DreamCatcher-Haute Alpine Chalets, Kimberley, British Columbia, Canada

How large is the site?

DreamCatcher is an alpine-themed, 25-acre woodland site being released for sale according to an organized phasing strategy. The DreamCatcher community provides for up to 95 residences in total, along with the MountainSide Club, an exclusive Owners’ Only Amenity Facility. For information on our current phase, please contact one of our Property Specialists.

Do I own the land if I purchase at DreamCatcher?

Yes, in the format of a Bare Land Strata, a British Columbia Government-approved method of providing freehold title to the land with an overlaid management program to reduce maintenance worries and provide planning flexibility. This means that you own title to your property and share in the upkeep of the common areas via a strata management arrangement.

How are the services delivered to the site(water, sewer, fire safety, etc)?

DreamCatcher’s ideal location minutes from downtown, just off Gerry Sorensen Way and steps from the Kimberley Alpine Ski Resort means that it enjoys all City Services for water, sewer, fire safety and local police.

Is Wi-Fi available at DreamCatcher ?

Wireless internet services are available in the Kimberley region and at DreamCatcher from Shaw Cable, and from Telus. Owners may select the service provider of their choice and arrange for service. We recommend you initiate your service request with the provider of your choice well in advance of your Possession date to avoid delays.

How is the project zoned?

RTA-7, or Residential Tourist Accommodation 7. This zoning provides for nightly, weekly, monthly or annual rentals without restriction. In addition, it allows for secondary suites in homes that may be rented or used separately from the primary living area of the home.

What “green” measures have been incorporated into DreamCatcher?

Environmental stewardship is an important component at DreamCatcher. In planning the project, efforts and expense were undertaken to protect as many of the mature Fir and Tamarack trees living on the site as possible, and roadways were intentionally kept narrow to wind around them. In addition, natural materials have been incorporated into all existing built structures on the project, and this mandate is further supported in the Architectural Guidelines for DreamCatcher. Sustainable and energy-efficient design and materials are encouraged to the greatest extent possible.

Who is the Developer and what kind of experience do they have?

The principals of the Developer are industry veterans Bill Keenan and Dale Chynoweth of Keenan Development Group, each with more than 25 years industry experience. They have shared a little bit about their backgrounds along with their development philosophy for DreamCatcher in an interview format. To read the interview, as well as to check out the other Team members, visit the “Team” section of our website.

Where’s the nearest airport?

The closest airport is a mere 25 km away at Cranbrook. December 2008 saw the first international flights land at the Canadian Rockies International Airport, with seasonal service provided by Delta Airlines direct from Salt Lake City. In addition to Delta Airlines, Air Canada and Pacific Coastal Airlines both currently offer service to the area and the 2008 airport expansion at Cranbrook is sure to bring more carriers over time, making it easy for visitors and owners alike to travel into and out of the Kimberley and Kootenay districts. More information can be found here and at www.flyyxc.com.

What are the amenities at DreamCatcher?

DreamCatcher features an exclusive owners only amenity building, the MountainSide Club. Further, in addition to it’s majestic natural setting in the heart of the Purcell and Rocky Mountains in Kimberley, BC, where outdoor activities including alpine and cross-country skiing, hiking, fishing and world class golf abound, DreamCatcher’s location is literally steps from the first run at the base of the Kimberley Alpine Ski Resort AND from Trickle Creek Golf Club, recognized as one of BC’s best golf courses.

What is the MountainSide Club?

The MountainSide Club is a 2600 square foot amenity building featuring the Chill Lounge, replete with full kitchen facilities and a stone-faced indoor-outdoor gas fireplace; the Champion Fitness Studio with cardio and weight equipment as well as body balls and yoga mats – not to mention stunning views of the ski hill; and his & hers change rooms with full shower facilities and cedar-lined saunas. Outside, owners can barbeque with neighbours and friends, enjoy the swimming pool and year round key-shaped hot tub, or lounge on the pool deck with the glow of the outdoor fireplace nearby. Check it out here.

Can my guests and tenants use the MountainSide Club?

There are some restrictions in place, but yes, owners may elect to allow their guests or tenants to use the MountainSide Club. More information may be obtained by speaking with one of our Property Specialists.

Can people who do not own at DreamCatcher buy a membership to the MountainSide Club?

No. The MountainSide Club is an exclusive facility just for owners of DreamCatcher and their guests.

Where can owners and guests park their cars?

Parking is available in owners’ driveways and other suitable places on their property; however, RV’s and recreational vehicles may only be parked for a period of up to 3 days. Guest and overflow owner parking is available in designated locations throughout the DreamCatcher community.

How’s the weather?

Kimberley boasts one of the nicest alpine climates in Canada with mild winters and warm summers. In addition to being the highest city in Canada, Kimberley is also one of the sunniest – it receives more than 2,150 hours, or 200 days, annually! Visit the Climate section of our website for more information.

What are my purchase options at DreamCatcher?

What are the required timelines for building my DreamCatcher Chalet?

You may take up to 3 years to design your home, to have your plans approved by the developer and to obtain a building permit. Then you may take up to a further 2 years to complete the construction of your home and landscaping.

What happens if I do not comply with these timelines?

There may be penalties for late or non-compliance with the required timelines. DreamCatcher is intended to be a community of alpine homes being enjoyed by both full-time and second home residents and so a vested interest exists contractually to ensure purchasers of homesites build homes on their property in a timely manner and in respect of the other property owners in our community.

Tell me more about the Architectural Guidelines.

The Architectural Guidelines for DreamCatcher have been created to maintain the alpine theme and charm, and to protect the integrity of design prevalent today at the community. At DreamCatcher, the emphasis is on the incorporation of natural building materials such as stone, timber and wood accents and finishing materials within a mature woodland setting. The Guidelines also cover off practical matters related to the footprint and height allowances for homes, and setbacks from property lines, among other items. A copy of the detailed Guidelines may be obtained by speaking with one of our Property Specialists.

Are there any resale restrictions at DreamCatcher?

Once owners take possession of their home, they may sell their property at any time; however, “flips” or assignments of Purchase Contracts prior to Completion are only allowed in certain circumstances and only with prior written approval of the developer. Certain conditions and/or fees may apply to these privileges. Please speak with one of our Property Specialists for more information.

Are there any financing arrangements in place to assist me with my purchase at DreamCatcher?

Can I work with a realtor to buy my property?

Yes. The DreamCatcher sales and marketing team welcomes referral agent participation, and actively supports this sales relationship. When you purchase your home at DreamCatcher with the assistance of a realtor, that agent will qualify for a referral commission. To learn more, please contact one of our Property Specialists.

What is the deposit structure required at Contract?

What can I expect for Taxes and Closing Costs?

GST (Goods & Services Tax) of 5% of the purchase price must be paid upon Completion, however owners may qualify to defer it in some instances*. In addition, there is a Property Transfer Tax in British Columbia equal to 1% on the first $200,000 and 2% on the balance of the Purchase Price. Legal fees will vary, but may reasonably expected to be in the $800 - $1200 range and will include registering your title with the appropriate Land Titles Office. In some instances, appraisal and/or financing fees may be incurred for owners pursuing mortgage financing for their properties, however this will not always be the case.*

What are the property taxes on the homes?

Property taxes are determined and levied annually by both provincial and local tax assessment authorities. Depending upon how you use your DreamCatcher property, you may have to pay property taxes based upon a residential mill rate, a commercial mill rate (if you rent your property out regularly for short term accommodation), or some combination of the two, depending upon your level of usage.*

What costs are associated with DreamCatcher ownership?

In addition to the initial acquisition cost, normal utilities, insurance and property taxes, owners will have a monthly strata management fee.

Can non-residents purchase a home at DreamCatcher?

*Prospective owners are encouraged to consult their own legal and tax advisors.

What does the DreamCatcher Chalet monthly strata fee cover?

Management and maintenance of the common areas including: roadways, street lights, pool, hot tub, amenity centre, and snow removal from other common areas such as walkways.

How much are the monthly strata fees?

The monthly strata fees are adjusted annually based on the collectively approved budget prepared by the strata council. The fees for 2009 are $352 per month per strata lot.

Are housekeeping services available?

No, however, owners interested in housekeeping services may speak with one of our Property Specialists who can provide you with a short list of local cleaning specialists.

Is there a resident manager?

No. DreamCatcher does not have an onsite resident manager, but does have a maintenance person who is regularly on the property taking care of the amenities and upkeep of DreamCatcher’s other common property. In addition, the Strata Manager is available to answer any questions owners may have.

Can I bring my pet?

Yes. Pets are welcome, however, they may not run free and so must be supervised and managed at all times.

Can I build a fence around my property to contain my pet?

No. DreamCatcher’s natural setting, abundant wildlife and xeriscaping approach does not support fencing between residences.

Is there a Property Management Program available?

DreamCatcher is a community intended to be comprised of both full time and second home residents, and so does not provide an onsite dedicated Property Management Program. However, if you are interested in rental management services, we will be pleased to provide you with a short list of local accommodation specialists in Kimberley who are familiar with our DreamCatcher community.