In Episode 59 of the Toronto Livings Podcast, hosts Mark Savel and Joey Virgilio discuss the top six ways realtors can unintentionally kill a deal, including a lack of professionalism, slow responses, and overly aggressive negotiations.

Additionally, they delve into fun topics like popular Toronto dessert spots, fishing adventures, and some of their favorite food experiences. The episode also includes a discussion about the abrupt closing of the Ontario Science Centre and Joey shares his upcoming travel plans. Tune in for real estate insights mixed with lighthearted banter about Toronto culture and food.

(00:00) Introduction and Episode Overview
(00:32) Food Adventures and Nostalgia
(08:34) Fishing Tales and Captain Tal
(15:03) News You Can Use: Ontario Science Centre Closure
(18:07) Vacation Plans and Cheese Talk
(22:46) Discovering the Magic of Cooking with Broth
(23:17) New Real Estate Listings: Riverdale and Gerrard Square
(24:41) Architectural Marvel: River City Phase Three
(27:07) Realtor Tips: Avoiding Deal Killers
(38:57) The Importance of Professionalism in Real Estate
(43:55) Setting Realistic Expectations in Real Estate
(48:50) Final Thoughts and Farewell

Reel Rush Fishing Charters https://www.instagram.com/reel_rush_fishing_charters/

Mizzica Gelateria & Cafe
https://www.instagram.com/mizzicagelato/

Lardo
http://lardo.ca/

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/

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Mark Savel and Joey Virgilio dive into episode 58 of the Toronto Livings podcast, focusing on capital gains, how they work, and upcoming changes.

They discuss the new inclusion rates for capital gains coming into effect on June 25th and provide examples to illustrate the potential tax impacts. The episode also covers recent events, including the Sage event, and features a historical time machine segment. They emphasize the importance of consulting accountants for personalized advice and highlight strategies to minimize capital gains.

The episode wraps up with updates on local Toronto real estate listings and fun banter about recent culinary experiences.

(00:00) Introduction and Episode Overview
(02:10) F1 Race and Swag Story
(03:06) Taste of Little Italy
(03:41) Sage Spring Fling Recap
(09:21) Vegetarian Dining Experience
(11:54) Real Estate Market Insights
(15:27) Historical Events on June 15th
(17:40) Nostalgic Beginnings: 1986 Concert Memories
(18:38) 1987 Milestones: Pay Equity Law in Ontario
(19:04) 2012 Highlights: Nick Willonda’s Tightrope Walk
(20:22) Capital Gains Controversy: Liberal Policies
(28:18) Understanding Capital Gains: A Deep Dive
(38:33) Capital Losses and Tax Strategies
(41:35) Conclusion and Weekend Plans

Show Notes

Fresh Kitchen + Juice Bar:
https://www.freshkitchens.ca/en/locations/on/toronto/894-queen-street-west

Writers Room Bar: https://www.hyatt.com/en-US/hotel/canada/park-hyatt-toronto/torph/dining

Capital Gains Explained: https://www.socciomarandola.com/the-real-impact-of-the-new-capital-gains-tax/

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/

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Toronto Real Estate: May 2023 Market Updates and More| Episode 57

In episode 57 of the Toronto Livings podcast, Mark Savel and Joey Virgilio dive into last month’s market updates, discuss sizzling food spots in Toronto, and even take a trip back in time to May 2023.

From the Toronto real estate market trends and interest rates to the newest sandwich shop at Yonge and Eglinton, this episode covers various topics including the arts with a visit to the ballet. Plus, stay tuned for some interesting discussions on pre-construction home updates and some shocking security breaches.

(00:00) Introduction and Episode Overview
(01:35) Food Adventures and New Eateries
(04:42) Ballet Experience and Cultural Insights
(13:50) Interest Rate Cut and Market Impact
(24:23) Market Comparison: Last Year vs. This Year
(24:38) Bank of Canada’s Impact on Buyer Psychology
(25:00) Rate Cuts and Market Predictions
(26:35) Ipsos Poll Insights: Homebuyer Intentions
(29:14) Current Market Trends and Transactions
(34:32) Price Trends Across Different Segments
(38:45) Months of Inventory Analysis
(42:41) Security Breaches and AI Concerns
(49:55) Conclusion and Final Thoughts

Shoutouts

Haida Sandwich – https://haidasandwich.ca/toronto/
Hong Shing Restaurant – http://www.hongshing.com/
Four Seasons Centre for the Performing Arts – http://www.coc.ca/

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/

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Toronto Livings Podcast: All About Garden Suites in Toronto

In episode 56 of the Toronto Livings podcast, hosts Mark Savel and Joey Virgilio dive deep into the topic of garden suites, discussing the process, costs, and regulations involved in building one in Toronto. They share insights on the necessary steps, potential challenges, and financing options.

The episode also features a lively discussion about their recent food adventures, including dining experiences at Lisbon hotel and Nodo Hillcrest, as well as anecdotes about meeting celebrities and updates on new real estate listings. Tune in for an informative and entertaining conversation about all things Toronto real estate, culture, and food!

(00:00) Introduction and Episode Overview
(01:15) Food Adventures and Restaurant Reviews
(07:43) New Real Estate Regulations in Ontario
(10:05) F1 Excitement and Personal Anecdotes
(12:38) New Property Listings and Celebrity Encounters
(18:25) Deep Dive into Garden Suites
(22:57) Celebrity Encounters and Preferences
(23:20) Building Code and Fire Code Compliance
(23:56) Tree and Ravine Protection Bylaw
(25:52) Garden Suite Requirements and Parameters
(27:58) Celebrity Discussions and Preferences
(32:05) Garden Suite Planning and Consultation
(35:13) Building Permits and Construction Process
(44:11) Financing and Cost Considerations
(48:12) Final Thoughts and Shoutouts

Show Notes

Exploring Garden Suites with Lorena M | Episode 46: https://open.spotify.com/episode/00w4gzrX6iXIhqv2yFtymi?si=06a1fd3d97804b3b

New Generation Sushi – http://newgenerationsushi.ca/

Lisbon Hotel – http://www.lisbonhotel.ca/

Nodo Hillcrest – https://www.nodohillcrest.ca/

Laneway Housing Advisors aka Marty Laneway – https://lanewayhousingadvisors.com/

City of Toronto’s Portal for Garden Suites: https://www.toronto.ca/city-government/planning-development/planning-studies-initiatives/garden-suites/

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/

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Amazon Primes Luxe Listings Toronto Review | Episode 55

In this episode of the Toronto Living Podcast, Joe and Mark (dubbed Forerunner Joe and Maserati Mark) dive into the world of luxury real estate with their review of Amazon Prime’s show “Luxe Listings Toronto’.

The hosts discuss key moments from the show, such as Brett Starke’s helicopter date, the Torkins’ attempt to break into the downtown market, and the controversial “sign gate” incident.

They also share their favourite local dining spots, including Sicilian Café and Daddy’s Chicken. As a bonus, they provide trivia on the most expensive real estate listings in Toronto and share their thoughts on the show’s music and production quality… “DON’T TALK TO US, WE’RE IN THE VIP”

(00:00) Welcome to Episode 55: Diving into Lux Listings Toronto
(00:47) Introducing the Toronto Livings Podcast Team
(01:20) Luxury Vibes and Lux Listings Toronto Review
(02:01) Foodie Adventures in Toronto
(12:58) Real Estate Insights and Market Trends
(18:15) Deep Dive into Lux Listings Toronto
(32:38) Helicopter Date Recap and Unsung Heroes
(33:15) Elevated Dates and Unfollowed Plotlines
(34:18) Nostalgia and First Impressions
(34:52) Dream Dates and Culinary Adventures
(37:13) Toronto’s Best and Real Estate Drama
(37:41) The Unrealistic Real Estate Showdown
(40:36) Signgate Drama and Real Estate Insights
(49:49) Luxury Listings and Real Estate Trivia
(57:37) Wrapping Up with Lux Listings Thoughts

Show Notes
Añejo Restaurant – https://www.anejo.ca/en/locations/on/toronto/600-king-street-west

Tiki Bar – https://tikibartoronto.com/

Daddy’s Chicken – http://daddyschicken.ca/

Sicilian Sidewalk Cafe – https://sicilianicecream.com/sicilian-sidewalk-cafe/

Pastiche – http://www.pastichenoshery.com/

Luxe Listings Toronto – https://www.primevideo.com/detail/Luxe-Listings-Toronto/0IN8DRAOV1STVH8IDMJRX9PM1K

Team Torken – https://www.teamtorkan.com/

The Starke Group – https://thestarkegroup.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/

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Empowering Vision: The Inspiring Story of Canadian Blind Hockey

This episode of the Toronto Livings Podcast features Luca DeMontis, the program manager for Canadian Blind Hockey, who shares the inspiring journey of his brother, Mark DeMontis, and the founding of Canadian Blind Hockey.

From the origins of blind hockey in Canada to its growth into a supportive community fostering inclusion, courage, and ambition, listeners will learn about the sport’s adaptations, the meaningful impact on players and families, and future goals, including achieving Paralympic inclusion.

The discussion also touches on personal stories, the importance of community and family within the organization, and how the sport is played and enjoyed by visually impaired athletes, emphasizing that disabilities don’t limit one’s ability to achieve greatness.

(00:00) Opening Greetings and Podcast Introduction
(00:03) Highlighting Canadian Blind Hockey with Luca De Montes
(03:23) Deep Dive into Luca’s Personal Journey and Blind Hockey Evolution
(12:20) Adapting Hockey for the Visually Impaired: Innovations and Rules
(23:32) Expanding Blind Hockey: Community Building and Program Development
(28:48) Empowering Visually Impaired Kids Through Ice Sports
(29:17) Expanding Youth Blind Hockey Programs Across Canada
(29:33) Building a Supportive Community and Volunteer Network
(29:52) Aiming for Inclusion in the Winter Paralympic Games
(30:36) International Expansion and Collaboration Efforts
(32:23) The Impact of Blind Hockey on Participants and Families
(35:08) Future Goals and the Importance of Partnerships
(42:53) Seasonal Activities and the Year-Round Hockey Calendar
(48:09) Personal Insights: Favorite Eats and Community Connections

Shownotes

Canadian Blind Hockey: https://canadianblindhockey.com/
Canadian Blind Hockey on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/canadianblindhockey/
Luca DeMontis on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lucademontis/
Canadian Blind Hockey on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCYiOpdeWTKZdgq_8aD55zsQCanadian Blind Hockey on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/CanadianBlindHockeyCanadian Blind Hockey on Twitter: https://x.com/CDNBlindHockey

Exploring the Transformative Power of Cold Plunges in Toronto at Othership Ice Bath

In this episode of the Toronto Livings Podcast, hosts Mark Savel and Joey Virgilio dive into the benefits of cold plunges and sauna experiences at Othership, a wellness center in Toronto. They are joined by Sherryne (Sher) and Dan, who share insights on Othership’s mission to support stress management, emotional regulation, and community building.

The podcast covers the health benefits of cold plunges, such as reduced inflammation, improved immune response, and enhanced mood. The discussion also touches on personal journeys into cold immersion, the science behind the practice, and how Othership fosters a unique environment for mental and physical wellness.

The conversation culminates in a live cold plunge experience, guiding listeners through the process and highlighting the rejuvenating effects. Additionally, the episode addresses the importance of disconnecting from technology and fostering genuine connections, positioning Othership as not just a wellness space but a crucial counterbalance to Toronto’s hustle culture.

(00:00) Intro
(00:30) Diving into the Cold: The Othership Experience
(01:29) The Health Benefits of Ice Baths and Combatting Stress
(04:32) Personal Journeys into the World of Cold Plunges
(09:33) The Social Aspect: Building Community and Connections
(19:24) Breathwork: A Key Component of the Othership Experience
(24:50) Empowerment and Comfort: The Core of Our Approach
(25:29) Real Estate and Disconnection: A Personal Insight
(26:27) Exploring Membership Options and Class Variety
(26:59) The Transformative Power of Ice Baths
(28:21) Choosing the Right Class: Guidance for Newcomers
(30:39) The Unique Experience of Senses Class
(31:31) Sauna Hats: A Surprising Benefit
(32:45) Post-Plunge Hunger: A Natural Reaction
(34:25) Late-Night Food Recommendations in Toronto
(35:37) The Ice Bath Experience: A Step-by-Step Guide
(41:33) Reflecting on the Experience and Closing Thoughts

Othership Ice Bath- https://www.othership.us/

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/

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In episode 52 of the Toronto Livings podcast, hosts Mark Savel and Joey Virgilio delve into the critical real estate question of whether to buy a new home first or sell your current one first.

They provide listeners with detailed considerations, including financial implications, market conditions, and personal scenarios, to help navigate this complex decision-making process.

The episode also shares personal insights into Toronto’s real estate market, food highlights, including discussions about Belly Busters and The Flying Squirrel coffee shop on Queen East. As well as some good old-fashioned Facebook fraud to watch out for!

(00:00) Welcome to Episode 52: The Real Estate Dilemma
(01:33) Diving Into Real Estate: To Buy or Sell First?
(02:03) Exploring Toronto: From Home Shows to Sub Shops
(07:10) Coffee Adventures and Closing Chapters
(11:59) Navigating Toronto’s Real Estate and Community Updates
(18:14) The Cutie on Caledonia: A Real Estate Success Story
(20:54) Navigating Rental Scams: A Cautionary Tale
(21:32) Spotting the Red Flags in Rental Listings
(21:55) The Dangers of Off-Market Property Deals
(24:04) Real Estate Insights: New Listings and Market Trends
(27:00) The Meat and Potatoes: Buy First or Sell First in Real Estate
(32:32) Strategies for a Successful Real Estate Transaction
(44:25) Supporting Community Causes: Second Harvest Truck Pull

Shoutouts

Belly Busters – https://bellybuster-submarines.com/
Pascale Gourmet – https://www.pascalegourmet.com/
Flying Squirrel – https://fsmotorcycle.com/
Lux Livings Design Show – https://livingluxedesignshow.ca/

In episode 51 of the Toronto Livings Podcast, hosts Mark Savel and Joey Virgilio delve into the heated topic of Canada’s new federal budget, specifically focusing on the controversial changes to capital gains tax and the introduction of a vacant home tax in Toronto.

They discuss the public’s frustration over these changes and their potential impact on homeowners, investors, and the real estate market. Additionally, the episode covers updates to the Home Buyers’ Plan, allowing higher withdrawals from RRSPs for first-time homebuyers.

The hosts share personal experiences and opinions on how these changes could affect the rental stock and motivate property owners. The episode also includes lighter segments such as food recommendations in Toronto and reflections on reaching their 51st episode, plus a missed opportunity to discuss aliens in connection with Area 51.

(00:00) Celebrating Episode 51: A New Milestone
(00:35) Foodie Adventures: From Pastiche to Otto’s Berlin Donar
(00:44) Diving into Toronto’s Real Estate and Culture
(08:34) Reflecting on Episode 50 and Addressing Mistakes
(16:41) The Vacant Home Tax Drama: Toronto’s Real Estate Woes
(19:26) Debating the Vacancy Tax and Government Inefficiency
(19:53) The Flaws in Public Awareness and Program Implementation
(23:15) Shifting Focus: The Federal Budget and Its Impact
(23:57) Exploring the RRSP Homebuyers Plan Changes
(28:12) Amortization Adjustments and Their Real Impact
(29:27) Capital Gains Tax: A Controversial Proposal
(32:27) The Potential Consequences of Capital Gains Tax Changes
(38:25 Voices from the Community: Reactions to the Proposed Tax Changes
(43:49) Concluding Thoughts and Shoutouts

Show Notes

Ottos Berlin Donar
256 August Ave.
https://ottosdoner.com/

Pastiche
59 Ossington Ave
https://www.pastichenoshery.com/

The Real Agent Podcast
https://podcasts.apple.com/ca/podcast/the-real-agent/id1688047398

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/

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It’s SHOUT-OUT TIME!

In our 50th episode of the TorontoLivings Podcast, we celebrate this significant milestone by looking back on our journey and share some ambitious goals for the future.

We’ve got a ton of special shout-outs for our supporters, friends, businesses in Toronto, and previous podcast guests, with a big thank you to everyone who’s supported us thus far!

Throughout the episode, we reminisce about personal and business milestones, as well as favorite food spots in Toronto. With a mix of gratitude and humor, we share memories of meaningful gifts exchanged and dream big about future guest appearances, including celebrities like Mick Foley and Arnold Schwarzenegger… oh AND LOTS OF CONFETTI!

(00:00) Celebrating Episode 50: A Milestone Moment
(00:46) Introducing the Hosts and Their Real Estate Focus
(01:17 Reflecting on the Journey to Episode 50
(02:08 The Shout Out Episode: Celebrating Supporters and Toronto Highlights
(03:54) Diving into Real Estate Insights and Community Initiatives
(06:24) Addressing Misleading Headlines for First-Time Homebuyers
(08:00) Exploring Financial Aids for Homebuyers: A Positive Change
(09:16) The Ice Bath Bet and Bank of Canada’s Decision
(10:37) Shifting Gears: From Serious Talks to Shout Outs and Fun
(12:42) Highlighting Influential Figures and Unique Ventures
(17:48) Spotlight on Local Businesses and Personal Favorites
(25:27 Shout Outs Continue: From Food Spots to Inspiring Initiatives
(30:28) Wrapping Up with Favorite Coffee Spots and Nespresso Debate
(33:47) Shoutouts to Partners and Secret Listeners
(33:58) The Unseen Heroes: Our Wives’ Support
(34:28) The Power of Attention to Detail
(35:26) Celebrating Family and Extended Family Support
(37:22) Reflecting on Favorite Podcast Moments
(40:16) A Nod to International Listeners and the Global Reach
(01:00:23) Shoutouts to Memorable Guests and Future Dreams
(01:03:34) Wrapping Up with Gratitude and Future Aspirations

Shoutouts

https://tallboywater.com/
https://www.pressitofficial.com/media
https://www.thegrainstudio.ca/products.html
https://smoquenbones.com/

Traditional Slavic sauna & Tea room

https://www.instagram.com/torontogirlswalkingclub/
https://www.instagram.com/cafeplenty
https://www.cafeplenty.com/
https://rufino.ca/

Welcome-Bienvenue

https://www.lisbonhotel.ca/
https://www.zitosmarketplace.ca/

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