Apr 23

A Comprehensive Guide to Toronto’s Best Hotel/Condos Buildings

By Mark Savel Advice For Buyers, Toronto

Toronto, a city known for its dynamic lifestyle and diverse real estate offerings, has seen the emergence of a unique housing trend – the hotel/condo hybrid. Combining the comfort of hotel living with the convenience of condominium amenities, these developments offer residents a lifestyle that’s both luxurious and convenient.

In this blog post, we’ll explore some of the noteworthy hotel/condos in Toronto, each bringing its own distinctive charm to the urban landscape.

The Residences at The Ritz-Carlton, Toronto

Location: 183 Wellington St W, Toronto, ON M5V 0A1
Developer: Cadillac Fairview & Graywood Developments
Architect: Kohn Pederson Fox Associates
Year Completed: 2011
Number of Floors: 51
Number of Units: 159
Sizes: 1,397 – 11,000 Sq.Ft.

Features:

Luxury Redefined: As part of The Ritz-Carlton brand, these residences offer unparalleled luxury, with high-end finishes, stunning views, and access to the hotel’s amenities. The 24 hour concierge is available to help with valet parking, chauffeur services, and security. The building is equipped with an expansive gym, yoga studio, saltwater pool and spa!
Prime Location: Situated in the heart of the Entertainment District, residents enjoy easy access to theaters, restaurants, and cultural attractions. The Ritz-Carlton, is directly connected to the PATH, Toronto’s downtown walkway linking 27 kilometers of underground shopping, services, and entertainment, as well as St. Andrew subway station. The condo is also within walking distance to the city’s attractions, restaurants and sports venues; The CN Tower, Ripley’s Aquarium, Roger’s Centre and Scotiabank Arena (formerly Air Canada Centre), as well as the Metro Toronto Convention Centre

Shangri-La Toronto

Location: 180 University Ave, Toronto, ON M5H 0A2
Developer: Westbank and Peterson
Architect: James Cheng
Year Completed: 2012
Number of Floors: 66
Number of Units: 393
Sizes: 819 – 4,400 Sq.Ft.

Features:

Opulent Living: The Shangri-La residences exude opulence, with spacious layouts, contemporary designs, and top-tier amenities. Our favourite space in the Shangri-La is the stunning Lobby Lounge. Residents do have their own private entrance, but walking through the lounge is always a special treat. They have an expansive drink menu with an array of small-bite options. For something a bit more upscale, Bosk is the ideal place to have a conversation, business meeting or special date night.
Five-Star Services: Residents can indulge in the hotel’s world-class services, including a spa facilities (Miraj Hammam Spa), fitness center, and an indoor lap pool, hot tub and sauna!

St. Regis Residences Toronto

Location: 311 Bay St, Toronto, ON M5H 4G5
Developer: JFC Capital ULC
Architect: Zeidler Partnership Architects
Year Completed: 2012
Number of Floors: 58
Number of Units: 118
Sizes: 1,300 – 11,000 Sq.Ft.

Features:

Timeless Elegance: Formerly known as the Trump Hotel – the property was sold for nearly $300 million, and was rebranded to the St Regis in 2017. Today, the St. Regis Residences embodies timeless elegance, offering a refined living experience with bespoke services and sophisticated design. Residents have exclusive access to the Sky Lobby on the 32nd floor, which comes complete with 24-hour concierge, a fitness centre, a fully equipped gym, an indoor pool, and direct elevator access. Room service and maid service is also available (at an extra cost)
Coveted Location: Situated in the Financial District, residents are near Toronto’s business hubs and cultural attractions. Residents can dine out right in the building at either the Astor Lounge (perfect for drinks and small bites) or at the Louix Louis Grand Bar and Restaurant on the 31st floor… you’ll definitely want to check out the 60 ft mural on the ceiling of the Grand Bar. Painted by local Toronto artist Madison van Rijn, the mural, known as a ‘Bouquet of Whisky’ is inspired by a glass of Canadian whisky and looks just as refreshing as one. Salute!

Four Seasons Private Residences Toronto

Location: 50 Yorkville Ave, Toronto, ON M4W 0A3
Developer: Menkes Developments & Lifetime Developments
Architect: architectsAlliance
Year Completed: 2013
Number of Floors: 55
Number of Units: 210
Sizes: 655 – 9,038 Sq.Ft.

Features:

Yorkville Elegance: Nestled in the upscale neighborhood of Yorkville, the Four Seasons Private Residences provide a sophisticated living experience with stunning views of the city. You’re steps away from the cities finest shops in the city, with all the big brands at your doorstep.
World-Class Amenities: Residents enjoy access to the renowned Four Seasons amenities, including a spa, fitness center, and gourmet dining. D Bar is the destination of choice for those looking to unwind with a cocktail and some lite bites. Cafe Boulud offers a more formal setting and features a menu highlighting seasonal locally sourced ingredients and one-of-a-kind style.

Conclusion

Toronto’s hotel/condos redefine urban living, offering residents a blend of luxury, convenience, and world-class services. Each development brings its own unique character and charm, catering to different tastes and lifestyles. Whether you’re drawn to the opulence of The Ritz-Carlton, the contemporary elegance of Shangri-La, or many offerings of The Four Seasons these hotel/condo hybrids enhance the city’s real estate landscape, providing an elevated living experience for those seeking the best of both worlds. Explore these iconic residences and discover the epitome of sophisticated living in the heart of Toronto.

Connect with us below for more information about any of these hotel/condo projects!

Apr 17

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Is Installing an EV Charger Worth It?

By Mark Savel Advice For Buyers, Advice For Sellers

In an era where sustainability and eco-friendly choices are at the forefront, electric vehicles (EVs) have become a popular choice for environmentally conscious individuals… and those sick of paying at the pump!

As more people make the switch to EVs, the question arises: Is it worth installing an EV charger at home? In this blog post, we’ll delve into the considerations that can help you decide if making this investment is the right move for you.

Convenience and Accessibility

Pros

Home Charging Ease: Installing an EV charger at home provides the convenience of charging your vehicle in the comfort of your own space. No more trips to public charging stations or waiting in line.
Flexible Charging Times: With a home charger, you have the flexibility to charge your EV overnight or during off-peak hours, taking advantage of lower electricity rates.

Cons

Upfront Cost: The initial cost of purchasing and installing an EV charger can be a deterrent for some. However, various government incentives and rebates may offset these costs.

charging EV car electric vehicle clean energy for driving future

Cost Savings

Pros

Lower Charging Costs: Home charging is often more cost-effective than using public charging stations, especially if you can benefit from lower nighttime electricity rates.
Reduced Fuel Costs: Over time, using an EV charger at home can lead to significant savings compared to traditional gas-powered vehicles.

Cons

Upfront Investment: While the long-term savings are notable, the initial investment in the EV charger and installation might be a financial consideration. We’ve found prices range from $3-5,000 (and up)

Environmental Impact:

Pros

Reduced Carbon Footprint: Embracing EV technology and home charging aligns with sustainability goals, contributing to a lower carbon footprint compared to traditional gas-powered vehicles.

Cons

Electricity Source: The environmental benefits depend on the source of your electricity. If your local grid relies heavily on fossil fuels, the overall impact may be less pronounced.

an electric car plugged in to a charging station

Government Incentives:

Pros

Financial Support: Many governments offer incentives, rebates, or tax credits for the installation of EV chargers at home. Researching available programs can help offset costs.

Cons

Program Availability: The availability and terms of government incentives may vary, and not everyone may qualify for these programs.

Conclusion

Deciding whether to install an EV charger at home involves weighing the convenience, cost, and environmental considerations. For many, the benefits of easy charging access, potential cost savings, and a reduced carbon footprint make it a worthwhile investment. If you’re considering making the switch to an electric vehicle, exploring the available incentives and evaluating your specific circumstances will help determine if installing an EV charger at home is the right move for you.

Feb 19

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a view of a very tall building in the city

When is the Best Time to Start Looking for a New Home in Toronto

By Joey Virgilio Advice For Buyers

Embarking on the journey of finding a new home in Toronto is an exciting and significant step. However, timing plays a crucial role in ensuring a smooth and successful home-buying experience. In this blog post, we’ll explore each season and list out the reasons to why it may be the best time to start looking for a new home in the bustling real estate landscape of Toronto.

Spring into Action

Best Time: Spring is widely considered one of the optimal periods to start your home search in Toronto.

Why:

Blooming Market: Spring brings new life, and it’s no different in the real estate market. With warmer weather, more properties tend to become available, giving you a broader selection to choose from.
Curb Appeal: Viewing homes in spring allows you to see properties at their best, with gardens in bloom and outdoor spaces showcased in optimal conditions.

Summer Exploration

Best Time: Early to mid-summer is a favorable window for home searching in Toronto.

Why:

Extended Daylight: Longer daylight hours mean more time for property viewings, making summer a practical and enjoyable time to explore potential homes.
Family Moves: Families often prefer moving during the summer to minimize disruptions to their children’s school routines.

Fall Finds

Best Time: Late summer into early fall can be a strategic time to begin your home search.

Why:

Serious Buyers: As the summer rush subsides, serious buyers tend to remain in the market. Sellers may also be more motivated to close deals before the winter months.
Comfortable Weather: Fall weather in Toronto is generally mild, providing comfortable conditions for exploring neighborhoods and attending open houses.

Winter Advantage:

Best Time: Late winter, specifically February and March, can offer unique opportunities for homebuyers.

Why:

Less Competition: Winter tends to have fewer active buyers, giving you an advantage in negotiating deals and potentially finding a property at a more reasonable price.
Motivated Sellers: Sellers listing their homes in winter often have specific reasons, such as relocation, making them more motivated to finalize transactions.

Tips for a Successful Home Search in Toronto

Pre-Approval: Get pre-approved for a mortgage before you start your search. It helps you understand your budget and makes your offers more appealing to sellers.
Work with a Realtor: A knowledgeable real estate agent can guide you through the process, providing insights into the Toronto market and helping you make informed decisions.
Research Neighborhoods: Understand the different neighborhoods in Toronto to find the one that aligns with your preferences and lifestyle.
Be Flexible: Toronto’s real estate market is dynamic, and being flexible with your criteria can increase your chances of finding the perfect home.
Stay Informed: Keep an eye on market trends, interest rates, and any changes in real estate regulations to make informed decisions.

Conclusion:

The best time to start looking for a new home in Toronto depends on various factors, including personal preferences, market conditions, and lifestyle considerations. Whether you choose the vibrancy of spring, the extended daylight of summer, the strategic timing of fall, or the potential advantages of winter, being well-prepared and working with experienced professionals will set you on the path to finding your dream home in the diverse and dynamic city of Toronto.

Feb 04

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The Pros and Cons of Open Houses in Toronto

By Mark Savel Advice For Sellers

Selling your home is a significant undertaking, and one question that often arises is whether hosting open houses in Toronto is worth the effort and investment. In this blog post, we’ll explore the pros and cons of open houses to help you make an informed decision about whether they are the right strategy for selling your home!

The Top 5 Pros of Open Houses:

Exposure to a Wide Audience: Open houses attract a broad range of potential buyers, including those who might not schedule private viewings. This exposure can increase the chances of finding the right buyer for your home. The more people through the door, the better the chance of getting the most for your home.
First Impressions Matter: Open houses allow buyers to experience your home in person, creating a tangible connection. A well-staged and inviting presentation during an open house can leave a lasting positive impression. Remember, we don’t sell like how we live… so don’t take it personally if your realtor advises clearing out personal effects.
Feedback and Market Insights: Hosting an open house provides an opportunity to gather feedback from potential buyers. This insight can be valuable in making necessary adjustments to the price or to enhance your home’s appeal in the market.
Sense of Urgency: Creating a sense of urgency by having specific viewing hours can motivate potential buyers to make decisions quickly, especially if they see others expressing interest in the property.
Facilitates Networking: Real estate agents often use open houses to network and connect with potential buyers. This can lead to additional exposure for your property through word of mouth and industry connections.

The Top 5 Cons of Open Houses:

Security Concerns: Opening your home to the public may pose security risks. While most visitors are genuinely interested in purchasing, there is a potential for theft or unauthorized access. Always have jewelry, laptops, and any other high-value items removed from the home.
Inconvenience for Sellers: Hosting open houses can be disruptive for sellers, requiring them to vacate the premises for extended periods. Balancing privacy and the desire to showcase the home can be challenging.
Quality of Leads: While open houses attract a wide audience, not all attendees may be serious buyers. Some people might be curious neighbors or individuals who are not financially prepared to make a purchase.
Limited Time Frame: The limited time frame of an open house might not be sufficient for potential buyers to thoroughly explore the property. Private showings often allow for a more relaxed and detailed viewing experience.
Effectiveness Varies: The effectiveness of open houses can vary depending on the market, location, and property type. In some cases, the return on investment may not justify the effort.

If you’re interviewing multiple realtors before choosing the right one to sell your home, ask them to outline all the processes and procedures they use to host a safe and efficient open house!

brown wooden dining table with white chairs near kitchen

The 3 Best Tips for Maximizing An Open House:

Effective Marketing: Promote your open house through various channels, including online listings, social media, and traditional marketing methods. Don’t discount the old-school methods of sidewalk signs and door to door marketing.
Well-Staged Presentation: Ensure your home is impeccably staged for the open house to create a positive and memorable impression. (and yes, a tray of freshly baked cookies is always a good idea)
Security Measures: Implement security measures to protect your property during open houses, such as removing or securing valuable items. Have your realtor keep a log of all guests and visitors

Is Having an Open House Worth it for Your Home?

The decision to host open houses when selling your home ultimately depends on various factors, including your comfort level, the local market conditions, and your specific goals. While open houses can provide exposure and valuable insights, they come with potential drawbacks. Carefully weigh the pros and cons, and consider consulting with a real estate professional to determine the most effective strategy for showcasing your home in the competitive real estate landscape.

May 24

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For Sale: 31 Tippett Rd

By Mark Savel Listings

Exclusive

31 tippett rd #1313

southside condos

Price: $579,000

Bedrooms: 1+1

bathrooms: 1

never lived
in

Be the first to live in this brand new, recently completed South Side Condo! Located across from Wilson Subway Station, this one bedroom plus den layout measures in at just under 600 sq.ft. and includes parking.

From smooth ceilings, wide plank flooring, modern bathroom, kitchen island, upgraded lighting and custom motorized window coverings – all you’ll have to do is pack your bags, and move in!

This offering is not available on the MLS, but appointments can be made for a private tour!

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Jan 12

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Leased: 93 Billings Ave

By Mark Savel Sold Properties

leased

93 Billings Ave

Greenwood Park

Price: $3,000

Bedrooms: 3

bathrooms: 2

Spacious and
affordable

This spacious three bedroom home offers something for everyone! The open concept main floor, opens up to a large living and dining area. The kitchen, features a newly purchased gas stove and stainless steel fridge. Stay in an entertain, or head out to the back deck and BBQ with friends.

The lower level has two dens that can double as a work from home office and gym. An upgraded three-piece shower and laundry area round out the space.

Upstairs, you’ll find three spacious bedrooms, each with a closet. Large windows in the main bedroom allow for tons of natural light. The bathroom went through an overhaul and has been updated to feature heated floors, a new vanity, and extra storage.

At 93 Billings, you’re a short walk from Greenwood Park, transit, and shopping on both Queen East and The Danforth. Parking may be possible through street permit, all utilities will be separately billed to the tenant.

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Jan 08

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Leased: 40 Fern Ave

By Mark Savel Sold Properties

LEased

40 Fern Ave

Roncesvalles

Price: $5,500/month

Bedrooms: 3+1

bathrooms: 3

A Rarity In Roncy!

This fully renovated semi-detached homes measures in at over 1800 sq.ft and features a host of unique features. Separated into two unique spaces – the main and upper level features 3 spacious bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, heated floors, wide plank hardwood, a fireplace and a chef’s dream kitchen. Highlights of the kitchen include a gas stove, large quartz island and ample storage. There’s also a walk-out to the private and fully fenced backyard. A large two-car garage rounds out the home and is accessible through the laneway.

Below the main living area is a separate, self-contained, one-bedroom apartment. The unit has a four-piece bathroom, a full kitchen with stainless steel appliances, quartz countertops and its own laundry.

The home is available as a whole for $5,500 a month, or for $4,000 for the main and upper levels and $1700 for the basement. Hydro, Cable and Internet extra.

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Nov 17

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Toronto Real Estate Market Report – October 2020

By Mark Savel Monthly Market Updates

As we enter the third quarter of pandemic activity in the city, one thing is becoming abundantly clear – houses are in high demand… and condos, not so much!

The average price in the city hit a new all-time high of $968,318 – largely thanks to the surge of prices in both the detached and semi-detached house markets. Condos continued to trend down in price with an average price of $668,161 nearly unchanged from last year’s monthly average.

As rent prices continue to decline for condos (down 15 – 20%), and supply continues to increase, buyers have ample options to choose from. With the holidays around the corner, we’ve advised many clients to hold off on plans to sell (if possible), and revisit listing in the second quarter of 2021.

Three Trends to Watch

a second lockdown may be looming in the city, and with it could come a further hit to consumer confidence. Could this impact all housing styles?
with rent continuing to decline, will condo prices continue to soften?
What impact, if any, will this have on the pre-construction market?

DETACHED HOUSES

1,228 sales took place
67 more homes than the previous month (5.77% increase in sales)
194 more homes than the last year (18.76% increase in sales)
The average price of a detached home was $1,470,857
A decrease of $16,265 compared to the previous month (1.09% decrease in price)
An increase of $147,842 compared to last year (11.17% increase in price)

SEMI-DETACHED HOUSES

416 sales took place
5 fewer homes than the previous month (1.19% decrease in sales)
94 more than the last year (29.19% increase in sales)
The average price was $1,154,087
An increase of $8,528 compared to the previous month (.74% increase in price)
An increase of $54,285 compared to last year (4.94% increase in price)

TOWNHOUSES

409 sales took place
7 more homes than the previous month (1.74% increase in sales)
69 more homes than the previous year (20.29% increase in sales)
The average price was $828,090
A decrease of $39,915 compared to the previous month (4.60% decrease in price)
An increase of $32,975 compared to the previous year (4.15% increase in price)

CONDOS

1,438 sales took place
111 fewer condos than the previous month (7.17% decrease in sales)
137 fewer condos than the previous year (8.7% decrease in sales)
The average price was $668,161
A decrease of $18,030 compared to the previous month (2.63% decrease in price)
A decrease of $5,530 compared to the previous year (.83% decrease in price)

Nov 17

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Meet Noda Design

By Mark Savel Toronto

It’s about time the city formally meets one of its most creative and talented interior designers – Toronto based (and globally connected) Nora Voon of Noda Design! For well over a decade, she’s been building up a portfolio of homes, offices and restaurants around the world… and now, she’s opened her first brick and mortar shop here in the city!

Their flagship location is now open by appointment at: at 11 King St. East (Toronto, Ontario. M5C 3C2)

In Noras own words:

A well-designed space should tell a story. Of great travels, of love, passion, mystery, seduction. At Noda you won’t find cold, empty, minimal Instagram spaces in our portfolio, that’s never been our style. We go for texture, for artifacts, bold rich colours, for quirk and kink.

Let us introduce ourselves. We are Nora Voon, founder, artist, designer, a lover of traditional craftsmanship, and a dedicated traveler. As a graduate of Inchbald School of Design in London, UK, Nora studied Interior Architecture and was awarded for her work at the Preen Fashion House by Fox Linton Associates.

From there Nora took to the world, to work with artisans and designers on projects in Europe, Asia, the Middle East, and North America. This time inspired Nora’s love for organic motifs mixing high design with delicate crafts.

Nora created Noda to honour the places she loves, the people she respects, and frankly to infuse the architecture and design world with a great mischievous sense of delight. Along for the ride are Ceren Kaptan, our lead product and furniture designer with degrees from Florence, Italy, and Turkey. And to keep us all on our toes is Julia Milborne our haute marketer, strategist, and client relations with a background in marketing and real estate.

Yes, we’re all women team and so proud of it. #Badass We bring a female empowerment perspective to every project and piece. On our own, we led adventurous lives, and now working together we bring that same all-in energy to the spaces and objects we create.

From the get-go, Noda’s objective has been centred around one of our favourite four-letter words: PLAY! To tease, to wink, to arouse the mundane. We do this in the interiors we reimagine and pieces we create. Snagging inspiration from our most treasured destinations. Our tag line is: Made From The World. It speaks for our worldliness brought to life through great craftsmanship.

Go on, go check out our portfolio

Come on in!
For many years Noda ran as a design group, but today we add bricks and mortar to our name. The Noda Flagship store is in Toronto, Canada straddling between the design and the financial district, right on 11 King Street East.

Inside is our line of Noda collection, along with unique finds curated and collected from Nora’s travels. To us, this is a living space, where we’ll soon host great talks and events. We plan to be a hub for conversation and creation.

Pop in for a visit

The great tapestry that is our planet, is our greatest muse. This is the story we bring to you. Let our journey begin.

Oct 20

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SOLD: 21 Forest View Rd.

By Mark Savel Sold Properties

sold

21 forest view rd.

markland woods community

Price: $1,199,900

Bedrooms: 3+1

bathrooms: 3

A mid-century home fit for a modern world!

Lovingly cared for by the same family for over 50 years, 21 Forest View Rd is looking for a new family to envision its possibilities! Located in the Markland Wood Community, the home measures in a just over 3400 sq.ft. (including basement). The back-split was originally built in the 1960s and sits on a premium 60×143 ft lot.

Create memories of your own in the large living room, or host family holidays in the lower level family room. The fully fenced in backyard is perfect for the family pet… with ample space for a pool! Three large bedrooms can be found on the upper level! Complete with a five-piece, shared bathroom, and a private three-piece ensuite in the master bedroom. On the lower level, a fourth bedroom or a “work from home” office can be gained, depending on one’s needs.

The basement comes well equipped with a pool table and bar – ideal for unwinding after a long day. There’s ample storage in the crawl space and even more room in the utility room.

Rounding out the home is a spacious two-car garage, with room for two other cars in the private driveway. St. Clements elementary school is located directly across the street, along with shopping, highway access and the members-only Markland Wood Golf course all just a short drive away!

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