Skip to main content

Ghosts of Toronto: A Journey Through the City’s Haunted Past | Episode 71

By

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

The Pitfalls and Perks of Buying a Tenanted Property | Episode 70

By

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

The Hidden Dangers of Kitec Plumbing: What Every Toronto Condo Owner Needs to Know | Episode 69

By

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

“Wake Me Up When September Ends” Toronto Real Estate Edition | Episode 68

By

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

Toronto Real Estate Tools AND Hacks You NEED to Know | Episode 67

By

Tools You Can Use – Essential Gadgets for Home Buyers & Realtors

In Episode 67 of the TorontoLiving’s Real Estate Podcast, hosts Mark Savel and Joey Virgilio dive into the chaotic yet insightful world of essential tools for home buyers and realtors.

They discuss a range of gadgets including tape measures, flashlights, moisture meters, and EMF readers, sharing practical tips and personal anecdotes. The episode also features lively banter about their week, with foodie adventures in Yorkdale’s food court and a reminder about the importance of the vacant home tax. Tune in for useful advice mixed with humor and real-life stories.

Top Tools

1. Measuring Tape – https://www.amazon.ca/Craftsman-Measure-Self-Lock-25-Foot-CMHT37225S/dp/B07QG3ZXQC?source=ps-sl-shoppingads-lpcontext&ref_=fplfs&psc=1&smid=A3DWYIK6Y9EEQB

2. Flashlight – https://www.olightstore.ca/baton-4-powerful-edc-flashlight-1300-lumens?srsltid=AfmBOoqN7NZoCZAy5S_iGjwgDLyGH4Dv7E_F4Hc8XQUtEdUoxBEZcrPu_9g

3. Electric Outlet Tester – https://www.homedepot.ca/product/klein-tools-gfci-receptacle-tester/1001012662?eid=PS_GO_140203__ALL_PLA-526641&pid=1001012662

4. Moisture Meter – https://www.amazon.ca/General-Tools-Instruments-MMD4E-Moisture/dp/B00275F5O2?source=ps-sl-shoppingads-lpcontext&ref_=fplfs&psc=1&smid=A3DWYIK6Y9EEQB

5. Sound Meter – https://www.amazon.ca/Tadeto-Digital-Sound-Level-Meter/dp/B09G6HLNVV?source=ps-sl-shoppingads-lpcontext&ref_=fplfs&psc=1&smid=A22D7Q75YKXJL2

6. EMF Reader – https://www.amazon.ca/Meter-TESMEN-Hound-200-Detector-Electromagnetic/dp/B0CKVZFT5T?source=ps-sl-shoppingads-lpcontext&ref_=fplfs&psc=1&smid=A18WSJ5TNTJ1LS

7. Sun Tracker App – https://apps.apple.com/us/app/sun-tracker-ar/id1460472433

8. Colorsnap Visualizer – https://www.sherwin-williams.com/homeowners/color/color-tools/colorsnap-mobile

9. Home Styler App – https://www.homestyler.com/room-design-app

10. Door Shim – https://www.homedepot.ca/product/everbilt-brown-rubber-door-stopper-2-pack/1000100117?eid=PS_GO_140203__ALL_PLA-526641&pid=1000100117

(00:00) Introduction and Episode Overview
(00:43) Meet Your Hosts: Marc and Joey
(02:22) Weekly Catch-Up: Food Adventures
(10:04) Real Estate Tools and Tips
(12:14) Toronto News and Updates
(19:53) Bank Competition and Renewal Season Tips
(20:19) Lightening the Mood with a Hilarious Zoo Story
(22:20) Apps, Hacks, and Gadgets for Home Buyers
(23:11) Essential Tools for Realtors and Home Buyers
(26:46) Advanced Gadgets for Home Inspections
(32:17) Fun and Unusual Tools for Home Buyers
(40:10) Practical Tips and Final Thoughts
(43:11) Shoutouts and Closing Remarks

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

From Mortgage Overhauls to European COVID to | Episode 66

By

This episode, unofficially dubbed the 'News You Can Use Double Edged Sword,' also covers European COVID, fine dining experiences, Joey's big decision to delete food delivery apps, and how Gordon Ramsay ties into all of this. Celebrate their anniversaries and discover effective health tips like Joey's immune-boosting ginger tea recipe. Tune in for an engaging conversation about all things real estate, culture, food, and more!

Join Mark Savel and Joey Virgilio in episode 66 of the Toronto Livings Podcast as they delve into significant changes in the real estate market, particularly the return of 30-year amortization mortgages and increase in price cap for insured mortgages to $1.5 million.

Shout Outs

Patria
478 King St W, Toronto, ON M5V 1L7

Home

San Wich
616 Gladstone Ave, Toronto, ON M6H 3J2
https://www.instagram.com/sanwichto/

AI Chef Gordon Ramsay's Hell's Kitchen Nightmares : Chaos

Chapters

(00:00) Introduction and Episode Overview
(00:26) European COVID Experience
(03:01) Concerts and Music Talk
(05:34) Joey's Health and Lifestyle Changes
(09:28) Mark's Birthday and Food Adventures
(15:27) Mortgage News and Market Changes
(18:52) First-Time Homebuyers and 30-Year Amortizations
(20:22) Increasing the Price Cap for Insured Mortgages
(25:53) Government's Role in Housing Affordability
(30:48) Inflation and Interest Rates Update
(35:50) Market Activity and Buyer Sentiment
(38:31) Anniversary Reflections and Shoutouts

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

From Altar to Abode: Transforming a Historic Church into a Condo | Episode 65

By

Inside Look: Unique Church Conversion Project in Toronto

Join Mark Savel and Joey Virgilio as they reveal details about their latest real estate project – a unique church conversion located at 1183 Dufferin Street in Toronto.

They dive into the rich history of the property, the creative development process, and the various unit offerings up for sale. The hosts also discuss the local neighborhood, best spots for coffee and food, and the advantages of buying into this project.

Perfect for first-time homebuyers or those looking for a property with character, this episode gives you a full tour of one of Toronto's most intriguing real estate opportunities.

(00:00) Introduction and Setting the Scene
(00:14) Revealing the Big Project
(02:06) Exploring the Church Conversion
(03:59) Unique Selling Points and Market Details
(09:21) Neighborhood Highlights and Personal Favorites
(17:17) The Origin of Caesar Salad
(17:30) Exploring Local Eateries: Sugo and Sandwich
(19:05) Hidden Gems: Paradise Theater and More
(20:43) Community and Real Estate Insights
(25:34) Target Market and Ideal Buyers
(27:15) Maintenance Fees and Value Proposition
(29:09) Soundproofing and Construction Quality
(33:44) Final Thoughts and Open House Invitation

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

Price Drops & Pogo Sticks: Navigating Toronto’s August Real Estate | Episode 64

By

Price Drops & Pogo Sticks: Navigating Toronto’s Real Estate Market in August

Join Mark and Joey on episode 64 of the Toronto Living’s podcast as they return after a brief hiatus. In this episode, Mark and Joey catch up on their recent activities and unveil where they’ve been over the past few weeks.

They dive into August’s real estate market update, revealing some interesting opportunities in the Toronto condo world and discussing the impact of recent rate cuts.

Along the way, they share exciting food experiences, including trips to Bellwoods Brewery and the Ex, as well as Joey’s unexpected discovery of the best burger in town. Plus, enjoy their entertaining references to WWE and the Sopranos.

Don’t miss this fun-filled episode packed with valuable insights and lively conversations about Toronto real estate, food, and more!

(00:00) Introduction and Episode Overview
(01:05) Welcome Back and Catching Up
(03:04) Food Adventures in Toronto
(16:40) Market Update and Real Estate Insights
(22:17) Exciting News and Upcoming Projects
(26:13) Joey’s Pro Tip: Keep Your Eyes on the Sky
(26:27) August Real Estate Market Overview
(26:47) Sales and Transactions Analysis
(28:02) Active Listings and Inventory Trends
(29:02) Price Drops and Market Insights
(31:13) Condo Market Takes a Hit
(39:52) Months of Inventory Explained
(42:13) Buyer and Seller Advice
(45:17) Sopranos and Sleep: A Tangent
(52:54) Final Thoughts and Shout Outs

Show Notes

Papamio’s
934 Manning Ave, Toronto, ON M6G 2X4
papamios.com

Philthy Phillys

Home

Bellwoods Brewery
124 Ossington Ave
https://bellwoodsbrewery.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

Navigating Toronto’s Rental Market: Hot Topics, Tenant Troubles, and Spicy Challenges | Episode 63

By

Join Mark Savel and Joey Virgilio in episode 63 of the Toronto Livings podcast as they dive into heated discussions about the inefficiencies of Toronto's landlord-tenant board and the complex issues surrounding rental market policies.

The hosts share personal stories from the Toronto real estate scene and debate the pros and cons of damage deposits and prepaying rent for a competitive edge. Emphasizing the need for policy reform and a balanced approach, they offer practical solutions, tips on navigating frustrating delays, and a passionate vent session on improving the housing market.

The episode also includes lighter moments, such as a hot sauce challenge and various shout-outs. Don't miss this packed episode full of insights and real-life examples.

(00:00) Introduction and Episode Overview
(01:35) Landlord and Tenant Board Frustrations
(02:11) Weekly Catch-Up: New Food Spots
(09:32) Fishing Adventures on Lake Ontario
(14:43) The CNE: Food and Fun
(25:17) Landlord-Tenant Board: Issues and Solutions
(30:58) The Nine-Month Wait: A Tenant and Landlord Nightmare
(31:51) Speeding Up the Process: Urgent Matters and Overhauls
(32:50) Real-Life Example: The Cost of Delays
(33:46) Naming Conventions: Simplifying the Forms
(35:20) Flowcharts and Legal Newsletters: A Helping Hand
(38:15) Common Mistakes: The Brutal Consequences
(41:46) Eviction Rules: Tightening the Regulations
(42:23) The Philosophical Side of Renting
(49:01) Selling a Tenanted Property: The Risks Involved
(01:02:04) Prepaying Rent: The Gray Area
(01:09:24) Final Thoughts and Shoutouts

SHOUTOUTS

Captian Tal – Reel Rush Fishing Charters https://www.reelrushfishing.com/
Yaffa Shawarma & Falafel – http://www.yaffashawarma.com/
Midnight Cookie – http://www.midnightcookie.ca/
Zachary Soccio-Marandola (Form Flow Chart) https://www.socciomarandola.com/our-ltb-cheat-sheet-removes-the-legal-jargon-for-you/?ref=realtor-r-newsletter

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

From Market Slumps to Beach Bans | Episode 62

By

In Episode 62 of the Toronto Livings Podcast, Mark Savel and Joey Virgilio dive into the July real estate market numbers, unveiling a not-so-optimistic outlook.

Beyond the market updates, the hosts share anecdotes about their week, including Joey's newfound love for Midnight Cookies and Marks frustrating trip to Innisfil, Ontario, which leads to a rant about their stringent resident-only beach parking

policies. The episode also discusses broader economic impacts, like the recent dip in the Japanese market and its potential effects on Toronto's future real estate trends. Lively and informative, this episode blends market insights with personal stories, making for an engaging listen.

(00:00) Introduction and Episode Overview
(01:21) July Market Update Introduction
(02:08) Innisfil Beach Incident
(09:34) Midnight Cookie Obsession
(13:28) Market Crash and Economic Concerns
(16:55) Real Estate Market Analysis
(20:38) Condo Market Opportunities
(21:30) Quarterly Market Review
(22:41) Sales and Price Trends
(23:55) Inventory Analysis
(26:22) Housing Crisis Debate
(30:27) Market Sentiment and Predictions
(41:16) Shoutouts and Closing Remarks

Shoutouts

Midnight Cookie – http://www.midnightcookie.ca/
Innisfil Parking Lot Rules – https://innisfil.ca/en/living-here/re…

Where You Can Find Us

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

?️ Instagram
Mark Savel:   / torontolivings  
Joey Virgilio:   / joey_torontolivings