A Guide to Vacation Ownership Second of 4 Special Supplements

A Toronto Star Advertising Section thestar.com/fractionalproperties Saturday, July 19, 2008 Fractional Properties a guide to vacation ownership Second of 4 Special Supplements

take the plunge

ow you can enjoy summer on your own terms. nOwning a piece of Ontario cottage country has never been easier. Fractional properties come in an assortment of shapes and sizes to accommodate every holiday need. Inside, you’ll find information on why buying a fractional property makes sense, and advice on how to buy them. There’s also an overview of cottage regions, plus some suggestions on how to keep everyone entertained once you get there. Dive in and make your cottage dream a reality. 2 | Fractional Properties Saturday, July 19, 2008 A Toronto Star Advertising Section

Renfrew 3 2 Blue Water Acres Seasons of Muskoka 4 The Landscapes

Frontenac Shores Perth

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4 Westport 25 Inaski Shores 1 8

Wolfe Springs 5 Collingwood 1 y 7 Resort Cottages at the Pointe 3 w H 1 y Norwood w 6 H Resorts Inc Napanee

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Why buy a Fractional Property?

Maximum time to play, minimum worry—and the price is right By Maureen Littlejohn

ave you always dreamed Muskokas, they’ll opt for five weeks in about owning a vacation the Muskokas, five weeks in a ski area, getaway in Ontario’s glori- five weeks in a beach or golf area and Hous cottage country but a time-share or two thrown in for good thought it was out of reach? Well, measure. It’s all about options.” dream no more. The reality of diving Fractional units come furnished, into a cool lake, sipping dockside re- and a professional management com- freshments, building sandcastles and pany takes care of everything from frolicking with friends and family in lawn care to barbecue maintenance. the fresh, pine-scented air is more ac- This carefree vacation isn’t for every- cessible than ever, thanks to the con- one, though. Says Perlmutter: “If cept of fractional property ownership. you’re the kind of person that simply By sharing in the cost and responsibil- has to rebuild a deck, paint the living ity of a vacation home, it is possible room or reset paving stones every time to maximize holiday pleasure and you go to the cottage, this type of eliminate the maintenance headaches lifestyle probably isn’t for you. and wallet squeeze that can accom- “If, on the other hand, you’re the pany sole ownership. Shutterstock kind of person who just wants to show In Ontario, fractional properties can ally use, and the costs of maintaining properties offer even longer intervals. up at your property and be sipping a be a single structure or a whole de- the home are proportionally divided “We’re seeing that shared owner- cool one poolside within 15 minutes velopment. They are usually located between the owners of the home as a ship acquisition is no longer simply of arrival, it might be the perfect life- in prime leisure-oriented areas that whole,” explains Ross Perlmutter, ex- driven by economics,” notes Perlmut- style fit. You literally don’t have to do feature sparkling lakes, lush golf ecutive director of the Canadian Resort ter. “Buyers who can truly afford to a thing: the place is cleaned, the bed courses or ski hills. Many are situated Development Association. purchase the entire vacation home are linens are freshly changed and even on slices of premier waterfront and Costs for fractional properties can now purchasing fractionals because the dining room table will be set and are perfect for summer activities such range anywhere from $30,000 to they love the flexibility, the conve- waiting for your arrival.” as swimming, boating, fishing and sun more than $100,000. Shares are di- nience, the amenities and the luxury bathing. vided into time intervals ranging from they offer. Rather than own all 52 Maureen Littlejohn is a Toronto- What do you own when you buy a around four to seven weeks. Some weeks of the year at a cottage in the based freelance writer. fractional property? A share of a stand- alone cottage or villa (attached units that usually have two or three bed- Key points Your use of the unit depends on equipment such as barbecues, canoes rooms), plus shared ownership of the Fractional shares can be resold. the number of shares you purchase. and kayaks. Some high-end properties entire development property, including Shares are completely transferable, but For instance, a one-tenth share equates also offer a clubhouse, pool, mini spa recreational facilities and common land. they are subject to procedures set out to five weeks. Some developments and fitness facilities. Each development’s offerings are a little in an ownership agreement. guarantee summer weeks; others Exchange your weeks to travel different, but they all operate on the A unit can usually be loaned out guarantee year-round usage. the world. Often, fractional ownership same basic premise of equity ownership to friends or family. However, each Amenities included. Generally, allows you to exchange your week(s) of the property as a whole. development has different rules. units are cleaned and linens changed through a worldwide vacation exchange “Shared ownership was born from There might also be a code of conduct between the arrival and departure of company, such as RCI, Registry the realization that acquiring a recre- for both owners and guests. each owner. Ground maintenance is Collection or Interval International. ational resort home was rapidly becom- Pets are sometimes allowed. In many usually conducted all year round, while RCI is largest and oldest, Interval ing out of reach for the average con- developments, there are units for those major repairs are done during specially International is the second largest, sumer,” says Ross Perlmutter, adding, with pets as well as pet-free units for designated weeks. Many properties and Registry Collection is the newest “By purchasing only a fraction of the those with allergies. have docks, beaches and outdoor and most exclusive. home, you pay only for what you actu- thestar.com/fractionalproperties Saturday, July 19, 2008 Fractional Properties | 3 Consider before purchasing

• First and foremost a potential pur- able area. If your primary goal in purchase should be an investment in fu- chasing is to take advantage of the ture vacations and an enhanced life- exchange benefit, be aware that the style. greater the demand for the unit you “bank” for exchange, the greater ex- • Choose a property that fits your life- change flexibility you will gain. style. Think carefully about what you Shutterstock value most in a recreation and leisure • Shared ownership is one of the most experience, then explore the owner- highly regulated leisure products in shared ownership, real estate and/or developer, rescission rights, disclosures ship products and options available to today’s consumer marketplace. In Brit- consumer protection governs the pur- about the project for consumers, and you. Choose those that will best suit ish Columbia, Alberta and Ontario, chase process. These laws usually ad- provisions for resort management. Go your family’s needs today as well as provincial legislation pertaining to dress financial requirements for the over these with your lawyer. into the future.

• Visit a fractional ownership project to assess the quality of accommoda- A glossary of terms the property, including maintenance of tions and recreational opportunities. unit and the grounds, daily manage- If possible, talk to existing owners Banking or deposit: depositing a three weeks and less than whole ment, upkeep and improvements. about their experiences. week of shared ownership into an ex- ownership. change system or inventory pool. Owners association (also “members’ • Read all documents carefully to un- Interval: ownership as measured by a committee” or “strata council”): the derstand fully what type of product is Developer: the company that builds set number of days and nights of an- group of owners that administer the being offered. Ask for a clear explana- the resort and is responsible for con- nual use. Usually measured in weeks. rules and regulations of a shared prop- tion of the language and terms used. structing the accommodations on-site erty. The creation of a homeowners’ and selling the fractions. Lock-off (or “lock-out”): A type of association is often required by pro- • Look for signs of good planning and shared ownership unit consisting of vincial laws. design, such as leisure facilities and Exchange: the system that allows multiple living and sleeping quarters amenities, good housekeeping and owners to trade the accommodations designed to function as two discrete Rescission: a period of time during friendly service. Take a careful look at they own for comparable accommo- units for purposes of occupancy and which consumers have the right to the proposed budget. dations or travel-related services. Most exchange. The unit can be combined to cancel a purchase contract and obtain fractional ownership developments form one large unit or can be split or a full refund of their deposit with no • Verify the development’s affiliation are affiliated with an exchange com- “locked-off” into two or more separate penalty. Dictated by provincial statute with an exchange company and learn pany; some projects also offer an in- units, allowing the owner to split the and company policy, rescission periods about the project’s internal exchange ternal exchange mechanism that al- vacation into multiple stays or bank all vary from province to province. policies. lows owners to exchange weeks or a portion for exchange purposes. within the property itself. Vacation ownership: describes various • If you want to maximize your op- Maintenance fee (“annual dues”): a forms of shared leisure ownership.

portunities for exchange, purchase the Fractional ownership: leisure real fee that owners are required to pay to — Information provided by the Canadian most desirable unit in a highly desir- estate sold in intervals of more than cover the aggregate costs of running Resort Development Association. 4 | Fractional Properties Saturday, July 19, 2008 A Toronto Star Advertising Section A natural attraction Ontario’s lakes and woodlands have lured vacation seekers for generations. Here’s a brief overview of the main cottage regions and what they have to offer By Maureen Littlejohn

eeking relief from the city’s conservation areas and arguably the A number of conservation areas and attracts upwards of 10,000 people ev- summer heat, grit and grime? best blueberries in the province. Bon provincial parks run alongside the canal ery July. Lindsay is the Kawarthas town Try a time-honoured prescrip- Echo Provincial Park is spectacular with where it is possible to see beavers, known for its historic brush with ce- Stion: plenty of rest and relax- 1,000-year-old cedar trees and Mazinaw muskrats, ducks, osprey and the ma- lebrity. The Marx Brothers and Sammy ation in Ontario’s cottage country. Lake, home to Mazinaw Rock and jestic blue heron. Anglers love the area Davis Jr. were just a few of the big Cool, clear lakes, craggy rock outcrop- more than 260 pictographs. Other high- for its largemouth bass, smallmouth names to grace the stage of Lindsay’s pings, sandy shores and dense forests lights are the Mississippi River and won- bass, northern pike, lake trout, yellow famous Academy Theatre, founded in just a few hours’ drive from the prov- derful hiking routes along the Trans- perch, black crappie and walleye. 1892. Bookworms head to Lakefield, ince’s large urban centres have been Canada Trail. In Napanee, east of The largest community between where a yearly literary festival in July is delivering holiday respite to families Kingston, history buffs can stop by the Kingston and Ottawa is Smiths Falls, held in honour of Canadian icon Mar- for generations. Lennox and Addington County Museum home to the Rideau Canal headquar- garet Laurence’s birthday. Nature lovers The main vacation regions are and Archives, located in the former ters and the Rideau Canal Museum. also cherish the area. Silent Lake Pro- Muskoka, Haliburton, the Kawarthas, county jail, to learn about the first per- Other towns of note are artists’ haven vincial Park offers 3,500 acres of land Eastern Ontario and southern Geor- manent European settlement of United Merrickville, known as the “Jewel of and water to play in, while Petroglyphs gian Bay. All offer refreshing and lei- Empire Loyalists—Americans who took the Rideau,” and Westport with its Provincial Park features 900 prehis- surely pursuits—water sports, fishing, the side of the King during the American many eclectic shops. toric rock carvings that depict turtles, paddling, golf, community festivals, Revolution and were relocated to the snakes, birds and humans. local museums, wildlife spotting and Bay of Quinte. The Kawarthas clean, fresh air. The following is a brief One of the most scenic and historic The glittering necklace that shines in Haliburton glimpse of each region’s attractions waterways of the area is the Rideau this region is the Trent-Severn Waterway, Some of province’s most magnifi- and highlights. Canal, originally built as an emergency formed by four principal rivers—the cent wilderness areas—as well as the trade route during the War of 1812. Trent, Otonabee, Talbot and Severn—as comfort of high-end accommodation Eastern Ontario Today it is North America’s oldest op- well as Rice Lake, the Kawartha lakes, and leisurely activities such as golf and Sprinkled with more than 5,000 lakes, erating 19th-century canal, complete Lake Simcoe and Lake Couchiching. The tennis—are easily found in Haliburton, this area’s metropolitan hub is Kingston. with hand-operated cranks. It spans area’s hub is Peterborough, the first city a three-hour drive northeast of To- It’s a two-and-a-half-hour drive from 200 kilometres from Kingston to Ot- in Canada to have electric street lights. ronto. Algonquin Provincial Park is Toronto and one-and-a-half hours from tawa and interconnects with a series An easy one-and-a-half-hour drive north- considered the jewel of the region, Ottawa. Eastern Ontario boasts parks, of lakes making it a boater’s paradise. east of Toronto, it is home to The Ca- with its pristine forests offering glimps- nadian Canoe Museum, the largest of es of wildlife, including moose, bear its kind in the world (600 canoes are and deer. The oldest park in Ontario, Ontario cottage country tourism websites permanently on exhibit). Boaters will also Algonquin was immortalized in paint- Ontario Tourism: ontariotravel.net enjoy the National Heritage Information ings by the Group of Seven. The Native Festivals & Events Ontario: festivalsandeventsontario.ca Centre, dedicated to the role that wa- peoples were the first inhabitants of Haliburton County: haliburtoncounty.ca/tourism/Summer/index.asp tercraft has played in Canadian history. the Haliburton area and there are Georgian Triangle Tourist Association: collingwoodthebluemountains.com There are other bustling communi- many reminders of their presence— Muskoka Tourism: discovermuskoka.ca ties in the region worth a visit. Bobcay- artifacts and rock etchings that date Peterborough and the Kawarthas Tourism: thekawarthas.net geon, which began as a trading post back thousands of years around Grass, Ontario East Tourism Corporation: ontarioeast.com in the 1600s, today boasts the Open Boshkung and Kashagawigamog Fiddle and Step Dance Contest, which lakes. The copper objects discovered

Just 90 minutes from Yonge and 401 Enjoy 5 Carefree Weeks per year in a fully furnished & equipped cottage in the heart of the Kawarthas! • 3-bedrooms/sleeps 8 • Gas fireplace • Solid pine flooring • 2-bath - upper w/jetted tub • Modern kitchens w/ • Canoes, kayaks & paddle • Quality furnishings dishwasher boats • Maibec wood siding • Washer & Dryer • Pool  Save $5,000

Open House Saturdays & Sundays Noon to 4 pm Viewings on other days and times available by appointment. thestar.com/fractionalproperties Saturday, July 19, 2008 Fractional Properties | 5

Steamship cruises are a popular way to explore Muskoka. Summer happenings • MUSKOKA This annual festival of the arts Muskoka Arts & Crafts 46th held in the Haliburton Forest & Annual Summer Show, Wildlife Reserve offers concerts, Bracebridge: July 18-20 workshops and guided forest (705) 645-5501; walks. Produced in partnership muskokaartsandcrafts.com with Canadian composer Now in its 46th year, this event R. Murray Schafer. Admission, features 200 artists from across $20-$60. Canada and attracts more • EASTERN ONTARIO than 20,000 visitors. MUSICwestport, Westport: • KAWARTHAS Aug. 16, noon–5 p.m. Lakefield Literary Festival, (613) 273-8333 Lakefield: July 18–20 Nine professional bands perform Courtesy Muskoka Steamships (705) 652-7535; outdoors at the Cove Country in the village of Harcourt at Farquhar biggest and most populated commu- lakefieldliteraryfestival.com Inn and Foley House Historic Inn Lake are estimated to be at least 2,000 nities are Muskoka Lake, Lake Rosseau The weekend closest to writer & Pub, on the banks of Upper years old. In the 1850s the land was and Lake Joseph. Densely forested Margaret Laurence’s birthday Rideau Lake. logged and settled by mostly Scottish with black and white spruce, jack pine, showcases Canadian authors. • SOUTHERN GEORGIAN BAY and Irish immigrants. A good source tamarack, poplar, white birch and bal- This year’s presenters include Collingwood Music Festival, for historical information on those sam, Muskoka is well known for its Stevie Cameron, Joe Fiorito Collingwood: July 5–Aug. 9, early pioneers is the Haliburton High- rocky Canadian Shield terrain. and Hugh Brewster. 1-888-283-1712; lands Museum located in Glebe Park, Originally occupied by Algonquin • HALIBURTON collingwoodmusicfestival.com on the north shore of Head Lake over- and Huron tribes, the land was parceled The Forest Festival: July 31–Aug. 3 This year’s festival features a host looking Haliburton Village. out to white settlers in 1868 with the 1-800-461-7677 of musical artists, including the Among the delightful towns in the Free Grants and Homestead Act. By the theforestfestival.com Toronto Mendelssohn Choir. Haliburton area is Dorset, a tiny com- beginning of the 20th century, the up- munity that sits on the border between per classes had started building luxuri- the Haliburton Highlands and Muskoka. ous cottages along the shores of Lake Southern Georgian Bay Collingwood, which celebrates its The scenic lookout tower, originally built Muskoka. Glittering resorts followed Located on the southern shores of 150th anniversary this year, was the in 1922 to check for forest fires, provides during the 1920s and 1930s, and Georgian Bay, Collingwood and the railhead of Ontario, and its harbour a spectacular view of the region’s hard- among the crème de la crème of musi- Town of the Blue Mountains offer bik- was the trans-shipment point for wood forests, especially during the fall. cians who came to perform were Count ing or hiking on the trails, paddling by goods destined for Western Canada. Minden Hills, once a logging town, of- Basie, Duke Ellington and Guy Lom- the shoreline and skiing in the winter. In 1883 the Collingwood Dry Dock fers a cultural centre, museum and the bardo and His Royal Canadians. Carole One well-known attraction, Scenic Shipbuilding and Foundry Company Agnes Jamieson Gallery. Lombard and Clark Gable honey- Caves Nature Adventures, features a Limited opened and it was one of the mooned here, and, more recently, the 300-metre-high suspension bridge principal industries in the town until Muskoka list of Hollywood celebrities investing with a stunning view of the bay, plus its closure in 1986. Today Collingwood For more than 100 years, Muskoka in Muskoka property includes Goldie a labyrinth of caves and hiking trails. is better known for its numerous shops and its 1,600 lakes have been attract- Hawn, Kurt Russell and Martin Short. Further east, sand and swim bunnies and dining spots. Nearby, Thornbury ing cottagers. A one-and-a-half-hour Boat cruises on the Muskoka Lakes frolic along the 14–kilometre stretch and the Village at Blue Mountain offer drive north of Toronto, the area in- are a favourite way to explore the re- of white sand at Wasaga Beach, the specialty shops and a variety of cafés cludes the townships of Muskoka gion. The Royal Mail Ship Segwun, longest freshwater beach in the world. and restaurants. Lakes, Georgian Bay and Lake of Bays, once a paddlewheeler, is the oldest Boasting an internationally recognized Rich in history and brimming with as well as the towns of Gravenhurst, continually operating steamship in Blue Flag rating,the beach is safe, outdoor activities, cottage country Huntsville and Bracebridge. The three North America. clean and environmentally friendly. spells summer adventure.

MUSKOKAFRACTIONAL COTTAGE OWNERSHIP on Lake of Bays

Ontario’s Fastest Selling Fractional Cottages $29,900 - $87,900*

My husband and I have purchased a fractional ownership in PHASE 2 NOW SELLING ACTUALFURNISHINGS Blue Water Acres and we are just thrilled and excited with the development. Exceptional Prices We chose Blue Water Acres because it was a first class family developed and operated resort where our family has enjoyed summer holidays for many, many years. When we learned that Waterfront Location they were selling fractional ownerships we went to see them immediately knowing that if the Van Gelder family were the developers the product would be first rate.....and it is. Authentic Detached Cottages Terri Caron, Buyer

Carefree Ownership Having looked at other developments we noticed immediately the quality of the model, the existing facilities and the value the price represented. Within an hour and a half my family and I Near Algonquin Park had made a unanimous decision to purchase a share in the Algonquin model. We have been cottaging in Muskoka for many years and up until Blue Water Acres had never seen anything we felt represented good VISIT OUR MODEL COTTAGE. value that was affordable. OPEN DAILY. We are looking forward to many happy years. John Vingoe, Buyer

1.866.396.BLUE / bluewater-star.com *5-week intervals in two and three bedroom cottages. 6 | Fractional Properties Saturday, July 19, 2008 A Toronto Star Advertising Section The shared ownership concept: what you get for your money By Gloria Collinson

ottages can often sit empty erties usually divide the year into 50 for much of the year. Buying weeks, with the remaining two weeks a property in fractions means devoted to maintenance. A one-tenth- Cyou can acquire as much or share owner would get a week in win- as little time as you can use, or afford. ter, spring, summer and fall, plus an- If you estimate how much time you other week throughout the year. spent at a family cottage in the past, What is the ownership structure? you will realize how much time you Usually, the land, all buildings and con- didn’t spend there. Buying only what tents are owned by a not-for-profit you use makes sense. corporation in which the purchasers Most shared-ownership or fraction- own all the shares, with one vote for al cottage properties are a combination every one-tenth or one-fourth pur- of beautiful lakefront location, hand- chased. This ownership is in perpetuity some, well-built buildings, appropriate and, as with any ownership, can be Some properties are designed with the safety of young children in mind. but luxurious, endurable cottage fur- used, rented, sold, loaned or passed nishings, hardwood flooring, granite on to future generations. A few prop- Shutterstock counters, kitchen, bath and bed linens erties may have been structured as animals. Please note that some prop- sofa, each is assumed to accommo- and towels, and high-quality appli- condominiums and have all the attri- erties are completely pet-free. date two people but not in privacy. ances. Everything is provided; you just butes of a traditional condominium. Can I leave personal belongings The usual occupancy maximum is bring your food and clothes. How does the exchange option in the cottage between visits? eight people. For those busy with a career or work? Many properties are affiliated Usually, the housekeeping staff is in- Can I have guests? Yes. You own those who may be getting a little with a major exchange company such structed to take inventory of the pro- this cottage for the week(s) you are older, the fractional concept equates as RCI or Interval International. This vided contents of a cottage as each there. to less stress and worry because the gives you the opportunity to “depos- owner leaves, and to remove anything Is the beach safe for a 4-year responsibility for a property is shared it” or “bank” any of your weeks with that is not on the inventory list. The old? Check to see whether the entry among all the owners. the exchange company and subse- shared owners in a cottage must agree into the water is sufficiently gradual How does it work exactly? The fol- quently exchange it for a week at an- to the inclusion of any additional items for the safety of young children. lowing is an outline of the basics to get other property of equal value at one in the inventory. Usually, a storage Is the tap water potable and you familiar with the concept. Each of their listings around the world. The locker is provided for each owner ei- what is its source and treatment? property is a little different, so for spe- developer/seller of most properties will ther in the cottage basement or in a There are a number of sources—wells cifics, you’ll need to research a particu- include in the purchase price the ini- separate building where items as large or lakes—as well as water-treatment lar property directly by contacting the tiation fee and one year of member- as a bicycle or skis, or as small as salt systems. Find out what has been used developer or going to the website. ship in an exchange program. and pepper shakers can be stored be- in a particular property. Smoking? Generally there is an tween visits. If I bring a boat, where can I Fractional-Property Basics absolute smoking ban inside all build- Are there regulations concern- launch it? Most properties have sev- What do I own? Most fractions in ings in fractional projects. ing the number of people staying eral spots on one large dock or several Ontario offer either one-tenth or one- Pets? If you wish to bring your pet in each cottage? Yes. A room with small docks where your boat can be fourth shares, or 5 to 12 weeks of use with you, be sure to purchase a pet- four walls and a door is assumed to tied up when you are at the property. each year. These are usually spread friendly cottage. You will not be able accommodate two people overnight, equally throughout all four seasons. to bring any pet to a pet-free cottage. so a three-bedroom cottage will ac- Gloria Collinson is former president For example, a one-tenth share would This rule is strictly enforced since some commodate six people in privacy. If of the Canadian Resort get five weeks in total. Fractional prop- people have serious allergies to various there is an additional loft or pull-out Development Association. thestar.com/fractionalproperties Saturday, July 19, 2008 Fractional Properties | 7

Maximizing ownership benefits • If you can afford it, purchase additional intervals — at your existing location or elsewhere. You can also rent/borrow from other owners. • It’s not uncommon to encourage friends and family to jump aboard and also buy shares. This way there is a larger pool of available weeks at your disposal. • Some owners purchase multiple intervals for rental purposes, using the income to help cover costs such as maintenance fees. • Most fractional developments actively encourage owners to com- municate among themselves when

Shutterstock it comes to swapping or renting out weeks. Clear guidelines and rules are usually outlined in the de- Deciding on your interval of ownership: velopment’s Owners Association By-Laws (or its equivalent). it’s all about the timing By Kim Kerr

uying a fractional property is a tally is never greater than 52. floating weeks and change from year The Macaulays opted to purchase little like buying a car: there As for the scheduling of weeks, to year. Using a hockey draft analogy, intervals positioned at different ends are a myriad of choices and a many fractional developments in On- owners take turns to have a sought- of the summer calendar, one in early Blot to consider in order to get tario use a simple model where own- after first pick one year, and drop to July, the other in August. “We just the right fit. But, two key elements that ers reserve (or are guaranteed) a fixed second the next year, and then down felt it would help make summer seem can influence a purchaser’s final deci- week that remains theirs each and to third and so on until they eventu- that much longer,” noted Gregg. A sion are the length of each interval or every year. In most cases, these sum- ally end up with first pick again. further benefit was the improved fraction (measured in weeks), and the mer weeks (usually numbered one to Two years ago, Gregg and Jan odds they would have of getting their timing of ownership, usually dispersed 10 for easy identification) are deter- Macaulay of Etobicoke, Ont., pur- favourite floating weeks at other throughout the four seasons. mined by counting backwards from chased shares in a high-end Muskoka times of the year. In the majority of cases, intervals Labour Day, the traditional “unoffi- fractional development with the fu- They couldn’t be happier with their are purchased in increments of five cial” end of summer. There are also ture in mind. decision. “We’re guaranteed a first weeks. Generally, there are10 inter- variations on this theme, such as golf- “We’ve got two boys in their 20s pick every few years this way,” said vals of five weeks per cottage or villa based fractionals offering fixed weeks and we felt we should get two inter- MacAulay, adding, “That means more (totaling 50 weeks) and the remaining during the longer golf season. vals so we could eventually give one quality time with the family, and more two weeks are devoted to mainte- Once the fixed summer week (or to each of them. Plus, we knew five flexibility when we need it.” nance. Some fractional developments weeks) is determined, you have to de- weeks wasn’t going to be enough have opted for even larger increments cide how to use your additional weeks. time when we hit retirement down Kim Kerr is a Muskoka-based of time, up to 13 weeks, but the final These, in almost all cases, are called the road,” explained Gregg. freelance writer. 8 | Fractional Properties Saturday, July 19, 2008 A Toronto Star Advertising Section

Various Artists, The Sound Of Phil- adelphia—Gamble & Huff’s Great- Hot flicks, cool tunes, est Hits (Philadelphia Internation- al/Legacy/Sony BMG) From the smokin’ Philly soul of The O’Jays’ breezy pages “Love Train” and “Back Stabbers” to The Three Degrees’ “When Will I See A selection of freshly minted, classically seasoned hits to keep you You Again,” this is an era that will bring back a rush of memories and entertained all summer long By Nicholas Paul booty shakin’. AC/DC, Back in Black (Columbia/ ractional-property owners can vitality of the ’60s Petula Clark/Dusty year by blowing out the candles with Sony BMG) Looking for a little old- kick back in style with wonder- Springfield U.K. pop scene. “Rock- local musical talents such as La Bottine school classic rock? Place in DVD ful amenities such as comfy ferry” and “Serious” will have you Souriante and Florent Vollant. player. Crank it up. Hit “play.” Fhigh-end sofas and state-of- humming in your hammock. Jully Black, Revival (Jully Black En- the-art home theatre systems. But The Beach Boys, Sounds of Sum- tertainment/Universal) Worth adding FOR THE KIDS what good is settling into the softest mer—The Very Best of The Beach to your collection alone for Black’s in- chair in the world without great tunes, Boys (Capitol EMI) There’s nothing toxicating rendition of the Etta James movies and juicy summer reading? quite as uplifting as the sounds of sum- classic “Seven Day Fool,” this power- Every summer experience needs to mer’s timeless unofficial ambassadors house diva pulls out all the stops for a be personalized with some pleasurable mixing some California sunshine into fine R&B blend of satisfying soul. sounds, sights and good books. For Ontario’s fresh air. With their efferves- Bob Marley, Legend (Island/Uni- him, cool vintage rock, DVD action ad- cent harmonies and songs about girls, versal) Lounge on the dock and soak venture and a good, stimulating non- girls and more girls, Brian Wilson and up some rays with this greatest-hits fiction biography are great choices. For his Beach Boys offer plenty of “Good collection of reggae music’s universal her, options include exhilarating world Vibrations” to go around. icon. It will take the word “stress” Camp Rock, Soundtrack (Walt Dis- music, a chick flick or two and some right out of your vocabulary. Classic ney Records/Universal) It might not fun beach reading. Also available are tracks like “Jamming” and “Waiting rock your boat, but this CD offers music a few titles for the kids—a must for in Vain” go down even smoother if by the Jonas Brothers, the new apples keeping the peace in the family. you have an imported Red Stripe with- of your tweenage daughters’ ears. Here’s a list of recommendations for in sipping distance. Thanks to Disne y, heartthrobs Joseph, ultimate summer enjoyment: Kevin and Nicholas are currently the cat’s meow and you can bet you’ll be Tunes hearing this blasting out of the speak- The Allman Brothers Band, Gold, ers again…and again…and again. (Universal Music) This two-disc set Various Artists, Putumayo Presents Barenaked Ladies, Snacktime (Des- of vintage Southern rock from these (Putumayo) Three recent titles from the peration/Nettwerk) One could argue natives of Macon, Georgia, makes for Putumayo collection are perfect for add- that Scarborough’s Barenaked Ladies ideal listening fare for heading up the ing a dash of exotic flair to any barbecue. have always written songs for kids of highway to your cottage. Jams like African Party features the celebratory all ages with witty fare like “If I Had “Jessica” and “Whipping Post” will polyrhythms of Zimbabwe’s Oliver Mtu- Jack Johnson, Sleep Through the $1,000,000” and “One Week,” but get your vacation mojo motorin’ in kudzi, Nigeria’s Kotoja and Guinea’s Static (Brushfire Records/Univer- songs like “7 8 9,” “Pollywog in a Bog” grand fashion. Sekouba Bambino, to name a few. Café sal) Tranquil surfer man serves up a and “Here Come the Geese” will prompt Duffy, Rockferry (A&M/Universal) Cubano explores the Pan-American folk little melodic meat that’s solid and the wee ones to bop ’til they drop. Welsh songstress Amy Ann Duffy’s blend of Cuba’s ’60s nueva trova move- easy on the nerves. The resulting al- buoyant music is filled with bright ment of guajiras, sones and boleros. bum is not only soothing but also DVDs (Film/TV) beacons of shimmering romance that Closer to home, Québec celebrates memorable. Again, hammock recom- Indiana Jones: The Adventure Col- capture the ringing innocence and Québec City’s 400th anniversary this mended. lection (Paramount) Now that HDTV Exceptional Vacation Home Ownership in Collingwood

Our 3 and 4 bedroom fully furnished True properties have spacious open concept designs, overlook Equity Georgian Bay and are ready now to see and occupy. Ownership! From just $29,500 fractional ownership Enjoy all of Norwood Vacation Residences offers the exciting the most flexible fractional ownership program in Ontario, along with some Four Season, of the most luxurious and well Year Round appointed residences, available at amenities that very affordable prices. We offer a complete vacation home ownership Collingwood experience that is second to none. has to offer!

Involves a smaller nancial commitment for your asset purchase - you spend for what you use No worry about the property when not using it • No housekeeping or maintenance Closer to GTA, making it easy to get to and gas savings • No problems with pesky seasonal bugs Enjoy... Relax... Explore!

Visit our Presentation Centre at 2 Steeles Ave. W. at Yonge, Toronto or visit our properties in Collingwood.

Call: 416-303-9342 • Toll Free: 1-866-465-3754 • visit: www.norwoodvr.com/star

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www.norwoodvr.com/ohg thestar.com /fractionalproperties Saturday, July 19, 2008 Fractional Properties | 9 is a cottage reality, watch the sweat hilarious Stephen Chow film entry into Books author of the popular young-adult bead on Harrison Ford’s brow as he the world of martial arts. Good for fans Sebastian Faulks, Devil May Care novel series The Clique is big with the tackles one dangerous situation to the of Bruce Lee and Bugs Bunny, but may (Doubleday) Attempting to fill the 10-to-12-year-old-girl set. Ask them next in the Steven Spielberg/George be a bit too violent for the young ones. late James Bond creator Ian Fleming’s and they’ll tell you about the Pretty Lucas action-packed trio—Raiders of Definitely, Maybe (Universal Pic- shoes, author Faulks weaves a plot of Committee and its members Massie, the Lost Ark, Temple of Doom and tures) A rose-coloured-glasses bonding global intrigue with villains and, of Claire, Alicia, Dylan and Kristen. Last Crusade. film between a father and his 10-year- course, 007, who saves us all. Rumiko Takahashi, InuYasha Ani- Fawlty Towers: The Complete Col- old daughter becomes a guessing game Eric Clapton, Clapton (Broadway Manga, volume #27, Graphic Nov- lection (BBC Video) They don’t get concerning the identity of the girl’s Books) This candid el (VIZ Media) It may contain a lot of much funnier than this timeless three- mother. Definitely, Maybe offers autobiography from pictures, but it’s one way to get teen- disc BBC series from Monty Python great plenty of mushy moments with Ryan ridiculously talent- age boys to read. This Japanese man- John Cleese. Featuring the obnoxious Reynolds and Little Miss Sunshine ed rock guitar god ga series is about a time-travelling and cranky hotelier Basil Fawlty, it will charmer Abigail Breslin. Eric Clapton wasn’t student, several demons and a quest have you splitting your sides through all Casino Royale (MGM) With the new ghostwritten and for the “Jewel of Four Souls.” 12 episodes—guaranteed. James Bond flickQuantum of Solace glosses over noth- Garth Stein, The Art of Racing in 27 Dresses (20th Century Fox) With just around the corner, this would be ing. Intriguing. the Rain (1817, Harper Collins) A a story line centred on a serial brides- an ideal time to get up to speed on David Sedaris, funny, uplifting and heart-wrenching maid from the writer of catty favorite new 007 Daniel Craig, plus it’s an in- When You Are story narrated by a dog named Enzo, The Devil Wears Prada, this charming tense little thriller of a movie. Engulfed in Flames (Lit- who has watched TV extensively and romantic film starring Katherine Heigl tle, Brown and Company) American learned about humanity through his may even trigger a hankering for a FOR THE KIDS humourist Sedaris finds disturbing master, a racecar driver. A little some- marathon Heigl-fest. Other flicks fea- The Muppet Show: The Complete connections in the simplest everyday thing for readers to lap up. turing the Grey’s Anatomy actress— Third Season (Walt Disney Video) corners and skewers them with his Jackie Collins, Married Lovers (St. Knocked Up, Love’s Enduring Prom- Continuing the stride they hit in the satiric wit. Martin’s Press) Nobody does trashy ise and My Father the Hero. second season, when they introduced William Shatner with David Fish- and steamy bet- Dirty Dancing: Twentieth Anniver- Dr. Bunsen Honeydew’s assistant Bea- er, Up Till Now (Thorndike Press) ter than Joan’s sary (Maple Pictures) “You don’t ker, the show’s creators offer plenty of More popular than ever, Montreal novel-writing sis- back Baby into a corner!” Dance, ro- zany antics from the Muppets to please native and Star Trek icon ruminates ter, Jackie, and mance, Patrick the tykes and enough cornball humour about life, numerous loves and his this tale about a Swayze… What to amuse the adults. Twenty-four epi- varied career. Anybody remember his beautiful fitness more could a sodes feature guest stars Raquel Welch, deadpan recording of “Mr. Tambou- instructor who woman want? Sylvester Stallone and Spike Milligan rine Man”? interacts with You might be for starters. Laura Weisberger, Chasing Harry three rich cou- inspired to catch Ratatouille Winston (Simon & Schuster) Dia- ples proves it the theatrical (Walt Disney monds are not only a girl’s best friend, yet again. version when Video) An but perhaps even a lifestyle, in this you head back enchanting novel about three Manhattanites who Gaming to the city. Disney Pixar agree to dramatically change their lives Guitar Hero III: Legends of Rock Cloverfield (Paramount) File this one animated within a year. (Activision) This cross-platform hit under environmentally scary: A huge film for the Chelsea Handler, Are You There, allows you to channel your inner rock creature wreaks havoc through New kiddies about Vodka? It’s Me, Chelsea (Simon god to familiar tunes. A good com- York City. Created by J. J. Abrams of a rat who Spotlight Entertainment) Stand-up panion to Rock Band, which lets you Lost, the film uses lots of jittery camera becomes a comedian and host of Chelsea Lately take the garage into the living room work that, along with the monster, chef at a top Parisian restaurant. Who talk show on E! details her dysfunc- and start the journey to becoming the might make you a tad squeamish. knows? After viewing this flick, you tional lifestyle with candour and way rock star you always knew you were. Kung-Fu Hustle (Sony Pictures might even convince your tykes to too much alcohol. Classics) Unexpected twists, turns and eat their broccoli. Audio- enhanced Lisi Harrison, Alicia (Little, Brown Nicholas Paul is a Toronto-based a sudden left into slapstick mark this for Blu-ray. and Company) The Toronto-born freelance writer. Exceptional Vacation Home Ownership in Collingwood

Visit our Presentation Centre at 2 Steeles Ave. W. at Yonge, Toronto or visit our properties in Collingwood.

Call: 416-303-9342 • Toll Free: 1-866-465-3754 • visit: www.norwoodvr.com/star

FOR MORE INFORMATION AND VIRTUAL TOURS, PLEASE VISIT