Jan 24

Suite Finishes at Sloane East & West Towers: What Renters Actually Get

By Mark Savel Purpose Built Rentals

Why Suite Finishes Matter More Than Ever

Toronto’s rental market has changed. Renters today aren’t just comparing listings — they’re comparing lifestyles. Many are coming from resale condos, past ownership, or high-end rentals where expectations around space, storage, and finish quality are already set. In that context, the difference between a good-looking suite and a genuinely livable one becomes obvious very quickly.

That’s what makes the East and West Towers at Sloane interesting. On paper, the specs are impressive. In person, what stands out is something quieter but more important: the suites feel intentional. Not rushed. Just well thought through, from layout to materials to the way you actually use the space day to day.

First Impressions: Why These Suites Don’t Feel Like Rentals

When we toured the East and West Towers, the reaction was immediate — these suites don’t present like typical rental units. The layouts feel resolved. Rooms are proportioned properly. Kitchens don’t feel like an afterthought tucked against a wall. Bedrooms have real storage solutions. It’s the kind of planning you usually associate with ownership product, not long-term rental.

What stood out most was how little compromise there was. Full-size appliances instead of scaled-down versions. Built-ins where you’d normally expect empty drywall. Floorplans that felt easier to furnish than many resale condos across the city. In a rental market where renters are often asked to “make it work,” Sloane flips that script.

Kitchens That Feel Ownership-Grade

Full-Size, Full-Function Appliances

One of the biggest tells in a rental suite is the kitchen — and at Sloane, it’s clear no shortcuts were taken. The kitchens feature full-size stainless steel KitchenAid® appliances, including five-burner ranges, French-door refrigerators, built-in microwaves, and full-sized, panel-ready dishwashers. These are appliances designed for people who actually cook, not just reheat.

In today’s market, many renters are coming from condos where appliance downsizing has become normal. Here, the experience feels closer to what you’d expect in a thoughtfully designed ownership suite.

Materials That Actually Hold Up

Beyond the appliances, the finishes themselves feel substantial. Italian-made kitchen millwork, quartz countertops paired with slab backsplashes, waterfall-edge islands in select suites, and LED under-cabinet lighting all contribute to kitchens that feel cohesive rather than decorative. These are finishes chosen for durability as much as appearance — something renters notice quickly once they move in.

Bedrooms & Storage: Where Sloane Quietly Wins

Storage is one of the most common pain points we hear from renters, especially those downsizing from larger homes or condos. Sloane addresses this head-on with built-in millwork, custom mudroom benches in select layouts, and walk-in closets where space allows.

What’s notable is how these built-ins are integrated. They don’t feel like add-ons. They feel planned — which makes bedrooms calmer, easier to organize, and more functional. Compared to many resale condos where storage is pushed to the margins, the layouts here feel noticeably more livable.

Bathrooms That Don’t Cut Corners

Bathrooms are another area where rental suites often fall short. At Sloane, the bathrooms feel finished, not stripped back. Grohe plumbing fixtures, glass shower enclosures, hand-laid mosaic shower tile, porcelain flooring, and custom vanities with quartz countertops all contribute to a space that feels considered.

Details like wall-mounted medicine cabinets and properly scaled lighting matter more than they get credit for. They make daily routines easier — and they signal that the developer was thinking beyond first impressions.

Ceiling Height, Light, and Flow

With nine-foot ceilings throughout, the suites immediately feel more open. That extra height changes how light moves through the space and makes furniture placement far more forgiving. Sofas don’t crowd walkways. Dining tables feel intentional rather than squeezed in.

It’s worth noting that many resale condos, even at higher price points, still struggle with awkward layouts despite similar ceiling heights. At Sloane, the benefit comes from how the space is proportioned — not just the numbers on paper.

Smart Features That Actually Improve Living

Sloane’s in-suite technology is practical rather than gimmicky. Keyless smart lock entry simplifies coming and going. Wi-Fi-enabled ecobee thermostats give residents real control over comfort. And included Rogers Ignite™ Gigabit internet removes one more setup task from move-in day.

These are features that quietly improve daily life — not tech for tech’s sake.

The Berkeley Collection: Rental, Fully Elevated

For renters looking for something even more refined, the Berkeley Collection represents the top tier of Sloane’s offering. Located on the penthouse levels and within select townhomes, these residences push the finish quality further.

Upgrades include Hansgrohe graphite fixtures, black stainless KitchenAid® appliances, Buster + Punch switches, premium herringbone flooring, upgraded Italian-imported millwork, and enhanced corridor and suite entry detailing. The result is a rental experience that competes directly with high-end ownership condos — without the long-term commitment.

How This Compares to Typical Toronto Rentals

Most purpose-built rentals still save money where tenants feel it most: kitchens, bathrooms, storage, and layouts. Sloane clearly made a different decision. The finishes aren’t just visually impressive, they’re consistent across the suite, and they hold up under use.

Who These Suites Are Actually Built For

These suites will resonate most with renters by choice — professionals, downsizers, and former owners who want quality without ownership responsibility. They’re for people who value livability over raw square footage, and who want their home to feel intentional rather than temporary.

Final Thought: Finish Quality Is the Real Luxury

After touring the East and West Towers, the takeaway was simple: Sloane’s suites feel finished. Not dressed up. Not compromised. Just well executed. In a rental market full of trade-offs, that’s what truly sets these homes apart… and lets not forget about the amenities!

If you’re comparing Sloane to condos or other rental buildings, the suite finishes deserve a closer look — because this is where the difference becomes obvious. Get in touch with us, by sending us a message below for latest availability and prices!

Jan 22

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Sloane by Fitzrovia: West Tower Is Now Leasing

By Mark Savel Purpose Built Rentals

Sloane by Fitzrovia has officially entered its next phase. With the West Tower now open for leasing, one of Toronto’s most anticipated purpose-built rental communities is welcoming its first residents — and based on what we’ve seen firsthand, this release is going to move quickly.

This isn’t just another condo-style rental hitting the market. The West Tower represents a fully realized vision of what large-scale rental living in Toronto can look like when it’s designed intentionally from the ground up.

Sloane West and East Tower Terrace and Pool

What’s Opening: A Quick West Tower Overview

The West Tower is part of Fitzrovia’s three-tower Sloane community, located at Dufferin Street and Highway 401, directly across from Yorkdale Shopping Centre. It’s a true purpose-built rental, not a collection of investor-owned condos which immediately shows in how the building is managed, laid out, and maintained.

The West Tower includes a broad mix of suites ranging from studios to three-bedroom layouts, supported by full-time professional management, 24-hour concierge service, and a level of amenity infrastructure rarely seen in Toronto rentals.

West Tower Pricing Breakdown — What Rents Actually Look Like

Sloane’s West Tower pricing reflects its positioning as a premium rental offering, but with a surprisingly wide range depending on suite type and layout.

1-Bedroom Suites

One-bedroom suites range from approximately 576 to 579 square feet, with rents starting from the mid-$2,600s. These layouts are ideal for professionals, couples, and students who want a high-quality living environment without excess space.

The key difference here isn’t just size — it’s livability. Full-sized appliances, smart layouts, and real storage make these feel far more functional than many downtown condo one-beds.

2-Bedroom Suites

Two-bedroom suites range from roughly 760 to just under 900 square feet, with rents starting in the mid-$3,400s and scaling depending on size and floor level.

This category will likely be the most competitive. These suites work exceptionally well for roommates, couples who work from home, or small families looking to stay in the city without sacrificing comfort or amenities.

3-Bedroom Suites

True three-bedroom rentals are rare in Toronto — especially ones approaching 1,000 square feet. West Tower three-bedroom suites start just over $4,000 per month and are designed with families and downsizers in mind.

For renters who want space without the responsibilities of ownership, this is one of the strongest three-bedroom rental options currently available.

Rental Incentives — Why These Actually Matter

West Tower is launching with one of the more compelling incentive packages we’ve seen in the rental market — and importantly, these incentives are structured in ways that meaningfully reduce overall cost, not just headline rent.

Current incentives include:

Up to 150,000 Aeroplan points
Up to two months free rent on a 12-month lease
Six months of complimentary parking
One-year Costco membership

In today’s rental landscape, incentives like these matter. Rather than lowering face rents, they reduce effective monthly costs, offset everyday expenses, and reward longer-term tenancy — all while preserving the building’s long-term rental value.

Touring the Building — Why This Is the Most Complete Rental We’ve Seen

We recently toured the West Tower in person, and it’s difficult to overstate how comprehensive the building feels.

Toronto has no shortage of amenity-heavy buildings on paper. But in practice, many fall short, spaces are undersized, disconnected, or rarely used. Sloane is the opposite.

Every amenity here feels intentional, fully built out, and genuinely usable. From circulation and ceiling heights to lighting, materials, and sound control, the level of detail is unlike anything else we’ve toured in the city.

Simply put: no other rental building in Toronto currently offers this depth, scale, and execution when it comes to amenity space.

Amenities That Truly Set Sloane Apart

Fitness, Wellness & Recreation

The fitness and wellness offering at Sloane feels closer to a private athletic club than a condo gym. Residents have access to a full commercial-grade training facility, a dedicated basketball court, a resort-style pool, spa and sauna experiences, as well as yoga, Pilates, spin, and recovery-focused spaces.

These aren’t afterthoughts — they’re core to how the building is designed to be used day to day.

Social, Work & Everyday Living

Beyond fitness, the West Tower delivers an unusually deep set of lifestyle amenities. Co-working lounges, entertainment spaces, screening rooms, a bowling alley, karaoke lounge, kids’ Adventure Zone, dog spa, and private dog run all coexist without feeling crowded or chaotic.

This is the rare building where amenities don’t compete with each other — they complement how people actually live.

Suite Design & Finishes — Built Like a Home, Not a Rental

Inside the suites, the same attention to detail continues. Expect nine-foot ceilings, full-sized appliances, stone countertops, quality millwork, thoughtful storage, and smart home features.

These are homes designed for renters who plan to stay — not temporary stopovers.

Who Sloane’s West Tower Is Ideal For

Sloane’s West Tower works across multiple renter profiles:

Professionals who want amenities that support work-from-home and an active lifestyle
Families seeking space, security, and kid-friendly infrastructure
Downsizers looking for turnkey living without compromising quality
Post-secondary students who value transit access, security, and community

Few buildings manage to serve all four groups equally well. This one does.

Interested in Leasing at Sloane’s West Tower?

If you’d like help navigating availability, comparing floor plans, or booking a tour, reach out to us directly. We’ve walked the building, studied the layouts, and can help you determine whether West Tower is the right fit for your lifestyle and timeline!

Jan 21

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744–748 Marlee Ave & 111 Wenderly Dr: What’s Being Proposed

By Mark Savel Development Applications

A Quiet Stretch of Marlee, About to Change

At first glance, the stretch of Marlee Avenue just south of Wenderly Drive doesn’t immediately signal major change. Low-rise homes, modest density, and a streetscape that still feels transitional rather than transformed. But that’s exactly why the latest development application at 744, 746, 748 Marlee Ave and 111 Wenderly Dr is worth paying attention to.

A new proposal has been submitted to redevelop these four properties into a 13-storey mixed-use building, adding 200 new homes and ground-floor retail to a corridor that the City now sees as a key growth area. And while this may feel sudden to nearby residents, the reality is that this site has been edging toward redevelopment for years.

The Site, in Context

The subject lands sit on the west side of Marlee Avenue, just south of Wenderly Drive, roughly 500 metres from Lawrence West Subway Station. Together, the four parcels total about 2,168 square metres, with significant frontage along both Marlee and Wenderly.

Today, each lot is occupied by a low-rise residential dwelling. But from a planning perspective, this location checks many of the boxes the City is prioritizing right now: proximity to higher-order transit, placement on a major street, and adjacency to an area already experiencing steady redevelopment pressure.

What’s Being Proposed

The application supports a 13-storey mid-rise, mixed-use building designed to bring new housing density to Marlee Avenue while maintaining a stepped transition toward nearby low-rise neighbourhoods.

Here’s what’s on the table:

200 residential units, ranging from studios to three-bedroom layouts
Approximately 228 sq. m. of retail space at grade, focused on activating the Marlee/Wenderly corner
Total gross floor area: ~13,115 sq. m.
Floor Space Index (FSI): 6.04
45 vehicle parking spaces and 211 bicycle parking spaces
Over 800 sq. m. of indoor and outdoor amenity space

The proposal includes both indoor amenity areas and outdoor spaces at grade and on upper levels, reflecting the City’s continued emphasis on livability in higher-density buildings.

A Site with Development History

This isn’t the first time these properties have been positioned for change.

Back in 2019, the City approved an Official Plan Amendment and Zoning By-law Amendment for a 10-unit, four-storey townhouse development on a portion of the site (746 and 748 Marlee Ave and 111 Wenderly Drive). That approval included road widenings and site plan conditions, many of which were ultimately satisfied.

However, the townhouse project was never constructed.

The current application essentially rethinks the site under today’s planning framework — one that places far greater emphasis on transit-oriented density and mixed-use development along major corridors like Marlee Avenue.

Why the Zoning Needs to Change

At present, the four properties are split between Residential Detached and Residential Townhouse zoning categories. The proposal seeks to:

Redesignate the lands from Neighbourhoods to Mixed Use Areas in the Official Plan
Consolidate the site under a Commercial Residential (CR) zoning category

This change would allow for increased height, density, and a mix of residential and commercial uses — all elements that are restricted under the current zoning framework.

From a policy standpoint, the argument is straightforward: the site fronts a major street, sits near rapid transit, and aligns with the City’s growth strategy for intensification outside of stable interior neighbourhoods.

Marlee Avenue and the “Avenues” Effect

One of the most important background shifts here is Marlee Avenue’s identification as a new Avenue under the City’s updated planning policies.

Avenues are corridors where Toronto explicitly encourages mid-rise and mixed-use development to absorb population growth while protecting lower-density neighbourhoods elsewhere. In practical terms, that means sites like this are increasingly viewed as appropriate — even desirable — locations for taller, denser buildings.

Add in nearby subway stations, ongoing applications along Marlee, and the broader Growing Glencairn Study, and it becomes clear that this proposal isn’t happening in isolation. It’s part of a much larger recalibration of how this part of the city is expected to grow over the next decade.

Built Form and Neighbourhood Transition

While 13 storeys may sound tall in a low-rise context, the building has been designed with a series of step-backs and height transitions intended to soften its impact.

Key design elements include:

A lower five-storey portion at the north end near Wenderly Drive
Rear setbacks exceeding 12 metres from the lot line
Upper-storey step-backs to preserve light, sky views, and privacy
Landscaping buffers and screening along the west edge of the site

The intent is to maintain a clear transition from the Marlee Avenue corridor into the adjacent residential neighbourhood to the west.

What This Means for the Area

If approved, this project would add 200 new homes to a stretch of Marlee Avenue that’s already seeing steady intensification. For the City, that means progress toward housing supply targets in a transit-accessible location. For the neighbourhood, it signals a continued shift away from low-rise character along the main street.

It also reinforces a broader pattern we’re seeing across Toronto: sites once approved for townhouses or low-rise forms are being revisited as mid-rise or mixed-use projects as planning priorities evolve.

What Happens Next

The proposal requires both an Official Plan Amendment and a Zoning By-law Amendment, meaning it will go through a detailed City review process, including technical analysis and public consultation.

As with most applications of this scale, the final outcome may evolve — through revisions to height, massing, or unit mix — before a decision is reached. But the direction of travel is clear: Marlee Avenue is no longer being planned as a low-rise corridor.

For anyone tracking what’s being built in Toronto, this application is another data point showing where growth is being steered, and how quickly long-standing assumptions about certain streets are changing!

Jan 21

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What’s Being Proposed at 1711–1741 Eglinton Ave W?

By Mark Savel Development Applications

The development proposal at 1711–1741 Eglinton Avenue West sits on the south side of Eglinton, between Northcliffe Boulevard and Glenholme Avenue. Today, the site is occupied by a low-rise commercial strip plaza with ground-floor retail and a small number of residential rental units above. In planning terms, however, this property has become strategically important.

It is immediately east of the approved redevelopment at 1675–1685 Eglinton Avenue West, west of the Maria A. Shchuka Library, and within walking distance of the future Fairbank Eglinton Crosstown LRT station near Dufferin Street. City Planning has been reviewing these sites together, not as isolated proposals, but as part of a coordinated stretch of redevelopment along Eglinton West where land use, height transitions, access, and public realm improvements are intended to work as a system rather than parcel by parcel.

What’s Being Proposed at 1711–1741 Eglinton Avenue West

The approved application permits a 39-storey mixed-use building rising to 129.5 metres (excluding the mechanical penthouse). The building would contain a total gross floor area of approximately 26,800 square metres, translating to a density of about 12.8 times the area of the site.

From a planning perspective, this represents a significant increase over what is currently permitted under zoning, which capped the site at roughly eight storeys. That increase in scale is the reason both an Official Plan Amendment and a Zoning By-law Amendment were required.

Residential Breakdown

The proposal includes 427 residential units, with a unit mix designed to meet the City’s family-housing and complete-community objectives. The breakdown consists of studios, one-bedroom, two-bedroom, and three-bedroom units, with approximately 28 per cent of the suites having two or more bedrooms.

Included in the total are eight three-bedroom rental replacement units. These units are intended to replace existing rental housing currently on the site and are addressed through a separate Rental Housing Demolition and Replacement application, which runs parallel to—but distinct from—the zoning and Official Plan approvals.

The Ground Floor — Retail, Community Space, and the Public Realm

Retail and Community Space

At grade, the building is designed to remain active and publicly oriented. The proposal includes a modest amount of commercial-retail space along Eglinton Avenue West, maintaining a retail presence on the street rather than turning inward or becoming residential-only.

In addition, the applicant has proposed an approximately 363-square-metre indoor and outdoor community space at the northwest corner of the site, adjacent to the library. This space is being considered by the City as an in-kind Community Benefits Charge contribution. Its configuration allows it to function as an affordable commercial or community-oriented space, with a connected outdoor patio area that directly engages the sidewalk.

City staff have viewed this as particularly important given the site’s location within the broader Eglinton West and Little Jamaica planning context, where community-serving spaces and affordable commercial opportunities have been recurring themes in local consultations.

Streetscape and Open Space Improvements

The building is set back from Eglinton Avenue West to allow for a wider public realm. These setbacks create space for tree planting, street furniture, patios, and a clearer pedestrian zone—an improvement over the existing condition, where surface parking dominates the frontage.

Over time, once the planned rear public laneway is completed through adjacent redevelopments, the current vehicular driveway off Eglinton is intended to be removed and converted into landscaped, publicly accessible open space. In planning terms, this is a long-view approach that prioritizes pedestrian comfort and streetscape quality as redevelopment along the corridor continues.

Access, Parking, and the Laneway Strategy

Vehicular access for the building is proposed via a shared circular driveway from Eglinton Avenue West, coordinated with the adjacent development at 1675–1685 Eglinton Avenue West. This shared approach reduces curb cuts and anticipates future changes once the rear laneway becomes operational.

Parking is provided underground across three levels, with a total of 87 vehicle parking spaces. Bicycle parking is emphasized, with 486 bicycle spaces proposed, reflecting the site’s proximity to higher-order transit and City policies encouraging reduced auto dependence.

A key planning feature is the required conveyance of a three-metre strip of land at the rear of the site. This contributes to a planned east–west public laneway envisioned under existing Site and Area Specific Policies. While the laneway will only become functional once additional properties redevelop, it is central to the City’s long-term access and servicing strategy for this stretch of Eglinton West.

Why a Tall Building Was Approved Here

Policy Context and Official Plan Amendments

The site is designated Mixed Use Areas in the City’s Official Plan, a designation that supports a broad range of residential and commercial uses in locations well-served by transit. However, Site and Area Specific Policy 477 originally directed that tall buildings be concentrated closer to the intersection of Eglinton Avenue West and Dufferin Street, with mid-rise development elsewhere.

City Planning acknowledged that while this site is not directly at the intersection, broader policy direction has evolved. The lands fall within the boundaries of the Fairbank and Oakwood Protected Major Transit Station Areas, where provincial and municipal policy encourages higher densities near existing and planned rapid transit.

The approved Official Plan Amendment reflects this shift, allowing a tall building here while still requiring appropriate transitions, setbacks, and spacing.

Height Transitions and Coordinated Development

An important factor in the approval was how this building relates to its neighbours. To the west and east, taller and similarly scaled buildings have already been approved or proposed. City staff concluded that the 39-storey height provides a gradual transition moving eastward from the height peak near Dufferin Street, while maintaining adequate separation distances between towers.

Rather than viewing this site in isolation, Planning evaluated it as part of a coordinated cluster of redevelopment, where tower spacing, shared access, and aligned public realm improvements collectively shape the corridor.

Community Feedback and City Response

Public consultation for this proposal was conducted alongside the neighbouring 1675–1685 Eglinton Avenue West application. Residents raised concerns about height, density, shadow impacts, traffic, tenant displacement, and construction disruption.

City staff assessed these concerns through technical studies and design refinements. Shadow studies demonstrated limited incremental impact on surrounding public spaces, including nearby school grounds. Wind impacts were identified as an issue requiring further mitigation, and additional studies are being required before final zoning enactment.

Rental replacement and tenant matters are being addressed through a separate approval process, ensuring those issues receive focused review.

What This Signals for Eglinton West

Taken together, the approvals at 1711–1741 and 1675–1685 Eglinton Avenue West point to a clear planning direction for this stretch of the corridor. Eglinton West is transitioning from low-rise strip retail toward a denser, mixed-use, transit-oriented environment, with taller buildings concentrated near stations and coordinated across multiple sites.

This proposal reflects how the City is balancing growth with public realm improvements, community space, and long-term access planning, rather than approving height in isolation.

What Happens Next

While the Official Plan and Zoning By-law Amendments have been approved, several steps remain before construction can begin. These include finalizing wind mitigation measures, completing the rental housing demolition and replacement approvals, securing community benefit agreements, and obtaining Site Plan Control approval.

In other words, this approval establishes what can be built here—but how it ultimately looks and functions will continue to be refined through the next stages of the planning process.

Jan 21

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What Are They Building At 1675 & 1685 Eglinton Ave West?

By Mark Savel Development Applications

Another Eglinton West Site Headed for Change

Eglinton Avenue West continues to be one of Toronto’s most closely watched development corridors, and 1675–1685 Eglinton Ave West is the latest site to enter the planning pipeline. A formal application has been submitted to redevelop the property, replacing two existing low-rise rental buildings with a high-density, transit-oriented mixed-use project.

For anyone tracking what’s being built across the city, this proposal offers a clear example of how long-term transit investment and City planning policy are shaping the future of Eglinton West.

Where the Site Is — And Why It Matters

The subject site sits on the south side of Eglinton Avenue West, mid-block between Northcliffe Boulevard and Glenholme Avenue. It’s a stretch of the corridor that has been under steady pressure for intensification, largely because of its transit access.

The property is within walking distance of two Line 5 Eglinton Crosstown stations: Oakwood Station to the west and Fairbank Station to the east. Both stations are designated as Protected Major Transit Station Areas, a planning framework that encourages higher-density, transit-supportive development. Combined with Eglinton’s role as a major arterial road, this location is consistently identified as having capacity for growth.

What’s There Today

Today, the site is occupied by two 4-storey residential apartment buildings containing a total of 75 rental units. Between the buildings is a surface parking area with 23 spaces, which also accommodates vehicle access and garbage collection.

The existing buildings do not provide indoor or outdoor amenity space for tenants, and the overall site configuration reflects an older, low-density form of development that is increasingly uncommon along Eglinton West.

What’s Being Proposed

The proposal has since advanced through the City’s review process and is now supported by a City Planning Decision Report recommending approval of both the Official Plan Amendment and Zoning By-law Amendment.

The approved form of development is a 37-storey mixed-use building, standing 123.5 metres excluding the mechanical penthouse. The building is organized with a 4-storey base building along Eglinton Avenue West and a 33-storey residential tower above, a configuration City staff found appropriate for this stretch of the corridor.

In total, the project would contain 424 residential units, including 75 rental replacement units, and approximately 269 square metres of ground-floor commercial-retail space along Eglinton Avenue West. The total gross floor area is approximately 26,600 square metres, resulting in a density of roughly 12.6 times the area of the lot. This revised scheme reflects refinements made through the City review process and aligns with transit-oriented intensification policies.

Rental Replacement: A Central Part of the Application

Rental housing replacement remains a central requirement of the project and was a key consideration in City staff’s recommendation for approval.

The approved proposal confirms the replacement of all 75 existing rental units currently on site. These units will be secured through the zoning framework and a separate Rental Housing Demolition application, which addresses tenant assistance and relocation requirements.

The replacement units reflect the existing tenure and are part of a broader unit mix that includes studio, one-bedroom, two-bedroom, and three-bedroom units. City staff concluded that this approach satisfies Official Plan policies intended to protect existing rental housing while allowing for additional supply along major transit corridors.

As part of the approval process, a tenant relocation and assistance plan would be developed with the City to address the transition for existing residents.

Built Form and Design Approach

From a design standpoint, the proposal aims to balance height with street-level scale. The 4-storey base building establishes a consistent streetwall along Eglinton Avenue, helping maintain a pedestrian-friendly frontage and supporting retail activity at grade.

Above the base, the tower element is designed to be slender, with stepbacks intended to reduce its visual impact from the street and provide appropriate transitions to lower-scale residential areas to the south. The Planning Rationale emphasizes that this massing approach aligns with Official Plan policies and applicable urban design guidelines.

Planning Status: What’s Been Approved

As of June 2025, City Planning has issued a Decision Report recommending approval of both the Official Plan Amendment and Zoning By-law Amendment for 1675 and 1685 Eglinton Avenue West.

City Council adopted amendments that:

Permit a tall building on the site with a maximum height of 37 storeys
Establish site-specific zoning standards for height, density, setbacks, and massing
Secure a 3.0-metre rear land conveyance to support a future east–west public laneway
Coordinate shared vehicular access with the adjacent redevelopment at 1711–1741 Eglinton Avenue West

Final enactment of the zoning is subject to conditions, including approval of the related Rental Housing Demolition application and the submission of a revised pedestrian-level wind study.

How This Fits into the Bigger Eglinton West Picture

City staff evaluated the proposal within the context of the Eglinton West corridor, the Dufferin Focus Area policies, and the surrounding Protected Major Transit Station Areas at Oakwood and Fairbank.

While earlier planning frameworks concentrated the tallest buildings strictly at the Dufferin and Eglinton intersection, the City’s analysis notes that provincial policy and transit investment now support additional height in proximity to — though not directly at — that intersection. In this context, the 37-storey height was found to provide a reasonable transition down from nearby taller approvals while still delivering significant housing density near rapid transit.

The proposal also integrates broader public realm objectives, including widened sidewalks, future conversion of the shared driveway into publicly accessible landscaped space, and contributions toward a continuous rear public laneway. Taken together, City staff concluded that the project represents an appropriate evolution of this section of Eglinton West.

What Happens Next

With City Council’s adoption of the Official Plan and Zoning By-law Amendments, the project moves closer to implementation. Remaining steps include final approval of the Rental Housing Demolition application, satisfaction of outstanding technical conditions, and completion of the Site Plan Control process.

As with many large projects, design details related to landscaping, wind mitigation, and the public realm will continue to be refined. Still, the approval marks a significant milestone — confirming that a tall, mixed-use building is now permitted on the site.

For anyone watching how Eglinton West is changing, 1675–1685 Eglinton Avenue West now stands as a clear example of how transit, housing policy, and corridor planning are reshaping the avenue block by block.

Jan 20

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What’s Proposed for 589–599 Lawrence Avenue West

By Mark Savel Development Applications

Where Is 589–599 Lawrence Avenue West?

The properties at 589–599 Lawrence Avenue West sit along a well‑established stretch of Lawrence Avenue, west of Bathurst Street and East of Allen Rd. This portion of Lawrence functions as a key east–west corridor, lined with a mix of low‑rise residential homes (usually bungalows), small apartment properties, and nearby residential streets just beyond the main road.

From a planning perspective, Lawrence Avenue West has long been identified as a corridor capable of accommodating additional housing without disrupting surrounding low‑rise neighbourhoods. That context is important, because the proposal for this site is less about a single project and more about how the City intends corridors like Lawrence to evolve over time.

What’s Currently on the Site?

Today, the site is occupied by a collection of low‑rise buildings. These are single‑storey structures that reflect an older, auto‑oriented version of Lawrence Avenue and relatively low‑density given the size and location of the property.

Under current City policy, sites like this are often described as “underutilized,” not as a criticism of their use, but because they occupy valuable land near transit, services, and employment while housing very few people. This gap between land value and housing output is exactly what the City’s planning framework is trying to address.

What Is Being Proposed?

According to the City of Toronto’s Decision Report, the approved proposal for 589–599 Lawrence Avenue West is not a typical condo or mixed-use project, but a two-building, low-rise institutional and rental residential development.

Specifically, the project includes:

Two separate low-rise buildings on the assembled site
A 3-storey institutional building (13.1 metres, excluding mechanical penthouse) fronting the corner of Lawrence Avenue West and Englemount Avenue, which will ultimately house the Institute for Advanced Talmudic and Halachic Studies
This building will function as a religious study centre (Kollel), dedicated to advanced post‑graduate religious scholarship
A 4-storey rental residential building (13.6 metres, excluding mechanical penthouse) fronting Lawrence Avenue West, intended to serve as a residential component associated with the Institute, accommodating students and families connected to the program
16 purpose-built rental units in total, the vast majority being family-sized

From a housing perspective, the unit mix is notable:

15 three-bedroom units (94% of all units)
1 one-bedroom unit

Importantly, this is a 100% rental project. There are no condominium units proposed, and the rental tenure is secured through City agreements.

What Is a Kollel? (In Plain English)

A Kollel is a post‑graduate religious study institution, typically focused on advanced Jewish learning. Unlike a traditional school campus, a Kollel is generally small‑scale, community‑oriented, and centred on full‑time study rather than large lectures or public events.

In practical terms, this means:

The building functions more like a quiet academic or research centre than a place of worship
Daily activity is largely daytime study, not event‑driven gatherings
The associated residential building allows students and their families to live on site, reducing commuting and traffic impacts

For planning purposes, the City treats a Kollel as a low‑intensity institutional use, which is why it can be accommodated within a Neighbourhoods designation when designed at an appropriate scale.

Rental Replacement — A Key Part of the Approval

One of the most consequential aspects of this application is the treatment of existing rental housing.

Currently, the site contains six rental dwelling units spread across older one-storey houses. Under Toronto’s Rental Housing Demolition and Conversion By-law, those units must be replaced — and in this case, the City required more than a simple one-for-one swap.

The approved proposal includes:

Six replacement rental units, all three-bedroom
Units sized at approximately 134 square metres, exceeding the size of the existing rental units
Affordable rent levels as defined by the City’s Official Plan
Rental tenure secured for at least 20 years, with affordability protected for a minimum of 10 years

Tenants in the replacement units will also have access to:

Ensuite laundry
Central air conditioning
Bicycle and visitor parking
All indoor and outdoor amenities within the development, at no extra cost

From a policy standpoint, this replacement package is a major reason the City supported the application.

Built Form, Height, and Neighbourhood Transition

While the project adds density, it does so within a very controlled envelope.

The total density is 1.46 times the lot area, which is modest by corridor standards. Building heights are capped at four storeys, consistent with the permissions under the Official Plan and Site and Area Specific Policy 559, which governs this stretch of Lawrence Avenue West.

A key design feature is the rear angular plane:

The buildings step back from the south property line
A 45-degree angular plane is maintained to limit shadowing and overlook
Rear setbacks increase on upper storeys, creating a softer transition to the single-detached homes on Fairholme Avenue

This is deliberate corridor planning — keeping height and mass on Lawrence Avenue while protecting the lower-rise neighbourhood behind it.

Traffic, Access, and Streetscape Changes

From a transportation standpoint, the City concluded that the project will have minimal impact on local traffic patterns.

Notable changes include:

A reduction in driveways along Lawrence Avenue West from six to one, improving pedestrian safety
Vehicle access shifted primarily to Englemount Avenue
36 parking spaces provided (24 residential, 12 institutional), plus five pick-up/drop-off spaces
23 on-site bicycle parking spaces, with an additional 10 publicly accessible bike parking spaces

City staff accepted the Transportation Impact Study, concluding that the surrounding road network can accommodate the additional trips without intersection upgrades.

Why This Proposal Was Supported by the City

In recommending approval, City Planning staff highlighted several factors:

The site is considered underutilized given its frontage on a major arterial road
The proposal conforms with the Provincial Policy Statement and the Growth Plan for the Greater Golden Horseshoe
Height, density, and massing align with Neighbourhoods policies and SASP 559
All existing rental housing is replaced with larger, family-sized units at protected rents

In short, the City viewed this project as a textbook example of gentle intensification — adding housing where policy encourages it, without pushing height into surrounding residential streets.

What Happens Next

Although the zoning amendment and rental housing demolition application have been recommended for approval, additional steps remain.

Before construction can proceed:

Final Site Plan approval must be secured
Conditions tied to servicing, tree replacement, and transportation must be satisfied
Required agreements will be registered on title to secure rental replacement and affordability commitments

For nearby residents, the takeaway is that this is a low-rise, policy-compliant project with long-term rental housing baked into its approval and not another speculative high-density redevelopment.

This application also offers a clear window into how future Lawrence Avenue West projects are likely to be evaluated: modest height, strong transitions, and rental protection as non-negotiables.

What Happens Next

The proposal is currently part of the City’s planning review process. That means:

City staff will assess the application against planning policy
Community consultation may occur as part of the review
Revisions can be requested before any approvals are granted

At this stage, the project is proposed, not approved. The final outcome will depend on planning feedback, potential adjustments, and City Council decisions.

For residents and buyers watching Lawrence Avenue West, this application is best viewed as part of a broader, long‑term shift toward mid‑rise housing along Toronto’s main corridors, rather than an isolated redevelopment.

Jan 20

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The Best Websites to Research Sold Home Prices in Toronto

By Mark Savel Advice For Sellers

Why Sold Prices Matter More Than List Prices in Toronto

In Toronto, list prices are often more of a strategy than a statement of value. Homes may be priced deliberately low to attract multiple offers, or ambitiously high to test the market. Either way, the number that ultimately matters is what a property actually sells for. That final sale price is where expectations meet reality — and it’s the benchmark buyers and sellers should be paying attention to.

For buyers, sold prices provide grounding. They reveal what the market is willing to pay, not what sellers are hoping for. For sellers, they form the backbone of accurate pricing decisions, helping avoid the costly mistake of overshooting and sitting stale. In a city where timing, competition, and micro‑neighbourhood dynamics matter, sold data isn’t just helpful — it’s essential.

That said, not all sold-price information is created equal. Understanding where the data comes from (and its limitations) is just as important as the numbers themselves.

Realtor.ca — The Foundation of Toronto Real Estate Data

If there’s one place every Toronto home search begins, it’s Realtor.ca. This is the official public-facing platform of Canada’s MLS system, and it’s where active real estate listings are first published and syndicated. Nearly every legitimate listing you see online starts here before appearing elsewhere.

What Realtor.ca does exceptionally well is provide consistent, up-to-date listing information straight from the MLS. What it does not do in Ontario, however, is display sold prices publicly. That’s an important distinction — and the reason so many third-party websites exist.

Those other platforms aren’t replacing Realtor.ca. They’re building on top of it, pulling in listing data as their foundation and then layering on historical sales, analytics, and estimates once transactions close. Understanding this hierarchy helps set expectations for accuracy and timing.

How Third-Party Websites Show Sold Prices (And Why Results Differ)

After a property sells, details eventually become part of the MLS record. Third-party websites access this information in different ways, at different speeds, and with different presentation styles. Some update quickly. Others lag. Some prioritize visuals and charts, while others focus on simplicity.

This is why you may see a sold price on one website but not another — or see slightly different numbers across platforms. Timing, data refresh cycles, and how sales are interpreted all play a role. None of this means the data is intentionally misleading; it simply reflects how complex real estate reporting can be.

The key takeaway: these platforms are tools, not official records. They’re incredibly useful, but they’re not infallible.

About “Estimated” Sold Prices — Helpful, But Handle With Care

Some websites go a step further by publishing estimated sold prices before a sale is officially confirmed. These estimates are typically generated using algorithms that analyze comparable properties, historical trends, and nearby sales activity.

In uniform neighbourhoods with consistent housing stock, estimates can be directionally helpful. They may give buyers and sellers an early sense of where a sale likely landed. But in Toronto — a city full of unique homes, renovations, loft conversions, and one-off transactions — estimates can miss the mark.

Renovation quality, seller concessions, urgency, and even closing terms can all meaningfully affect a final price. Algorithms can’t see those details. That’s why estimated prices should always be treated as a starting point, never a conclusion.

The Best Websites to Research Sold Prices in Toronto

HouseSigma

HouseSigma is one of the most widely used platforms for researching sold prices in Toronto. It offers historical sales data, neighbourhood trends, and visual charts that make it easy to explore how prices have moved over time.

It’s particularly useful for buyers who want to dig into past sales activity and get a sense of momentum. However, HouseSigma also displays estimated sold prices in some cases, which should be approached cautiously — especially for unique or heavily renovated properties.

Best used as a research companion, not a final authority.

Zoocasa

Zoocasa provides a clean, user-friendly interface with solid coverage of sold listings across Toronto. It tends to focus more on confirmed sales rather than heavy predictive overlays, making it a good option for straightforward checks.

While it may not offer the same depth of analytics as some competitors, its simplicity is often a strength. It’s especially helpful for quick validation when cross-referencing multiple sources.

Zolo

Zolo is another reliable option for browsing sold homes in Toronto. It offers clear filters and a straightforward presentation of recent sales, making it easy to see what’s happening in a specific area.

It works well as a secondary verification tool, particularly when you want to confirm whether a sale has been broadly reported across platforms.

Property.ca

Property is especially popular among condo buyers, thanks to its building-level insights and downtown focus. For those researching specific condo developments, it can provide helpful historical context.

That said, sold-price accuracy can vary building by building, and estimates should be treated with care. It’s a strong niche resource, but not a complete market picture on its own.

Strata

Strata combines brokerage-level insights with consumer-facing tools, offering sold data alongside market commentary. Its approach can feel more curated, which some users appreciate.

Like all third-party platforms, it’s best used in conjunction with others — particularly when pricing decisions are involved.

Why Online Sold Prices Still Don’t Tell the Full Story

Even when sold prices are accurate, they rarely tell you why a home sold for what it did. Condition, layout, upgrades, competition, timing, and negotiation dynamics all matter — and none of those show up neatly in a data table.

Two homes can sell for the same price and represent completely different outcomes. Without context, it’s easy to draw the wrong conclusions.

How We Use Sold Data When Advising Buyers and Sellers

When we analyze sold prices, we don’t look at them in isolation. We compare similar homes, adjust for condition and timing, and consider the broader market environment. Data is the foundation — but interpretation is what turns information into insight.

That’s especially important in Toronto, where small differences can have big pricing implications.

Final Thoughts: Use the Tools — But Know Their Limits

Realtor.ca remains the foundation of Toronto’s real estate ecosystem. The other platforms add layers of insight, convenience, and accessibility — but they’re still just tools.

Used thoughtfully, sold-price websites can help you ask better questions and spot meaningful trends. Used blindly, they can create false confidence. The difference lies in understanding both what the data shows — and what it doesn’t.

If you’re trying to understand what homes are actually selling for in your neighbourhood, and what that means for your next move, we’re always happy to help interpret the numbers – drop us a note below!

Jan 19

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Wychwood

By Mark Savel Uncategorized

Neighbourhood Guide

Wychwood Neighbourhood Guide

Wychwood is one of those Toronto neighbourhoods that doesn’t announce itself loudly—and that’s exactly the point. Tucked just west of Bathurst Street and south of St. Clair, it feels removed from the city’s constant churn, even though it’s minutes from some of Toronto’s busiest corridors. The first impression is calm, leafy, and slightly old-soul: wide sidewalks, mature trees, and a rhythm of daily life that feels settled rather than hurried.

Let’s Talk About Your Move

Wychwood Neighbourhood Profile

Historically, Wychwood grew as a streetcar suburb in the early 20th century, attracting middle-class families who wanted space, greenery, and reliable transit into the city core. That legacy still defines the area today. The housing stock reflects careful, incremental change rather than waves of redevelopment, and many homes have been in families for generations. The neighbourhood’s anchor—Artscape Wychwood Barns—perfectly captures this balance of preservation and reinvention. Once a TTC streetcar repair facility, it was transformed into a cultural and community hub without losing its industrial character.

What sets Wychwood apart is how intentionally it has evolved. It’s not trying to be trendy, nor is it frozen in time. Instead, it attracts people who value walkability, community programming, and architectural character—buyers who want Toronto living without the sensory overload. It’s quietly confident, much like the people who choose to put down roots here.

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Search Real Estate in Wychwood

Houses for Sale In Wychwood

Condos for Sale In Wychwood

Who Lives in the Wychwood Neighbourhood?

Wychwood tends to attract buyers who are already clear on what they want—and just as importantly, what they don’t. This is a neighbourhood for people who value stability, community, and day-to-day livability over nightlife or constant novelty. You’ll find a strong mix of established families, creative professionals, academics, and long-time homeowners who have stayed put even as surrounding areas have transformed more aggressively.

Many residents work in education, healthcare, design, or professional services, often with flexible or hybrid schedules that allow them to fully use the neighbourhood during the day. Parents are drawn by the quieter streets and access to reputable schools, while downsizers appreciate that Wychwood still feels residential rather than condo-dominated. There’s also a meaningful number of younger couples—often moving up from condos—who see Wychwood as a long-term play rather than a stepping stone.

That said, this isn’t a neighbourhood for everyone. Buyers looking for late-night energy, dense retail strips, or brand-new housing stock may find Wychwood too understated. Renters will find fewer purpose-built options compared to nearby St. Clair West or Dupont. But for those who prioritize walkable routines, community ties, and a sense of continuity, Wychwood tends to stick—once people arrive, they rarely rush to leave.

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Where is the Wychwood Neighbourhood Located?

Wychwood’s boundaries are compact but clearly defined, which is part of what gives it such a cohesive feel. Generally, the neighbourhood is bordered by St. Clair Avenue West to the north, Christie Street to the west, Bathurst Street to the east, and Dupont Street to the south. Within those lines, the streets feel intentionally residential, with limited through-traffic and a slower pace than the arterial roads that frame it.

This geography works in residents’ favour. Being just south of St. Clair West means daily errands—groceries, cafés, transit—are close without spilling directly into quieter side streets. To the south, Dupont offers quick east-west access by car or bike, while Christie provides a straightforward route down toward Bloor. The neighbourhood’s proximity to Christie Pits Park also adds recreational spillover space, especially for families and dog owners.

From a commuting perspective, Wychwood sits in a sweet spot. Downtown is accessible without feeling downtown-adjacent, and nearby neighbourhoods like Hillcrest Village, Humewood, and Casa Loma are easily reached on foot or bike. The clear boundaries create a sense of enclosure—residents know when they’re “home”—while still offering strong connectivity to the rest of the city.

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What Type of Architecture Styles can be found in the Wychwood Neighbourhood?

Housing in Wychwood is defined by character and consistency rather than variety. The dominant built form is early-to-mid-20th-century detached and semi-detached homes, many with original details like wood trim, brick façades, front porches, and generous lot depths by Toronto standards. Renovations here tend to be thoughtful rather than maximalist, often blending modern interiors with preserved exteriors.

Condos exist, but they’re the exception rather than the rule. There are a handful of low-rise and boutique buildings—often appealing to downsizers who want to stay in the neighbourhood—but Wychwood has largely resisted the mid-rise intensification seen along St. Clair West. As a result, ownership skews heavily toward long-term residents, with relatively low turnover year over year.

From a buyer’s perspective, this means competition when homes do come up, but also confidence in the neighbourhood’s long-term stability. Investors looking for rapid redevelopment plays may find limited upside here, but end-users often see Wychwood as a place to grow into and stay. The housing stock rewards patience, vision, and a willingness to value neighbourhood integrity over flash.

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Available Condos in Wychwood

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Victoria Lofts – 152 Annette St

Wilson West Condos

St. Leslieville Church Lofts – 175 Jones Ave

Glebe Lofts – 660 Pape Ave

What Does Daily Life Look Like in the Wychwood Neighbourhood?

Life in Wychwood is shaped less by marquee attractions and more by routines. Weekends often revolve around Artscape Wychwood Barns, where farmers’ markets, skating in winter, community gardens, and cultural events create a natural gathering point. It’s the kind of place where neighbours recognize each other—not because they try to, but because paths naturally cross.

Daily amenities cluster along St. Clair West: independent grocers, bakeries, cafés, and long-standing local businesses rather than chains. Residents tend to walk for coffee, cycle for errands, and linger on patios in warmer months. Fitness routines are often neighbourhood-based—park loops, yoga studios, and casual pick-up activities rather than destination gyms.

What stands out is how self-contained Wychwood feels. You don’t need to leave the area often, but when you do, you’re close to almost everything. It’s not a neighbourhood built around spectacle; it’s built around livability. And for many buyers, that’s exactly the draw.

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Transit Access & Getting Around Wychwood

The streetcar along St. Clair West is the backbone of the neighbourhood, offering a dedicated right-of-way that keeps travel times relatively predictable compared to mixed-traffic routes elsewhere in the city. From St. Clair West Station, subway access to Line 1 opens up direct north-south travel.

For drivers, access to Dupont and Bathurst makes moving east-west or downtown manageable, though like most central Toronto neighbourhoods, parking can be tight on certain streets. Cyclists benefit from calmer residential roads and improving bike infrastructure nearby, making short commutes or errands by bike realistic.

The key trade-off is that Wychwood isn’t directly on a subway line (however, St. Clair West Station is a short streetcar ride away) —but many residents see that as a worthwhile exchange for quieter streets and fewer transient crowds. For buyers who prioritize balance over speed, the transit setup tends to work well.

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Schools & Education Options for Wychwood Residents

Wychwood is well-regarded for its school access, particularly at the elementary level. Families often cite this as a primary reason for moving into the neighbourhood and staying long-term.

Public & Catholic Schools

Wychwood Public School – Known for strong community involvement and consistent academic performance
Hillcrest Community School – Offers French Immersion and draws families from surrounding areas
St. Clare Catholic School – A popular local option within the TCDSB

Secondary & Private Options Nearby

Oakwood Collegiate Institute – A long-standing public high school with diverse programming
St. Michael’s College School – All-boys private school with a strong academic reputation
Royal St. George’s College – Independent co-ed school, easily accessible south of the neighbourhood

Daycare and early-learning centres are scattered throughout Wychwood and adjacent pockets, though waitlists are common—a reflection of the neighbourhood’s family-oriented nature.

Let’s Talk About Your Move

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Jan 14

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Top 10 Most Expensive Condo Sales in Toronto in 2025

By Mark Savel Advice For Buyers, Advice For Sellers, Luxury Real Estate

What These Sales Reveal About Toronto’s True Luxury Market

At the very top of Toronto’s condo market, averages stop being useful. What matters instead is scarcity, execution, and whether a property offers something genuinely difficult to replace. In 2025, ultra‑luxury condo sales were few, deliberate, and highly selective — but when the right product appeared, buyers still stepped forward.

This list captures the ten most expensive condo sales completed in Toronto in 2025. Together, they tell a clear story: price resistance existed, but pricing power remained intact for exceptional homes — particularly penthouses, large-format suites, and residences offering privacy, terraces, and concierge-driven living.

The Big Picture: Ultra‑Luxury Condos in 2025

While broader condo segments faced headwinds in 2025, the $6M+ tier operated by a different set of rules. In total, 12 condos traded for over $6 million during the year — a small number by volume, but telling in terms of where true demand still existed. Buyers were rarely stretching. Most were well-capitalized, patient, and highly specific. The result was a market that rewarded quality, not optimism.

A few themes quickly emerge:

• On average, these ultra‑luxury sales closed at approximately 95% of list price, reinforcing disciplined buyer behaviour.
• The average time on market was roughly two months, even at the very top end.
• The average annual property tax bill across this group was approximately $32,000, underscoring the carrying costs at this level.
• The bulk of sales occurred in Yorkville, with the remainder clustered in Rosedale‑adjacent locations.
• Penthouses and sub‑penthouses dominated the list, with outdoor space — terraces in particular — quietly driving value.
• Only one sale occurred outside the downtown core.

With that context, here’s how the top end of Toronto’s condo market actually traded in 2025. Prices shown reflect original list pricing.

The Top 10 Most Expensive Condo Sales of 2025

#1 – 7 Dale Ave PH3 — $14,000,000

Listed: $14,000,000
Size: Over 2,400 sq.ft. interior + expansive terraces
Layout: 3 bedrooms + den, 4 bathrooms
Parking: 3 spaces

This brand-new, never-lived-in penthouse at 7 Dale Avenue claimed the top spot for 2025 — and for good reason. Set above Rosedale’s private gardens and ravine system, this residence combined scale, elevation, and customization potential in one of Toronto’s most tightly held luxury pockets.

With direct elevator access, multiple terraces, and the ability for the buyer to select final finishes, the appeal wasn’t just luxury — it was control. Even at a discount from list, this sale reaffirmed that truly rare penthouses still define the ceiling of Toronto’s condo market.

Listed by: HAZELTON REAL ESTATE INC., BROKERAGE

#2 – 33 Jackes Ave #902 — $10,500,000

Listed: $10,500,000
Size: Approx. 4,482 sq.ft. interior + 1,255 sq.ft. terraces
Layout: 2 bedrooms + den, 4 bathrooms
Parking: 2 spaces (fits 3 cars)

Selling at full ask, this two-level penthouse at 33 Jackes Avenue showcased what happens when architectural pedigree, unobstructed views, and hotel-level service align. With four terraces, curated landscaping, skyline views, and valet service, the property functioned more like a private estate in the sky than a conventional condo.

For sellers, this was a reminder that when pricing is anchored to genuine uniqueness — not optimism — buyers will meet it.

Listed by: CHESTNUT PARK REAL ESTATE LIMITED

#3 – 200 Cumberland St #3403 — $8,499,000

Listed: $8,499,000
Size: Approx. 3,300 sq.ft.
Layout: 3 bedrooms + den, 4 bathrooms
Parking: 2 spaces

Located within Yorkville Private Estates, this southwest corner suite delivered volume, light, and flexibility — all traits buyers were prioritizing in 2025. Floor-to-ceiling windows, panoramic skyline views, and a traditional bedroom wing layout appealed to buyers looking to replicate single-family living without leaving the core.

The final sale price reflected negotiation discipline, but also confidence that premium space in Yorkville remains fundamentally desirable.

Listed by: CHESTNUT PARK REAL ESTATE LIMITED

#4 – 7 Dale Ave #207 — $8,250,000

Listed: $8,250,000
Size: Approx. 3,428 sq.ft. + terrace
Layout: 2 bedrooms, 3 bathrooms
Parking: 1 space

Another entry from 7 Dale Avenue, Suite 207 reinforced the building’s status as one of Toronto’s most refined boutique offerings. With interiors by Studio Munge, radiant heated floors, and a Crestron-integrated smart home system, this residence appealed to buyers focused on craftsmanship over sheer height.

This sale underscored a recurring theme in 2025: boutique luxury held its ground when execution was flawless.

Listed by:
ROYAL LEPAGE REAL ESTATE SERVICES OXLEY REAL ESTATE, BROKERAGE

#5 – 50 Yorkville Ave #4001 — $8,295,500

Listed: $8,295,500
Size: Approx. 2,874 sq.ft.
Layout: 2 bedrooms + den, 4 bathrooms
Parking: 3 spaces

Four Seasons Private Residences continue to define hotel-branded luxury in Toronto, and this northwest-facing suite delivered both scale and service. With private elevator access, marble finishes, and full access to five-star amenities, the appeal here was lifestyle certainty.

The spread between list and sale price also illustrated how even iconic buildings were not immune to negotiation in 2025.

Listed by: INTERCITY REALTY INC., BROKERAGE

#6 – 128 Hazelton Ave #801 — $8,325,000

Listed: $8,325,000
Size: Over 3,700 sq.ft. (two-storey)
Layout: 3 bedrooms, 4 bathrooms
Parking: 2 spaces

One of only 17 residences in the building — and the only two-storey suite — this sub-penthouse offered privacy, scale, and unobstructed park and skyline views. Boutique density, private elevators, and under-construction customization potential all played a role in attracting a buyer at this level.

Listed by: FOREST HILL REAL ESTATE INC., BROKERAGE

#7 – 50 Yorkville Ave #4403 — $8,499,000

Listed: $8,499,000
Size: Over 3,400 sq.ft.
Layout: 2 bedrooms + den, 3 bathrooms
Parking: 2 spaces

Another Four Seasons residence makes the list, reinforcing the building’s continued dominance at the top end. Dual private elevators, multiple terraces, and full hotel services appealed to buyers prioritizing turnkey luxury with minimal friction.

Listed by: HARVEY KALLES REAL ESTATE LTD., BROKERAGE

#8 – 118 Yorkville Ave #601 — $7,750,000

Listed: $7,750,000
Size: Over 5,200 sq.ft.
Layout: 4 bedrooms, 6 bathrooms
Parking: 6 spaces

Located within The Hazelton Hotel, this expansive residence functioned more like a private residence than a condo. Purpose-built for family living, the suite’s scale and access to five-star services made it one of the most functionally unique properties on the list.

Listed by: HAZELTON REAL ESTATE INC., BROKERAGE

#9 – 38 Avenue Rd #2302 — $6,495,000

Listed: $6,495,000
Size: Approx. 4,465 sq.ft.
Layout: 3 bedrooms, 5 bathrooms
Parking: 8 spaces

The only property on the list to sell above asking — and notably, a power of sale. This outcome highlighted how price positioning, combined with rarity and scale, can still generate competition even in cautious market conditions.

Listed by: SLAVENS & ASSOCIATES REAL ESTATE INC., BROKERAGE

#10 – 1 Strathgowan Ave PH02 — $6,995,000

Listed: $6,995,000
Size: Approx. 3,400 sq.ft. + 1,160 sq.ft. terraces
Layout: 3 bedrooms, 4 bathrooms
Parking: 2 spaces

The only sale outside the downtown core, this Lawrence Park penthouse stood out for its flexible layout and extraordinary outdoor space. With just two penthouses in the building, scarcity — not skyline — drove value here.

Listed by: ROYAL LEPAGE REAL ESTATE SERVICES HEAPS ESTRIN TEAM, BROKERAGE

Patterns That Defined the Top End in 2025

Across all ten sales, a few truths became impossible to ignore:

Buyers consistently paid for irreplaceability rather than hype, gravitating toward homes that offered something genuinely difficult to replicate. Large terraces and a sense of privacy mattered just as much as interior square footage, particularly for buyers replacing single-family homes. Hotel‑branded residences and ultra‑boutique buildings continued to dominate outcomes, reflecting a preference for service, discretion, and low density. Above all, pricing discipline proved decisive — well‑positioned listings moved efficiently, while aspirational pricing stalled, even at the very top end.

What This Means for Ultra‑Luxury Buyers

For buyers considering the $5M–$10M+ segment, 2025 reinforced that patience creates real leverage — not because prices collapsed, but because competition thinned. With fewer active buyers operating at this level, decision‑making became calmer and more deliberate, allowing well‑prepared purchasers to negotiate thoughtfully rather than react emotionally. The best opportunities weren’t necessarily cheap, but they offered strong relative value: exceptional homes, limited alternatives, and pricing that reflected today’s conditions rather than yesterday’s peak. For buyers who understood what truly mattered, value was high precisely because competition was lower.

Thinking About Buying or Selling at This Level?

If you’re curious about final sold prices or how these properties ultimately transacted, we’re always happy to share that context privately — just reach out.

Whether you’re quietly exploring opportunities or evaluating what your property could command in today’s market, ultra‑luxury decisions benefit from experience, discretion, and real pricing context.

Reach out to TorontoLivings for a confidential conversation about navigating the top end of Toronto’s condo market.

For Buyers Exploring Toronto’s Ultra‑Luxury Condo Market

If you’re considering a purchase at the very top end of Toronto’s condo market, we’ve built a dedicated resource that tracks the city’s most expensive condos, iconic buildings, and benchmark penthouse offerings — designed to help buyers understand where true value, scarcity, and long‑term prestige actually sit.

Explore our guide to Toronto’s most expensive condos

It’s a useful starting point if you’re narrowing your focus, comparing buildings, or simply trying to understand how the upper tier of the market really works before making your next move. Send us a message below, for a confidential conversation about navigating the top end of Toronto’s condo market!

Jan 13

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Toronto Real Estate Over 45 Years: What the Long-Term Data Really Tells Us

By Mark Savel Advice For Buyers

Every market cycle produces its own headlines. Prices are up. Prices are down. Buyers are waiting. Sellers are hesitant. What often gets lost in the noise is perspective — and that’s exactly what long-term data provides.

The historic TRREB MLS System data, stretching back more than four decades, offers a rare opportunity to step back and see Toronto real estate the way it actually behaves over time: cyclical, uneven, occasionally emotional — but remarkably resilient. For buyers trying to time the market, this kind of context matters far more than any single year or rate announcement.

TRREB MLS System Sales and Average Price

Toronto Real Estate Has Always Moved in Cycles — Not Straight Lines

Looking back to the 1980s and early 1990s, it becomes clear that volatility is not a modern invention. Prices rose sharply in the late 1980s, peaked around 1989–1990, and then corrected through the early 1990s. What followed wasn’t a quick bounce, but a prolonged period of stagnation and slow recovery.

For buyers at the time, this was uncomfortable. But zooming out, that cycle didn’t derail the long-term trajectory. It reinforced a recurring pattern: Toronto real estate doesn’t move in straight lines. It advances in waves, with pauses that feel dramatic in the moment but look measured in hindsight.

The key takeaway for today’s buyers is simple — waiting for a perfectly smooth entry point has never been realistic. The market has always rewarded patience and planning more than precision timing.

Sales Volume Tells the Story Buyers Often Ignore

Prices tend to get all the attention, but sales volume often provides the more useful signal. Over the last 45 years, Toronto has seen periods where transaction counts fell meaningfully, even while prices held relatively steady — and vice versa.

Historically, lower sales years were not signals of collapse. More often, they reflected hesitation. Buyers and sellers stepped back, reassessed, and waited for clarity. Those quieter periods frequently created conditions where prepared buyers had more choice, less competition, and greater negotiating leverage.

In other words, lower activity has often preceded opportunity — not decline.

Price Growth Was Uneven — and That’s the Point

One of the most striking insights from the long-term data is how uneven price growth actually is. There are extended stretches where average prices moved sideways or rose modestly, followed by shorter bursts of rapid appreciation.

Those flat years are easy to dismiss in real time. They feel frustrating. But historically, they’ve played a crucial role in resetting expectations and allowing income growth, population growth, and affordability dynamics to catch up.

For buyers trying to time the market, this matters. The most stable entry points often occurred during periods that felt boring — not during moments of optimism or urgency.

2008–2009: A Real Stress Test for Toronto Real Estate

The global financial crisis remains one of the most instructive stress tests in Toronto’s modern housing history. Sales volumes declined meaningfully, reflecting uncertainty and caution. Prices softened — but did not collapse.

What followed was equally important. The recovery was not instantaneous, but it was steady. Within a few years, prices had regained momentum, and transaction volumes normalized.

For buyers watching today’s market, this period reinforces an important lesson: even during global disruptions, Toronto real estate has shown an ability to stabilize and recover without long-term structural damage.

The Pandemic Era in Proper Context (2020–2025)

Recent price growth can feel extreme when viewed in isolation. But when placed against 45 years of data, the pandemic-era surge looks less like an anomaly and more like an accelerated cycle.

Sales volumes swung sharply during this period, reflecting both urgency and hesitation at different moments. Prices rose quickly, then pulled back as affordability constraints and higher borrowing costs set in — particularly as policy rates rose under the guidance of the Bank of Canada.

For buyers today, anchoring decisions to peak pricing years can be misleading. Long-term data suggests that pullbacks are part of normalization — not signals that the underlying market has fundamentally changed.

What 45 Years of Data Says About “Waiting It Out”

Many buyers believe the safest strategy is to wait until conditions feel perfect. Historically, that moment rarely arrives.

Looking across multiple downturns, buyers who waited for maximum clarity often faced higher prices by the time confidence returned. Those who entered during periods of uncertainty — with conservative assumptions and long-term plans — tended to benefit from both pricing stability and future growth.

This is why our advice has always been less about predicting the market and more about personal readiness. Buying when you have strong job security, predictable income, and confidence in your monthly payments has consistently mattered more than buying at the absolute bottom.

Markets move in cycles. Careers, incomes, and life stages do too. When those align — and the numbers work comfortably — history suggests that waiting for perfect headlines often introduces more risk than moving forward thoughtfully.

The real risk isn’t just market risk. It’s time risk — the cost of delaying decisions while prices, rents, and competition evolve.

How We Use This History When Advising Buyers Today

Having worked through multiple market cycles, we’ve seen firsthand how perspective changes strategy. Rather than trying to predict short-term movements, we focus on helping buyers understand where today fits within a longer arc.

That means prioritizing quality over timing, stress-testing affordability rather than chasing peaks, and recognizing that uncertainty often creates the best negotiating conditions.

History doesn’t tell us exactly what will happen next — but it does tell us how Toronto real estate tends to behave over time. And that perspective has consistently helped buyers make calmer, more confident decisions.

The Market Rewards Perspective, Not Predictions

Forty-five years of data tells a clear story. Toronto real estate has moved through booms, slowdowns, corrections, and recoveries — and yet the long-term trend remains intact.

For buyers trying to time the market, the real advantage comes from understanding cycles, not predicting headlines. Perspective, preparation, and patience have consistently mattered more than perfect timing.

If you’re thinking about buying and unsure how today’s market fits into the bigger picture, let’s talk. Understanding where we are in the cycle — and whether the move makes sense for you — can make all the difference.

Want to stay grounded as conditions change? Our monthly Toronto real estate market report breaks down what’s happening right now — sales, pricing, inventory, and momentum!