Life of ease lures new homebuyers to St. Albert

Work-life balance may seem like just another buzzword in the real estate industry, but in St. Albert achieving this ideal lifestyle is its sole purpose. In fact, the life of leisure it promises is why this dynamic, young city just outside Edmonton continues to attract more new homebuyers.

The City of St. Albert’s 2024 Municipal Census show the population pass the 72,000 mark or a 9.2 percent increase since the last census in 2018. It is now the sixth largest city in Alberta.

What do people love about it? Easy. St. Albert boasts a family-friendly vibe with lots of parks and recreational opportunities, so much so that it has been consistently ranked as one of the best places to live in Alberta. Now, it’s becoming known for the modern – even cosmopolitan – lifestyle to be found in its many new communities, including Rohit Communities’ hit new community of Chérot.

New home living opportunities

It’s no secret that St. Albert has become one of the most sought-after residential destinations in Alberta. The balanced lifestyle it offers of big city amenities with a small-town feel, has struck a chord among homebuyers. Now, the new amenity-rich community of Chèrot brings an elevated European flair that elevates the look and feel of the community, as well.

With an emphasis on French-inspired architecture and design, Chérot brings a little bit of Parisienne flavour to the prairies. Pronounced like “merlot,” the community, just like a fine wine, can only get better with age. Developed by Rohit Communities, Chérot, has been a big hit since its launch last year.

“Young families and first-time homebuyers are increasingly discovering Chèrot as their ideal community, alongside established families seeking their next home,” says Daisy Lieu, Rohit Communities’ Division Marketing Manager

“Residents are drawn to the tranquility of this newer development, featuring the charming Paris Playground and convenient access to St. Albert’s amenities. Adding to the neighborhood’s appeal is the anticipated recreational facility, soon to be just steps away from their homes.”

Excitement and flair

Launched last year, Chérot has brought energy and excitement to this western part of St. Albert. Its Paris Playground has become a destination for young families from around the area.

“People love the overall vision of what Chérot will be,” says Bedrock Homes’ Diana Diduch. “Even in this early stage of development the community has so much to offer. The classic architecture combined with Paris Park, the pond and green space provides the neighborhood with a welcoming feeling and strong sense of community,” she adds.

“People also like the connection to the past and how the memory of the original pioneering family to the area is honoured with the community’s name and the French countryside architectural inspiration.” The Chérot family immigrated to the area and opened a market garden between St. Albert and Edmonton.

But even more than that, Chérot marks a significant development as the first St. Albert community west of Ray Gibbon Drive, and a gateway to the vital Lakeview Business District.

A leisurely pace of life

Ada Kumedan, Sales Manager from Blackstone Homes also notes that the families that have moved in to Chérot love the slow-paced community. “It’s like country-living with a city feel with the surrounding farms. I have had a few people say that it is nice since there is no commercial in here yet. People are taking advantage of our newly paved paths and walking lots around the pond!”

Kumedan also adds that her buyers in the community are mostly second or third time home buyers that are upgrading as their family needs grow. “Some older clients that are downsizing after kids have moved out. For my laned homes it’s mostly young couples/ families. Also a few young newcomers to Canada families,” she adds.

Besides Bedrock Homes and Blackstone Homes, other builders in Chérot include: Rohit Homes, San Rufo Homes, Justin Gray Homes, and Montorio Homes.

Enhanced quality of life

Located just outside the northwest corner of Edmonton, St. Albert has gained its own identity as a medium-sized city with plenty of room for growth, with plenty of amenities – including its own hospital - and where life can be enjoyed at a leisurely pace.

It has been named the safest city in Alberta with an excellent public education system and great healthcare facilities. It also has a livelier downtown and nightlife than most Albertan cities of similar size, according to several real estate websites.

St. Albert offers well-planned neighbourhoods, exceptional community services, and plenty of opportunities to own a new home. The city offers well-planned neighbourhoods, exceptional community services, and an abundant mix of cultural and recreational opportunities.

Chérot fits in perfectly with its modern French countryside living. There will be French influences throughout, ranging from its home styles — French country modern and French farmhouse — to more subtle European touches that are evident in the chosen street names. The Paris Park playground is the cherry on top.

“Chérot combines outstanding value with an ideal location. This peaceful community features walkable streets and will soon offer residents access to excellent amenities, both within the neighborhood and nearby,” Lieu adds.

Growth continues

Chérot’s growth continues, as Rohit serviced another stage in the community containing 56 lots, says Rohit Senior Project Manager, Jim Killoh. “We also paved a section of Giroux Road, to provide a paved road the entire way into Chèrot.”

Killoh adds that they they are planning to service an additional 156 lots that will provide a diversity of housing product types (5 in total), including the first block of ‘front/back’ semi-detached homes, and additional pond-backing lots to make Chèrot an even more beautiful place to call home.

Chérot will also feature a future community amenities campus featuring a recreation centre.

“We’re currently planning our next community event for 2025. Chèrot is growing, and we’re excited for what’s to come,” Lieu adds. For more information on Chérot, go to cherot.ca.

Enjoying nature

Nature is ever close at hand in St. Albert, and there are plenty of spots to enjoy lush, green scenery. The Sturgeon River which runs through the heart of St. Albert is a great spot for walks, picnics and communing with nature.

The capital region’s only provincial park, the Lois Hole Centennial Provincial Park, is also right at its doorstep. It is located along the western edge of St. Albert and Edmonton and Big Lake is its defining feature, taking up 59 per cent of the park’s total area.

The St. Albert Botanic Park is also a sight to behold. It is a top tourist destination in the city, featuring five acres of beautifully landscaped, themed gardens.

The city also has some cultural highlight, not the least of which is the Art Gallery of St. Albert which showcases local and national artists. The Musee Heritage Museum is also a top attraction, featuring exhibits that capture the cultural and historical richness of St. Albert.

St. Albert also has a growing reputation as a foodie destination. The blossoming restaurant scene offers plenty of options from nearly every corner of the globe, including Italian, Creole and Cajun dishes.

The Perron District is the heart of St. Albert. This flourishing centre showcases the best of the city through businesses, culture, art and natural surroundings. Head downtown and enjoy the nearly 50 independent shops, cafes and restaurants that this lively district has to offer. Within it is the St. Albert Centre which offers a mix of well-known retailers and local boutiques. The charming downtown area is also a great place for unique finds and boutique shopping.