In the heart of southwestern Ontario, the bucolic town of New Hamburg, midway between Kitchener and Stratford, is experiencing a growth spurt as Stonecroft, a new gated community on its outskirts, continues to draw home buyers.
Now selling in the fourth of a planned 10 phases, this community of detached brick bungalows anchored by a new 18,000-square-foot recreation centre – the second-largest of its kind in the country, according to sales associate Dan Lambkin – caters to the mid-life baby boomers. But while the average age of Stonecroft residents may be mid-50s to early 60s, don’t label this a "retirement" community, says Lambton. "It’s active adult lifestyle all the way."
The rec centre offers indoor facilities including a pool and sauna, fitness room equipped with a 16-piece hydraulic circuit and cardio equipment as well as library and lounge plus outdoor tennis courts, a patio ideal for barbecues, horseshoe pit, and a network of nature trails. And while the community is not attached to a golf course, "golf is definitely part of the lifestyle," Lambkin asserts. "There are 18 courses within 30 minutes of Stonecroft and the community has its own ‘golf club.’"
This month, Stonecroft is unveiling four new model homes. It opened phase four sales in April and sold a third of the available properties the first day. But there are still more than 20 spots open, a few backing onto a hardwood bush and others fronting a large green space, Lambton says.
The 120-acre community will eventually include 494 homes and has sold about 170 to date. The two-bedroom bungalows, some with additional dens, feature interlocking brick driveways and walkways to the front porch. Many have covered porches, decks or patios. Gas fireplaces and vaulted ceilings are options. Prices range from $316,000 to $430,000.
Model homes are open for viewing seven days a week from noon to 6 p.m. or by appointment. For more information, call 866-278-7577.