Grace & Co. Magazine Fall/Winter 2023/24

FUELLING FAMILY

WELLNESS DANIELLE BINNS’ GUIDE TO WINTER NUTRITION

TORONTO’S WINTER

WONDERLAND

OUR TEAM’S FAVOURITE SEASONAL ACTIVITIES

43 HANNA AVE: LUXURY LIVING IN INDUSTRIAL ELEGANCE

Reasons to Consider Automated Window Shades

Silhouette® Window Shades

At the push of a buuon - or the tap of a screen - the home is transformed.

This is the power of automated window treatments. Here are a few of our favourite reasons to choose Powerview.®.

Sophisscated Funccon Smart window coverings allow you to use the stylish pebble remote or a smart home system to control the atmosphere, lighhng and privacy of your home. Schedule adjustments, use voice control, or even set your shades to respond to temperature changes in your home.

Vignette® Duolite® Shades

Increased Privacy Leaving for an extended vacaaon? Set your shades to rise and fall from anywhere in the world so you can get the peace of mind you and your family deserve.

Gorgeous Design + Style With automated shades you can adjust the soo fabric vanes of your shades to change with the light and mood of the space. With Silhoueee® Halo shades you can even lt the vanes upward for more light control.

Powerview® Pirouette® Shades

990 Kingston Road, Toronto, ON 416.755.1990

Upgrade Your Lifestyle From the moment you wake up to when you go to sleep you’re on the move - why should your shades be any different? With Powerview® automaaon you get the on-trend styles of contemporary shades with the innovaave technology you’re looking for.

Visit our Beaches Showroom to start your project! © 2023 Hunter Douglas. All rights reserved. All trademarks used herein are the property of Hunter Douglas.

We can help you flip your house!

As the real estate remains unsettled, one trend is clear. Buyers are drawn to turnkey homes.

With all of us leading increasingly busier lives, the thought of walking into a home that requires no work once you collect your keys is at the top of most buyers' minds.

Allow our Design Team to help you identify key strategic updates that, if made prior to selling your home, will dramatically increase the price of your home. Then, let them manage the whole process for you.

For most of us, that extra money made on the sale of your home is tax free!

Scan the QR below or call to discuss how we can help you sell for more: (416) 699-9295

RE/MAX Hallmark Realty Ltd., Brokerage

editor's note

H How’s the market?

This is single-handedly the question I have been asked the most over the past 17 years – whether I’m meeting with a new client to discuss their goals in buying and/or selling a property, relaxing on the patio at the Balmy Beach Club, or out for a quick nine at the Hunt Club (which sadly, rarely happens these days). It’s a question that Realtors are taught to reply to with, “It depends; are you thinking of buying or selling?”

Truthfully, it really does depend. A strong seller’s market is fantastic for those cashing in and leaving the city or downsizing to a less expensive property, where the percentage value increase of their next property is a smaller relative number to the gains they have realized on their more expensive home. A strong buyer’s market is an opportunity for firsttime buyers, investors, or those looking to up-size to a more expensive property that has realized a larger decrease in price than their current property that is at a lower price point.

As I write this, Toronto’s real estate market has entered a balanced market for the first time in 20 years – outside of a brief moment during the 2008 global financial crisis. A balanced market is defined by there being 4-6 months of inventory available for sale, and we have just crested four months.

This is not a bad thing. Balanced markets allow buyers to take time and make educated purchases without the pressure of bidding wars or a fear of missing out.

That said, looking at real estate stats from a blanket City of Toronto standpoint isn’t a clear picture into your specific situation. Toronto is truly a city of neighbourhoods, and not only does each neighbourhood have its own supply and demand environment, but the type of real estate can greatly alter the story. For example, inventory level for condos sits at 5.3 months, while detached homes still fall into a seller’s market at 3.4 months. And if we look at detached homes in the Beach, we are sitting at only two months of inventory!

What rings true is that in today’s environment, a home must be priced accurately and strongly marketed. Browsing MLS, you can see there are several homes that have been sitting on the market for more than a month, while in the last three weeks, our team has sold four properties – two of which attracted three buyers each and sold over their list price without underpricing or a bidding date.

If you are looking to capitalize on this market, it may not remained balanced for long and the window to take advantage of mispriced or under-marketed properties will pass.

So, my answer to that most frequently asked question? While slower than most of us have grown accustomed to, the market is healthy – you simply need the right Realtor, with experience selling in a balanced market, to help you get the best results.

Our family has lived in the Beach since 1986, and we have been selling homes here since 1989. So, if you are looking to move, are curious what your home is worth or simply want to chat real estate – we are here to help guide you to success!

Geoffrey Grace, Sales Representative & Editor @Grace_Homes @GraceHomesToronto

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CONTACT US TODAY! • (416) 699-9295 • gracehomes.com Re/Max Hallmark Realty Ltd.,Brokerage independently owned & operated.

CREATE THE HOME OF YOUR DREAMS

Take 2 Design Management

At Elite Construction and Renovations, our clients’ needs come first. Upon your initial meeting, you’ll know you’re working with a company that cares about your project as much as you do.

We promise to work with our clients to help them fulfill their vision of their dream home.

INFILLS | ADDITIONS | RENOVATIONS | UNDERPINS | INTERIOR & ARCHITECTURAL DESIGN

If you love your neighbourhood, but find the layout of your home is too small or just isn’t working for you, Elite Construction and Renovations can help.

ELITE-CONSTRUCTION.CA 416-888-8417 | info@elite-construction.ca

You make most of your money in a bear market, you just don't realize it at the time.

- Shelby Cullom Davis

Jason Georgopoulos

LEGEND AWARD

2021

Mortgage Broker with over 20 years' experience!

With this years unprecedented changes to interest rates its more important than ever to get expert advice. Let me help you navigate today’s challenging mortgage market. With access to over 40 lenders, I can tailor your mortgage product to your specific situation.

Please contact me for a complimentary assessment of your financing options.

Phone: 416.690.1502 | Toll Free: 1.866.690.8631 Fax: 416.690.1164 Email: Jason@betterborrower.ca Web: www.betterborrower.ca Address: 2301 Queen St E, Toronto ON M4E 1G7 Dominion Lending Centres Estate Mortgages Inc. | FSRA Lic #11363 Each Franchise is Independently Owned & Operated

in this issue

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36 ON THE COVER 43 Toronto's Winter Wonderland

Our Team's Favourite Seasonal Activities

REAL ESTATE 15 Home Sweet New Home

Grace & Co.'s New Office on Queen and Wheeler

26 Creating the Perfect First Impression

The Art of Home Staging

36 43 Hanna Ave

Luxury Living in Industrial Elegance

40 Spring Market Debut

Proactive Steps to Prepare Your Home

46 Unlocking the Value of Your Home

Smart Design Tips for a Quick & Lucrative Sale

50 Grace & Co. Listings Real Estate Refined

78 Making Sense of the Market

LIFESTYLE 10 Shop The Look with Grace & Co.

18 Savouring Fall

Roast Chicken Dinner

22 Holiday Gift Guide Top Picks From The Grace & Co. Team

31 Fuelling Family Wellness Danielle Binns’ Guide to Winter Nutrition

74 Glamour & Grace

Elevate Your Holiday Decor

G R ACE & C O. H O MES AN D L I F E S T YLE FA L L / WI N TER 20 2 3 /2 4 V O L U ME 6

Savouring Fall with Sebastien & Sheila Centner Celebrate the season change with a classic roast chicken dinner

EDITORS Geoffrey Grace Lauren Lowe CREATIVE DIRECTOR Kelsey Addison GRAPHIC DESIGNER Cat Haynes CONTRIBUTORS Danielle Binns Martha Uniacke Breen Sebastien Centner Sheila Centner Geoffrey Grace Sarah Grace Sheila Shabsove PHOTOGRAPHERS Birdhouse Media ADVERTISING admin@gracehomes.com PUBLISHER

PreferredPublishing.ca Published in Canada

gracehomesandlifestyle.com Information is subject to errors and omissions.

Not intended to solicit properties currently for sale.

LIVE EVERY DAY LIKE IT’S FRIDAY

Nestled in nature on the shores of Lake Simcoe.

Explore Friday Harbour’s collection of retail and dining on the Promenade, or “always on” entertainment, signature events and activations for all seasons. Discover tranquility in the Nature Preserve or challenge yourself at the award-winning Nest Golf Course.

Plan your escape to Friday Harbour, just one hour north of the GTA. fridayharbour.com | @officialfridayharbour

SHOP THE LOOK WITH GRACE & CO. Exceptional staging – that is, adding the perfect furniture, accessories, and finishing touches that show off the homes we sell to their very best – is a hallmark of our work at Grace & Co. Over the years, many of our clients and friends have asked if they could hire our talented designers to bring that same great look to their own homes – even if they have no plans to sell.

Well, we listened! Grace & Co. is making our exceptional design services available to everyone—helping you choose just the right touches to make your home uniquely beautiful.

On these three pages, we’ll show you exactly what we can do for you. Contact us at design@gracehomes.com for more information, and to book your consultation today!

DARNELL DINING TABLE $3,285

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CULLEN COUNTER STOOL $558

SOLENE DINING CHAIR $750

AMARA LOUNGE CHAIR $1,098

FOUR HANDS ANTONIA BED $3,015

gracehomesandlifestyle.ca

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SHOP THE LOOK WITH GRACE & CO. BJÖRKSNÄS BED FRAME $729

ISADOR NIGHTSTAND $900 RICHIE LOUNGE CHAIR $1,198

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“A beautiful space starts from the ground up with a weavers art…”

Palm Beach 143 – Blue, Gold

– Michael Pourvakil

Palm Beach 120 – Purple, Gold

The Palm Beach Collection Elevate the foundation of your interior space with the inclusion of these gorgeous abstract designs from our Palm Beach Collection. They showcase serene pools of blue and purple, enhanced by intricately carved, abstract gold accents that converge to form a luxuriously shaded flowing pattern. Handmade using a rich blend of New Zealand wool and the silk-like LuxcelleTM fibres, these rugs are impeccably tailored to complete your living space.

VISIT OUR NEW SHOWROOM 120 Tycos Drive, Unit 2 Toronto, ON M6B 1V9

Tel 416 929 7929 weaversart.com

You won't see these homes on MLS! Frustrated with the lack of good homes on MLS? Grace & Co. helps clients find, and buy, their dream homes before other buyers ever know about them.

Because our brokerage sells 2 times more homes in the Beach than any other real estate brokerage, and the strong relationships we have developed over 34 years selling in the community, we frequently have access to properties that are available for sale but not listed on the public MLS. This provides our clients with a strong competitive advantage that can mean the difference between finding their dream home or continuing to search for years.

Scan the QR below or call to tell us what your dream home looks like: (416) 699-9295

RE/MAX Hallmark Realty Ltd., Brokerage

By Martha Uniacke Breen

With shipshape new quarters on the corner of Queen and Wheeler, Grace & Co. sets sail for a new space to call home.

There’s been a change in the wind for Grace & Co. – in the form of a new home.

From the time of its founding in 1989, Grace & Co.’s home office was tucked inside the larger Beach headquarters of first, Royal LePage and later, RE/MAX, with whom the team worked. But according to Geoffrey Grace, who heads the second generation of Grace family representatives and their colleagues, the time had come to find a space that truly reflected the team's culture and values.

“Even though we had great offices inside the brokerage, our team is growing, and the physical space we had wasn’t functioning well,” says Geoffrey. “We felt like we were hiding who we are and the unique services we offer home buyers, sellers and investors.”

Ironically, as specialists in residential real estate in the Beach and many of the most desirable neighbourhoods in Toronto, “home” figures prominently in the bright new location they chose. For one thing, it’s right on the corner of Queen Street East and Wheeler Avenue –the very same street that the Grace family has called home for 37 years, and where Geoffrey grew up. “I remember picking up dry cleaning for my dad in this very location,” he recalls.

With fresh white paint and navy signage that elegantly showcase the company brand and its services, the office has a coastal feel, entirely fitting for a real estate team that focuses on the Beach. Step over the threshold (where “Est. 1989” is spelled out in penny tile, a nostalgic touch), and the first thing you see is not a reception desk or walls of closed offices, but an inviting seating nook in the sunshine – made for sitting down for a chat with your Grace & Co. agent.

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In the centre of the space is the Design Centre, where clients can select from samples of tile, flooring, and other improvements that can often make a huge difference in the selling price of a home.

Known as “Designed to Sell,” the service has been so successful that clients have even started asking the in-house design team for advice and help redecorating their new homes, even though they have no intention of selling!

Location is everything in real estate, of course, and this one is as close to ideal as it gets: in the heart of the Beach, across from Kew Gardens and the library.

Huge southwest windows fill the interior with light; in winter when the trees are bare, you can see clear down to the sun sparkling on the lake. Those same windows are perfect for displaying current properties for sale, where hundreds of people a day strolling along Queen Street can stop and look for their new home.

The office has a coastal feel, entirely fitting for a real estate team that focuses on the Beach.

“We have always considered ourselves leaders in our industry, who put quality and attention to detail above everything,” says Geoffrey. “Our new storefront not only creates a wonderful working environment for the team, but it allows our discerning clients to trust that we speak their language, and that they and their homes will be properly represented. Finally, we have a space that truly reflects that.”

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C E L E B R AT E T H E S E A S O N C H A N G E W I T H A CLASSIC ROAST CHICKEN DINNER

By Sebastien & Sheila Centner

Any time of year is a great time to enjoy comfort foods – but of course, there’s nothing like the Fall season to ignite those cravings. For many of us, the smell of freshly prepared roast chicken reminds us of relaxing nights and home-cooked meals shared with loved ones. Though some may reserve roast chicken for the holidays or special occasions, there is no reason that such a simple, yet delicious meal can’t be a staple in your family’s dinner routine!

One of the great things about comfort foods is they never go out of style. A meal like roast chicken always seems to be a crowd-pleaser across a variety of ages and palates.

In addition to being a family favourite, roast chicken is an affordable and easy-to-prepare meal that doesn’t require many ingredients or preparation. One quick trip to the grocery store and you’re all set.

When setting the table for a comfortable meal, it can sometimes be difficult to straddle the line between 18

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too casual and too formal. Our approach is to keep things simple but add one or more subtle accents to give the table a slightly more upscale look.

Start with a crisp white tablecloth, adding light accents of beige and pink. Beige placemats, along with simple flatware and plain white plates, do a great job of keeping your table well-balanced. Light florals, like pale pink and light peach roses set in small bunches, can really bring a touch of elegance to your table’s overall aesthetic without adding too much formality.

Photography: Bruce Gibson

Next, we get into our main course.

Instead of individually plating each portion of roast chicken along with its side dishes, we recommend serving everything family style as it’s less demanding on the hosts and allows guests to choose the quantity of each dish themselves based on their personal preference. It also makes helping yourself to seconds less awkward!

If you’re looking for a chic way to make the table a bit more special, you can always add place cards that immediately bring things up a notch. We suggest a cute napkin tied with string or ribbon featuring a painted egg and name card to personalize the table setting.

As our guests begin to settle in and grab their drinks they will have the opportunity to nibble on snacks like mixed nuts, marinated olives, salted chips and our seasoned Emmental cubes, each presented in small bowls of varying sizes.

Each of these self-serve snacks helps tide our guests over before we sit for dinner.

Since roast chicken can be a heavy meal, we like to start with a smaller appetizer before serving the main course.

Vichyssoise soup – a chilled potato, leak and onion soup – is a delicious alternative to more traditional appetizers, and bridges the gap between the cocktail hour snacks from earlier and the main course being served next.

While some may decide to serve this appetizer more traditionally in bowls or cups, we like to serve it in tall shot glasses for easy consumption and cleanup. To save yourself time the day of your dinner, you can make the Vichyssoise a couple of days in advance, but when serving the shooters be sure to top the glasses off with a bit of cream before sprinkling a garnish of chopped chives.

A roast chicken dinner wouldn’t be complete without a variety of side dishes. Some of our favourites include Cauliflower Gratin, Brown Butter Carrots and, of course, Sheila’s famous Patates.

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TIPS & TRICKS

Seb & Sheila Say As guests begin to arrive, we like to welcome them with a fun and theme-suited cocktail. For the roast chicken dinner, we are serving a bourbon grapefruit cocktail with grapefruit garnish.

This cocktail is extremely easy to make and pairs beautifully with the small appetizers your guests will nibble on before dinner.

With a family-style meal, it’s important to think about positioning when you bring your main course and sides to the table. Some simple planning before your guests arrive can help ensure there is space allocated to each dish, and the table doesn’t feel overcrowded.

For dessert we are serving creamy baked pears – a delicious and infrequently used recipe that is sure to have your guests asking for more – baked and topped with butter and sugar. You’ll be hard pressed to find someone that can’t find room for this delicious dessert, even with a stomach full of roast chicken!

For guests who don’t consume alcohol, we suggest offering a non-alcoholic grapefruit spritzer with garnish. Like the bourbon grapefruit cocktail mentioned above, it’s an easy drink to make and can be served as a batch mocktail as well.

Since eventually we will be moving to wines with dinner, our suggestion is to pick your favourite white and red wine, since either is well suited to roast chicken. And of course, water is always on the table, and since bottled water is going the way of the dinosaur, we’ve found that serving tap water in varying shapes and colours of bottles makes for an interesting conversation starter.

We’ve used rosé bottles, vodka bottles and even antique decanters.

@sebcentner @sheilacentner @sebandsheila @eatertainment @appetite_randomhouse Content from Eatertainment – Recipes and Ideas for Effortless Entertaining by Sebastien & Sheila Centner published by Appetite Penguin Random House and available at Indigo, Amazon, Barnes & Noble, etc – full list and links at www.sebandsheila.com/eatertainment-book

When hosting any type of meal served "family-style" (meaning on platters or with large sharing dishes), consider using an assortment of smaller vases for your florals. These smaller vases can easily be shifted or shuffled if you need extra table space to put the platters down.

We suggest you wait until the day before your dinner party to shop for florals, as you might find already opened roses on sale!

For snacks like olives and Emmental cubes, offer toothpicks for guests to easily enjoy – but also include a small empty vessel with one snapped toothpick that indicates where your guests can discard used toothpicks.

When planning out your table place empty platters, boards and serving dishes on the table when you set it, then remove these before guests arrive – so when the dishes are eventually served you know exactly where they will fit.

If you’re entertaining a large group and don’t feel like pouring cocktails all night, set up a little cocktail station with a charming recipe card for easy self-service.

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Holiday GIFT

Guide TOP PICKS FROM THE GRACE & CO. TEAM

VODKA SODA WITH HASKAP BERRY & APPLE JUICE: Slightly sweet, slightly tart, and completely refreshing.

Its beautiful light red hue comes from Haskap berry juice, an emerging superfruit grown right here in Ontario. {wildlot.ca}

Ian enjoys sharing the spirit of the season with family and friends through carefully selected wines and spirits. He cherishes the tradition of gifting products acquired from his recent vineyard adventures, like those from Prince Edward County. One standout favourite is the Wild Lot Farm Spritzer, a true gem that can't be found on LCBO shelves, making each pre-ordered bottle a special and heartfelt holiday surprise.

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APPLE CIDER CANDLE: Made by Sara's Soaps and Candles, and sold at The Sweetest Things, this candle features an abundance of fruits and spices. {the-sweetest-things.ca}

H2 HIBISCUS GIN: Hawaiian Hibiscus flower gives this gin a beautifully sweet aroma, with elegant floral flavours. {99bottleshop.com}

Sheila's holiday tradition is all about creating heartwarming baskets filled with local delights for her cherished ones.

Her favourite shopping spots include Collected Joy, Corbin Catering and Foods, and The Sweetest Things. She also loves to include something from our local 99 Bottles, a licensed cafe and boutique shop offering a selection of wine, spirits, and gourmet treats, perfect for festive entertaining.

POKOLOKO TURKISH TOWELS: Designed to elevate your bath, beach, home, outfits or adventures ahead. Quick-drying and longlasting. {collected-joy.com}

Gift

WRAPPING IDEAS Sarah's favourite quick relaxation trick? Shower steamers, like those from Collected Joy, infuse essential oils into your daily shower routine. And don't miss their Mai Lin Reminder Bracelets with special messages – universal gifts that add positivity and style to anyone's day.

SHOWER STEAMERS: Boost your mornings with menthol eucalyptus or lemongrass orange, or unwind after a long day with soothing lavender and bergamot.

Extend the life of your shower steamer with our wooden trays. {collected-joy.com}

Gift wrapping is an art that adds a personal touch to your presents. Here are some creative gift wrapping ideas and techniques to make your gifts even more special:

1. TRADITIONAL ELEGANCE: Classic wrapping paper with a silky ribbon and a hand-tied bow exudes timeless charm.

Use high-quality paper and coordinate the colours to match the occasion.

2. FUROSHIKI: This Japanese technique involves wrapping gifts in reusable cloth. It's eco-friendly and adds a touch of sophistication. Learn different folding styles for versatility.

3. NATURAL ELEMENTS: Incorporate elements from nature, such as pinecones, twigs, or dried flowers. These adornments add a rustic, organic feel to your gift.

4. ORIGAMI EMBELLISHMENTS: Add intricate origami creations like cranes or flowers as decorative accents. They can be keepsakes themselves.

5. PERSONALIZED TAGS: MAI LIN REMINDER BRACELETS: Wear it, love it, live life. When it falls off, reflect on the memories and moments it represents. Cherish, appreciate, and send up a prayer of gratitude. Then let go and move forward. {collected-joy.com}

Craft or order custom gift tags with the recipient's name or a heartfelt message.

They add a personal touch to any wrapping style.

Remember, the thought and effort you put into wrapping can enhance the recipient's excitement and appreciation, making the gift-giving experience even more memorable.

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Holiday GIFT GUIDE HANDCRAFTED SOAPS: Luxurious handmade soaps from The Holmstead Farm. Made with fresh goat milk, all natural and sustainable. {thecuratedmarketco.com}

Jackie is a dedicated supporter of local artisans and treasures her visits to The Curated Market Co., a charming store in the Beach that celebrates small businesses and showcases handcrafted treasures. This holiday season, Jackie's top gifting picks include beautifully crafted soaps and whimsical wooden gramophones – both unique and thoughtful gifts that capture the essence of local craftsmanship.

PAUL SMITH SOCKS: These finely knit socks exemplify the label's quirky British attitude.

This cotton-blend design is perfect for elevating everyday outfits. {harryrosen.com}

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WOODEN GRAMOPHONES: Designed and handcrafted by Baker Street Creations. You simply place your phone on it and it amplifies the music! {thecuratedmarketco.com}

Chelsea knows that everyone appreciates a cozy toque, which is why she adores the Lindo F "build your own pombo" concept.

With the ability to customize the base, colour, pattern, and pom-pom, it's the perfect holiday gift. Give the gift of warmth and style with a personal touch this holiday season.

Geoffrey is renowned for his vibrant and sometimes whimsical sock collection, and his passion extends to gifting them as well! His ultimate destination for the finest selection of men's socks is none other than Harry Rosen.

BUILD YOUR OWN POMBO: What is a Pombo you ask? It’s a hat and pom combo. Follow our steps to create your own interchangeable, mix & match fur pom hat with a click of a snap! {lindof.com}

sentaler.com

CREATING THE PERFECT

THE ART OF HOME STAGING

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In this world of instant gratification, buyers want to walk into a home or condo and feel like they can return with their suitcases, simply unpack, and enjoy their new space from day one.

At Grace & Co., we understand that. So when we assist our sellers by providing potential buyers with that experience, we sell their home or condo for more money, quickly – just what most sellers want!

Our listing agent and staging team put together a tailored plan for every one of our clients' homes. Sometimes the only requirement is a thorough declutter; other times, we are replacing some of the client's art and furniture with our inventory. And sometimes, as in the townhome in this article, our clients have already moved and are giving us their property vacant, so we stage it from top to bottom.

There are two main goals when staging your property.

Firstly, our team wants to ensure that every room in your home is utilized to its full potential. Often, a bedroom is used as a den or home office, but to maximize saleability, we always prefer to transform that space back into a bedroom. During COVID, for example, we looked at how people's interaction with their homes was forced to change, so we began looking for ways to showcase an area in the home for working out as well as a convenient space for working from home.

Secondly, we want to ensure that a buyer falls in love within the first seven seconds of browsing your home online to increase

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the chances they will book an in-person viewing. Real estate purchases are often led by the heart, not the head, so we want the furnishings to complement or elevate your space. When looking for top dollar for your home, you need to provide an experience similar to a new home sales centre – a clean, well-lit space with furnishings, art, and accessories that could be from your buyer's favourite shop and even some subtle music playing in the background! It's not enough for a buyer to like your home; they have to fall in love with it.

Our featured staging is of a three-bedroom townhome just west of the Beach. Spurred by retirement, our clients wanted to move to Cobourg (where we connected them with a great Realtor) and naturally wanted to realize every single dollar they could for their home in Toronto.

Our clients were nervous because a neighbouring townhouse in their development had sold last Fall, by another Realtor, for considerably less than they had anticipated. We had seen this happen in this development in the past and assured them that if presented properly, we would be able to get them much more for their home – as we had for four of their neighbours in the past.

They took advantage of our Designed to Sell program and replaced the carpets in the second-floor bedrooms with hardwood.

Then we turned our focus to a full stage.

Before they moved, their furniture was well-scaled to the size of their living and dining rooms, but it didn't appeal to the 30-somethings who were likely to be the buyers of their home. So, we ensured that the furniture, art, and accessories that we styled the home with would help convey the perception that this 20-year-old home felt newer than it actually was.

We ensured that the furniture, art, and accessories that we styled the home with would help convey the perception that this 20-year-old home felt newer than it actually was.

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Scan here to get in touch

Our clients were thrilled with how their home looked

Because it was only two people living in a fourlevel, three-bedroom home, a large second bedroom had been set up and used as a media room, and the smaller third bedroom was a home office. We ensured to show both those spaces as serene bedrooms – with the larger of the two accommodating a queen bed and the smaller set up with playful décor, as many purchasers of these towns are coming from condo living where they have outgrown their space due to the addition of a new family member.

Our clients were thrilled with how their home looked and even more thrilled with the result we achieved for them! One of their neighbours had sold the week before, with six competing offers.

We secured nine buyers for their home and beat that last sale by $110,000! And that neighbouring sale that they were worried might drag down their value… we beat it by nearly $350,000!!

At Grace & Co., we realize that home décor is akin to fashion. Each season brings new styles

Our listing agent and staging team put together a tailored plan for every one of our clients' homes.

and trends. And furniture, like clothing, can dip in and out of style every few years. Homeowners cannot be expected to keep up with popular colours and the latest design innovations. But, with the help of our staging team, you can update the style in your home with ease and at no cost!

At no cost, we style your home with the furniture, art, and accessories found on the pages of your favourite interior design magazines, making each one of our clients' homes magazine-worthy!

Sometimes, our clients don't need or want staging, and that's totally fine with us. Staging isn't a requirement to hire Grace & Co. But, if you would like to explore how our team can transform your home to help you achieve top dollar in as short a time period as possible, drop by our office at Queen & Wheeler, give us a call at (416) 699-9295, or email admin@gracehomes.com.

To view more of our before and after galleries, visit www.gracehomes.com/staging.

Complimentary Staging that Sells In a world of instant gratification, well funded buyers want to see your home exactly as they envision themselves living in it.

Not every home requires staging, but for those that will benefit from it, we offer customized staging plans with high quality furniture, art & accessories - all at no cost to you.

No strings attached and no 30 day limits.

Scan the QR below or call us to discuss your customized staging plan: (416) 699-9295

RE/MAX Hallmark Realty Ltd., Brokerage

DANIELLE BINNS:

FUELLING

FAMILY WELLNESS A GUIDE TO WINTER NUTRITION

Are you up for making family feeding easier this season? Being a mom of three, I get the struggle.

It seems like a chore to pack creative lunches (another ham sandwich, anyone?).

Hustling back home to cook dinner (fingers crossed everyone eats). Concerned whether our kids are getting enough nutrition for school, while ensuring we are nourished and energized too. And, oh, keeping the family immune system in check to avoid seasonal illnesses (sniffles, coughs, sneezes...you know the drill).

After all, the research is clear: what we eat impacts our brain function and immune health. So, as the temperature drops, here are six essential nutrients to keep everyone healthy.

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IMMUNO-BLISS

SMOOTHIE

Ingredients: • 1 cup kefir or plain yogurt (probiotic-rich fermented food) • 1 orange (vitamin C-rich) • ½ cup frozen berries (antioxidant-rich) • 1 small banana (for sweetness and creaminess) • 1 tablespoon chia or flaxseeds (omega-3 fatty acids) • 1 tablespoon pumpkin seeds (zinc and iron-rich) • 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup (optional, for sweetness) • ½ cup orange juice (Vitamin C-rich) or water, for

optimal consistency

Instructions: 1. Wash the spinach, orange, and strawberries thoroughly.

2. Blend all ingredients on high speed until smooth (add water if too thick).

3. Pour into a glass and serve immediately.

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Research in the "Journal of Nutrition" shows zinc deficiency can impair immune cell function. "Antiviral Research" also indicates that zinc stops several viruses, including the common cold, from replicating.

Enjoy these foods: meat, fish, poultry, beans, nuts, eggs, and dairy.

"The Journal of Experimental Medicine" states iron is essential for neutrophils (a type of white blood cell) to produce reactive oxygen species that kill bacteria.

Enjoy these foods: meat, seafood, beans, lentils, nuts, seeds, and whole grains.

According to the "Journal of Antimicrobial Chemotherapy," vitamin C has antiviral properties that inhibit virus replication, including the influenza virus.

Enjoy these foods: fruits (oranges, strawberries, kiwifruit) and vegetables (bell peppers, broccoli, spinach).

Omega-3 fatty acids have anti-inflammatory and other properties that are crucial for regulating immune response.

Enjoy these foods: fatty fish (remember “SMASH” - salmon, mackerel, anchovies, sardines, herring), flaxseeds, chia seeds, walnuts.

A healthy gut microbiome is vital for immune function, since a large part of the immune system resides in the gut.

Enjoy these foods: kimchi, kefir, sauerkraut, natural yogurt, tempeh, miso. Opt for products with live, active cultures that have not been pasteurized.

Antioxidants protect immune cells from oxidative damage, and they are essential for maintaining immune function.

Consuming 100mg of vitamin C with a meal (about a cup of raw bell pepper slices) can increase the absorption of non-heme iron (found in plants) by about four times!

Enjoy these foods: fruits (berries, pomegranate, oranges, kiwi), vegetables (leafy greens, broccoli, artichokes, bell peppers), dark chocolate (at least 70% cocoa), nuts, seeds, and yes, coffee too (phew!).

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A

s a nutritionist, I know the essential nutrients our children need. But here's what I've learned in the past decade from working with thousands of families: raising a healthy family is not just about what we feed our children.

I can tell you to serve a rainbow of fruits and veggies, a well-balanced plate of macronutrients, along with the immune-supporting foods mentioned above. But that is only helpful if your child will happily eat them. That's why my work focuses on how to offer foods in the most engaging way, even for the pickiest eaters.

I also know the stress that comes with having a child who doesn’t eat well – and feeding a busy family (pure chaos!). Well, the American Psychological Association found that parents with children under 18 reported higher stress levels than adults without children. And a study in the "Appetite" journal found children's picky eating was linked to higher stress in parents.

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It's evident that something so essential, food, is a significant stressor for families. Questions like these circle our minds on a regular basis: What should I feed my child? What if they don’t eat what I make? What if my child isn't getting enough nutrition?

I've been there. My eldest daughter was an "extreme picky eater.” I remember it vividly…

After a regular weight check showed no growth improvement, our pediatrician shared that my daughter was "failing to thrive." The pressure to ensure she got adequate nutrition was immense. So I spent a year studying children’s eating, learning from pediatric experts, and acquiring certifications until I developed a mealtime plan for my daughter. Fast forward a few years, and my "little girl" is unrecognizable at the table. She’s willing to try most foods and is thriving.

NUTRI-BOOST

BITES

Dark meat (from poultry) contains about double the zinc and iron than white meat.

For example, 100g of chicken leg has 2.28mg of zinc, while the same amount of chicken breast has only 0.97mg.

Here are some tips to make feeding your family easier:

1) CREATE A CALM MEALTIME ENVIRONMENT. Pressure or anxious energy at the table can cause adrenaline spikes and a drop in appetite, reducing the desire to try new foods.

2) FOCUS ON EXPOSURE, NOT EATING. Ingredients: • 1 cup oats (zinc and fibre-rich) • ½ cup pumpkin seeds (zinc and iron-rich) • ½ cup nut or seed butter (antioxidant and healthy fat-rich) • ¼ cup honey or maple syrup (for sweetness) • ¼ cup dark chocolate chips (antioxidant and iron-rich) • ¼ cup orange juice (vitamin C-rich) • 2 tablespoons chia or flaxseeds (omega-3 fatty acids)

We can't control what our kids consume.

Encouraging them to eat veggies or try new food might work, but for the wrong reasons.

Instead, prioritize opportunities to expose them to more variety, while encouraging your child to get acquainted with rejected foods (without the pressure to eat).

3) ENGAGE THEIR SENSES. Eating uses every organ, and all sensory systems (touch, sight, sound, taste, smell, etc.). Letting your child explore and engage with foods in a fun way helps them develop the necessary skills for eating.

Instructions: 1. In a food processor, pulse oats and pumpkin seeds until coarsely ground.

2. In a large bowl, combine all ingredients. If the mixture is too dry, add orange juice (one tablespoon at a time) until the mixture holds together when pressed.

3. Roll into 1-inch balls and place on a lined tray.

4. Refrigerate for at least one hour to firm up.

5. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week.

Feeding your family (while nourishing your own body) can be challenging. But remember, raising a healthy family is more than a balanced plate of nutrients. It’s about the environment we create, our relationship with food, and the habits we model for the next generation.

Danielle Binns is a Certified Nutritionist, Wellness Speaker, and Picky Eating Expert.

Follow @daniellebinnsnutrition on Instagram or visit daniellebinns.com for more info.

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HANNA

AVE A Rare Opportunity for Luxury Living in Industrial Elegance

Our city boasts a rich history of turn-ofthe-century industrial buildings, and as manufacturing moves away from the core, a handful of these beautiful post-andbeam properties have been converted into stunning residential lofts.

At some point in the lives of most Torontonians, they have dreamt of living in a hard loft. Iconic buildings such as the Toy Factory, Tip Top Lofts, and Broadview Lofts offer such an opportunity!

Over a decade ago, we helped a family sell their home in Woodbine Park and make the move to Ottawa. With a keen eye for design, they settled into a beautiful Barry Hobin-designed home in the Glebe and began raising their children. But, one by one, as the kids grew up, they migrated back to Toronto until our clients found themselves empty nesters in a home larger than they needed and a four-hour drive from their children. When they decided to return to Toronto, they wanted to scratch an itch they had always had – living in a hard loft conversion with worldly character and charm. However, given their keen eye for design and fine finishes, a builder-level suite wouldn't suffice. Now, they are moving on, and there is a rare opportunity to own one of the most significant lofts in Toronto.

The perfect space for entertaining guests or enjoying meals with the entire family.

This residence is one of a collection of five suites in the Toy Factory, originally the home of the Irwin Toy company, that were held back from initial sales.

Each was custom-designed and offers stunning rooftop terraces. With 3,175 square feet of interior living space, this property is the largest in the building and lives more like a home than a condo.

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The original owner, an early Facebook employee, spared no expense when he gutted the suite back to the bricks and invested two years and well into seven figures to bring his dream to reality. Every fixture in the home is of the highest quality, down to the smallest details such as the light switches and receptacles.

In the heart of the suite is a dining room large enough to seat 12 or more, with a wraparound staircase that climbs 30 feet to an operable skylight, flanked by a custom-designed and temperaturecontrolled walk-in wine cellar. It's the perfect space for entertaining guests or enjoying meals with the entire family.

The clean and contemporary kitchen boasts a feature wall clad in natural stone imported from Europe, housing a $70,000 Gaggenau appliance package, including a convection cooktop with an accompanying gas wok burner, sideby-side panelled fridge and freezer, a panelled dishwasher, and a cooking stack including a convection oven, steam oven, and warming drawer. The island houses a double sink with a traditional faucet as well as a filtered bar faucet, and there is a full walk-in pantry.

Beyond the dining room lies the television room – the perfect place to cozy up and watch your favourite series.

Off that space awaits the great room.

This space features 21-foot woodclad ceilings with brick walls, massive windows that flood the room with light, and a DaVinci gas fireplace.

There are a total of three bedrooms – each with an ensuite bathroom – as well as a powder room for guests. The primary suite features exposed brick, a skylight, and a stunning walk-in closet that leads to the seven-piece ensuite bathroom, which also features a skylight, free-standing tub, double shower, and water closet.

Custom-designed with a stunning rooftop terrace.

VIEW THIS LISTING ON PAGE 52

Make your way to the third level, and you will find a wall of glass with a walkout to the rooftop terrace, which is clad in ipe wood decking and features an outdoor shower, a Bullfrog hot tub, a natural gas BBQ, and a lounge where you can catch glimpses of planes coming to and from the Island Airport.

Just inside, a full kitchen means no need to trek down to the main kitchen when cooking and dining al fresco.

The entire residence, inside and out, is run on Savant – a high-end audio-video app on your phone that controls all the televisions, built-in speakers, lighting, window coverings, and more. You can customize each room to your current mood and build out preset scenes.

We would be remiss not to mention the two-car side-by-side parking and extremely low monthly maintenance fees, just a hair over $1,000 per month.

If you have been craving the convenience of condo living but have had a hard time wrapping your head around downsizing or haven't found an inspiring space that you can see yourself calling home, this is the one!

Scan the QR code to view more photos, explore our 3D virtual tour, and much more!

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Proactive Steps to Prepare Your Home for a

Spring Market Debut As the leaves start to change and a chill settles in the air, preparing your home for a Spring market debut may not be the first thing on your mind. However, savvy homeowners know that the Fall and Winter months provide a golden opportunity to get a head start on showcasing their property's potential when the Spring market arrives.

To ensure your home is in tip-top shape next Spring, we’ve asked Grace & Co.’s inhouse Design Manager, Sheila Shabsove, for her list of proactive steps to take throughout the colder months. From decluttering and small paint touch-ups to tree trimming and outdoor maintenance, these strategies will help you make a powerful first impression when the Spring market blooms.

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Declutter small spaces: Take advantage of spare moments to declutter areas like kitchen cabinets, under-stair storage, and entry closets. Clearing out these spaces creates an impression of ample storage and tidiness, which is highly appealing to potential buyers.

Consider donating to charity: As you declutter your home, consider donating gently used clothes or household items to a local charity. Not only will this help those in need, but it also streamlines your belongings and makes your home feel more organized.

Repair broken items: Address any broken or damaged items throughout your home, such as door handles, leaky faucets, or cracked switch plates. Fixing these issues demonstrates that your home is in excellent condition and ready for new occupants.

Replace broken tiles: In kitchens and bathrooms, replacing any broken or cracked tiles is crucial. A well-maintained tile surface enhances the overall look and cleanliness of these hightraffic areas.

Power wash exterior surfaces: Give your home's exterior a facelift by power washing siding and decking. This simple yet effective task can remove dirt, grime, and mildew, making your home look fresh and well-maintained.

Minor paint touch-up projects can make a big difference. Addressing scuffs, scratches, and chips in your paint job refreshes the appearance of your home and conveys a sense of meticulous care.

Hardwood flooring touch-up:

Maintain appliances: Regular maintenance of appliances, including smoke alarms, the furnace, and kitchen appliances, ensures they are in good working order. Buyers appreciate knowing that these essential systems are well-maintained and reliable.

Small paint touch-ups:

Upgrade Lighting: Brighten up your home with modern, energyefficient lighting fixtures.

Well-lit spaces feel more inviting and spacious.

If you have hardwood flooring or stair treads, consider having them touched up. This can involve minor repairs and refinishing to restore their original luster and charm.

Fall landscape maintenance: In the fall, before the snow sets in, have your trees trimmed and perform exterior landscape maintenance. A well-kept outdoor space creates an inviting first impression and adds to your home's overall appeal.

Repair or replace fencing: If your exterior fencing or gates are in disrepair, consider repairing or replacing them. A secure and well-maintained perimeter adds to the safety and privacy of your property, which is a selling point for many buyers.

If you're planning on selling in the Spring, contact Grace & Co. and have Sheila help prepare your home so it shines!

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EXPERIENCE TORONTO’S LUXURY RESORT hotelxtoronto.com | stay@hotelxtoronto.com | 647.943.9300

Our Team's Favourite Seasonal Activities

W

inter in Toronto brings with it a world of wonder and a host of delightful activities. As the city gets blanketed in snow, there's a special kind of magic in the air that beckons everyone to step outdoors and embrace the season. In this feature, our team members share their top picks to make the most of this chilly season. Join us as we uncover the best ways to create cherished winter memories in and around the vibrant city of Toronto.

TORONTO'S WINTER WONDERLAND

GEOFFREY'S TOP PICK:

LUMIÈRE AT TRILLIUM PARK Discover the magic of winter through Geoffrey's top pick: Lumière: The Art of Light at Trillium Park. Immerse yourself in a dazzling display of light and artistry that transforms Toronto's winter nights.

IAN'S TOP PICK:

SNOWSHOEING IN THE BEACHES Ian's winter adventure of choice is snowshoeing around The Beaches' stunning natural landscapes.

Step into a winter wonderland as you follow in his snowy footsteps, exploring scenic trails and peaceful forests. Whether you're an experienced snowshoer or a first-timer, Ian's love for this activity is contagious.

CHELSEA'S TOP PICK:

SKATING WITH FRIENDS Chelsea's winter joy includes skating at both The Bentway and Nathan Phillips Square.

Each of these iconic Toronto locations offers a unique experience. At The Bentway, you can skate under the Gardiner Expressway, while at Nathan Phillips Square, you'll enjoy picturesque views of the Toronto sign and city hall.

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OUR TEAM'S FAVOURITE SEASONAL ACTIVITIES

JACKIE'S TOP PICK:

THE DISTILLERY WINTER VILLAGE Jackie finds her winter joy at The Distillery Winter Village, a magical holiday destination in Toronto. Amidst the historic charm of the Distillery District, Jackie revels in the festive atmosphere, twinkling lights, and artisanal delights. Join her in exploring the charming holiday market, savouring warm mulled wine, and discovering unique gifts from local artisans.

SHEILA'S TOP PICK:

CROSS-COUNTRY SKIING Discover the beauty of winter with Sheila's favourite activity: cross-country skiing at local parks such as Cherry Beach. Glide through snowy trails, immersed in nature's serenity, and create memorable moments with your loved ones. Join Sheila in experiencing the joy of cross-country skiing in this charming urban escape.

SARAH'S TOP PICK:

CANADA'S WONDERLAND WINTERFEST For Sarah, the ultimate winter delight is taking her family to Canada's Wonderland WinterFest. Discover their cherished tradition of festive lights, thrilling rides, and holiday treats. Embrace the magic of the season at this Toronto winter wonderland, Sarah's top pick for family fun.

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UNLOCKING THE VALUE OF YOUR HOME Smart Design Tips for a Quick & Lucrative Sale

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D

o you have a favourite home renovation show? Do you have Realtor.ca bookmarked? Do you find yourself browsing home design ideas on Instagram? If so, you are not alone.

So do potential buyers of your home!

Especially in the new, more balanced market we find ourselves in; buyers will always choose and pay more for a home they perceive as turn-key.

You can see it when you browse MLS. There are homes that are sitting on the market for months, and there are homes that are listed and sold in a week or two. Which scenario would you prefer? gracehomesandlifestyle.ca

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The team at Grace & Co. has been selling homes in the area for 34 years, so we have a unique understanding of buyer expectations across all price points. Knowing exactly what features and finishes buyers are willing to pay a premium for is an invaluable service we bring to each of our clients and their homes.

If the homeowner is interested, the Grace & Co. Design Team will identify what strategic improvements can be made to their home that will help it sell for more money, faster. Clients are presented with a personalized report, custom-fitted to their home and focusing on items that will at least double a client's return - although the real goal is a 3-4 times tax-free return on investment.

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Wait… tax-free return? That's right!

When you sell your primary residence in Canada, the gains you realize are completely tax-free. This is likely the largest tax loophole most Canadians will ever benefit from. So then, when the time comes to sell your home, you should be looking to maximize your returns!

Upon receiving the go-ahead from our clients, Sheila Shabsove, Design Manager at Grace & Co., obtains quotes for all the improvements. Then, the budget is presented to the clients for their approval.

If they agree, Sheila and the team manage every aspect through to completion. It's a truly turn-key experience.

Often, these strategic improvements can be as simple as a fresh coat of paint,

replacing brass door knobs from the ’90s, or adding a tile backsplash in a kitchen. But some homeowners want to see larger returns, so they tackle larger high-value items such as updates to their kitchens and bathrooms that can exceed $100,000 but bring high-value returns.

In this article, we focus on a few properties where our team focused on only one or two items that really transformed the look of the space while keeping costs low.

At one home that our clients had owned for years, their second floor was carpeted.

While comfy on your toes, it’s not the preferred choice of flooring for potential buyers of a home like this. Not to mention that the primary ensuite broadloom was a

deep burgundy! With an eye on matching the existing hardwood in the hallway, our design team sourced good-looking hardwood that didn’t break the bank and managed the installation via our hardwood installers. We layered in new lighting and a staging package, and the look of the bedrooms was transformed and matched the recently renovated bathrooms. This home sold in only two days for 99% of its asking price!

At another home we recently sold, the back half of the main floor was much more modern in its finishes – helped by a brand-new kitchen – while the front area of the home retained the old-world charm. While not wanting to strip the home of the character the den and living room provided, our team focused on one simple adjustment to the living room: a new light fixture.

Because this was the first room you walked into upon entering the home, that one simple strategic improvement completely changed the feeling buyers had as they walked in the front door.

Turn to the right and there was a den which was likely the original bungalow’s dining room. It was panelled in dark wainscoting, and the ceiling was trimmed with equally dark beams. A fresh coat of paint over the dark wood immediately brightened the room and brought it to a colour palette straight out of your favourite design magazine.

Pair that with a modern light fixture, and the results speak for themselves! We also employed a trick that our Design Team likes to use when we find a honey-coloured staircase from the ’90s or early 2000s. Painting the strings and risers with a fresh coat of white paint instantly updates the look with minimal effort and expense. This home sold in less than a week for over the list price with three competing buyers, and we didn’t underprice it for a bidding war!

Lastly, when we met with owners of a home in the Beach, they had undergone a massive renovation of their home – including a full main-floor gut renovation. The one shortcoming we identified was a slightly undersized island with no overhang for the stools.

With very little cost and hassle, we had our countertop fabricator source and install a larger piece of quartz that made the island appear larger and increased its functionality. This home sold in a week and for 99% of its asking price!

While Grace & Co.’s design services are not for every home or every seller, it is a valuable service that is a unique offering for anyone interested in squeezing every dollar from the sale of their home.

And, as illustrated here, some of these improvements are quick and easy and significantly improve how buyers feel about the home and what they are willing to spend!

If you are looking to sell your house in the next year and are interested in our team’s design services, please contact us to start the conversation.

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real estate refined gracehomes.com 50

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32 ILFRACOMBE CRES, WEXFORD | LISTED AT $2,299,900 4+2 BEDS

5 BATHS

3 PARKING SPOTS

CONTACT US TODAY! • (416) 699-9295 • gracehomes.com Re/Max Hallmark Realty Ltd.,Brokerage independently owned & operated.

real estate refined

8 HAZEL AVE, THE BEACH | LISTED AT $2,299,000 4+1 BEDS

4 BATHS

3 PARKING SPOTS

4+1 BEDS

4 BATHS

9 PARKING SPOTS

CONTACT US TODAY! • (416) 699-9295 • gracehomes.com Re/Max Hallmark Realty Ltd.,Brokerage independently owned & operated.

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132 CORNELL AVE, THE HUNT CLUB | LISTED AT $2,189,900

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READ MORE ABOUT THIS LISTING ON PAGE 36

3 BEDS

4 BATHS

2 PARKING SPOTS

CONTACT US TODAY! • (416) 699-9295 • gracehomes.com Re/Max Hallmark Realty Ltd.,Brokerage independently owned & operated.

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43 HANNA AVE #423, LIBERTY VILLAGE | LISTED AT $3,480,000

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4+1 BEDS

6 BATHS

3 PARKING SPOTS

CONTACT US TODAY! • (416) 699-9295 • gracehomes.com Re/Max Hallmark Realty Ltd.,Brokerage independently owned & operated.

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37 ELMVIEW DR, THE HUNT CLUB | LISTED AT $3,159,900

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2A QUEENSBURY AVE #502, THE HUNT CLUB | LISTED AT $2,089,000

gracehomes.com

2+1 BEDS

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3 BATHS

2 PARKING SPOTS

24 ELMVIEW DR, THE HUNT CLUB | LISTED AT $1,999,900 3+1 BEDS

4 BATHS

3 PARKING SPOTS

CONTACT US TODAY! • (416) 699-9295 • gracehomes.com Re/Max Hallmark Realty Ltd.,Brokerage independently owned & operated.

real estate refined

34 HUNT CLUB DR, THE HUNT CLUB | LISTED AT $1,999,900 3 BEDS

2 BATHS

4 PARKING SPOTS

3 BEDS

2 BATHS

1 PARKING SPOT

CONTACT US TODAY! • (416) 699-9295 • gracehomes.com Re/Max Hallmark Realty Ltd.,Brokerage independently owned & operated.

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211 LEE AVE, THE BEACH | LISTED AT $1,589,900

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real estate refined

2+1 BEDS

2 BATHS

2 PARKING SPOTS

CONTACT US TODAY! • (416) 699-9295 • gracehomes.com Re/Max Hallmark Realty Ltd.,Brokerage independently owned & operated.

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3 HAMMERSMITH AVE, THE BEACH | LISTED AT $1,849,900

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4 BEDS

6 BATHS

3 PARKING SPOTS

CONTACT US TODAY! • (416) 699-9295 • gracehomes.com Re/Max Hallmark Realty Ltd.,Brokerage independently owned & operated.

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204 WAVERLEY RD, THE BEACH | LISTED AT $1,699,900

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3 BEDS

2 BATHS

2 PARKING SPOTS

CONTACT US TODAY! • (416) 699-9295 • gracehomes.com Re/Max Hallmark Realty Ltd.,Brokerage independently owned & operated.

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10 WALKER AVE TH133, SUMMERHILL | LISTED AT $1,499,000

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103 BLANTYRE AVE, THE BEACH | LISTED AT $1,499,900

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3 BEDS

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2 BATHS

2 PARKING SPOTS

82 GLENMOUNT PARK RD, UPPER BEACH | LISTED AT $1,299,900 3 BEDS

2 BATHS

1 PARKING SPOT

CONTACT US TODAY! • (416) 699-9295 • gracehomes.com Re/Max Hallmark Realty Ltd.,Brokerage independently owned & operated.

real estate refined

267 WILLOW AVE, THE BEACH | LISTED AT $1,199,000 3 BEDS

2 BATHS

2 PARKING SPOTS

3+1 BEDS

2 BATHS

1 PARKING SPOT

CONTACT US TODAY! • (416) 699-9295 • gracehomes.com Re/Max Hallmark Realty Ltd.,Brokerage independently owned & operated.

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630 GREENWOOD AVE #701, THE DANFORTH | LISTED AT $1,149,000

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14 DOROTHY BULLEN PL, LESLIEVILLE | LISTED AT $999,900

gracehomes.com

3 BEDS

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3 BATHS

1 PARKING SPOT

880 OSSINGTON AVE, CHRISTIE PITTS | LISTED AT $999,900 3+1 BEDS

3 BATHS

2 PARKING SPOTS

CONTACT US TODAY! • (416) 699-9295 • gracehomes.com Re/Max Hallmark Realty Ltd.,Brokerage independently owned & operated.

real estate refined

117 BIRCHCLIFF AVE, BIRCHCLIFF | LISTED AT $999,900 3 BEDS

2 BATHS

3 PARKING SPOTS

3 BEDS

3 BATHS

6 PARKING SPOTS

CONTACT US TODAY! • (416) 699-9295 • gracehomes.com Re/Max Hallmark Realty Ltd.,Brokerage independently owned & operated.

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118 HEATHWOOD HEIGHTS, HILLS OF ST ANDREW | LISTED AT $999,900

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1514 QUEEN ST E, LESLIEVILLE | LISTED AT $949,900

gracehomes.com

3 BEDS

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3 BATHS

1 PARKING SPOT

20 GUILDWOOD PKWY #414, GUILDWOOD | LISTED AT $939,000 2 BEDS

2 BATHS

2 PARKING SPOTS

CONTACT US TODAY! • (416) 699-9295 • gracehomes.com Re/Max Hallmark Realty Ltd.,Brokerage independently owned & operated.

real estate refined

85 HOLLIS AVE, BIRCHCLIFF | LISTED AT $899,900 2 BEDS

2 BATHS

4 PARKING SPOTS

1+1 BEDS

1 BATH

1 PARKING SPOT

CONTACT US TODAY! • (416) 699-9295 • gracehomes.com Re/Max Hallmark Realty Ltd.,Brokerage independently owned & operated.

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170 BAYVIEW AVE #708, CANARY DISTRICT | LISTED AT $879,900

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36 FOREST MANOR RD #406, HENRY FARM | LISTED AT $689,900

gracehomes.com

1+1 BEDS

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2 BATHS

1 PARKING SPOT

36 LISGAR ST #2001, WEST QUEEN WEST | LISTED AT $469,900 1 BED

1 BATH

CONTACT US TODAY! • (416) 699-9295 • gracehomes.com Re/Max Hallmark Realty Ltd.,Brokerage independently owned & operated.

real estate refined

106 WOODBINE AVE, THE BEACH | LISTED AT $5,295 / MONTH 3+1 BEDS

4 BATHS

2 PARKING SPOTS

3 BEDS

2 BATHS

2 PARKING SPOTS

CONTACT US TODAY! • (416) 699-9295 • gracehomes.com Re/Max Hallmark Realty Ltd.,Brokerage independently owned & operated.

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38 OSBORNE AVE, THE UPPER BEACH | LISTED AT $3,995 / MONTH

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3 BEDS

2 BATHS

CONTACT US TODAY! • (416) 699-9295 • gracehomes.com Re/Max Hallmark Realty Ltd.,Brokerage independently owned & operated.

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177 WINEVA AVE, THE BEACH | LISTED AT $4,895 / MONTH

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Glamour & GRACE

ELEVATE YOUR HOLIDAY DECOR!

By Martha Uniacke Breen

One of our favourite holiday traditions has always been dressing up your home to celebrate the joys of the season in grand style. This year, why not add some extra glitz and glamour to your decorating? Grace & Co.’s own in-house designer, Sheila Shabsove, offers the following tips to give your home a little extra sparkle for the holidays.

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1) WREATHED IN JOY. Many flower shops offer ready-made wreaths in boxwood, fresh evergreen boughs, or grapevines that you can add your own special touch to with juniper berries, magnolia leaves, small dried oranges or pine cones, and dress them up with silk ribbon, ornate bows, and tiny silver balls. Sheila intertwines hers with tiny battery-operated lights that eliminate the need for wires. But don’t be content with just one wreath for your front door! If your home has evenly spaced windows on the front, hang a series of smaller matching wreaths on each one. Inside, place one above the mantel, or on the doors leading to the dining room (use two if you have double French doors); or hang one on a guest room door if you’ll be welcoming friends or family for the holidays.

FILL YOUR URNS WITH HOLIDAY

splendour 2) A GRAND ENTRANCE!

Along with a big welcoming wreath and/or garland for the front door, fill your urns with holiday splendour.

Buy wreaths that just fit the rim of the urn, then use them to help support armfuls of evergreen boughs, tall grasses, or branches. Red dogwood twigs are a classic winter look, but corkscrew hazel, willow, narrow birch logs and sprays of cranberry (real or artificial) are all beautiful alternatives. Fill in with pine cones, more sprays of berries, and perhaps one or two big red (or silver) velvet bows. For extra glitz, entwine the arrangements with battery-operated fairy lights.

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Festive ELEGANCE 4) A TREE WITH ALL THE TRIMMINGS.

Nowadays, says Sheila, you can buy artificial trees that are so realistic, you have to touch them to know they’re not the real thing. But if you love the smell and look of a real tree, be sure to stand it upright and look at it closely before you buy to ensure the branches are balanced, with no thin or flat spots. And it’s a good idea to measure your ceiling to make sure you buy the right size of tree!

3) GRAND GARLANDS.

5) ORNAMENTAL OPULENCE.

Another holiday classic is to hang garlands made from faux or real cedar or pine around doorways, twining up a grand staircase, or draped over the mantel. Fill in with gold or silver spray-painted magnolia leaves, ornaments, pine cones, and sprays of berries. (Sheila says it’s easy to overdo your front doors; she prefers to have either an elaborate wreath or garland around the door, but not both.)

Nowadays, you can get glass ornaments in every size, shape, and colour of the rainbow. But for a refined, elegant look, it’s best to stick to a smaller range. Look for gilded, ornate designs, delicate glass balls, and limit yourself to one or two tones, such as silver and gold, along with clear glass or crystal balls. On this framework, add personality with a theme of stars, moons, or birds in varying sizes, or special heirloom pieces for nostalgia.

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6) TABLE TALK. For a rich, sumptuous look, a velvet table runner in a rich tone like burgundy or emerald is beautiful. Pair it with your best gold-rimmed dinnerware, gold or silver chargers, and sparkling cut-crystal glassware.

7) THE CENTRE OF ATTENTION. Create an elegant centrepiece with fresh roses, lilies and orchids arranged in a shallow crystal bowl. Tuck magnolia leaves and sprigs of holly, cranberries and juniper around the bases of poinsettia and amaryllis. Or opt for a more relaxed look to celebrate the abundance of the season, with winter fruits and vegetables, gourds and different grasses spilling out of a large pottery container.

8) LIGHTS! HOLIDAY! ACTION! Enhance your usual lighting with holidaythemed light sources. Sheila loves those lighted branches you can buy in every size from small to large, which she puts in vases for the table or by the front door. Look for light-up words like “Joy” or “Love” to put out on a table.

9) STOCKING UP FOR SANTA. Hang velvet or silk stockings for each member of the family on the mantel, and personalize each with embroidered names (or use a fabric pen in gold glitter to write names in elegant script).

10) A CANDLE IN THE WINDOW. Nothing puts guests in the holiday spirit more than to walk into a home filled with candles flickering gently in every room. Line the mantel with white pillar candles; place votives in groups of three or five on side tables; place white or ivory tapers in silver or crystal holders for the table. Also, consider less traditional glassware to use as candle holders, like Mason jars, cognac snifters, cut-crystal or milk glass containers.

MAKING SENSE OF THE MARKET A SNAPSHOT OF THE CITY

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TORONTO SALES

AUGUST 2023 SEPTEMBER 2023

PRICES

451

$1,641,045

+22%

549

DETACHED

$1,724,007

138

$1,257,086

+16%

160

SEMIDETACHED

$1,281,956

208

-15%

$992,319

1,086

SALES

-3%

$732,106

THE BEACH

AUGUST 2023 SEPTEMBER 2023

PRICES $1,468,417

8

+38%

11

DETACHED

$1,549,808

15

+6%

$1,357,800

-27%

11

SEMIDETACHED

0

$1,274,264

-6%

$1,390,000

N/A

0

N/A

2

$884,754

13 CONDO

-3%

$753,520

-24%

820

CONDO

TOWNHOUSE

+2%

$1,019,333

176

TOWNHOUSE

+5%

8

-38%

$747,266

-16%

As mentioned earlier in the Editor's Note, at the moment, the Toronto real estate market can't be measured as one basket. Each neighbourhood and housing style are performing independently from each other. Month-over-month, detached and semi-detached homes have seen an increase in sales volume and prices while townhomes and condos have seen the opposite. Just the other day, we saw an Upper Beach home attract 4 buyers and sell well over its list price!

If you are wondering how the current real estate market is affecting the value of your home, it truly warrants a discussion with one of our sales professionals who can help you clearly identify your home's current worth.

QUALITY From the quality of our staging inventory to the architectural photography of our listings, we put quality above all else.

Because you wouldn’t expect less.

EXPERIENCE Having lived in the Beach for 35 years, and selling local homes for the last 32 of those years, our knowledge of the neighbourhood and its homes is an asset for both our buyers & sellers.

RESULTS Year in, year out. In buyer’s markets, seller’s markets and every market in between. We create value for our clients. Selling their homes for more and helping them buy for less.

(416) 699-9295 gracehomes.com

GEOFFREY GRACE

CHELSEA GRACE

GAIL GRACE

GEOFF GRACE

Sales Representative

Sales Representative

Sales Representative

Sales Representative

Having grown up in the Beach, Geoffrey knows every street in the neighbourhood like the back of his hand. His prior career in marketing for a luxury car manufacturer positioned him well to market his clients’ homes. Geoffrey has earned designations as a Certified Luxury Home Marketing Specialist and a Certified Negotiation Expert, and brings those tools to the table for all his clients.

When your parents have been selling real estate since you were six years old, it’s in your blood.

Chelsea has lived nearly her entire life in the Beach. That knowledge of the area is a valuable asset for clients looking to purchase a home or condo in the neighbourhood.

Chelsea cares deeply for each one of her clients and enjoys educating them so that they can make wellinformed decisions.

The one who started it all! Only three years after moving to the Beach, Gail began her career in real estate. Entering the market in 1989 meant she cut her teeth selling homes through the '90s recession. That experience, along with her strong interpersonal skills, desire to work a deal for her clients and intimate knowledge of the Beach and its homes, all make her an exceptional Realtor.

As a veteran of the Beach real estate market, Geoff is respected and admired by his peers. Geoff is an Ottawa native who has lived in Toronto for over forty years and, together with Gail, live in the first house they purchased 35 years ago – right here in the Beach. Ask anyone who has worked with Geoff and they will tell you his calm demeanor and rational approach is a true asset to his clients.

IAN BLAKEY

SHEILA SHABSOVE

SARAH GRACE

Sales Representative

Design Manager

Business Development Manager

JACQUELINE PERELMITER

An East Ender through and through, Ian was raised in East York and now resides in Leslieville. Ian’s clients always comment on his attention to detail, level headedness and consultative approach.

Ian has strong relationships amongst his peers and works collaboratively with other agents to get great deals done for his clients.

Sheila is a skilled interior designer with 20 years of experience not only managing design and renovation projects for her clients, but also renovating and building new homes for herself and her family. These experiences allow Sheila to help our clients manage strategic improvement to their homes to realize the most profit in their sale, with her taking care of all the details.

With a strong history in businessto-business sales, Sarah manages relationships with our suppliers and partners and works on strategic planning to ensure our team is running smoothly and efficiently.

Having worked in many roles on the team, she is able to have a bird's-eye view and is constantly striving to develop the team with the #1 goal of continually improving the client experience.

CONTACT US TODAY! • (416) 699-9295 • gracehomes.com Re/Max Hallmark Realty Ltd.,Brokerage independently owned & operated.

Experience Manager Jackie is a dedicated professional with a deep-rooted connection to the Beaches community, being a resident herself for the last 12 years. She boasts a wealth of experience in administrative and office-related roles, having honed her skills over many years.

Aside from ensuring the smooth functioning of our office; Jackie also understands the importance of nurturing client relationships.

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Looking to Buy or Sell a Luxury Home?

Grace & Co. has represented more MLS single family homes sold for $3,000,000 or greater, throughout East Toronto,* than any other Realtor or real estate team in the last year.

These luxury sales averaged 100% of their list price in only 4 days and in two of these cases, we secured our clients close to $100,000 over their list prices in less than 48 hours!

If you are looking to sell your luxury property this Spring, or are ready to make the move up to your dream home, hire the local real estate team that your neighbours trust.

Scan the below QR code or call us to discuss buying or selling a luxury home: (416) 699-9295

RE/MAX Hallmark Realty Ltd., Brokerage *TRREB Districts: E01, E02, E03 & E06.

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