The Aster complex on track to sell all homes

There are only three, one-bedroom homes still available for purchase at The Aster. 

In the week after announcing in a news release it had the last two barrier-free dwellings available for residents with accessibility needs, the Banff Housing Corporation (BHC) sold both homes. Both were sold to people who are over 60 years old who want to age in Banff, and the specialized design was as appealing as living in the heart of downtown Banff. One of the new owners is over 80. 

Last week, another tenant renting in the BHC-managed Ti'nu Apartments purchased one of the one-bedroom homes in The Aster. This is part of the Town of Banff's housing strategy to provide below-market rental homes, allowing tenants to build savings so they can graduate to a for-purchase home.

The Ti'nu Apartment complex has a barrier-free home coming available in April.

More than 23 of the new owners in The Aster's 33 units are first-time home-buyers. Buyers must be Banff residents who qualify for Parks Canada's "need to reside" requirements.

With more than 90% of the homes in the development already sold, the Town of Banff is set to start planning its next affordable housing project, slated for Cave Avenue. Early concept work will involve determining the mix of rental apartments and for-purchase homes.  

Scheduled for completion by the fall of 2022, The Aster's dwellings are sold at the cost of construction, without any profit. Sales at below-market value is allowing more families put roots down in Banff. 

3 one-bedroom condos

The remaining homes available for sale in The Aster are the suites called The Hector 1 and 2. They are ground-floor units that have larger patio space, perfect for dog owners or others who prefer not to use stairs or the elevator. Anyone interested in learning more about these can call 403.497.5242 or email heather.bolt@banff.ca.

Construction activity ramps up after deepfreeze

Concrete pouring for foundations, side walls, in the parkade, elevator shaft and utility connections are completed, despite challenges during the recent period below -20C.

The electrical work in preparation of the next phase is complete and all shoring around the foundations have been removed, ready for backfill around the building.

While work for connections and finish on the concrete walls and floor is being completed, crews have moved equipment and materials ready for framing to start in March. Scaffolding and wood is ready for construction of the main floor and second floor this spring.