Toronto | TorontoLivings - Toronto Real Estate

Feb 02

Condo Window Condensation in Toronto Winters

By Mark Savel Advice For Buyers, Advice For Sellers, Toronto

Every winter, condo owners across Toronto notice the same thing: moisture forming on the inside of their windows. Sometimes it’s a light film. Other times it’s beads of water collecting along the frame or pooling at the corners.

The immediate reaction is often concern — are the windows failing, is there a building issue, or is something wrong with the unit? In reality, winter window condensation is one of the most common cold-weather conditions in condos, and in many cases, it’s a predictable result of how modern buildings, windows, and indoor air behave during colder months.

Understanding what’s normal, what isn’t, and what you can control goes a long way in preventing damage and unnecessary stress.

What Causes Condensation on Condo Windows in Winter

Condensation occurs when warm, moisture-filled indoor air comes into contact with a cold surface. In winter, your window glass and frames are often the coldest surfaces in your unit. When humid air hits that cold surface, moisture drops out of the air and turns into water.

Condo buildings tend to amplify this effect for a few reasons:

Large expanses of glass are common in modern designs
Aluminum window frames conduct cold more readily than other materials
Condos are built to be relatively airtight, which limits natural moisture escape

The colder it gets outside, the colder the interior surface of the window becomes — increasing the likelihood of condensation forming.

Is Condensation on Condo Windows Normal?

In short: yes, some condensation in winter is normal.

Seeing moisture on windows during cold snaps does not automatically mean your windows are defective or that there’s a construction issue. In fact, newer and more energy-efficient buildings can experience condensation more frequently because they trap warm, humid air more effectively than older, draftier structures.

That said, there’s an important distinction between occasional condensation that clears and persistent moisture that lingers or worsens.

Why Some Condo Units Experience It More Than Others

Not all condo units experience condensation the same way. Several factors influence how much moisture shows up on windows:

Window orientation: North-facing units tend to have colder glass due to limited sun exposure
Floor level: Lower floors can be more sensitive to ventilation disruptions
Window type: Sliding windows often show condensation along tracks and frames
Air circulation: Units with restricted airflow see moisture accumulate faster

This is why it’s common to hear multiple owners in the same stack or orientation report similar issues.

The Role of Humidity — What Condo Owners Often Miss

Relative humidity is the single biggest driver of condensation in winter.

Many condo owners aim for a “comfortable” humidity level year-round, not realizing that acceptable indoor humidity must drop as outdoor temperatures fall. What feels comfortable at 0°C outside may be far too high during a -15°C cold snap.

As a general guideline, indoor humidity targets should drop as outdoor temperatures fall:

Outdoor Temperature	Recommended Indoor Humidity Range
Around 0°C	35–45%
Around -10°C	30–40%
Around -20°C	15–30%

These ranges reflect typical condo window performance in winter and help reduce the risk of condensation forming on glass and frames.

Everyday Activities That Quietly Increase Condensation

Many of the biggest contributors to winter condensation are everyday activities that don’t feel excessive on their own. Long hot showers, frequent cooking, running laundry, or using a dryer all add moisture to the air. Humidifiers set a little too high and multiple houseplants — especially when placed near windows — can further increase localized humidity.

Even layout choices matter. Furniture, blinds, or curtains positioned tight to glass restrict warm air from circulating across window surfaces, allowing the glass to stay colder and encouraging moisture to form. Over time, these small contributors can combine to push indoor humidity past safe winter levels.

Ventilation Matters More Than Most Owners Realize

Ventilation plays a critical role in managing moisture.

Bathroom and kitchen exhaust fans aren’t just for odours — they remove humidity. In winter, fans often need to run much longer than expected. It can take hours after a shower for moisture levels to return to baseline.

Make-up air supplied through corridors also matters. That dry winter air helps flush moisture from your suite. Sealing suite doors or blocking airflow can unintentionally trap humidity inside.

When Condensation Becomes a Real Problem

Condensation deserves closer attention when it becomes persistent or starts causing secondary issues. Moisture that continues even after humidity has been reduced, regular pooling or dripping water, staining on frames or drywall, or recurring mold growth are all signs that something more than seasonal condensation may be happening.

Issues that worsen during ventilation outages or appear to affect finishes, window assemblies, or neighbouring units often point to air-balance or ventilation concerns rather than simple lifestyle-related moisture.

Practical Steps Condo Owners Can Take Right Now

The most effective approach is consistent, measured adjustment rather than drastic changes. Monitoring indoor humidity with a reliable hygrometer allows owners to respond as outdoor temperatures fluctuate. Using bathroom and kitchen exhaust fans during — and well after — moisture-producing activities helps remove humidity before it can settle on cold surfaces.

Keeping windows unobstructed, avoiding plants or furniture tight to glass, and opening blinds during the day allows warm air to circulate and encourages evaporation. When condensation does appear, wiping it away promptly helps prevent staining, deterioration, and mold growth.

When to Involve Property Management

Property management should be involved when condensation persists despite reasonable humidity control or begins to show patterns beyond a single unit. Issues that appear across multiple floors, stacks, or during known ventilation disruptions suggest a building-level concern rather than an isolated lifestyle issue.

Providing clear documentation — including timing, outdoor temperatures, humidity readings, and photos — helps management and HVAC professionals determine whether ventilation, air balance, or system performance requires attention.

What Condo Owners Should Take Away

Winter window condensation is common in Toronto condos, especially during prolonged cold weather. In most cases, it comes down to managing the balance between indoor humidity, temperature, and ventilation — not failing windows or poor construction.

Knowing what’s normal, adjusting habits as temperatures change, and acting early when moisture becomes persistent can help protect your unit, finishes, and long-term value.

If you’re actively thinking about buying, selling, or upgrading within the condo market, it’s also worth understanding how building performance, ventilation, and maintenance can differ from one property to the next.

Looking for your next place? Explore a few of the neighbourhoods we specialize in and see what’s available across Toronto — and if you have questions about how a building actually lives day-to-day, we’re always happy to talk it through.

Jan 12

Love0

Toronto Real Estate Market 2025 Year-End Review & Outlook

By Mark Savel Advice For Buyers, Advice For Sellers, Toronto

If 2024 was about uncertainty, 2025 was about adjustment.

The defining force this year wasn’t disappearing demand — it was inventory overwhelming the market’s ability to absorb it. Toronto averaged 25,548 active listings throughout 2025, a level that consistently exceeded what buyer demand could comfortably clear. Supply peaked mid-year at 31,603 active listings in June, then remained elevated through most of the fall before finally compressing into December.

Sales activity followed a familiar seasonal arc, averaging 5,228 sales per month, but that demand was spread thin across a much larger pool of listings. On paper, the market looked active. On the ground, it felt selective.

Buyers had options. Time. Leverage. Sellers could still transact — but only when expectations were realistic from the outset. This wasn’t a crash. It wasn’t a rebound either. It was a prolonged re-pricing environment, where leverage steadily and decisively shifted toward buyers.

Sales & Demand: Present, But Highly Filtered

Sales volumes showed resilience through the middle of the year. Monthly sales climbed from 3,847 in January to a peak stretch above 6,100 sales between May and July, confirming that buyers were not sitting on the sidelines entirely.

But that demand was fragile.

By December, sales slipped back to 3,697, nearly identical to January levels, despite clearer pricing, more transparency, and softer expectations. That bookend tells the real story of 2025: demand existed, but urgency never fully returned.

Where buyers did act decisively, three patterns stood out:

• Homes priced directly in line with recent comparable sales
• Listings that were clearly superior to competing inventory
• Properties positioned as good value, not best-case scenarios

Homes that missed those marks didn’t just sell later — they often sold for less, after extended exposure and multiple price reductions.

Inventory & Supply: The Dominant Force of 2025

If there was a single variable that shaped behaviour this year, it was supply.

New listings averaged 15,469 per month, with spring inflows particularly heavy. April through June alone added nearly 60,000 new listings to the market. Even as sales improved seasonally, absorption never caught up.

The impact compounded over time. Active listings rose from 17,157 in January to over 30,000 by May, fundamentally changing buyer psychology. And even when new listings slowed sharply — falling to just 5,299 in December — buyers were still choosing from 17,005 active listings.

That’s not scarcity by any definition.

As a result, buyers compared more homes before committing, conditional offers became routine again, and sellers lost the ability to rely on urgency or fear of missing out. Inventory didn’t need to keep rising forever to reshape the market. It simply needed to stay elevated long enough for psychology to change — which it did.

Pricing & Value: Softening, With Clear Winners and Losers

The average Toronto sale price in 2025 landed around $1.065M, but that headline number hides meaningful divergence beneath the surface.

Prices peaked in late spring, then softened steadily through the second half of the year, tracking directly with elevated inventory and rising buyer selectivity. Average Days on Market climbed from 38 days in Q2 to 57 days by Q4, reinforcing how patience — not urgency — defined buyer behaviour by year-end.

Well-priced homes often sold within their first listing window. Overpriced listings typically required multiple reductions. Final sale prices increasingly drifted away from original list prices.

By Q4, buyers weren’t negotiating off asking prices — they were negotiating off perceived value, often pointing to better alternatives still sitting on the market.

2025 by Housing Segment: Four Markets, One Theme

Detached Homes

Detached homes were the most resilient segment in 2025, but not immune.

Sales volumes held up better here than in other segments, particularly in established neighbourhoods where land value, schools, and long-term scarcity continued to support demand. Even so, elevated supply capped pricing momentum. Many detached listings required sharper initial pricing to generate traction.

Buyers were qualified, deliberate, and far less emotional than in past cycles. Overpriced detached homes frequently sat through multiple listing periods, while realistically priced homes attracted steady — if unspectacular — interest.

Semi-Detached Homes

Semi-detached homes felt affordability pressure more directly.

As a traditional step-up option, this segment was highly sensitive to interest-rate psychology. Demand existed, but buyers had more choice than usual, and that softened competition.

Well-presented semis in strong neighbourhoods continued to sell, but rarely with the multiple-offer dynamics sellers had come to expect. Pricing accuracy mattered enormously, making this segment a clear barometer of buyer confidence.

Townhouses

Townhouses experienced one of the more noticeable shifts in 2025.

Inventory growth, particularly in newer and suburban-adjacent projects, increased competition and reduced urgency. Buyers weighed townhouses more carefully against condos and smaller detached options, prioritizing layout, fees, and long-term livability.

Well-priced freehold townhouses performed reasonably well. Those that lacked differentiation or sat awkwardly between price points often struggled.

Condos

Condos were the most challenged segment of 2025.

Elevated supply, especially among one-bedroom and investor-oriented units, weighed heavily on pricing and absorption. Buyers had ample choice and often adopted a wait-and-see posture, particularly in buildings with high listing concentration.

While unique, well-located, or larger units still sold, competition was fierce and pricing pressure persistent. By year-end, condos increasingly led the market’s re-pricing rather than following it.

What This Meant for Buyers

For buyers, 2025 delivered something Toronto rarely offers: choice without chaos.

Elevated inventory created real leverage, particularly on listings that had been on the market 30 days or longer. Disciplined buyers were often rewarded with price reductions, seller concessions, and time to conduct proper due diligence.

That said, decisiveness still mattered. Homes that were clearly priced right — especially in strong neighbourhoods or turnkey condition — continued to attract competition.

The opportunity wasn’t universal leverage. It was selective leverage.

What This Meant for Sellers

For sellers, 2025 was a year where strategy mattered more than timing.

Listings that launched aligned with market reality often sold efficiently, even in a high-inventory environment. Those that chased aspirational pricing frequently became stale and paid for it later.

The data reinforced a difficult but consistent truth: waiting for the market to “come back” was rarely rewarded.

Carrying costs, competition, and buyer fatigue often outweighed the benefit of holding out, particularly in the second half of the year. Sellers who succeeded treated pricing as a proactive decision, not a fallback plan.

Short-Term Outlook Heading Into 2026

As the market moves into 2026, inventory remains the variable to watch.

New listings have slowed seasonally, but active supply is still high enough to keep buyers cautious and selective. Interest-rate sentiment may improve, but affordability constraints haven’t disappeared.

The most likely near-term scenario is continued sorting: well-priced homes transact, misaligned ones adjust, and leverage remains situational rather than universal.

Thinking About Buying or Selling in 2026?

Markets like this reward strategy, not guesswork.

If you’re planning to buy or sell in 2026 and want clarity around pricing, timing, and leverage, we’re happy to help you think it through. Whether that means stress-testing a sale price, identifying real buying opportunities, or simply understanding how current conditions affect your plans, our role is to give you clear, grounded advice—before you make any big decisions. Get in touch with us by sending a message below!

Dec 24

Love0

Priority Transit Lanes on Bathurst – Enforcement & Penalties

By Mark Savel Toronto

Bathurst Street is one of Toronto’s busiest north–south corridors, and as of December 19, 2025, driving behaviour along it officially changed. The City has rolled out priority streetcar lanes along portions of Bathurst, and enforcement is now fully active.

If you drive, live, own property, or operate a business along Bathurst, this is one update you don’t want to miss. Below is a clear breakdown of how the lanes work, who can use them, and the fines now being issued.

What Are Priority Transit Lanes on Bathurst?

Priority transit lanes are dedicated lanes designed to keep streetcars moving reliably through congested corridors. On Bathurst Street, the left lane has been designated for streetcars and other permitted vehicles only.

These lanes are not suggestions or pilot markings. Once signage, pavement markings, and red paint are installed, the lane becomes legally enforceable.

The goal is straightforward: fewer delays for streetcars, more predictable transit service, and reduced stop‑and‑go congestion caused by blocked tracks.

When Enforcement Began (And Why It Matters)

Enforcement of Bathurst’s priority streetcar lanes officially began on December 19, 2025.

There is no grace period once the lane is marked and signed. Tickets are being issued now, and drivers are expected to understand and comply with the restrictions in real time.

For anyone who regularly uses Bathurst as a commuting route, this makes awareness critical. Even short stops or brief lane use can result in fines.

How to Identify a Priority Streetcar Lane

Drivers can identify priority streetcar lanes through a combination of visual cues:

Red-painted pavement
Diamond symbols painted on the road surface
Traffic signs displaying a diamond symbol and a streetcar icon
Signs stating “LEFT LANE,” indicating the lane is reserved

A simple rule of thumb: if you see the diamond symbol, the lane is restricted. Even if traffic appears light, the lane is still off‑limits unless signage explicitly permits use.

Who Is Allowed to Use the Priority Lanes

Only specific vehicles are permitted to travel in the priority streetcar lanes. These include:

TTC streetcars and buses
Wheel‑Trans vehicles, including approved third‑party contracted taxis
School buses and buses operated by agencies other than the TTC
Emergency vehicles, including police, fire, and paramedics

Private vehicles are not permitted to drive, stop, or wait in the lane unless a sign specifically allows access for turning.

Bathurst Street Priority Lane Fines & Penalties

With enforcement now active, the following penalties are being issued:

Infraction	Penalty
Improper lane use	$110 fine + 3 demerit points
Stopping in the priority lane	$170 fine
Parking in loading zones without active loading	$50 fine
Blocking an intersection	$450 fine
Blocking an intersection in a Community Safety Zone	$500 fine

For daily drivers, these penalties can add up quickly — especially when combined with demerit points.

When the Lanes Are Considered “Active”

Priority streetcar lanes are enforceable when all of the following are in place:

Red pavement
Pavement markings
Regulatory signage

If these elements are visible, enforcement applies regardless of traffic conditions or time of day, unless signage indicates otherwise.

Common Mistakes Drivers Are Getting Ticketed For

Some of the most common violations include:

Stopping briefly for passenger drop‑offs
Using the lane to bypass congestion
Waiting in the lane while preparing to turn
Parking or stopping in loading zones without active loading

Even short stops count. If your vehicle is in the lane and you’re not permitted to be there, enforcement can apply.

What This Means for Residents, Businesses, and Buyers Along Bathurst

For residents and property owners along Bathurst, these changes affect daily life more than many realize.

Curb access is more restricted, quick stops are riskier, and off‑street parking becomes more valuable. For businesses, loading and delivery timing matters more than ever.

On the positive side, more reliable streetcar service improves transit accessibility — a factor that increasingly influences buyer and renter decisions when evaluating neighbourhoods along major transit corridors.

Bathurst’s priority streetcar lanes are live, enforceable, and here to stay. Understanding how the lanes work is the best way to avoid unnecessary fines.

Dec 02

Love0

Priority Transit Lanes on Bathurst & Dufferin: What to Expect

By Mark Savel Advice For Buyers, Advice For Sellers, Toronto

What’s Changing — Bathurst & Dufferin’s New Priority Lanes

Toronto is rolling out priority transit lanes along two of the city’s busiest north–south corridors: Bathurst Street and Dufferin Street. If you’ve driven, ridden, or walked these stretches recently, you’ve likely felt the congestion firsthand.

The new configuration introduces red-painted priority lanes designed to keep TTC vehicles moving. On Bathurst, the priority lanes run roughly 3.4 km from Bathurst Station down to Lake Shore, converting centre lanes to streetcar-only sections and removing pockets of on-street parking. Dufferin will see curbside bus/streetcar lanes from Dufferin Station down to King Street West, paired with new signage, turn restrictions, and loading-zone adjustments.

It’s a major shakeup for two corridors that serve tens of thousands of daily riders — and thousands of drivers who now have one less lane to work with.

Why the City Is Doing This — Transit, Congestion & the 2026 World Cup

According to the City of Toronto and the TTC, both streets have reached a breaking point. Streetcars are routinely slowed to a crawl by general traffic, frequent stops, and parked or turning vehicles. Bus service on Dufferin — one of the busiest surface routes in the city — faces the same fate.

The plan is part of RapidTO, a city-wide initiative investing in dedicated transit lanes to improve reliability. And yes, there’s also a deadline: Toronto is hosting World Cup 2026 events, meaning the city needs faster and more predictable ways to move huge crowds along these central corridors.

In theory, riders should see:

Shorter travel times
More reliable service
Fewer “bunching and gaps” on streetcar and bus routes

But there’s a tradeoff — and it’s a big one.

What Riders & Drivers Should Expect — Gains, Losses & Growing Pains

Let’s be honest: traffic on Bathurst and Dufferin already feels painfully inefficient, especially during rush hours. Removing mixed-traffic lanes won’t magically unclog the streets — if anything, drivers may feel the pinch even more.

Drivers may experience:

Longer north–south travel times
More congestion from lane reductions
Loss of on-street parking in key segments
New turn restrictions

Transit riders may experience:

Faster, more predictable streetcar/bus trips
Fewer service delays caused by stalled traffic

Local businesses are watching closely. Beyond concerns about customer parking, many will face tougher delivery logistics. With curb lanes shifting to transit‑only use, delivery trucks will have fewer legal loading zones, forcing drivers to circle longer, park farther away, or schedule drop‑offs during off‑peak hours. For businesses that rely on frequent shipments — restaurants, retail shops, service vendors — even small delays can add up quickly. Some rely heavily on street parking and fear these changes could redirect customers elsewhere. Residents have also voiced concerns about cars diverting onto side streets — a natural byproduct of any major lane reallocation.

What It Means for Neighbourhoods & Real Estate

Transit accessibility has always played a big role in Toronto’s real estate story. When commuting becomes easier, neighbourhood desirability often rises with it.

For many buyers, being close to a reliable transit line is a bigger priority than owning a parking spot. These changes could boost the appeal of homes, condos, and rentals along Bathurst and Dufferin — especially for people who value car-free or car-light living.

For drivers? The reaction might be mixed. Increased congestion or reduced parking could nudge some homeowners toward quieter streets or areas with better road access.

But overall, improvements to public transit tend to strengthen neighbourhood demand over the long term.

Our Take — A Tough Transition, with Long‑Term Gains

From our experience moving around the city daily, we know how frustrating things already are: Traffic is already jammed, and these improvements won’t fix driving anytime soon.

But if the goal is to move the most people efficiently, dedicated transit lanes make sense. And in a city growing as fast as Toronto, prioritizing the TTC — the system most people rely on — feels like the right long-term play.

Will it be painful for drivers? Absolutely.

Will it help transform two notoriously slow corridors into reliable transit spines over time… we’ll see!

One more wrinkle worth noting: it’s still unclear when the lanes will officially become enforced TTC-priority lanes, and the City hasn’t yet confirmed what fines drivers might face for entering or stopping in them once enforcement begins. Until those details are finalized, expect a transition period where rules, signage, and compliance continue to evolve.

Enforcement & Penalties

Fines for Misuse

The Toronto Police Service may issue fines for:

Travelling in or entering the lane improperly: $110 and three demerit points
Stopping in the lane unless within designated loading areas: $170
Parking in a commercial loading zone without actively loading/unloading passengers or goods: $50

Nov 26

Love0

What Ontario’s New Bill 60 Means for Tenants and Landlords

By Mark Savel Toronto

Introduction — A Big Shift in Ontario’s Rental Rules

Ontario’s rental market has been running hot for years — rising demand, tight supply, and a Landlord and Tenant Board (LTB) so backlogged that some hearings took months, even years. Both landlords and tenants felt stuck in a system that wasn’t working.

Enter Bill 60, a sweeping update to Ontario’s Residential Tenancies Act. It’s designed to speed up decisions, reduce delays, and (according to the province) help restore fairness between tenants and landlords.

And from where we sit, this bill feels like a welcome shift — one that begins to balance the scales of fairness while creating clearer, more predictable rules for everyone involved.

What Is Bill 60?

Bill 60 — formally known as the Fighting Delays, Building Faster Act — introduces several changes to how rental disputes are handled in Ontario. It tightens timelines, limits last-minute curveballs at hearings, and adjusts how certain evictions work.

The goal? Faster resolutions. More predictability. And fewer situations where good landlords (and good tenants) are stuck navigating endless delays.

Key Changes Landlords & Tenants Need to Know

1. Faster Path to Eviction for Non-Payment of Rent

Under previous rules, landlords needed to wait 14 days after a missed payment before issuing an N4 notice. Bill 60 cuts that in half — just 7 days of arrears can trigger the notice.

What it means:

For landlords: quicker action on serious arrears.
For tenants: less buffer for late payments — communication is crucial.

2. Limits on Tenants Raising New Issues at LTB Hearings

Historically, tenants could introduce last-minute concerns (maintenance, safety, harassment) during a non-payment hearing — often leading to adjournments.

With Bill 60, new issues can only be raised if the tenant prepays 50% of the arrears being claimed.

It’s a big shift, aiming to reduce delays — but critics argue it may silence legitimate tenant concerns.

3. Shorter Appeal Windows at the LTB

Appeal periods shrink from 30 days down to 15 days.

Faster decisions mean:

Landlords can regain units sooner.
Tenants need to act quickly if they plan to challenge a ruling.

4. Changes to Landlord-Use Evictions (N12)

When a landlord or an immediate family member wants to move into a rental unit, Bill 60 removes the requirement to:

offer the tenant another available unit, or
provide one month’s rent as compensation.

As long as proper 120-day notice is given, compensation is no longer mandatory.

This reduces costs for landlords — and may reduce disputes around bad-faith claims — but raises questions about tenant security.

5. Other Process Improvements

Future system upgrades aim to:

Digitize more of the LTB process
Increase staffing
Reduce decision timelines

We’ll be watching closely to see how quickly these improvements materialize.

Why the Government Says These Changes Were Needed

Bill 60 was pitched as a solution to Ontario’s long-standing rental logjam:

Massive LTB backlogs
Slow eviction processes
Investors pulling back due to risk and unpredictability
Rapid growth in renter households

The province claims a faster system benefits everyone — tenants get timely decisions, and landlords avoid months of uncertainty.

How Tenants Are Affected

Reduced Security of Tenure

Cutting timeframes makes eviction processes faster and more decisive. For tenants who fall behind due to emergencies, this leaves less flexibility.

Barriers to Raising Maintenance Concerns

If a tenant can’t pay 50% of arrears, it becomes harder to bring legitimate complaints forward during a hearing.

Concerns Around Personal-Use Evictions

Without compensation requirements, displaced tenants must navigate Toronto’s high rental prices without financial support.

How Landlords & Investors Are Affected

More Predictability and Stability

Bill 60 brings clearer expectations around timelines — reducing risk for small landlords who depend on rental income.

Fewer Bad-Faith Claims

Limiting last-minute hearing surprises should reduce delays and adjournments.

Greater Confidence for Purpose-Built Rentals

With smoother dispute resolution, developers may feel more comfortable building much-needed rental supply.

Our Take: Does Bill 60 Actually Balance Things Out?

The rental system wasn’t working — not for landlords, not for tenants. Bill 60 doesn’t fix everything, but it does introduce more structure, fewer delays, and clearer expectations.

From our perspective, this is a welcome change. It begins to restore balance, making the process more fair for everyone involved.

Practical Advice for Tenants and Landlords

For Tenants:

Stay on top of payments — the 7-day grace period is strict.
Document all issues with the unit.
Know your rights around eviction and notices.

For Landlords:

Update your tenant communication and onboarding materials.
Keep records of all correspondence.
Use N12 responsibly — penalties for misuse still apply.

Conclusion — A New Chapter for Ontario’s Rental Landscape

Bill 60 brings meaningful updates to an overburdened system. While not perfect, the changes aim to improve predictability, fairness, and efficiency.

For landlords and tenants navigating Toronto’s tight rental market, understanding these new rules is essential — and staying informed will help everyone adapt to this new chapter.

Oct 30

Love0

Types of Townhouses in Toronto: Freehold vs Condo vs POTL

By Mark Savel Advice For Buyers, Real Estate, Toronto

When most people picture a townhouse, they imagine a row of homes neatly connected by shared walls — but in Toronto, that’s only half the story. What really defines a townhouse isn’t its look, but how you own it. From full land ownership to shared maintenance agreements, understanding the difference between freehold, condo, and POTL townhouses can save you surprises (and thousands of dollars) down the line.

Let’s break down the three main types you’ll find across Toronto — and help you decide which one fits your lifestyle best.

Freehold Townhouses: Complete Ownership, Maximum Control

A freehold townhouse is the closest thing you’ll find to owning a detached home in a connected row. You own both the building and the land it sits on — from the basement floor to the patch of grass out front.

With no condo board or management company, there are no monthly maintenance fees. But that independence comes with full responsibility. You’ll handle the roof repairs, lawn care, snow shovelling, and any exterior upkeep yourself. For some, that’s freedom. For others, it’s a to-do list that never ends.

Freehold townhomes are often found in mid-density pockets like Queen West, and older pockets of the city, where lots are deep enough to support row-style development. They’re also becoming more common in outer neighbourhoods of Scarborough and Etobicoke where builders can offer fee-free ownership.

Pros:

Full control over your home and land
No monthly maintenance or condo fees
Greater long-term appreciation tied to land value

Cons:

All exterior and structural maintenance is on you
Costs can add up for major repairs (roof, driveway, etc.)

Thinking about selling your freehold townhouse? Learn how to sell higher with Toronto Livings.

For a deeper comparison of ownership styles, check out GTA West Living’s guide on Freehold vs Condo Townhouses.

Condo Townhouses: Shared Spaces, Simplified Upkeep

A condo townhouse blends home-like living with the convenience of shared maintenance. You own the interior of your unit, but the exterior, land, and shared amenities belong to a condominium corporation. That means you’ll pay monthly condo fees, which typically cover landscaping, snow removal, roof repair, insurance on the exterior, and sometimes even utilities.

In exchange, you’ll have fewer weekend chores — but a bit less autonomy. The condo board oversees what you can and can’t do with your home’s exterior. Want to change your front door or install a satellite dish? You might need board approval first.

These townhouses are common in Liberty Village, East Bayfront, and along major transit corridors where land is scarce and vertical living makes sense. For many, they strike the right balance between ownership and ease.

Pros:

Lower individual maintenance responsibilities
Shared upkeep through predictable monthly fees
Often include amenities or shared green space

Cons:

Monthly condo fees can rise over time
Limited control over exterior appearance and common areas

For an official definition, visit the Condo Authority of Ontario’s explainer on condominium ownership.

If you’re exploring condo living in Toronto, visit our Buy Better guide for expert insights.

POTL Townhouses: The Best of Both Worlds

A POTL townhouse — short for Parcel of Tied Land — sits somewhere between a freehold and a condo. You own your home and the land beneath it, but it’s “tied” to a Common Elements Condominium Corporation (CEC). That means you also own a share of certain shared spaces — think private laneways, visitor parking, or landscaped courtyards.

You’ll pay a monthly POTL fee for maintenance of those shared elements, but otherwise, you control your property much like a freehold owner. It’s a hybrid model that gives you autonomy with a touch of community upkeep.

POTL developments are increasingly common in suburban pockets of Vaughan, Brampton, and North York (Downsview Park is a big fav of ours), where builders include private roads and shared driveways. They offer the best of both worlds — independent living without the full burden of maintenance.

Pros:

You own both the home and land
Shared maintenance of common areas like roads and landscaping
Typically lower fees than a full condo townhouse

Cons:

Still subject to condo-style rules for shared spaces
Legal structure can be complex — always review the status certificate

To better understand this hybrid form of ownership, read Merovitz Potechin LLP’s explanation of POTL and Common Elements Condos.

Want to hear us talk through these townhouse types in real time?

Tune into our latest Toronto Livings Podcast episode, where Mark and Joey break down the differences between freehold, condo, and POTL townhouses — with real examples from Toronto neighbourhoods.

🎙️ Listen to the episode here or find it on Spotify and Apple Podcasts.

Which Type Is Right for You?

When it comes to townhouses in Toronto, the right choice depends on how you want to live — and what you’re willing to manage.

Type	Ownership	Fees	Control	Maintenance
Freehold	Home + Land	None	Full	100% Yours
Condo	Interior + Shared Land	Monthly	Limited	Shared
POTL	Home + Land + Shared Elements	Small Monthly Fee	Moderate	Shared

Before you buy, ask your agent (hi 👋) to check the property’s title and status certificate — it’s the best way to confirm what you’re actually buying. Whether you want full control, minimal upkeep, or a balanced middle ground, there’s a townhouse type that fits your lifestyle.

Ready to explore what’s on the market? Start with our Buy Better guide or contact us below for personalized advice!

Jul 04

Love0

Living Near Yorkdale: 5 Perks You Didn’t Know About

By Mark Savel Advice For Buyers, Purpose Built Rentals, Toronto

Ask most Torontonians what Yorkdale conjures up and they’ll picture a gleaming cathedral of luxury retail—Gucci bags, Apple launches, the whole nine yards. Fair! But plant yourself just outside those revolving doors and you’ll discover a neighbourhood that quietly levels‑up your daily routine. From dirt‑cheap car‑wash memberships to secret lattés away from the food‑court frenzy, living near Yorkdale is basically a life hack in postal‑code form.

Below, five perks even seasoned shoppers might have missed (plus a quick‑fire spec sheet if you’re sizing up a move).

1. Retail & Outlet Double‑Dip

Yes, you’re footsteps from the world‑class Yorkdale Shopping Centre—handy when you shatter your phone screen and need Genius Bar triage stat. But the real wallet saver is a seven‑minute stroll west to Orfus Road’s factory‑outlet row. Roots hoodies at half price, Nike kicks on permanent clearance, boxed kitchen gadgets you didn’t know you needed—errand day suddenly feels like a covert sample sale.

Pro tip: Tack on a weekday morning run to dodge weekend bus‑tour crowds. Your future self (and closet) will thank you.

2. Transit & Travel Hacks in Your Pocket

Living beside a subway station is nice. Living beside Yorkdale Station and a full GO Bus terminal is downright smug. Swipe onto the TTC for a 20‑minute ride downtown, or board GO Bus Route 94 straight to Pearson when a last‑minute seat‑sale pings your inbox. No Uber surge, no long‑term parking tab.

Driving? Theres ample free parking on site — and cyclists get a secure Bike Room complete with lockers so you’re not playing street‑lock roulette.

3. Unlimited Car Wash

Salt, slush, and construction grime can make your car look like it’s auditioning for a Mad Max sequel. Enter Crosstown Car Wash Yorkdale. For roughly the cost of a monthly streaming bundle ($24.99), their unlimited‑wash club keeps your ride shiny year‑round—plus free vacuums for a quick interior detox.

4. Off‑Mall Food & Coffee Gems

Skip the food‑court lineup and wander a block or two for flavours you won’t find under the mall’s skylights:

Cocoon Coffee, 855 Wilson Ave – tiny, plant‑filled, laptop‑friendly; their honey‑lavender latte has a cult following.
COPS Doughnuts – hot, made-to-order mini donuts best devoured while they’re still warm.
Amico Bakery on Dufferin – cannoli so crisp they crack audibly. Arrive early; nonna’s already in line.
Lady York on Dufferin – Italian grocery stalwart with a legendary deli counter and fresh weekly specials.

Your taste buds (and Instagram feed) just got a promotion.

5. Greenspace & Purpose‑Built Perks

A luxury mall address might not scream “outdoor oasis,” yet Downsview Park is a single subway stop north—290 acres of running trails, summer concerts, and an urban farm market that sells out of sourdough by 10 a.m.

Looking to rent before you buy? Sloane by Fitztrovia sits right beside the park. Think boutique‑hotel lobby vibes plus resident‑only bowling alley, PS5 gaming lounge, kids’ jungle‑gym zone, and co‑work suites outfitted with a few extra private booths. Purpose-built living also comes with a few extra perks you won’t find when you rent an ordinary condo unit.

Sloane West and East Tower Terrace and Pool

Quick Specs

Walk Score	72 – “Very walkable” (errands ≈ 10 min on foot)
Transit Score	87 – Subway, GO Bus, and express shuttles
Bike Score	64 – Growing network of protected lanes
Suite Mix	Studios → 3‑bed condos & rentals
Lease Terms	12‑month standard
Demographic Vibe	Mix of young professionals, airport‑commuters & long‑time locals

*Scores via Walk Score and TTC trip planner.

Is Yorkdale Your Next Neighbourhood Move?

If you crave designer shopping at 9 a.m., freshly baked donuts at noon, and need to catch a flight at Pearson by 7 p.m.—all while paying less than downtown rent—Yorkdale might be your Goldilocks zone. And should you prefer turnkey renter perks over negotiating with an investor landlord, Sloane by Fitztrovia has a bowling lane with your name on it.

Ready to chat strategy or book a tour? shoot us a message below —we’ll walk (or bus) you through next steps.

Jun 24

Love0

Toronto’s Best Rooftop Pools for Condo Buyers and Renters

By Mark Savel Advice For Buyers, Toronto

Why Rooftop Pools Are the Ultimate Condo Amenity

Toronto’s summer scene hits different when you’ve got a pool with a skyline view. As vertical living becomes the norm in downtown life, rooftop pools have become more than just a luxury—they’re a lifestyle statement. Whether it’s morning laps above the city or sunset cocktails by the water, these elevated oases offer a resort vibe without ever leaving home.

And in a city where outdoor space is always at a premium, rooftop pools are a clever way to blend function, relaxation, and a serious wow-factor. Check out the top 10 condos on the market, with outdoor pools, below!

Top Toronto Condos with Rooftop Pools

1 Hotel Residences (550 Wellington)

Rooftop Pool at the 1 Hotel and Residences

Once known as the Thompson Residences, this King West icon has been reimagined as the eco-luxurious 1 Hotel Toronto. The rooftop pool here is as stylish as it gets—lush greenery, wood tones, and panoramic views give it a summer-in-Tulum feel (without the flight). It’s a hotspot for locals and visitors alike, offering residents a rare mix of tranquility and social buzz.

Why we love it: A hotel-calibre rooftop with a green ethos and that signature King West energy.

300 Front Street

This Tridel-built tower delivers serious resort vibes in the heart of the Entertainment District. Its rooftop deck includes a stunning pool surrounded by cabanas, loungers, and a hot tub—all framed by the city skyline. It’s private, resident-only, and perfect for entertaining guests without ever leaving home.

Why we love it: A true rooftop sanctuary that feels more like a five-star resort than a condo.

Bisha Hotel & Residences

If boutique luxury is your thing, Bisha nails it. The rooftop infinity pool here faces west—ideal for soaking in a Toronto sunset. Shared with hotel guests but known for its calm, curated atmosphere, this pool feels exclusive without being inaccessible.

Why we love it: Private and polished, with a side of golden-hour perfection.

Pier 27

Located right on the waterfront, Pier 27 offers one of the most unique rooftop experiences in the city. Its elevated infinity pool overlooks Lake Ontario, creating a blend of urban and natural views you won’t find elsewhere. It’s a full-on escape without ever leaving Queens Quay.

Why we love it: A true “pool with a view” that feels like you’re floating above the lake.

Fashion House (560 King West)

Minimalist and modern, Fashion House has a rooftop infinity pool that’s pure eye candy. It faces east, which means your morning swims come with a sunrise over the skyline. The sleek design, limited crowds, and King West location make it a favourite among design-forward residents.

Why we love it: It’s the rooftop for architecture lovers and pool purists.

Trilogy on King (1100 King Street West)

A hidden gem in Liberty Village, Trilogy on King is a rental community that punches well above its weight. Its rooftop terrace features an infinity pool, stylish lounge seating, and unobstructed city views. Add in coworking spaces, fitness centres, and an arcade, and you’ve got a lifestyle hub wrapped in one.

Why we love it: Condo-level amenities in a rental package—perfect for flexible urban living.

View Trilogy on King Rentals

Lavelle (Above King)

Not a condo, but worth a mention. Lavelle is a rooftop restaurant and lounge perched 16 storeys above King Street. With three pools, private cabanas, and a buzzing scene day or night, it’s the go-to spot for a social swim with city views.

Why we love it: You don’t need to live there to dive in—just bring your vibe (and maybe a reservation).

Rooftop Pool Roundup: Which Condo Is Right for You?

Looking for a rooftop pool that matches your lifestyle? Here’s the quick hit:

For nightlife and social energy: 1 Hotel, Lavelle
For tranquility and privacy: Bisha, Fashion House
For epic views: Pier 27, Trilogy on King
For a resort-like escape: 300 Front Street

Whether you’re buying, renting, or just daydreaming, there’s a rooftop oasis with your name on it.

Ready to Find Your Dream Condo with a Rooftop Pool?

From first showings to final walkthroughs, we know these buildings inside and out. If a rooftop pool is high on your wish list, we’ll help you find a home that’s just as cool as its amenities.

Leave us a message below and let’s take this search to the top (literally).

Jun 19

Love0

Tridel Takes Over The One – What’s Next for Toronto’s Tallest Condo?

By Mark Savel Advice For Buyers, Toronto

The Saga of The One: A Quick Recap

Once envisioned as a skyline-defining supertower, The One at 1 Bloor West has had anything but a smooth journey. First launched by Mizrahi Developments, the 85-storey skyscraper was pitched as Canada’s tallest residential building—a bold blend of engineering ambition and luxury living. But behind the glass and steel façade was a tangle of delays, financial missteps, and court filings.

As of early 2025, the project had stalled under the weight of creditor protection and management uncertainty. Buyers were left waiting, investors wary, and the site—though towering—was unfinished.

Enter Tridel – A Trusted Name in Toronto Real Estate

Now, the tide is turning. As of May 1, 2025, Tridel has officially taken the reins. The court-appointed monitor, Alvarez & Marsal, selected Tridel to act as development manager, construction lead, and sales partner for The One, replacing Mizrahi and its contractors.

For many, this news came as a relief. Tridel isn’t just another builder—they’re a Toronto institution. With 90,000 homes delivered over 90 years, their track record brings a much-needed sense of stability to a project that desperately needed it.

Through its affiliated firms (Deltera and Del Realty), Tridel is now steering the ship toward completion—with eyes set on restoring trust and momentum.

Construction, Sales, and the Road Ahead

So where do things stand now?

Construction-wise, The One has made significant progress. The concrete structure has reached the 81st floor, and the iconic curtain wall has climbed to level 58. The building will top out at 85 storeys (approximately 308.6 metres), making it the tallest residential tower in Canada.

Tridel is aiming for substantial completion by late 2026, with occupancy projected for early 2028.

Notably, the suite count has been revised once again. From an initial 415 to 503 under the receiver—and now to 476 units—Tridel is reworking layouts to reflect modern buyer expectations without compromising luxury.

And what about the luxury Andaz hotel that was supposed to anchor the lower floors? That deal is off. Tridel and its leasing partner JLL are actively courting new hotel and retail operators to fill the space, ensuring the tower lives up to its mixed-use promise.

What Tridel’s Takeover Means for Buyers

One of the biggest hurdles with The One was buyer confidence. With Mizrahi’s insolvency came fears around delivery, quality, and warranty coverage. Tridel’s takeover changes that.

Because Tridel is now managing the sales program under its Del Realty arm, suites at The One are once again eligible for Tarion warranty protection—a critical factor for cautious buyers.

For those watching from the sidelines, this move signals a return to credibility. The drama may have hurt the brand, but with Tridel at the helm, interest is already picking up.

Buyers who once walked away are circling back. Agents are talking. And if construction continues on schedule, 1 Bloor West might still become the landmark it was meant to be.

Buy Better with Our Team if you’re considering a unit in this revitalized tower—we’re tracking every twist and turn so our clients don’t have to.

Will The One Finally Live Up to the Hype?

While the story isn’t over, the narrative has definitely shifted. The excitement around Tridel’s takeover is more than just relief—it’s renewed hope.

Of course, big questions remain. Who will fill the retail and hotel space? Will ultra-luxury buyers return in force amid market softness? Can Tridel balance visionary architecture with practical delivery?

Time will tell. But for now, optimism is back on the menu—and The One is no longer a question mark, but a comeback story in progress.

Thinking about purchasing a unit at The One? Contact us or send us a message below to learn more about current availability and how we can help you navigate this exciting opportunity.

Nov 08

Love1

Toronto Housing Market Surges 44% After Bank of Canada Rate Cuts

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

The Toronto Housing Market is Heating Up: Here’s What You Need to Know About Rate Cuts

If you’ve been following the real estate scene in the Greater Toronto Area, you’ve probably noticed something interesting happening. Remember all that doom and gloom from last year? Well, things are starting to look pretty different, and it’s largely thanks to the Bank of Canada’s recent moves.

The Game-Changer: Rate Cuts

Let’s talk about what’s really stirring the pot. The Bank of Canada has been on quite a roll lately, slashing rates four times in a row since last June. The latest cut was a big one – dropping the key rate from 5% to 3.75%. And guess what? The market is definitely taking notice.

The Numbers Don’t Lie

Here’s where it gets exciting. October 2024 saw some pretty impressive numbers:

Home sales jumped by a whopping 44.4% compared to last year
We’re talking about 6,658 properties changing hands
Even month-over-month, we saw a solid 14% increase

What’s Hot and What’s Not

Want to know what’s really flying off the market? Townhouses are the surprise winner here, with sales skyrocketing by 56.8%. But honestly, everything’s moving:

Detached homes? Up 46.6%
Semi-detached? Up 44%
Even condos are getting in on the action with a 33.4% increase

The Price Tag Story

Now, here’s the interesting part – despite all this activity, prices haven’t gone completely bonkers. The average home will set you back about $1.1 million, which is only up about 1.1% from last year. Not too shabby, considering all the action we’re seeing… that being said, in October – the average price for a detached home was over $1.7 million sooooo context is important!

What This Means for You

If you’re thinking about jumping into the market, here’s the scoop: There’s still plenty of inventory out there, which means you’ve got options. But (isn’t there always a but?), experts are saying this sweet spot might not last forever. As more buyers jump back in and inventory gets snapped up, we might see prices start to climb, especially by spring 2025.

The Bottom Line

Here’s my take: The market is definitely warming up, but we’re not seeing the crazy bidding wars of years past – at least not yet. The rate cuts have brought buyers back to the table, but they’re being smart about it. If you’ve been sitting on the fence, now might be the time to start looking seriously.Just remember, real estate is always local, and what’s happening in one neighborhood might be completely different from another.

My advice? Keep an eye on those interest rates, do your homework, and maybe start booking some viewings.

P.S. Don’t forget to subscribe to our newsletter for more real estate insights and market updates!