-4-phon-phon".

[thelefteyeguy]

My ceilings are 9ft. Do you think I will still have a problem (although we did decide to leave the ceilings as exposed concrete so this may be weird)

ps- what is "4-4-phon-phon"?

9ft ceilings are great...you wont notice the venting by the windows that much ^_^

[Keigotw]

in his condo...he has an X in the living room/2nd bedroom...which means (most new condos will only have 1 vent in the suite unless its a luxury / large unit)...therefore it is manditory to have heating vents in all bedrooms....therefore to connect the X to the masterbedroom...there is probably ceiling venting that runs across the window in the living room

also since there are 2 bathrooms without windows for exhaust fans...most likely there are exhaust vents that run on the ceilings of the bedroom (on the headboard side that exits out the windows.

but the vents are not a concern if the suit is 9ft ceilings...for 8 ft ceiling....it just means the washrooms are 7ft ...and living rooms with venting on the ceiling by the window could mean that there is less sunlight going inside....

i will have that problem...also. But it is something you learn after you purchase your first condo...and move in

Hope mine doesn't come out like that. :|
hope they build it like the model Suite I saw

[thelefteyeguy]

"4-4-phon-phon" Meaning that a nicelly square. So you can optimized the space

like your master bedroom - square
but your living room is curved by the window. so that is not "4-4-phon-phon".

the curve is not bad at all...its a little niche for a Entertainment center ^_^
still would consider it a square unit...

i would have chosen this suite also ^_^...but not sure about the exposed cement on the ceiling...you will definitely need to warm up the suite if you are living in it with someone....if not...then its a great bachelor pad ^_^

[thelefteyeguy]

Hope mine does come out like that. :|
hope they build it like the model Suite I saw


let me check didnt you post your specs recently?


is the pic you posted about the sqft question your floor plan? (the 1+1?)

(below based on the pic provided on a 1+1 suite on a previous post about a sqftage questio)

if it is there is likelihood (50%) that your exhaust from your kitchen will need to escape via a vent that will run on the wall thru your living / dining room to the window. If not then it may run to the unit next to yours...thru their vent

But there also might be a vent from your bathroom (exhaust) thru your bedroom out the window so a vent above your headboard.

[Keigotw]

let me check didnt you post your specs recently?

Mine will be this one

http://img242.echo.cx/img242/3951/837sq9oh.th.jpg (http://img242.echo.cx/my.php?image=837sq9oh.jpg)

But from the previous condo build by this same builder. I didn't see that problem
I don't think they put the vent by the window.
I guess I should go visit the condo's again to take a look

[thelefteyeguy]

Mine will be this one

http://img242.echo.cx/img242/3951/837sq9oh.th.jpg (http://img242.echo.cx/my.php?image=837sq9oh.jpg)

there is 80% chance that your vent in your 2nd bedroom (if this is the only vent) will run atop of the balcony door , thru the living room window, and into the master bedroom

there will be another vent that runs from your ensuite bathroom thru your master bedroom headboard to the window

your kitchen exhaust will depend on whether there will be a main exhaust channel through the building which may also connect your other bathroom...or there is a 50% chance your main bathroom will have a vent that goes through your 2nd bedroom

btw if you are concerned you can go to your builder to look at the mechanical specs....it will show you your electrical outlet locations/capped light locations and also your vents

btw models suites rarely have venting...^_^

unless you go to the W3 condos on harborfront where they have 5 actual suite for display...then you can really see how vents work.


btw i love your suite also...ever thing about converting the wall on the second bedroom to sliding opaque glass door ^_^

[Keigotw]

btw if you are concerned you can go to your builder to look at the mechanical specs....it will show you your electrical outlet locations/capped light locations and also your vents



Will they show it to us?
So all I have to do is ask for the mechanical specs??



unless you go to the W3 condos on harborfront where they have 5 actual suite for display...then you can really see how vents work.


W3??? Waterpark city?
where exactly??

[davecanada]

the curve is not bad at all...its a little niche for a Entertainment center ^_^
still would consider it a square unit...

i would have chosen this suite also ^_^...but not sure about the exposed cement on the ceiling...you will definitely need to warm up the suite if you are living in it with someone....if not...then its a great bachelor pad ^_^

Maybe I will buy a bachelor pad elsewhere (don't tell my wife...lol)

I actually wanted to plaster the ceiling but she wanted to have a more urban lofty look in the condo. (it was $1600 for the plaster, or $0.00 for exposed concrete or painted concrete)

All in the name of wanting to live in the city. Could have bought a 2000 square foot house in Brooklin for the same price.

[davecanada]

[QUOTE=Keigotw]Will they show it to us?
So all I have to do is ask for the mechanical specs??
[QUOTE]

When we did our colour selection I asked about location of all outlets lighting and vents. (our building is going to have vdsl and I wanted to know where the phone jacks are so i can plan to put the tv on that wall)

[thelefteyeguy]

[QUOTE=Keigotw]Will they show it to us?
So all I have to do is ask for the mechanical specs??
[QUOTE]

When we did our colour selection I asked about location of all outlets lighting and vents. (our building is going to have vdsl and I wanted to know where the phone jacks are so i can plan to put the tv on that wall)


i cant see why they wont show you the mechanic specs....you also have to sign off on the mechanic specs during colour selection (if you dont sign it...then its defaulted to the spec)

in reference to W3...its the 3 blue buildings on the waterfront...they still have tours....they have the best "real" model suites....i think their suites are located on the 4th floor of the middle building.

[Keigotw]

[QUOTE=davecanada][QUOTE=Keigotw]Will they show it to us?
So all I have to do is ask for the mechanical specs??



i cant see why they wont show you the mechanic specs....you also have to sign off on the mechanic specs during colour selection (if you dont sign it...then its defaulted to the spec)

in reference to W3...its the 3 blue buildings on the waterfront...they still have tours....they have the best "real" model suites....i think their suites are located on the 4th floor of the middle building.

Where is W3??? is W3 the name of the condo?
I would like to go have a tour
is it http://www.waterclubcondos.com/watermain.htm?

[Keigotw]

[QUOTE=Keigotw]Will they show it to us?
So all I have to do is ask for the mechanical specs??
[QUOTE]

When we did our colour selection I asked about location of all outlets lighting and vents. (our building is going to have vdsl and I wanted to know where the phone jacks are so i can plan to put the tv on that wall)

ooh I guess I have to wait until is time for the colour selection to see it then

[davecanada]

[QUOTE=davecanada][QUOTE=Keigotw]Will they show it to us?
So all I have to do is ask for the mechanical specs??


ooh I guess I have to wait until is time for the colour selection to see it then


When is your anticipated closing? Has it been delayed yet?

Ours is anticipated for Jan 06 and was sched. for Nov 05 when we bought. Originally it was sched. for Jan 05.

[Keigotw]

[QUOTE=Keigotw][QUOTE=davecanada]


When is your anticipated closing? Has it been delayed yet?

Ours is anticipated for Jan 06 and was sched. for Nov 05 when we bought. Originally it was sched. for Jan 05.

Wow, So yours is 1 year late??
are you going to get Delayed Occupancy Compensation?
see page 5 of http://www.tarion.com/NR/rdonlyres/F10F0B64-4709-4113-B954-31DD5767EB1A/0/HIPPkg200401_BW_Condo.pdf
and the updated http://www.tarion.com/NR/rdonlyres/55C0B883-220F-47C4-AB18-A1007E8F5174/0/1218HIPInsertCondo.pdf


My is still far far away ...tentative is Jan 2007
then wait for register, I am guessing it will be like March 2007
still long long time to wait :cry:

[davecanada]

[QUOTE=davecanada][QUOTE=Keigotw]

Wow, So yours is 1 year late??
are you going to get Delayed Occupancy Compensation?
see page 5 of http://www.tarion.com/NR/rdonlyres/F10F0B64-4709-4113-B954-31DD5767EB1A/0/HIPPkg200401_BW_Condo.pdf
and the updated http://www.tarion.com/NR/rdonlyres/55C0B883-220F-47C4-AB18-A1007E8F5174/0/1218HIPInsertCondo.pdf


My is still far far away ...tentative is Jan 2007
then wait for register, I am guessing it will be like March 2007
still long long time to wait :cry:


No comp. we were told Nov. 05 when we bought. The Jan date was there original plan.

[thelefteyeguy]

btw make sure you read the rules of delayed closing

the builder can delay as long as it wants until the roof is completed...at that time the builder should have sent you a letter on the confirmed move-in date...at that time the following rules apply:

Every purchase agreement for a condominium unit will include either a confirmed occupancy date or a tentative occupancy date.

If the purchase agreement gives a tentative occupancy date, your builder is required to inform you in writing of the confirmed occupancy date no later than 30 days after the roof assembly is completed (or another specific stage of construction as specified in the purchase agreement).

If you are not given notice of the confirmed occupancy date 90 days before the tentative occupancy date, then the tentative date automatically becomes the confirmed date for the purpose of calculating compensation for the delay.

Once the confirmed occupancy date is established, your builder is allowed to extend it once by up to 120 days. In this situation, your builder must give you at least 65 days written notice. They can also extend the date by up to 15 days if they give you at least 35 days written notice.

Your builder is permitted to use both of these extensions as long as they give you the required notices and the total of the two extensions does not exceed 135 days.

[Keigotw]

thelefteyeguy

take a look at the pic from someone renting on BST Forum
http://forums.redflagdeals.com/showthread.php?t=168309

So for this one
http://gmts.ca/condo/11.JPG
the air vent is runing from top where the track light are the along to the right side and then thru the living room you see on the pic bellow
http://gmts.ca/condo/12.JPG

Are those what you were talking about???

[thelefteyeguy]

thelefteyeguy

take a look at the pic from someone renting on BST Forum
http://forums.redflagdeals.com/showthread.php?t=168309

So for this one
http://gmts.ca/condo/11.JPG
the air vent is runing from top where the track light are the along to the right side and then thru the living room you see on the pic bellow
http://gmts.ca/condo/12.JPG

Are those what you were talking about???

actually those are exhaust vents (from the kitchen)
since this unit is not a 2 bedroom...and the heating vent opens both in the living / bedroom....there are no heating vents running in the condo

there is also another exhaust vent running against the other side of the condo from the bathroom thru the den thru the ensuite bath and then thru the bedroom out the window.


(most model suites ignore the heating/exhaust vents...thats what pisses me off)

[Keigotw]

actually those are exhaust vents (from the kitchen)
since this unit is not a 2 bedroom...and the heating vent opens both in the living / bedroom....there are no heating vents running in the condo

there is also another exhaust vent running against the other side of the condo from the bathroom thru the den thru the ensuite bath and then thru the bedroom out the window.


(most model suites ignore the heating/exhaust vents...thats what pisses me off)

Yah looks like it comes out there
http://img18.echo.cx/img18/8605/103ga.jpg
So that Area going to be oily eventually
and if the door is open then the wind is going blow it into the bedroom!

[davecanada]

Thought I would update...

Our new closing is now July 06...... GRRR... and our first child is coming June 06... Fun, moving with a 1 month old.

On a positive note our builder contacted us to say our exposed concrete ceiling was tarnished as they had a crane coming through our unit so they are now plastering it free of charge... That meets my needs to look clean and my wifes need to save $$

[thelefteyeguy]

wow...it's been a while..almost a year.

We moved into our condo and my wife and I are really liking it. Monarch has meet 99% of our expectations.

Great Builder...highly recommended.

Customer service I must say has been excellent...we only had 5 items on our 30day list...4 of them were resolved within 5 days!!!...awesome.

(We were lucky to be on a high floor and our move in date was the same date as the condo closing so we didnt have to pay any phantom mortgage)

[davecanada]

wow...it's been a while..almost a year.

We moved into our condo and my wife and I are really liking it. Monarch has meet 99% of our expectations.

Great Builder...highly recommended.

Customer service I must say has been excellent...we only had 5 items on our 30day list...4 of them were resolved within 5 days!!!...awesome.


Good Stuff!!

Hopefully our experiences will be the same. I know phase 1 of DNA (We are phase 2) has been occupied since Nov/Dec last year, I am curious to know how there experiences have been. I haven't seen any flaming posts on any sites so I take that as a good sign.

[thelefteyeguy]

Good Stuff!!

Hopefully our experiences will be the same. I know phase 1 of DNA (We are phase 2) has been occupied since Nov/Dec last year, I am curious to know how there experiences have been. I haven't seen any flaming posts on any sites so I take that as a good sign.


I pass by DNA quite often, and I must say that it's one great looking building. Great choice!

[titleeboy]

Hi

This post should have been in Home & Garden. Wrongly parked.

Titlee

[davecanada]

Hi

This post should have been in Home & Garden. Wrongly parked.

Titlee

Yeah, unfortunately when this post was started there was no Home and Garden section... I would love a mod to move it.

[Ryan26]

Good Stuff!!

Hopefully our experiences will be the same. I know phase 1 of DNA (We are phase 2) has been occupied since Nov/Dec last year, I am curious to know how there experiences have been. I haven't seen any flaming posts on any sites so I take that as a good sign.

I'm moving into DNA phase 2 as well. Currently we have a June 6th occupancy date.

Not really sure if they're going to make the occupancy date given that they are still putting up drywall in our suite :confused:

[davecanada]

I'm moving into DNA phase 2 as well. Currently we have a June 6th occupancy date.

Not really sure if they're going to make the occupancy date given that they are still putting up drywall in our suite :confused:

Well howdy Neighbour.... Our tent date is July 13th.

[davecanada]

I'm moving into DNA phase 2 as well. Currently we have a June 6th occupancy date.

Not really sure if they're going to make the occupancy date given that they are still putting up drywall in our suite :confused:


Hey again, wanted to let you know that someone has set up a BB to discuss the DNA condos....

addy is www.dnadiscuss.com

[Ryan26]

Thanks for the link! There is lots of useful info on that site.

[Keigotw]

Soon I will be picking for upgrades
I checked with the builder, but they don't offer upgrades for the fridge.. I asked what about getting credit?
they said I can't ???

Any way around this? or should I just take what it comes with, then sell it and buy a new one??

[davecanada]

Soon I will be picking for upgrades
I checked with the builder, but they don't offer upgrades for the fridge.. I asked what about getting credit?
they said I can't ???

Any way around this? or should I just take what it comes with, then sell it and buy a new one??

Yeah I think others have sold and bought, we got the upgrades we wanted in ref. to appliances so we didn't have to go that route.

Dave

[thelefteyeguy]

you'll have a very very hard time selling appliances...esp very low end ones that come with condos.

Talk to your builder and ask who the supplier is...then call up the supplier and arrange an upgrade....the supplier would love to sell the upgrade..they get much higher profit margins.


(unless the appliances have already been delivered to your suite)