Cochrane’s unique Western heritage and fantastic views of the Rockies has made it into one of southern Alberta’s most desirable towns to raise a family, in fact it’s population continues to grow, as a 2009 municipal census shows an increase in residents from 14,653 in 2008 to 15,424 last year.

A 2009 Ipsos Reid Cochrane customer satisfaction survey revealed that respondents have high regard for the community and find the quality of life that it provides very satisfactory.  Indeed, 98 per cent were very satisfied or satisfied with their quality of life, and 99 percent stated they enjoy living in Cochrane and area.

Here are some of the newest communities in town.

Heritage Hills
Heritage Hills, a Harmony Parks Development Corp. project, has some of the most stunning views in the whole of Cochrane, and the best thing about it is homes here are very affordable.
Homes have a timeless character which, paired with the Rocky Mountain views and affordable prices, has made it a popular choice.

“We have some of the most stunning views in town overlooking the lush greenery of the Stoney reserve and you know that view is not going to change,” says Stepper Homes area manager

Mary Anderson, pointing out its 2,271-square-foot Cascade model can be bought at an affordable price of $411,500.

Jumping Pound Ridge
Jumping Pound Ridge is a spectacular development on the coveted west side of Cochrane, on the George Fox Trail. The 16.2-hectare site is one of Cochrane’s most exclusive addresses and overlooks the visually stunning Jumping Pound Creek Valley and also offers views of Cochrane and the Rocky Mountains.

Jumping Pound Ridge is close to nature yet is still close to town and has easy access to Calgary or the mountains. This Arcus Development community will be comprised of 170 single-family homes, 35 villas, and two low rise multi-family condominiums.

Baywest Homes has been doing stellar business in the community, where their homes start at the $390,000 mark. Jay Hilland of Kingsmith Homes says their homes here start in the low to mid $400,000 range. “There are some fantastic views of the natural reserve and of the town that makes the community special,” he says.

MonTerra on Cochrane Lakes
An exclusive estate community, MonTerra on Cochrane Lakes features natural lakes and wetlands, open spaces, and spectacular views of Alberta’s Rocky Mountains. Lots start at a quarter of an acre, offering seclusion and privacy. Many are lakefront.

The community’s 640 acres includes two natural spring-fed lakes totaling 213 acres.

Homes will be architecturally co-ordinated in Prairie, Arts and Crafts, Tudor, Craftsman or Ranch/Farmhouse styles. Designed and constructed by the area’s best and most innovative builders, your home will reflect your personality while blending into the undulating landscape.

Riversong
The budding new neighbourhood of Riversong has a unique look with a very Western Heritage-town feel to it. Homes have clean looking architecture and not overly complicated exteriors.

Developed by Tamani Communities, Riversong is south of downtown Cochrane and offers a pretty diversified selection of luxury homes from townhomes, villas and estate homes. There are lots available backing onto the ravine — which is part of the municipal environmental reserve, and there is more than 100 acres of park space.

Tony Robinson, general manager at CalBridge Group, one of the builders in the community, says life in Riversong is almost like living in Canmore, with the mountain views and the access to the river pathways, but without the exorbitant resort town prices.

COMMUNITY BUILDERS

Heritage Hills:
Assured Developments Ltd
Stepper Custom Homes
Trico Homes

Jumping Pound Ridge:
WestView Builders
Baywest Homes
Kingsmith Homes

MonTerra on Cochrane Lakes:
Astoria Custom Homes
Brooklyn Custom Homes
Cornerstone Homes
Modena Homes
Prominent Homes

Riversong:
CalBridge Group
Innovations by Jayman (Phase II)
Jayman MasterBuilt
NuVista Homes
Sabal Homes (Phase II)
Morrison Homes

Sunset Ridge:
CalBridge Group
Innovations by Jayman
Janssen Homes
Jayman MasterBuilt
Kingsmith Homes
Lupi Custom Homes

West Pointe Estates:
Kingsmith Homes
Mapeland Homes