Downsizing to Stonecroft in New Hamburg

Stonecroft at a glance

The residents' website describes New Hamburg as a town of about 14,000 between Kitchener and Stratford and calls Stonecroft "an active adult lifestyle community" that blends country surroundings with access to theatre, dining, golf and local events. The community operates under a "Mutual Use Committee," which the site says brings its boards together on a combined budget.

The Township of Wilmot's street index lists Stonecroft Way, Devonshire Drive, Orchard Way, Amberdale Way, Angus Glen Lane, Davenrich Way, Dublin Crossing, Piccadilly Square, Shirefield Lane and Thimbleberry Crossing as private streets in Stonecroft, and Briarstone Crescent and Loganville Lane as private streets in a future Stonecroft area. Private streets are typically maintained by the community rather than the Township.

Sources: Stonecroft residents' website, Township of Wilmot (street index above).

Homes and layout at Stonecroft

The community is made up of bungalows. A 2008 Globe and Mail article described a plan for more than 490 bungalows built in phases and sized between about 1,160 and 1,994 square feet, but that was reported years ago and the final count and sizes should be confirmed with the corporations.

Ask for the floor plan, the lot, whether the primary bedroom and laundry are on the main floor, and which exterior items the corporation maintains. The area listed as a future phase on the Township's index suggests construction may still be ongoing, so ask what is planned nearby.

Amenities and clubs at Stonecroft

The residents' website mentions recreational facilities, a DVD library and event sign-ups, and says activities are volunteer-run. The 2008 article described an 18,000-square-foot recreation centre with a pool, gym and tennis courts; since that is dated reporting, ask the corporations what the centre has today, what it costs and what the rules are for guests.

Rules and fees at Stonecroft

Ask the seller's lawyer for the fee schedule, governing documents, budget and reserve fund study. For a condominium unit, anyone may request a status certificate; the Condo Authority of Ontario says the corporation can charge up to $100 and must provide it within 10 days, and it covers governing documents, budget, reserve fund statement, common expenses, arrears and special assessments. Confirm the form of ownership for the specific home and which corporation governs it. See buying a condo in Waterloo Region.

Age wording. Stonecroft calls itself an active adult lifestyle community. Ontario has no 55+ law. The Human Rights Code protects against age discrimination in housing for anyone 18 or older, and section 15 allows preferential treatment only where age 65 or over is the requirement (Human Rights Code). The Ontario Human Rights Commission's housing policy says no defence permits adult lifestyle housing that excludes children or people under a certain age. Ask in writing how any age expectation is set out in the declaration or rules, and have a lawyer give you a view.

Getting to Stonecroft

New Hamburg is a town of the Township of Wilmot, west of Kitchener. Check Grand River Transit's trip planner for service to your address and ask the Township about specialized transit for township residents. Our guide to getting around Waterloo Region covers options.

Health care near Stonecroft

Waterloo Regional Health Network operates emergency departments at WRHN @ Midtown, 835 King Street West, and WRHN @ Queen's Blvd., 911 Queen's Boulevard, both in Kitchener. Check services and hours on the WRHN website and ask your doctor which hospital you would be directed to.

Flooding, winter and insurance at Stonecroft

Check the Grand River Conservation Authority's Map Your Property tool for the exact address rather than assuming. Overland flood and sewer backup coverage are optional add-ons per the Insurance Bureau of Canada. Ask who clears snow on private streets and driveways and who pays. Subscribe to Alert Waterloo Region for emergency notices.

Taxes and local government at Stonecroft

Stonecroft is in the Township of Wilmot, within the Region of Waterloo. The Ontario Senior Homeowners' Property Tax Grant pays up to $500 a year to eligible owners who occupy their principal residence, with income limits of under $50,000 single or $60,000 combined (grant page). Ask the Township of Wilmot whether it has a senior tax deferral or relief program and how to apply.

Ontario land transfer tax is paid by the buyer when the purchase closes. See costs and taxes and the net proceeds calculator. This site does not give tax or legal advice.

Questions to ask before you buy at Stonecroft

• What is the form of ownership of this home, and which corporation governs it?
• Can I have the fee schedule, budget, reserve fund study and status certificate in writing?
• How are costs shared under the Mutual Use arrangement?
• Who maintains and plows private streets, and who pays?
• What does the recreation centre include, and what do guests pay?
• What are the rules on rentals, pets and alterations?
• How is any age expectation set out in the documents?
• What building is planned in the later phases?

Comparing this with other options or with staying put? Read the step-by-step downsizing guide, the Wilmot area page and buying first or selling first. When you are ready, get introduced to an agent on the eXp Realty operating team.