A different type of build is gaining popularity on the West Shore.
The duplex is making a surge in the marketplace and in the plans of developers, which some attribute to the zoning already being in place.
One development in particular has caught the eye of some and not because of the controversy that initially surrounded the project.
The build at the end of Bellamy Road in Langford offers affordability, said Gary Brown, associate broker at Sutton Group West Coast Realty. Roughly two-thirds of the first phase of development is duplexes and the rest are being built as single-family detached homes.
“They bring with it a little more square footage than other lots,” he said, adding that the average lot size is about 9,000 square feet. “They get more bang for their buck.”
Although most people tend to favour single family homes., he said, “most properties in Langford are zoned R2. All of a sudden there was a bunch of duplex lots available.”
He said new duplexes, typically priced between $399,000 to $475,000, fill a hole and a niche in the real estate market, allowing potential buyers who may be a little more tight in their budget to get more for their money. The Bellamy homes offer buyers affordability, plenty of square footage, are on large lots and are close to amenities, Brown said.
Another bonus of owning a duplex is they usually don’t fall under traditional strata conventions, he said.
Nearby residents were originally concerned when work on the development began without warning. But the first phase of this build was already zoned for its intended use.
That meant the properties did not have to go through the rezoning process, with its requisite public hearing and consultation, leaving some residents feeling like they were denied the ability to voice their concerns about the development.
That scenario will change for the proposed phase 2 for the Bellamy Road project. Brown said the developers plan to apply for rezoning to allow for smaller lots and a higher density build. The application process is expected to include more public consultation and culminate with a public hearing in front of Langford city council members.
katie@goldstreamgazette.com