May 16th, 2012
“A spectacular view of the city can be enjoyed from this suite, in a luxury condo on Bay Street,” says listing agent Elli Davis.
The one-bedroom, one-bathroom suite has a combination living and dining room, stainless steel appliances in the kitchen and French doors and a four-piece ensuite bathroom in the master suite. The den has an east view of the city.
(Sold: Spectacular View of the City continued...)May 16th, 2012
There are not many people (in the developed world, at least) who have never heard of the Guinness Book of Records. It is the dream of thousands to be mentioned in this annually updated collection of world records and thereby prove to be exceptionally good at something. Athletes, for instance, are often trying their hardest to not only win but actually break records. It is no different for Canada and some of its citizens. Do you know what are we THE BEST at?
(Canada and World Records continued...)May 14th, 2012
Few suites are listed for sale at The Ports, so when the opportunity presents itself, they sell quickly like this two-bedroom penthouse, which was purchased in a bidding war after just two dozen showings in two days.
May 11th, 2012
Amid a mix of semi and detached homes – many with three bedrooms – this detached, two-bedroom house received about three dozen visitors before one paid $80,000 over the list price to buy it.
(North Toronto Detached Home Fetches $80,000 Over Asking continued...)May 10th, 2012
This year is passing by unbelievably fast! Another month is behind us, which is good news for those who are eager to have fresh updates about the housing market in the Greater Toronto Area. The market report for April 2012 has been published, and here are its findings!
(Housing Market in the GTA – April continued...)May 9th, 2012
Those who have a sweet tooth will probably agree with me that while chocolate is fantastic, it cannot always satisfy our taste buds. Something a little fancier, like a delicious cake or a cute cupcake, is necessary from time to time. Toronto is, luckily, not short of places where you can go and get unbelievably good cakes and cupcakes. In this article, I want to present a short guide to these heavenly places. I should warn you, however, that you might feel an urgent need to eat something sweet after you are done with reading this article — just as I did when I was writing it!
(Toronto's Best Patisseries continued...)May 4th, 2012
Real estate investment is not an easy business. It takes a lot of time, energy, effort, and patience to succeed. Some might feel that they are doing everything they can, yet nothing seems to work. In my opinion, success very much depends on one’s personal qualities. What should one do and what qualities should one posses to be a successful real estate investor? Of course, there is no formula for success, but sometimes it is helpful to generalize.
(Six Real Estate Investor Qualities continued...)May 2nd, 2012
Seeing one of the recently most discussed movies, The Iron Lady, with the Oscar-winning Meryl Streep, made me think about how hard it used to be (and still is) for a woman to succeed in a world led by men. Nonetheless, there are many prominent ladies who worked hard and influenced their countries or even the whole world. This article will be devoted to well known women of the 20th century, all of whom deserve our respect and admiration!
(World’s Most Influential Women continued...)April 24th, 2012
Many of us spend our days sitting at our desks and working, working, working. This lack of movement can contribute to back pain, stiff muscles, stress, and overall poor physical condition. As tiring as it might be after long hours spent at work, we have to start moving! Now that the weather is getting better, it may be good to try some jogging or swimming (inside for now), but how about practicing a sport that makes you move and stretch every single muscle in your body? Yoga is what I am talking about here.
(Yoga in Toronto continued...)April 20th, 2012
What do you imagine when you hear about today’s architecture? Most people associate it with high-rise buildings made of steel, glass, concrete, and stones. Wood is not exactly the material that comes to mind when you think of all the modern, multi-storey buildings. That could, however, change in the near future — and Canada might well contribute to this shift.
(High Rise Buildings Made of Wood continued...)April 17th, 2012
Every year on April 22nd, an estimated 1 billion people around the globe join together to celebrate Earth Day. People of all nationalities, ethnicities, and backgrounds stand united to raise awareness about ecology and the environment.
(Earth Day Toronto 2012 continued...)April 13th, 2012
If you were wondering how March real estate sales in the Greater Toronto Area fared, we have some fresh data for you! As Toronto Real Estate Board President Richard Silver said, “The GTA resale market has not suffered from a lack of willing buyers this year.” Indeed, Greater Toronto REALTORS® reported a noticeable year-to-year increase in sales, which was accompanied by rises in prices and new listings as well.
(Housing Market in the GTA – March continued...)April 13th, 2012
The debt-to-income ratio is currently the most discussed economic data in Canada. It is published each quarter by Statistics Canada and cited innumerably in articles warning about Canada’s rising debt. What does it really mean? And what is your debt-to-income ratio?
(Debt-to-Income Ratio: Canada’s Scarecrow continued...)April 12th, 2012
Real Estate Magazine, an informative resource for those in the industry, features an article this month on “How to Keep Your Clients Loyal”. I was interviewed for the article, and it reminded me of how great it is to have worked with so many of my clients on several of their real estate ventures over the past 29 years. To work in Real Estate you have to be a “people person”, and I must say it is one of my favourite aspects of what I do each day. Read the article to see what top realtors across Canada say about keeping their clients loyal!
(How to Keep Your Clients Loyal continued...)April 12th, 2012
Rammed Earth Wall by Tamsin Slater
People all over the world are trying to increase the efficiency with which their homes use energy, water, and other materials and at the same time reduce the building’s impact on human health and the environment. The most sustainable solutions seem to be the same ones our ancestors used 4,000 years ago. Natural building techniques and materials such as rammed earth are becoming more and more popular.
(Ancient Materials in Modern Sustainable Real Estate continued...)April 11th, 2012
There were about two dozen showings for this two-bedroom-plus-den corner suite situated in a brick mid-rise around the corner from popular restaurants, shops and subway at Yonge Street and St. Clair Avenue. With little turnover in the roughly six-year-old building, two contenders negotiated offers and the property was sold within days.
(Two Contenders For Large Yonge Street Condo continued...)April 10th, 2012
On a stretch of St. Clair Avenue West between Yonge Street and Avenue Road, this two-bedroom corner suite at Granite Place welcomed 25 potential buyers, from young professionals to downsizing homeowners.
(Older Toronto Condo Delivers Space Bonus continued...)April 5th, 2012
The sixth season of The Green Living Show, the biggest green consumer show in North America, is almost here. This three-day event dedicated to promoting sustainable lifestyles will be held from April 13th to 15th at the Direct Energy Centre. More than 424 exhibitors will visit Toronto and exhibit all the latest and most innovative green products and services that can enhance the standard of living in Canada and at the same time boost the green economy.
(The Green Living Show 2012 continued...)April 4th, 2012
For many, morning is their least favourite part of the day. Due to the everyday morning rush and chaos, many people seem to ignore how important the first meal of the day, breakfast, is. That, my friends, is wrong. Those of you who do wake up a bit earlier to enjoy a big, tasty, cooked breakfast or even visit a restaurant are doing it right. Toronto is not only home to many brilliant home cooks (like yourself, I am sure), but also a number of restaurants where you can enjoy a wide variety of amazingly delicious breakfasts. Do you want to know where to go? Read on.
(Best Breakfast in Toronto continued...)March 30th, 2012
Spring is officially here, and the wonderful events taking place in Toronto are proof. Torontonians, do you already have plans for the upcoming weekend? If you do, I sure hope they involve the Spring Cottage Life Show. Never been there before? Read on and find out why the show is a great place to go with your family or friends this weekend.
(The Spring Cottage Life Show 2012 continued...)March 29th, 2012
How easy is it to determine the selling price of a property? There are many factors involved, and sometimes even experienced real estate agents can be surprised by the outcome of a sale.
The Globe and Mail recently presented this quiz, using properties featured in their Done Deals section, to ask you: Can you guess the selling price of these properties?
(Guess the Selling Prices of These Toronto Homes continued...)March 27th, 2012
Situated across the street from Sir Winston Churchill Park and down the street from St. Clair West subway station, this four-storey executive townhouse was initially listed for over $1.2-million. After visits from roughly 40 shoppers and a price reduction to $1,195,000, it ultimately sold for $1,190,000.
(A Tiny Price Cut Moves a Big Casa Loma Home continued...)March 26th, 2012
In a new luxury high-rise on Bloor Street, just across from Varsity Stadium by the Royal Ontario Museum, this two-bedroom plus den suite was initially listed for $1,795,000 and later reduced to $1,750,000. Nine serious buyers had private tours before one signed a deal.
(Nine Visitors to One Bedford, One Buyer continued...)March 23rd, 2012
In a residential pocket between the St. Clair West subway station and the historic Casa Loma landmark, fierce bidding wars have broken out over the last few properties listed for sale, including this detached, brick residence.
Four buyers out of 26 who booked private showings later submitted strong offers.
(Four Bidders Vie For Casa Loma Home continued...)March 22nd, 2012
By: Sunny Freeman, The Canadian Press
Posted by brandonsun.com
TORONTO – An early bout of spring weather helped Canadian home sales pick up in February following two months of declines, defying predictions the market is starting to cool.
(Elli Davis Interviewed: Home Sales, Prices up in February continued...)March 22nd, 2012
According to an RBC report, citizens of Ontario still have to allocate a slightly higher than average proportion of their income to cover their homeownership costs. The affordability measures improved only between 0.2 and 0.3 percentage points in the fourth quarter of 2011.
“This improvement reversed only part of the notable deterioration in the first half of last year so that levels remained slightly above long-term averages, particularly in the two-storey home segment,” says the report. “Nevertheless, there continues to be few signs of strain in the Ontario market due to any lack of affordability.”
(House Affordability in Canada, Ontario and Toronto: Slight Improvement continued...)March 15th, 2012
The Greater Toronto Area housing report from the shortest month of the year has been published! Once again, its results are satisfactory, as a very significant year-to-year rise in sales as well as new listings, and also prices, was recorded. Some might argue that this is because February 2012 was a day longer than February last year, but the report did not neglect this fact either. Even considering only the statistics from the first 28 days; sales, new listings and prices were still up from 2011.
(Housing Market in the GTA – February continued...)March 13th, 2012
There is something about this time of year that makes many people look at their houses differently, wondering what they could renovate, redecorate, or landscape in the upcoming months. After a few months spent cooped up inside their cozy homes, it is no surprise that the flaws start to become apparent, or maybe they just want to refresh their living space. Either way, if you are one of those people, this year’s National Home Show is the place to go!
(The National Home Show & Canada Blooms 2012 continued...)March 11th, 2012
“Reading well is one of the great pleasures that solitude can afford you,” Harold Bloom said. Indeed, there is nothing better than being able to have a little time to yourself to read a good book. While fiction is certainly enjoyable, often it is pleasant to read a book that offers its readers something more than the exciting and intriguing life stories of its characters — a book from which we can learn. In this article, I want to offer a little help for all those who want to know more about real estate investment. Here is the list of the top ten real estate investment books that you will not regret spending a few evenings with.
(Top Ten Real Estate Investment Books continued...)March 9th, 2012
It’s that time of the year again when we all lose an hour of sleep, but get one extra hour of beautiful sunshine for exchange!
In the overnight hours of March 11, clocks will traditionally skip the 2 a.m. hour for the Daylight Savings. This way, the period of daylight in the afternoon hours will be longer than the hours of daylight in the mornings. Slowly moving away from the darker days in winter, we will enjoy more longer days from now on. So don’t forget to set your clocks 1 hour ahead before going to sleep on Saturday night!
(Time to “Spring Forward” Everyone! continued...)March 5th, 2012
While there has hardly been any snow this winter in the streets of Toronto, I’m sure you have occasionally seen your enthusiastic neighbours packing their gear and heading to Blue Mountain for a ski weekend. While drinking home-made hot chocolate and relaxing with a book might be your thing, what about trying some winter sports this March break instead? Get out of town and visit the snowy slopes of some of the most exciting ski resorts in Ontario while they still have snow! Whether you prefer skiing or are the proud owner of a shiny snowboard, we know exactly where to go.
(March Break Skiing Near Toronto continued...)March 2nd, 2012
We live in super modern digital times, my friends. With all the technological advancements such as cell phones, laptops, and tablets, one does not necessarily have to own a wristwatch anymore. Nonetheless, watches do not seem to be any less popular. Today, a wristwatch is much more than just a timepiece — it has become an important fashion accessory and, in many cases, a status symbol.
(Luxury Watches Guide for Toronto continued...)February 17th, 2012
The balcony faces east over Hoggs Hollow, offering a treed view for the occupants of this three-bedroom, three-bathroom suite.
The approximately 2,027-square-foot suite has a combination living and dining room, a powder room and an eat-in kitchen. The master suite has a walk-in closet and a four-piece ensuite bathroom.
The suite also has an additional four-piece bathroom.
(Sold: Suite Faces East Over Hoggs Hollow continued...)February 14th, 2012
Greater Toronto Area housing statistics for the month of January have been published. If you are wondering whether the first month of 2012 was as successful as a great part of 2011, here is the answer: last month, Greater Toronto REALTORS® reported 4,567 sales through the Toronto MLS® system — an increase of 8.8 per cent from the 4,199 homes sold in January 2011!
(Housing Market in the GTA – January continued...)February 13th, 2012
The Royal LePage 2011 Awards Gala was held at Le Parc banquet hall this year. It was a lively evening of dancing, music and merriment…and, of course, a celebration of the achievements of some of Ontario’s top real estate agents!
(Royal LePage 2011 Awards Gala continued...)February 10th, 2012
The abundance of red and pink, heart-shaped chocolates and balloons everywhere in Toronto keep reminding us that Valentine’s Day is coming soon! Some might find it annoying, but the fact is that to many, this day is special.
(Valentine’s Day in Toronto continued...)February 9th, 2012
Toronto Home Magazine featured one of Elli’s listings in their Winter Issue. A stunning suite at 110 Bloor Street West was chosen for its beautiful interior design and architecture. William Mockler and Stuart Watson, of Drawing Room Architect Inc., turned a dark, outdated suite into a modern space, with clean, contemporary design. Read “The Big Picture”.
(Toronto Home Magazine Features 110 Bloor Street West #1905 continued...)February 2nd, 2012
If you follow trends, I am sure you will have noticed all the attention that has been paid to green and organic living in the past couple of years. Toronto, as a modern city, is keeping up with what is fashionable, as well as what is good for its citizens’ health, and therefore places offering organic goods are abundant in the city. Check out the best places to go if you want your life to be as “green” as possible!
(Organic Living in Toronto continued...)January 30th, 2012
More than a dozen buyers booked appointments to view this one-bedroom corner suite in the Lonsdale high-rise in Forest Hill across from Upper Canada College.
(Forest Hill Condo Comes With a View of UCC continued...)January 30th, 2012
Elli’s advice column in the recently published Toronto Life Real Estate Magazine offers some great insight to those considering buying or selling a home in today’s market.
(Toronto Life Real Estate Advice Column continued...)January 27th, 2012
CTV News asked Elli Davis to join them in their studios to discuss a recent bidding war on one of her listings that resulted in 15 offers. In this clip Zuraidah Alman speaks with Elli and takes a look at how the momentum of last year’s housing market is continuing in early 2012.
(CTV News Speaks With Elli Davis: Housing Market Momentum Carries on Into 2012 continued...)January 27th, 2012
2012 is here and, as usual, a new year means new trends and styles. Do you know what they are? As I am not attempting to write a book here, I am not going to talk about everything that is going to be fashionable in 2012. If you are planning to change the look of the interior of your house and you want to know what colours will be hot this year, this could be helpful for you. Listen to the experts; they might well help you make your home a chic and super stylish place.
(Interior Colour Trends of 2012 continued...)January 24th, 2012
In the trendy Bickford Park area, this home is zoned residential/commercial and can be used to run your business from home, says listing agent Elli Davis. “Have a business on the first floor and live on the second and third floors.”
(Sold: Home Zoned Residential/Commercial continued...)January 16th, 2012
A couple of weeks ago, I wrote an article about the best food markets in the world. Do not worry: I am still convinced it is absolutely worth trying and personally experiencing as many of them as possible. If you are travelling to enjoy food, what about finding the most intriguing restaurants of the world and paying a visit to those as well? Amazing food markets combined with unique restaurants will undoubtedly make your trips unforgettable.
(World’s Most Unique Restaurants continued...)January 13th, 2012
Bright sun and the deep blue sea, open air and gentle waves, a summer breeze and the sand beneath your toes. These things are synonymous with a boating lifestyle, and for the 54th year in a row, the Toronto International Boat Show promises to bring you all this and more at the Direct Energy Centre.
(Toronto International Boat Show 2012 continued...)January 12th, 2012
Residential properties in the Casa Loma area rarely come on the market, so it was a good bet there’d be some interest in this three-storey home. But to ensure a quick sale, the home was listed with a price under $1-million.
(Casa Loma Area Home Goes $425,000 Over Asking continued...)January 12th, 2012
I recently heard a story of a woman who is certain that there are ghosts in her home. I found the story of interest and decided to compare the situation with the so-called haunted homes in Toronto. To my surprise, there are many. Whether you believe in ghosts or not, you might find some of the following places pretty exciting. Those who think ghosts exist may be reassured in their belief, and those who do not believe in their existence could find it entertaining at the least.
(Haunted Places in Toronto continued...)January 11th, 2012
Another month, and in this case, another year, is over! What does this mean? Yes, it is time to summarize. Let me start with the Greater Toronto Area housing statistics, as reported by Greater Toronto Realtors. This past month has been quite successful, with 4,718 homes sold in the GTA through the Toronto MLS® system. In comparison, in December 2010, only 4,286 sales were recorded.
(Housing Market in the GTA – December continued...)January 9th, 2012
In early 2007, the Conference Board of Canada and Genworth Financial Canada released a joint study on the Toronto condominium market. The report concluded that the price of a resale condominium would increase an average of 4 per cent annually — from $239,816 in 2006 to $292,077 by 2011.
(Dynamics of the Toronto Condominium Boom continued...)January 4th, 2012
Toronto fans of historic buildings, this article is for you! Have you ever tried to find, and then personally view, some of the oldest buildings in our city? It could be fun. While Toronto sometimes seems like a super-modern city, old buildings are not so hard to find here. Even though their age is nowhere near that of the oldest buildings in the world, they are worth a visit.
(Oldest Buildings in Toronto continued...)
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