Welcome to the 77th episode of the Toronto Livings Real Estate Podcast! In this ‘Ketchup’ episode, Mark Savel and Joey Virgilio catch up on their holiday break, share some laughs, and delve into the latest in Toronto’s real estate scene.

They discuss the December numbers, holiday highlights, and even take a ginger shot (or two). The duo dives into rental market trends, average prices, transactions, and predictions for the year ahead, while also giving a special mention to hotspots like Jumbo Lobster and Tzatziki Midtown.

Plus, hear some interesting insights on mortgage changes, immigration impacts, and rental market corrections. Don’t miss the happy vibe and tons of valuable information packed in this episode!

Chapters

(00:00) Welcome to Season 3
(00:19) Catching Up After the Holidays
(04:19) Juicing Adventures
(08:33) Toronto’s Top Real Estate Podcast
(10:17) Food Obsessions and Recommendations
(18:53) News and Predictions
(26:23) Psychedelic Shops and Personal Hesitations
(26:49) Episode 100 Teaser
(26:59) Market Update: December Numbers
(27:21) Featured Listings and Real Estate Opportunities
(29:11) Church Project Success and Market Reflections
(30:26) December Market Trends and Predictions
(33:07) Real Estate Predictions and Mortgage Insights
(54:20) Rental Market Overview
(57:16) Closing Remarks and Shoutouts

Where We Ate

Restaurant name: Tzatziki
Website: https://tzatziki.ca/about.php
Location: 785 Mt Pleasant Rd.

Restaurant name: Jumbo Lobster
Website: https://jumbolobster.ca/
Location: 9019 Leslie St, Richmond Hill, ON L4B 4A3

Where You Can Find Us

🏡 For all your Toronto Real Estate Needs: TorontoLivings.com/

🖥️ Instagram
Mark Savel: https://www.instagram.com/torontolivings/
Joey Virgilio: https://www.instagram.com/joey_torontolivings/

🎙 Weekly Podcast
https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/toronto-real-estate

In this festive episode of the Toronto Living Podcast, hosts Mark Savel and Joey Virgilio dive into the holiday spirit wearing Christmas hats and share their 2025 Christmas wishlist.

They discuss what they’d love to see from Santa, including improvements in the Toronto real estate market, government changes, and a wish for the Toronto Maple Leafs to make it to the third round of the playoffs.

The duo also reviews their latest food adventures, including a visit to Descendants Pizza and Union on Ossington. Finally, they touch on pressing issues like the landlord-tenant board and recent mortgage rule changes. Tune in for a mix of serious discussions and light-hearted holiday cheer!

Chapters

(00:00) Festive Introduction and Christmas Spirit
(00:32) Toronto Livings Podcast Overview
(01:22) Christmas Episode and Party City Panic
(02:56) Pizza Adventures and Food Reviews
(08:38) Union on Ossington: A Dining Experience
(12:58) Real Estate News and Market Predictions
(16:29) Mortgage Changes and Financial Insights
(26:38) Holiday Wishlist and Fun
(27:51) Starting Strong with Uber Eats
(28:09) Traffic Woes and Uber Caps
(29:41) Debating CaféTO
(31:59) Santa Claus Wishlist: Sandwichito and the Leafs
(33:44) Landlord Tenant Board Reforms
(41:21) Christmas Gifts and Memories
(44:58) Wrapping Up: Wishes for 2025
(55:03) Final Thoughts and Farewells

Show Notes

Restaurant name: Union
Website: http://union72.ca/
Location: 72 Ossington Ave, Toronto, ON M6J 2Y7

Restaurant name: Descendant Detroit Style Pizza
Website:Descendant Detroit Style Pizza
Location: 1168 Queen E

Where You Can Find Us

🏡 For all your Toronto Real Estate Needs: TorontoLivings.com/

🖥️ Instagram
Mark Savel: https://www.instagram.com/torontolivings/
Joey Virgilio: https://www.instagram.com/joey_torontolivings/

🎙 Weekly Podcast
https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/toronto-real-estate

In this episode of the Toronto Livings Podcast, Mark and Joey dive into a detailed analysis of the November real estate market update for Toronto, debunking headlines and offering valuable context.

They discuss why sales were reportedly up 40 percent, explore the intricacies of different market segments, and highlight the importance of understanding the numbers behind the headlines.

Beyond the market talk, they share personal stories, including Mark’s experience with virtual ER, Joey’s homemade remedies, and their fun outing to a Korean BBQ restaurant.

They also highlight the vibrant city culture, focusing on a memorable holiday party and the legacy of the El Macombo. If you’re interested in Toronto’s real estate scene and enjoy a blend of insightful data and engaging anecdotes, this episode is for you.

Chapters

(00:00) Introduction and Episode Overview
(00:04) Debunking the November Market Update
(02:11) Virtual ER Experience
(04:01) Candlelight Performance and Coldplay
(05:27) Korean Barbecue Adventure
(11:41) Sage Christmas Party at El Macombo
(20:01) Viewer Comments and Feedback
(24:10) Vacant Home Tax Announcement
(25:08) Filling Out Property Tax Forms
(26:06) Toronto Tempo: New WNBA Team
(26:54) November Market Update
(28:27) Debunking Market Headlines
(36:48) Analyzing Market Transactions
(41:32) Condos: The Market Anomaly
(48:22) Economic Indicators and Predictions
(51:57) AI and Market Predictions
(53:44) Shoutouts and Wrap-Up

Show Notes

Restaurant name: TAKJA BBQ House
Website: https://www.takja.ca/
Location: 962 College St, Toronto, ON M6H 1A5

Restaurant name: The Elmocambo
Website: https://elmocambo.com/
Location: 464 Spadina Ave. Toronto, ON M5T 2G8

Vacant Home Tax Declaration: https://www.toronto.ca/services-payments/property-taxes-utilities/vacant-home-tax/vacant-home-tax-declaration-of-occupancy-status/

Navigating Toronto’s 2025 Vacant Home Tax

In Episode 74 of the Toronto Living’s podcast, Mark Savel and Joey Virgilio discuss the latest updates to the Toronto Vacant Home Tax, including the critical 2024 declaration requirements and significant changes to the tax rate.

They highlight the importance of declaring your property’s status, the impact of the tax increase from 1% to 3%, the exemptions available, and the necessity for all property owners in Toronto to comply.

The episode also features their recent food adventures, including a visit to Burger Drops and a recap of Marks trip to Buffalo, NY. Additionally, they touch on their latest real estate listings and transactions, providing valuable tips for both buyers and sellers.
Tune in for all the essential details every Toronto property owner needs to know about the Vacant Home Tax for 2024.

Podcast Episode Breakdown
(00:00) Introduction and Episode Overview
(00:13) Vacant Home Tax Announcement
(00:47) Podcast Introduction and Hosts
(01:15) Casual Catch-Up and Personal Updates
(03:03) Food Adventures and Reviews
(06:12) Buffalo Trip Highlights
(13:39) Current Real Estate Listings
(17:27) Vacant Home Tax Deep Dive
(24:53) Speculations and Initial Reactions
(25:08) Understanding Property Tax Assessments
(25:37) Calculating Your Vacant Home Tax
(26:33) Exemptions and Special Cases
(27:30) Declaration Process and Deadlines
(30:17) Principal Residence and Vacant Home Tax
(32:58) Exemptions Explained
(38:57) Change of Ownership and Responsibilities
(42:32) Final Thoughts and Summary
(44:10) Shoutouts and Closing Remarks

Show Notes

Vacant Home Tax Toronto Portal:
https://www.toronto.ca/services-payments/property-taxes-utilities/vacant-home-tax/

Toronto Vacant Home Tax 2024-2025: Complete Guide & Important Changes: https://www.torontolivings.com/toronto-vacant-home-tax-2024-2025-complete-guide-important-changes

For the Best Pizza in Buffalo:
La Nova

Home

5151 Main St. Williamsville, NY 14222
Phone: (716) 634-5151

Bar-Bill North
Address: 8326 Main St, Williamsville, NY 14221, United States
Phone: +1 716-710-9464
Menu: barbill.com

Burger Drops
Address: 116 Atlantic Ave, Toronto, ON M6K 1X9
https://www.burgerdrops.com/

Where You Can Find Us

🏡 For all your Toronto Real Estate Needs: TorontoLivings.com/

🖥️ Instagram
Mark Savel: https://www.instagram.com/torontolivings/
Joey Virgilio: https://www.instagram.com/joey_torontolivings/

🎙 Weekly Podcast
https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/toronto-real-estate

Join Mark Savel and Joey Virgilio in Episode 73 of the Toronto Livings Podcast for a comprehensive market update, focusing on the exciting stats and trends from October.

They discuss a surprising jump in home transactions and prices, share insights on the city’s real estate landscape, and celebrate Joey’s birthday with a rundown of all the food spots visited, including experiences from Mars Diner and Sugo.

Get ready for some laughs, references to popular social media trends, and a deep dive into the local housing market. Don’t miss the important reminders about the vacant home tax declaration and a special shoutout to various places and events!

Chapters

(00:00) Market Update: October’s Numbers
(00:14) Joey’s Birthday Bash: Food Adventures
(00:49) Toronto Living Podcast: Hosts Introduction
(01:28) Market Stats: October Insights
(02:37) Call to Action: Engage with Us!
(04:20) Birthday Week Recap: Joey’s Food Journey
(07:04) Comedy Night: Improv Fun
(08:49) Food Extravaganza: Mars Diner and Sugo
(11:54) Costco Adventures: Double Chocolate Chunk Cookie
(17:25) Vacant Home Tax Reminder
(22:45) Superb Acting and Character Building
(23:22) Filming Locations in Toronto and Hamilton
(23:43) Donald Trump’s Origin Story
(24:45) Market Overview: Toronto Showing Signs of Life
(25:17) Spring Market Revival
(25:31) Sales and Inventory Analysis
(27:01) October Transactions and Price Trends
(39:21) Impact of New Mortgage Rules
(42:09) Months of Inventory Breakdown
(46:39) Shoutouts and Closing Remarks

Shoutouts

Restaurant name: Mars Diner
Website: https://www.facebook.com/marsuptown/
Location: 2363 Yonge St, Toronto, ON M4P 2C8

Restaurant name: Casa Portuguesa
Location: 180 Bentworth Ave, York, ON M6A 1P7

Restaurant name: Sugo
Website: http://www.sugotoronto.com/
Location: 1281 Bloor St W, Toronto, ON M6H 1N7

Where You Can Find Us

🏡 For all your Toronto Real Estate Needs: TorontoLivings.com/

🖥️ Instagram
Mark Savel: https://www.instagram.com/torontolivings/
Joey Virgilio: https://www.instagram.com/joey_torontolivings/

🎙 Weekly Podcast
https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/toronto-real-estate

In this episode of the Toronto Living’s podcast, Mark Savel and Joey Virgilio, realtors with Sage Real Estate, dive deep into the intricacies of condo status certificates.

They break down the critical components, including checking the legal numbers, parking, maintenance fees, reserve funds, legal proceedings, and insurance. The hosts also discuss the importance of using experienced real estate lawyers for thorough reviews.

Additionally, Mark and Joey share personal stories, recommended eateries like Paris Bakery, and celebrate Joey’s 33rd birthday with a surprise treat.
Don’t miss out on the valuable insights for condo buyers and fun moments from Episode 72!

Chapters

(00:00) Imaginary Cap and Dream Condo
(00:32) Introduction to Status Certificates
(00:59) Podcast Introduction and Hosts
(01:44) Bruce Springsteen and Listener-Inspired Episode
(03:28) Food Adventures and Shoutouts
(06:16) Sound Bath Experience
(08:18) News You Can Use: Renoviction Bylaw
(11:30) Joey’s Birthday Surprise
(13:54) Deep Dive into Status Certificates
(21:05) Understanding the Seller’s Financial Status
(22:19) Importance of the Reserve Fund
(23:31) Special Assessments and Their Impact
(29:36) Legal Proceedings and Claims
(34:01) Agreements with Other Buildings
(34:59) Leasing of Units and Insurance
(37:33) Reviewing the Status Certificate
(41:35) The Role of a Real Estate Lawyer
(45:37) Conclusion and Final Thoughts

Where You Can Find Us

🏡 For all your Toronto Real Estate Needs: TorontoLivings.com/

🖥️ Instagram
Mark Savel: https://www.instagram.com/torontolivings/
Joey Virgilio: https://www.instagram.com/joey_torontolivings/

🎙 Weekly Podcast
https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/toronto-real-estate

Join hosts Mark Savel and Joey Virgilio, dressed as Paulie Gaultieri and Mankind, for a spooky Halloween episode of the Toronto Livings Podcast! 🎃👻

In this special episode, they explore Toronto’s most haunted spots, including Gibraltar Point Lighthouse, Keg Mansion, Old City Hall, Casa Loma, Mackenzie House, and the eerie Don Jail. Get ready for spine-chilling stories, lighthearted banter, and local shout-outs to Toronto eateries and realtors. Don’t miss this haunted Toronto tour, perfect for Halloween enthusiasts and ghost hunters alike!

(00:00) Introduction to the Spooky Episode
(00:03) Meet the Hosts: Paulie Gaultieri and Mankind
(01:47) Halloween Costumes and Preparations
(06:09) Zombie Wrestling and Food Adventures
(10:44) Iron Maiden Concert Experience
(14:40) Bank of Canada Rate Cut Announcement
(20:09) Paranormal Experiences and Haunted Locations
(22:38) Toronto Ghost Resources
(23:24) Gibraltar Point Lighthouse Haunting
(25:55) The Haunted Keg Mansion
(28:51) Massey Hall and Theaters
(29:56) Old City Hall’s Ghostly Past
(32:25) Casa Loma Mysteries
(36:43) Mackenzie House Hauntings
(39:28) The Don Jail’s Dark History
(40:42) Bonus: The ‘It’ House in Toronto
(43:43) Shoutouts and Closing Remarks

Shoutouts

Restaurant name: Mikaku Udon Bar
Website: Instagram @mikaku_udon_bar_carlton No website, but they did have an order page.
Location: 229 Carlton St

Restaurant name: Latin World (5 locations) -Also a store to buy various ingredients and paraphernalia
Website: https://www.instagram.com/latinworld.toronto/?hl=en (no website)
Location: 1262 Bloor St W

Restaurant name: The John: On Bloor – Craft Beer and Bistro
Website: https://thejohnbar.ca/
Location: 1174 Bloor St W, Toronto, ON M6H 1N1

SuperKickd Wrestling
https://www.superkickd.ca/
66 Fraser Ave, Toronto, ON M6K 1Y6

Where You Can Find Us

🏡 For all your Toronto Real Estate Needs: TorontoLivings.com/

🖥️ Instagram
Mark Savel: https://www.instagram.com/torontolivings/
Joey Virgilio: https://www.instagram.com/joey_torontolivings/

🎙 Weekly Podcast
https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/toronto-real-estate

In episode 70 we cover the pitfalls and perks of buying a tenanted propery in Toronto!

We tackle the complexities of purchasing tenanted properties, offering vital advice on handling tenant-related risks, the importance of lease agreements, and strategies for smooth transactions.

The episode also delves into economic changes, predicting Bank of Canada interest rate cuts, and how these changes impact landlords and tenants.

Beyond real estate, Mark and Joey share their latest culinary discoveries in Toronto, from fiery Diavola pizza at Speducci to the pan-fried beef at Momo House. Listen in for a mix of invaluable real estate insights and mouth-watering foodie escapades!

(00:00) Introduction and Episode Milestone
(00:26) Food Adventures: Momo House and More
(02:01) Molly’s Scottish Trip
(04:59) More Food Experiences
(11:49) Justin Timberlake Concert
(13:19) Sexy Rabbi and Relationship Tips
(17:07) Upcoming Rate Cut
(17:37) Inflation and Bank of Canada Predictions
(18:59) Landlord and Tenant Board Revamp
(22:21) Tenant Rights and Lease Types
(26:17) Navigating Tenanted Property Purchases
(40:45) Challenges and Solutions for Sellers
(44:34) Conclusion and Upcoming Episodes

Show notes and Shoutouts

Tolbooth Tavern
https://www.tolboothtavern.co.uk/

Himalayan Momo House
2655 Yonge St Second Floor, Toronto, ON M4P 2J6

Speducci Mercatto
46 Milford Ave, North York, ON M6M 2V8
https://speducci.com/

Where You Can Find Us

🏡 For all your Toronto Real Estate Needs: TorontoLivings.com/

🖥️ Instagram
Mark Savel: https://www.instagram.com/torontolivings/
Joey Virgilio: https://www.instagram.com/joey_torontolivings/

🎙 Weekly Podcast
https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/toronto-real-estate

In Episode 69 of the Toronto Livings Podcast, hosts Mark Savel and Joey Virgilio delve into the issues surrounding Kitec plumbing, a common but problematic system found in many condos. The episode covers the basics of Kitec, including its history, signs of failure, and what condo owners can do to mitigate risks.

Listeners will also enjoy lively discussions on Toronto food hotspots, recent city news, and the hosts’ varied interests from Coldplay concerts to hockey team sponsorship. Whether you’re a prospective condo buyer or a homeowner dealing with Kitec, this episode offers valuable insights and practical advice.

(00:00) Introduction and Episode Overview
(00:27) Meet the Hosts
(01:09) The Kitec Plumbing Issue
(02:54) Weekly Food Adventures
(09:15) Thermo Spa Controversy
(11:43) Dave Ramsey’s Wisdom
(14:26) Coldplay Concert Announcement
(17:09) Hockey Season and Sponsorship
(18:56) Getting into Kitec
(19:06) Introduction to Kitec Plumbing Issues
(19:46) History and Failure of Kitec Plumbing
(24:08) Identifying Kitec Plumbing in Your Condo
(28:19) Steps to Take if You Have Kitec Plumbing
(29:16) Remediation and Replacement Options
(31:40) Impact on Insurance and Resale Value
(35:10) Final Thoughts and Recommendations
(40:08) Shoutouts and Closing Remarks

Shoutouts and Links

Everything you EVER wanted to know about Kitec Plumbing

Kitec Plumbing

Zesty Burger
1051 Bloor St. West
http://zestyburgers.ca/

Himalayan Momo House
2655 Yonge St Second Floor
https://www.instagram.com/himalayanmomohouse/

Revolver Pizza
968 St. Clair Avenue West
http://www.revolverpizzaco.com/
Where You Can Find Us

🏡 For all your Toronto Real Estate Needs: TorontoLivings.com/

🖥️ Instagram
Mark Savel: https://www.instagram.com/torontolivings/
Joey Virgilio: https://www.instagram.com/joey_torontolivings/

🎙 Weekly Podcast
https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/toronto-real-estate

In this lively episode, hosts Mark Savel and Joey Virgilio delve into Toronto’s real estate scene, focusing on September’s market stats and providing insights into the city’s culinary gems. They explore varying market dynamics between condos and houses, touching on inventory levels, average prices, and transaction trends.

The episode also features delightful discussions around favorite eateries like the Himalayan Coffee House and Belly Busters, while also touching on personal anecdotes, recent concerts, and upcoming events. Join Mark and Joey as they provide a blend of real estate insights and entertaining stories in this engaging Toronto Living podcast episode.

(00:00) Introduction and Episode Overview
(00:05) Musical References and Market Stats
(00:43) Food Recommendations and Personal Stories
(00:57) Toronto Livings Podcast Introduction
(01:29) Market Update and September Insights
(02:00) Restaurant Reviews and Personal Anecdotes
(08:41) News and Budget Discussion
(11:42) Water Bills Rant and Market Trends
(26:14) Predicting December Rate Changes
(26:51) September Market Overview
(27:04) Condos vs. Houses: Market Dynamics
(29:26) Price Trends and Consumer Concerns
(32:10) Inventory Levels and Market Balance
(34:30) Opportunities in the Condo Market
(37:02) Shoutouts and Personal Stories
(40:13) Upcoming Events and Plans
(47:01) Music and Concert Experiences
(48:03) Conclusion and Podcast Information

Shout Outs

Himalayan Coffee House
2552 Yonge St, Toronto, ON M4P 2J2
https://www.instagram.com/himalayancoffeehouse

The Rushton (740 St. Clair West)

Home

Bar Ape (283 Rushton Rd)
http://www.bar-ape.com/

Where You Can Find Us

🏡 For all your Toronto Real Estate Needs: TorontoLivings.com/

🖥️ Instagram
Mark Savel: https://www.instagram.com/torontolivings/
Joey Virgilio: https://www.instagram.com/joey_torontolivings/

🎙 Weekly Podcast
https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/toronto-real-estate