EastTO Magazine | Spring 2021

EAST TO A quarterly publication brought to you by TheRichardsGroup.ca

Unplugged

The secret to getting more sleep

The no-reno redesign: Step-by-step to a dream home Should you stay or should you go? The upside to downsizing

Spring 2021

8 EastTO Magazine Unplugged Issue #1 Spring 2021 A publication by The Richards Group 1945 Queen St E Toronto, ON M4L 1H7 416.699.0303

Contents

Editor-In-Chief Selene Richards Advertising selene@therichardsgroup.ca

5 Trust Me, Try This:

28 East to 47A Lee

Ways to unplug and improve your wellbeing

8 The No-Reno Redesign

How one east-end Toronto

family built their home step-by-step

14 Sweet Dreams:

Set yourself and your home up for more restful sleep

17 On Tap in East Toronto

Shane Little takes us on a virtual pub crawl

18 Helping Kids Navigate

a New Reality

Dr. Joanna Henderson shares best practices for supporting our kids in these uncertain times.

21 My Neighbourhood: Leslieville

Jenny Simon describes her ideal day unplugged in her favourite neighbourhood

22 Special Feature:

The County is calling you

24 Transform Your Home

in a Weekend

Give your home spring makeover by reusing what you already have

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A Beaches home dazzles bidders with its move-in ready reno

32 Special Feature:

Discover Northumberland in the spring-time

34 Is Now the Time to Downsize?

In this market, downsizing your home can deliver upsized returns

36 EastTO Community

Shelter Movers provides a much needed service to families escaping domestic violence

38 Unplug from a

Bad Mortgage

Don’t get stuck in a mortgage that doesn’t help you achieve your long-term goals

40 Market Trends

A look at Q4 2020 and what’s next for 2021

44 What’s For Sale,

Coming Soon and Sold

Properties to watch for

Art Direction and Design Parcel Design Thank You to our partners Afterglow Studio Angie Alvarez Centre for Addiction and Mental Health Shelter Movers

Not intended to solicit buyers or sellers currently under contract with a brokerage. Not intended to solicit properties currently for sale.

Editor’s Letter

W

e are very excited to bring you the inaugural issue of EastTO Magazine!

As proud Eastsiders, we’ve watched our families and community grow over the years. Our neighbourhoods have been transformed by the people who live here — from curated food and retail destinations, amazingly creative entrepreneurs, families who stand together and a mosaic of homes that have been bought and sold, designed and renovated back to life.

Our identity as Eastsiders can sometimes be fragmented. We consist of many microcommunities, each with its own identity.

But we share several common threads.

We’re unbelievably passionate about food, our dogs, our coffee and our workouts. Picking up the kids or takeout in pyjamas is totally acceptable. We wave thank you when someone lets us in the lane. We don’t just know our neighbours, we’re friends with them. And we’re super obsessed with homes and local real estate.

The idea for EastTO Magazine brewed in my home office during the pandemic as we looked for more ways to communicate and connect everyone together.

We decided that EastTO Magazine’s mission would be to bring together the things that identify us as Eastsiders — all those local gems and fascinating neighbours that make us distinct.

And we still want to satisfy that craving for inside intel on the homes in our neighbourhood.

For this edition specifically, we wanted to explore all the ways you’re unplugging to reset and reconnect in more meaningful ways. Unplug from the world for a better night's sleep, unplug from our screens to rediscover our neighbourhoods, and even un-plug from old ideas.

And when you’re ready to plug back in (and you’ve gone for your 18th walk for the week), check out eastTOsold.com to find out what homes have sold for or follow us on Instagram @richardsgroupremax to get all the latest listings and insider details!

Selene Richards

TheRichardsGroup.ca

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Wellbeing

Trust me, Try this 12 micro-hacks to improve your wellbeing Julie Watson and Liz Doyle Harmer

Julie Watson and Liz Doyle Harmer opened the Afterglow Studio over three years ago.

Today, it’s a thriving community hub.

In growing their business, the one thing Watson and Doyle Harmer hadn’t planned on was a global pandemic. So they started the Afterglow podcast to take their community online and inspire others to embrace brave and courageous futures. We could think of no one better to recommend tips for recharging and resetting.

1.

Write it Out Studies show that journaling can help achieve clarity and calm by taking focus off the problems of the day and manifesting a new reality.

Okay, maybe all your dreams won’t come true, but some just might! Find our favourite journals at Collected Joy. → Collected Joy, 1035 Kingston Rd. For journaling pros, try adding gratitude journaling to your practice. Writing what you’re thankful for has been proven to have social, psychological and physical benefits. Check out the Thanks Journal created by Beacher Sarah Laird, found in The Glow Shop. → The Glow Shop, 2034 Queen St. E

2.

Nourish Your Body You aren’t really what you eat, but you will definitely feel better when you nurture your body with delicious, healthy foods. Fueling your body doesn’t have to be time consuming . Our friend Jillian Mariani, a fellow Eastsider and owner of Niyama Yoga Wellness has created this easy-to-make smoothie to rehydrate and give your muscles a treat after a workout. → niyamayogawell.ca INGREDIENTS:

• 1 scoop Niyama Yoga Wellness After Practice Replenish & Repair • 1 scoop Niyama Yoga Wellness Plant Protein in Vanilla • 1.5 cups coconut milk • ½ cup pineapple or mango, chopped • Half a banana (frozen if you have!)

• 1 Tbsp. flax seeds INSTRUCTIONS:

1. Blend together banana, pineapple (or mango) and coconut milk 2. Then add remaining ingredients, and blend until smooth 3. Add ice cubes if you’d like

TheRichardsGroup.ca

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Wellbeing

6.

Happy Hour with a Social Distancing Twist Feeling nostalgic for the post-work happy hour at your favourite neighbourhood spot? Eastbound Brewery is offering beer to-go, perfect for a socially distanced hangout or backyard cocktail hour. View Eastbound’s full menu of drinks and tasty eats on Ritual, DoorDash and Uber Eats.

3.

Staycation in Style

→ Eastbound Brewery, 700 Queen St. E

Travel may be restricted, but a staycation complete with minibar, room service and fluffy robes, can still be a great way to recharge. Fortunately, one of Toronto’s top hotels is right here in the east end. The Broadview Hotel is a great escape from the every day with its stunning rooms and inspired cuisine. (The best news is that you can bring your pup!) → The Broadview Hotel, 106 Broadview Ave.

4.

Find Your Inner Artist Take a break from your usual routine and try out your skills in an art class.

Indulging in some time for creativity can not only help with stress relief but can even improve your problem solving skills. You can pick up your own art supplies at one of our great art supply stores in the East end, or try out the amazing variety of classes offered at CREATE Art Studio. → CREATE Art Studio, 1801 Danforth Ave.

5.

Dance it Off With everyone cooped up at home, there’s no better time to dance like nobody’s watching. The Pink Studio has weekly live-stream classes that combine a great workout with amazing music.

Our favourites are Carido Hip Hop and Born to Jive – Broadway, and who wouldn't feel good jiving to a Britney Pop or Bey & Jay Dance Combo? → The Pink Studio, 2053 Danforth Ave. Two weeks unlimited live stream is only $40 www.thepinkstudio.ca

→ Tiny Record Shop, 777 Queen St. E

EastTO Magazine

→ Ascari Enoteca, 1111 Queen St. E

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Get Outside

Looking to have your own dance party?

Pick up some vintage vinyl from Tiny Record Shop and go old school.

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Looking for an equally delicious dinner?

Order a full meal prepared by Ascari Enoteca, complete with wine give yourself a break from meal prep.

Connecting with nature is the perfect way to disconnect from the virtual world and get back to reality. Fortunately, there are several beautiful east-end parks to choose from: Glen Stewart Ravine, Taylor Creek Park, Woodbine Beach, East Bluffers Park or Warden Woods.

Wellbeing

8.

Boost Your Glow Feeling your best goes deeper than the skin creams your grandmother used to use. Collagen supplements, whether in marine or bovine form, can be a great way to boost your skin’s elasticity and give your hair added shine. You can find a range of brands at The Big Carrot.

10.

Nurture Your Mind Unplugging can often bring forward some overwhelming emotions. Asking for help can sometimes feel daunting, but it is the best thing we can do for ourselves. The folks at The Healing Collective + Crying Out Loud are compassionate sources of support. → The Healing Collective + Crying Out Loud, 2005 Danforth Ave.

→ The Big Carrot Danforth, 348 Danforth Ave. → The Big Carrot Beaches, 125 Southwood Dr.

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Treat Yourself

9.

Read All About It There’s nothing better than diving into a book and being swept away by a captivating new story. All Our Wrong Todays is about the versions of ourselves that we shed and grow into over time. It is a story of friendship and family, of unexpected journeys and alternate paths, and of love in a multitude of forms. Filled with humor and heart, and saturated with insight and intelligence, this novel signals the arrival of a major talent. This book just happens to be written by local east-ender Elan Mastai.

You can find it at one of our favourite local bookshops, Queen Books. → Queen Books, 914 Queen St. E We’re so lucky to have several great bookshops in our East TO neighbourhoods. Here are a few more of our faves: → Book City, 1950 Queen St. E → Book City, 348 Danforth Ave. → Great Escape Book Store, 957 Kingston Rd.

It’s safe to say we’re all missing that post-spa day glow. To recreate the spa experience from the comfort of your own home, check out The Self Isolation Care Kit from our friends at Pure + Simple. → Pure + Simple, 2142 Queen St. E

Unplug with one of these great books: The Push

by Ashley Audrain Untamed

by Glennon Doyle The Glass Hotel

by Emily St. John Mandel Greenlights

by Matthew McConaughey The Things We Cannot Say

by Kelly Rimmer The Guest List

by Lucy Foley Braiding Sweetgrass

by Robin Wall Kimmerer The End of October

by Lawrence Wright

Mention The Richards Group for 15% off curbside orders of $100 or more in April.

Looking to pamper your whole body?

Indulge in a little self-massage to rid yourself of the keyboard hand strains and lower back aches. Try the massage therapy balls by The Roll Model Method from Afterglow Studio. → Afterglow Studio, 2034 Queen St. E

12.

Take it Slow Writing notes is a lost art, but one of the most appreciated. Pick up some beautiful writing paper, or note cards from Collected Joy. → Collected Joy, 1035 Kingston Rd.

TheRichardsGroup.ca

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The

no-reno

redesign 8

EastTO Magazine

PHOTOG RAPHY BY JACKLYN BARBER

The House

Shannon Balm of East Design House has become part of Jacqueline Daubney and Neil Said’s family by this point.

After Mark Richards managed the purchase of their Kingswood Road home five years ago, Balm has helped Daubney and Said get the most out of their house during every life stage – from first child to third.

The Dream

Here’s how Shannon Balm of East Design House helped Jacqueline Daubney and Neil Said expand their house into a dream home – one step at a time.

Daubney and Said were living in a condo when they found a dream home they could grow with. Pregnant with their first child, they saw the Kingswood Road house as a designer’s dream with stunning bones to work with.

Balm approached the redesign in phases to avoid disrupting family life in the home – and give Daubney and Said the flexibility to feel out what they needed as their family grew and needs evolved.

Balm optimized the budget by building a room-by-room design plan and a forward-thinking approach to give spaces and furniture added longevity. Any transitional spaces (for instance, a nursery into a child’s room) were carefully considered.

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Phase One

The first phase of Balm’s redesign focused on the main floor, primary bedroom, nursery, and guest bedroom.

The main floor was a literal blank canvas with its white, modern kitchen. To add finesse and make it more family-friendly, Balm focused on details like an eat-in kitchen and oversized

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dining room table. Durable fabrics, wipeable surfaces, and soft corners were incorporated.

In the original nursery for Taylor, Daubney’s step-dad constructed a window bench set.

Balm had a custom bench cushion created by Rob at Scarboro Interiors & Custom Upholstery to accent the seat.

After five years of thoughtful planning, Daubney and Said are ready for whatever the future holds.

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Phase Two

During the second phase of the project, Balm focused on a new bedroom for Taylor so young Riley could move into the nursery. Balm also transformed the basement into a fun and colourful play space to help keep a busy Taylor entertained.

Splurge Custom drapery and window coverings, produced by Cocoon Interiors in Fergus, Ontario, provided an “over-the-top beautiful” backdrop in the home.

Save The wear-and-tear on area rugs makes them the ideal item to save on. (from Wayfair)

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Splurge Core pieces like the sofas, bed frames, and dining table ensure that the space is indestructible for a young family. (from Restoration Hardware and Elte)

Save Sourcing one-of-a-kind pieces from Etsy can bring some life into a neutral space.

To see more work by East Design House visit EastDesignHouse.com

Phase Three

For this most recent redesign phase, Balm has turned the guest bedroom into a new nursery, created a second child’s bedroom for Riley, and given the two girls a shared bathroom.

Balm admits she went over-the-top with the girls’ rooms so each space can evolve as the girls grow into teens.

Riley is now in the original nursery, which means that two uses have emerged from the original space. Both girls’ bedrooms are located at the end of the hallway, so Balm wanted to pull-in similarities but still give each room its own identity to reflect each girl’s personality.

Balm has created a retreat centred on a double-sided fireplace for their busy parents that looks through to the bathroom. Balm worked more with textures versus colour, and this neutral palette keeps the space feeling calm and serene.

Mix and matched furniture looks cohesive, but not like they were bought in a set, which gives the family flexibility to integrate high- and low-cost items.

Phase Four and Beyond

After five years of thoughtful planning, Daubney and Said are ready for whatever the future holds.

Balm’s strategic approach means that simple switches of rugging, bedding and wallpaper will be all that’s required to transform each space as trends shift and the family grows.

TheRichardsGroup.ca

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Wellbeing

Sweet Dreams Set yourself and your home up for more restful sleep— no sheep necessary

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Wellbeing

Keep your cool Even without a pandemic, nights at home can be anything but relaxing. When work, school and family life collide in the same space, carving out time to decompress at the end of the day can be impossible.

Add in anxiety about all the bad news around us, and it’s a recipe for a toss-and-turn kind of night. To help ease you off to dreamland, we talked to local experts about how to optimize conditions for quality sleep.

Put your brain on a dimmer To help wind down before bed, put away all your devices at least one hour beforehand. Studies have suggested that the bright light emitted by screens can disrupt our bodies’ production of melatonin, the hormone that regulates circadian rhythms. “It can be challenging to wean yourself off, especially at first,” Rebecca Earl, an East Toronto family sleep consultant and owner of Sugar Plum Sleep Co. “Start by putting screens away 20 minutes before sleep time and work your way up to one hour.” Use your phone’s Settings (Screen Time in iPhone and Digital Wellbeing on Android) to schedule your device’s daily bedtime, when certain apps can be disabled and notifications muted.

Above all, Earl says, keep your smartphone out of the bedroom, replacing it with a separate alarm clock for your morning wake-up (she likes the Phillips SmartSleep Wake-Up Light, which mimics sunrise by gradually increasing brightness). “If your phone is on your bedside, the temptation is too strong to constantly check it,” she says. A quick look at the headlines can lead to “doomscrolling”— the tendency to compulsively surf through endless feeds of depressing news.

Reading a book or magazine helps only if the content isn’t too rousing. “Bedtime isn’t the best time to start The Life-Changing Magic of Tidying Up,” says Earl. If you find meditation difficult, Earl suggests spending the hour before bedtime doing something calm, tactile and repetitive, like crafting, puzzles or adult colouring—the latter is said to calm your limbic system and quiet an overstimulated brain. Check out Book City for Johanna Basford’s bestselling books of intricate, fantastical nature scenes, perfect for a family colouring session at bedtime.

Programming your thermostat to lower at night doesn’t just save you on heating bills—cooling your environment at bedtime helps cue your body for sleep, when your core and brain temperatures drop. For adults, the optimal room temperatures for sleep range between 15 and 19 degrees Celsius, according to the National Sleep Foundation in the U.S. (for kids and seniors, it’s a tad warmer at 19 to 21 degrees). If you have zoned heating in your home, Google’s Nest thermostats can set schedules and temperatures for each zone, all controlled by your phone.

Dressing your bed with multiple options at the ready can keep your body temperature under control, so you aren’t getting up in the night to hunt for a warmer or lighter blanket.

“I recommend a layered approach that pairs a duvet and a coverlet,” says Shannon Balm, Design Manager at East Design House. “In the winter, have the duvet over you with a coverlet or blanket folded at the base of the bed, so you can pull it up if you get cold. In summer, use the coverlet with the duvet at the base.” Au Lit Fine Linens is Balm’s favourite local source for luxurious bedding in breathable natural fibers like Egyptian cotton, linen, and bamboo.

If you and your bedmate are thermally incompatible, Balm suggests using a flat sheet under the blankets.

“If the warmer person overheats, they can fold back the heavier bedding and just have the sheet over them,” she says. If you both go to bed at different times, preserve partner harmony with noise-blocking aids, like a white noise machine—Earl’s clients favour the Dohm—or earplugs, and a good mattress with motion control that reduces jostling.

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Wellbeing

At the end of the day, sometimes you just need a little extra help to get those zzz's. There’s been an influx of cannabis stores popping up all over the east-end, so we asked local shop-owners for their recommended CBD sleep remedy.

Here’s what they recommend: Solei Renew CBN Oil WonderlandCannabis.ca Lemon Lights Out Gummies IndigenousBloom.com Five Founders THC Oil OCS.ca Tokyo Smoke LUMA Pause Pods ca.tokyosmoke.com Tweed Bakerstreet Chocolate and Ginger Beverage ca.tokyosmoke.com

Supporting roles A bed that cradles your body properly is essential to quality sleep, reducing the pressure on your back and joints (especially if you’re over 40). Mattress review site Sleep Like the Dead recommends replacing latex mattresses every eight years, memory foam every seven years, and innerspring every six years.

To maintain their fluff, pillows should be washed at least every six months and replaced every one to two years, according to the National Sleep Foundation (if you can fold your pillow in half and it stays that way, it’s time to toss it).

To save your back in the long run, Balm recommends investing in the highest quality mattresses and pillows you can. Gel-infused memory foam can cost more, but runs cooler, delivering all the comfort and spinal support of memory foam without the risk of overheating. More affordable options like the Endy, made from cooling open-cell foam, offer comfort, great value and quick shipping straight to your door.

No matter what your budget, protect your investment.

“You can use hypoallergenic covers on both your mattress and pillows to extend their longevity and keep them clean,” Balm says.

Scents that support sleep—Balm recommends essential oils like lavender, marjoram and myrtle—can be diffused in your bedroom an hour before bedtime, or mist a few pumps of soothing pillow spray into the air over your bed. Remember not to use candles in the bedroom or add any oils to your laundry—both are considered fire hazards.

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Join the dark side Sleeping in near-total darkness—like our ancestors did—has been shown to increase melatonin and deepen sleep.

But multiple family members working and learning from home has forced many of us to set up office spaces in the bedroom, where the light from electronics can disrupt sleep. “If you can’t put your computer equipment out of the room, put a piece of tape over the light from any power buttons,” says Earl. “Even tiny lights can filter past your eyelids.”

Layering window treatments can keep out most of the light from street lamps and neighbouring houses, contributing to a darker and calmer sleep space. “Pair a simple opaque roller blind with textiles to seal off the edges,” says Balm.

In the clear A bedroom that’s a catch-all for work papers, laundry and other household hodgepodge is the worst kind of sleep space. “Clutter can lead to anxiety, irritability and distraction,” says Earl.

Even if the rest of the house is in chaos, a weekend of tidying up the bedroom can give you a much-needed sense of calm. Balm recommends rejigging your storage so that things can be tucked out of sight. “Use closet organizers for clothes and laundry, and storage in your nightstand to make sure everything has a place,” she says. If you only do one chore today, make your bed— one Sleep Foundation study found that people who made their beds every day were 19 percent more likely to say they regularly slept well.

Most importantly of all, take a few minutes to debrief yourself after a long day, jotting down to-do lists so that you’re ready for the next morning. “If we don’t give ourselves time to digest what’s happened that day, we’ll do it once our heads are down and we’re supposed to be sleeping,” says Earl.

Neighbourhood Stories

ON TAP IN

East TO East Toronto has recently emerged as the place to be for beer aficionados.

Fortunately, The Richards Group’s Shane Little has been keeping tabs on all the great things brewing in the neighborhood. It’s a tough job, but he’s happy to do it.

Here are a few of Little’s favourite spots to pull a pint.

Saulter Street Brewery 31 Saulter St.

Because it’s tucked away in a barn off Queen and Saulter, Saulter Street Brewery is like this great neighbourhood secret. One of my favourite things is to go hang-out, enjoy a pint of their “It's About Bloody Time” English Ale and play board games. Their Riverside Copper Pilsner is probably its most recognizable beer, but new brews are available every week from their tap-room.

Avling Kitchen & Brewery Eastbound Brewing Company 700 Queen St. E

Pre-pandemic, Eastbound Brewing Company was the spot where my friends would gather for our weekly catch-up and night of trivia. And although we may have battled over our trivia responses, we could all agree that the food is fantastic.

My beer of choice at Eastbound is their “Field Day” session ale.

1042 Queen St. E

I’d say Avling has the best Cafe TO patio – hands down. It’s no surprise that Avling has established itself as home to some of the best experimental brewing and locally farmed ingredients in the city. (You can’t get any more local than growing ingredients on your own roof!) Their store is open daily, and brunch specials are available every weekend through their takeout window. I highly recommend their IPA – and my girlfriend and I are addicted to their sourdough bread. It can't last longer than 24 hours at our place!

Black Lab Brewing 818 Eastern Ave.

Admittedly, this Leslieville brewpub is the best because it's always packed with pooches! But beyond the canine clientele, Black Lab Brewing is my go-to reward after a hard workout at One Academy. (“Sitting Pretty” AP is my current favourite.) They have rotating catering, so there's always good food to check-out on the weekends.

“There are so many great craft brewers who have set up shop in the east end over the last few years,” says Little. “That’s largely due to the affordable warehouse spaces you can still find on this end of the city — and also because the neighbours are so welcoming!”

Left Field Brewery

36 Wagstaff Dr. Probably like most Leslievillians, I love catching Blue Jays games with a pint of Left Field’s “Greenwood” IPA at their brewery on Wagstaff. Their swag can’t be beat – I think every eastsider I know has a Left Field t-shirt or ball cap!

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Wellbeing

With many families working and schooling from home, feelings of isolation, frustration and desperation have risen among parents and children.

Helping your kids navigate uncertain times As families continue to navigate these challenges, the mental health of children has been a topic of conversation among parents across Toronto.

We spoke with Dr. Joanna Henderson, Director of the Margaret and Wallace McCain Centre for Child, Youth & Family Mental Health at CAMH, about the best strategies for supporting our kids in these uncertain times.

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Q

How do I know what my child needs right now?

JH: The needs of children and youth right now will differ by age group. Younger children are emotionally close to parents and caregivers, and are highly affected by how the adults around them are coping.

Parents have an important role to play in modeling behaviour for their children. It can be hard to take the time for yourself but if you’re not sleeping well or eating well it can be hard to support other people.

Younger kids are less likely to verbalize their needs and emotions than older kids.

Look for changes in behaviour like changes in sleep, responses to encouragement or rules and emotional regulation — like crying or angrier outbursts.

WHERE TO FIND SUPPORT

• Your family doctor • Your child’s teacher/school • Children’s Mental Health Ontario cmho.org • Kids Help Phone 1-800-668-6868

How can I support my teen — especially if they don’t want to talk about their feelings?

JH: Teens are in a different developmental space, focusing on engaging with peers rather than family. Teens are more likely to verbalize their emotions but can be reluctant to open up to their parents or caregivers. You can look for similar signs of emotional distress in teens as in younger children: isolating themselves in their room, becoming highly irritable or disregarding activities they would normally enjoy.

Teens can be resistant to the “special conversation” had around big events or changes.

It's better to have regular conversations about important things routinely, so it opens up a path to have a natural conversation. Since teens are peer focused, starting a conversation about how their friends are feeling can be a window into discussing their own mental health.

I’m worried my child is falling behind in school — help!

JH: If you (and your child) are finding pandemic-era schooling a challenge you’re not alone; everyone is in the same situation. However you feel your child's learning has been compromised, that’s true across the world.

De-emphasize academic achievement right now, your kids will be okay! We can take a step back from worrying about academic achievement in grade 3, you want to keep you kid reading, love learning, but the goal should be to love learning.

Keep the high stress pressure off.

What can I do to help my child?

JH: Do not underestimate the importance of routine. Keeping a regular schedule for kids and teens can be vital to maintaining mental wellness.

This includes activities like eating, sleeping and social interactions. While it may be difficult to get the level of physical activity necessary for physical and mental health, it’s still good to plan that into the day.

Find times to connect with your children outside of time spent on chores and homework; sit and read a book, go on a walk, watch a show your child enjoys – any time spent connecting is invaluable.

If possible, maintain connection with extended family. Kids benefit from relationships with family even if interactions are brief.

Do you see a light at the end of the tunnel?

JH: Children and young adults are resilient — don’t underestimate your kids. Shift the focus from how your children are struggling to amplify and celebrate their growth and resiliency.

Listen to your children. Young people have brilliant ideas. We need to find ways to engage young people in decision making and planning.

Some young people are struggling, many are being resilient, most are both, and can be both.

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Neighbourhood Stories

My Neighbourhood:

Leslieville Leslieville was at the forefront of a wave of gentrification in the east end starting in the mid-2000s, and it’s now a highly coveted ‘hood for creative professionals and young families.

One of them is The Richards Group Agent, Jenny Simon.

Jenny was a lifelong Beacher but now calls Leslieville home. Here’s how she would spend her dream day unplugged.

8:30 am:

Coffee always comes first on weekends.

Leslieville is full of great coffee shops, but my go-to is an oat milk latte from Te Aro. Conveniently their cookies happen to pair perfectly with the latte!

10:30am:

After our ride, Justine and I will walk over to One Academy for a Bootcamp class because there’s nothing better than a double-header workout to kick-off a Saturday! Leslieville has earned its representation as a fitness and wellness hub, and the whole OneAcademy team is excellent.

One Academy, 858 Eastern Ave

11:30am:

After our workout, we like to head west across the bridge to Impact Kitchen in neighbouring Corktown for lunch. The Warrior and Hero bowls are my favourites.

Te Aro, 983 Queen St. E

Impact Kitchen, 573 King St. E

9:20am:

12:00pm:

After coffee, I’ll head down Carlaw to Torq for an outdoor spin class with my friend and fellow instructor, Justine Keyserlingk. All of the Torq instructors are amazing, but Justine’s music is so good, and she always pushes me to my max. I’ve been teaching spin for a few years, and the Torq community is one of the things that’s made me so attached to Leslieville.

Torq Ride, 536 Eastern Ave.

I stroll and people-watch while running errands. One of the best things about Leslieville is how accessible all of my favourite things are. My route typically includes a stop at Spaccio and Butchers of Distinction for groceries, Dimensions to pick up any art I’ve had framed, and the Side Kitchen for a jar of some Uncle Chuck’s BBQ sauce made by my dear friend, Cheryl. Other favourites include Token, Arts Market (their Turkish Towels are fantastic), Good Neighbour, Province of Canada, and a visit to my friend Derek who owns Pop Music and always has the perfect record recommendation.

I’ll spend the rest of the afternoon shopping in the neighbourhood.

5:00pm:

Leslieville has so many great restaurants, and we usually start at Comrade for a pre-dinner cocktail but then end up staying for dinner! Their burger is one of the best meals in the East End, so ending the day on the Comrade patio is always perfect. Good night!

The Comrade, 758 Queen St. E

SHOPS IN THE 'HOOD Spaccio, 22 Sackville St. Butchers of Distinction, 738 Queen St. E Dimensions, 732 Queen St. E The Side Kitchen, 1093 Queen St. E Token, 777 Queen St. E Arts Market, 790 Queen St. E Good Neighbour, 935 Queen St. E Province of Canada, 1004 Queen St. E Pop Music, 581 Gerrard St. E

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PEC The County IS CALLING YOU

by Alexandra Grant

Prince Edward County, aka ‘The County’, is far larger than most people first think, with over 800 kms of shoreline, vast swathes of farmland and so much more.

You’ll find bustling towns like Picton, Bloomfield and Wellington and quaint hamlets like Ameliasburgh, Hillier, and Waupoos.

Wine and farming put PEC on the map, but now it's known for amazing craft beer & cider, exceptional dining, and beautiful art galleries and so much more.

That’s where I can help. I was born and raised in the County and have worked here my entire life. I know what's hot, what's not, and which spot is about to boom.

I’ve defied other people's perception of me my whole life and have let no one tell me I can’t do something.

That drive has made me successful in everything I do.

From a very young age, I’ve loved real estate. That passion and my drive to defy expectations makes me a vital asset in your search.

I’ve been helping people buy and sell homes in every corner of The County for almost 10 years.

That means I have expertise in every type of property — from farming, waterfront homes and cottages, condos and new construction.

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As the agent chosen to list and sell some of the highest valued homes in PEC and having sold over 60 properties in the area, I can give you access to the best opportunities in the County.

When you find the perfect one, I'm able to connect you with the right tradespeople, mortgage brokers and lawyers – all from the County. The inside scoop on schools, the best restaurants or a good fishing spot — I’m here for all the goods.

Is it time for a change of pace with a summer/ weekend retreat? Or a complete lifestyle change?

Whatever the next chapter of your life might be – let’s talk to find out what PEC has to offer you.

BUYING TIPS IN AN

Ultra-Competitive Market Finding the perfect place takes careful planning, insight, and a well-honed strategy. Here are things to consider to streamlining the process and save time before you hit the road.

LOCATION The County is a lot bigger than most people first realize.

If you don't already know where you want to be, drive around. Get lost. Explore all the amazing nooks that The County has to offer.

TYPE OF PROPERTY Would you consider an old farmhouse, a condo, or some vacant land? How much work are you prepared to do? It's important to determine the type of home that will best suit your desired lifestyle.

THE BUDGET There is a lack of inventory in The County, especially with the Covid pandemic, which is driving prices up. On average, waterfront homes are selling for over $1 million and the average house price is running over $700,000 in the last six months. Plus, there is a moratorium on new BnBs/AirBnB licensing in The County–and no for the time being. Consider if you need to rent out your new place to subsidize the mortgage.

THE OFFER On top of the price you are willing to pay, the closing date and other conditions, think about a home inspection. It can provide a vital assessment of the aspects of a property that cost the most to fix or alter. Remember, beyond financing, inclusions and exclusions, a survey, or zoning issues – there's always more to think about.

IMPORTANT FEATURES When looking in The County, what’s important to you may be very different from the city.

Privacy and acreage, proximity to a town, the amount of maintenance for property, future development potential are all things that you should consider.

This is where I come in.

Let me be your experienced guide on your journey into The County.

Alexandra Grant Sales Representative (613) 888-8365

2589 Shannon Road

4 Bed | 3 Bath | $1,300,000 This stunning 4 bedroom, 3 bath farmhouse was constructed in 1905 by Irish settlers. Featuring a spacious main floor master with ensuite, walk-in closet, main floor laundry, 2 wood-burning fireplaces & finished basement with workshop. The farm has 174 acres which consists of 4km of trails, 20-acre wetlands, 14 cleared acres, 65 years old 7-acre pin plantation, 2 ponds, maple bush, a pole barn, drive shed, chicken coop, 2 car detached garage, landscaped, raised vegetable gardens & patios.

All updates to the home have been professionally completed with no expense spared.

homesforsaleinprinceedwardcounty.com

TheRichardsGroup.ca

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Insider Advice

Transform your home in a weekend

After a long winter, many of us are tired of staring at the same four walls. Refreshing your space doesn’t have to take a lot of time. Every day, Bianca Zorzi and her Staging and Styling team transform spaces by layering and refreshing what’s already there.

Follow their tips to give any room in your home a completely new look this weekend.

Reduce, Rearrange, and Re-use Before you make any new purchases, shop your house.

Collect all accessories you have in one place, like your dining room table, and create your ‘store.’ This will help you purge and declutter at the same time.

Vases, jars, pillows, artwork and books are all great items for breathing new life into another space.

A decorative bowl from the kitchen can add a sense of variety to your living room. A smooth stone found on the beach can add visual interest to a stack of books.

From there, rearrange your accessories into groupings or vignettes. Follow the rule of threes: odd numbers of differently sized objects create the most dynamic arrangements. Start with larger pieces first and then fill in the gaps with smaller objects. Keep in mind size, shape and depth to achieve an effect that is thoughtful and curated.

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Insider Advice

Consolidate Colours Keep each room to a single colour story to create a cohesive, intentional aesthetic. One trend we’re seeing is a shift towards more warm, tone-ontone colour palettes. Don’t be afraid to mix objects and furniture from different periods — and purposes — for an eclectic look. A bedroom dresser could serve as a functional living room sideboard or entry storage.

It’s all in how you accessorize!

The Goods Bianca Zorzi, Property Stylist at The Richards Group, suggests checking out the following local and favourite home decor stores for accessories you’ll love: Task 1915 Queen St. E Black Rooster 1075 Queen St. E

Follow the rule of threes: odd numbers of differently sized objects create the most dynamic arrangements.

Scout 1140 Queen St. E Collected Joy 1035 Kingston Rd Living Lighting 1841 Queen St. E Tonic Living 36 Northline Rd. #6 Spruce Home Decor Inc. 455 Parliament St. West Elm 109 Atlantic Ave.

Bring the outside in Nothing freshens up a space like botanicals. So grab a vase or vessel (water pitchers and mason jars will do) and create a simple arrangement featuring a few branches, sprigs of greenery, or fresh flowers.

When it comes to plants, you can go as big and bold as you like.

If you’re not a green thumb, artificial plants have come a long way and can transform a room in an instant.

Elte Mkt 1381 Castlefield Ave. Maison Corbeil 1270 Caledonia Rd. CB2 651 Queen St. W

TheRichardsGroup.ca

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PRO TIP:

Choose frames with generous mattes to create an elevated gallery-feeling.

Repeat frames to create impact.

Channel your inner artist You can change the focal point of a room through the strategic arrangement of artwork. If you don’t have any artwork to spare, you can create your own abstract painting DIY-style using simple line drawings, paint or mixed media. (This can be an excellent project for kids too.)

The photo library on your phone or pages from coffee table books can also be a good inspiration for artwork.

Creatively crop them for more interesting perspectives. If you want to think outside the frame, you can give a wall more dimension by adding a mirror or hanging a feather wreath, tapestry or basket. The goal is to create a central feature in each room with points of interest throughout the space.

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EastTO Magazine

Build your base Invest in key pieces like rugs, lighting, furniture and curtains that you’ll love for the long-term. Then adding seasonal flair and texture through layering linens, blankets, pillows and accessories to transform the look.

This home decor strategy will ensure your home feels fresh in the spring and summer and cozy as the weather cools.

It’s also a great way to keep from getting bored with your space all year round.

TheRichardsGroup.ca

27

EAST TO

47A Lee

“

The market frenzy surrounding a Beaches gem shows how eager families are to upsize for more space.

We decided to sell our home in the Beaches and move out of the city in search of more space and to bring us closer to family. We were concerned about selling in what could potentially be a volatile year with the pandemic and winter approaching quickly. Homeowners, Lisa B. and Paul S.

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“

The Space This 2-1/2 storey, four-bedroom house dates back to 1911 and is positioned on a deep lot with a four-tier backyard oasis.

The owners had previously invested in a stunning second and third-floor renovation to install designer bathrooms, premium fixtures, custom built-ins, a guest room with Murphy bed, smart-device lighting controls and rain-sensing skylights. The most stand-out feature was the third floor’s “Shangri-la” master bedroom. Its five-piece ensuite with a walk-out terrace earned an award from the National Kitchen and Bath Association’s Ontario Chapter.

More by Design This home already had plenty of appealing attributes. But with many people starting to retreat to their homes due to COVID-19 threats, Kimberly Boot, Design & Client Care Manager at The Richards Group knew that prospective buyers were going to want as much finished living space as possible. So her design plan was to update the main floor’s kitchen and powder room and then finish the basement to create even more family space.

This renovation and staging approach created a strong emotional connection with buyers as soon as they walked through the front door, which was key to maximizing the home's selling potential overall.

Agent

Sabrina Cameron

Approx value prior to design

$1,800,000

Address

Design Budget

Sale Price

Return

47A Lee Ave. $1,915,000

$60K

$55,000 or 192%

Before

TheRichardsGroup.ca

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Before

The Market The Beaches market has been exceptionally strong throughout the pandemic. With many families balancing working from home and home-schooling, the need for more space drove demand from buyers looking to upsize. Houses with backyard escapes and finished basement with family rooms have been particularly popular since they provide families with extra space to spread out.

In addition to its incredible multi-tiered backyard complete with turf and play structure, 47A Lee provided proximity to the park across the street, including tennis courts, kids playground, splash pad, outdoor skating rink, picnic areas, and basketball courts. Steps to the boardwalk and the fenced off-leash dog park, the house is in the perfect spot for accessing outdoor activities.

The Return More than ever, buyers are willing to pay a premium for move-in-ready houses. It’s critical to tie up any loose ends to make the home ready for selling to get top dollar.

The result was an incredible amount of interest in 47A Lee, with more than 60 showings in the one week of going on the market. The result was multiple offers in just six days and an exceptional sale price.

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EastTO Magazine

Follow us

@RichardsGroupRemax

on Instagram for your daily dose of inspiration.

by Jacqueline Pennington

Discover

NORTHUMBERLAND IN SPRINGTIME THERE’S NOTHING QUITE LIKE Northumberland County in the springtime. Located on the shores of Lake Ontario just an hour East of Toronto, Northumberland is often known for its beautiful beaches and country lifestyle; but there is so much more to this diverse area.

Spanning from Port Hope to Brighton, from the shores of Lake Ontario to Rice Lake, Northumberland is rich in both culture and activities, as well as easy access to health care services. It’s no wonder so many proudly call Northumberland home.

Port Hope is renown for being one of the best small towns in Canada, with a downtown regarded as one of the best-preserved main streets in Ontario. Spring sees the revival of the thriving theatre community and Port Hope is a mecca for top-notch restaurants and cafes.

In spring the waterfront community of Cobourg comes alive. Known for its sandy beach and marina, it’s an ideal location for retirees and families looking to be close to the hospital and easy transport via the VIA station. Cobourg has maintained its small-town inviting atmosphere; this is in large part due to the well-preserved traditional main street and the surrounding residential Heritage Conservation District.

If small-town charm is what you’re after the quintessential village of Grafton is the location for you. Known for Ste. Anne’s Spa, this quiet lakeside community offers the perfect blend of working farms and modern homes.

Heading further east along Lake Ontario we enter the apple route, passing through Colborne and into Brighton. This area is teaming with orchards and farm stands in full bloom. Colborne offers new construction properties and plenty of charming country homes with acreage. While Brighton offers affordable family and retiree-friendly homes and bungalows.

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Not to be outdone the communities surrounding Rice Lake have a quality uniquely their own. Located just north of Cobourg this is the perfect spot for those looking to be on the water, with a Cottage or year-round home, within an hour of the GTA. Recognized for its recreational and sport fisheries, the area of Rice Lake boasts numerous surrounding communities.

Quite possibly Northumberland’s best-kept secret is the area of Warkworth. Whether it’s a renovated century farmhouse, hobby farm, or a new home with views of the rolling hills, there are plenty of options. The area is a hub for a vital artistic culture, and home to many accomplished artists, and artisans. Its downtown boasts restaurants and quaint shops with farm to table living in mind.

Though each area has a different character they all come together to form the diverse landscape that is Northumberland County. A wonderfully inviting place to call home.

For more information on the benefits and differences of each community visit JacquelinePennington.com to discover why life is better in Northumberland.

9141 Racetrack Road, Cobourg

2104 Grimshaw Road, Cobourg

Situated on 14 acres of sprawling views of the Northumberland hills countryside. Enjoy panoramic views in this over 5,000 square foot custom-built Stalwood home. The expansive living space was designed with the incredible views in mind. The lower level features a walkout that leads to professionally landscaped grounds. This home is the epitome of what life in the county has to offer.

Enjoy end of the road privacy and be swept away by the stunning views from every vantage point in this extraordinary home.

The main floor offers an open kitchen, dining, and living room with a stone fireplace as the centre point. Access the expansive upper-level deck that spans the entire length of the home.

Outside find ample room with a generous one-acre lot and multiple designated outdoor living areas with incredible views.

Offered for $1,889,000 MLS 40078092

Offered for $1,395,000 MLS: 40075707

96 Coyle Road, Roseneath

817 Wilson Gate, Cobourg

80 acres of the most captivating and breathtaking views of Northumberland’s rolling hills and countryside. The expansive yet welcoming bungalow is the epitome of casual elegance.

The meadows are groomed for agricultural and recreational use, including pastures, a pond, over 70 acres of workable land, and an abundance of outbuildings. There are endless possibilities, including; cattle farm, horse ranch, or a weekend retreat just a train ride or short drive from the city!

One of the most notable homes in New Amherst across from an open area park and surrounded by meticulous landscaping and gardens. Offering the best of what one level living has to offer, the open concept main floor living space is perfect for spacious everyday living and entertaining. The fresh and neutral pallet lends itself to any decor style and makes this home truly turn-key.

Offered for $749,000 MLS: 40074548

Offered for $1,395,000 MLS 40065335

JacquelinePennington.com CALL TODAY 905.375.0062

*Based on number of transactions for Northumberland County 2020. Source TREB/Quinte Real Estate boards.

TheRichardsGroup.ca

33

Insider Advice

Is now the time to downsize?

By Sabrina Cameron

For most homeowners, the idea of ‘downsizing’ isn’t typically associated with excitement.

But it should be — especially now.

Most of us think of downsizing as a “downgrade” in our living spaces. But more often than not, downsizing is an upgrade in lifestyle, as many people sell their home for top dollar and trade it in for a boutique condo with all the latest amenities and put money in the bank.

Why downsize now The imbalance between supply and demand was already pushing Toronto home prices up before COVID-19, but the pandemic has increased home equity faster than we could have ever expected. Low interest rates, low inventory combined with people looking for more space to accommodate working from home and home-schooling have driven up demand for single-family homes.

But while there’s been an incredible upswing in prices of detached and semi-detached homes, condo prices have stayed relatively stable. The average price of a Toronto detached home rose 16 percent to $1.6 million since this time last year.

In contrast, the average selling price of a condo in Toronto was down 7 percent to $676,837 in February over the same year-over-year basis.

This scenario creates the perfect situation for those looking to downsize and capitalize on their investment. Their large properties are rising in price, while the value of condos have declined in price.

That’s not to say that this scenario is expected to last very long, as the condo market did start to rebound earlier this year — especially in boutique buildings.

While condos offer obvious benefits like freedom from shovelling snow, cutting grass, and constant upkeep of your house, they are not your only option where you will benefit from shifting gears.

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Insider Advice

What could your next move look like? If you own a fourbedroom detached home in the Beach, your value range could be anywhere between $2.5 to $3.75 million.

That could get you a twobedroom pied-a-terre condo with spectacular city and lake views, currently ranging between $725,000 to $850,000, as well as a historic farmhouse in Prince Edward County for roughly one to $1.5 million.

Downsizing doesn’t always mean condos There are so many different reasons to make a move: a simpler lifestyle, fewer stairs, proximity to family, freeing up equity, or a combination of all of these things.

Downsizing for some may look like a cottage, bungalow, or a maintenance-free townhouse in a smaller town that’s close to golf, hiking trails, and other recreational activities.

Although real estate outside of Toronto is booming, buying out of the city still remains an affordable option for downsizers. For example, many city homeowners have been cashing out on their million-dollar-plus homes and moved to Prince Edward County for one-third the price, and pocketed the rest to fund their new lifestyle.

Whatever your goals, downsizing can be exciting and a great way to leverage the equity in your current home to fund a new lifestyle. The pandemic-drive real estate boom can give you an extra boost and financial flexibility that would not have been available a year ago.

TheRichardsGroup.ca

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EAST TO

Community During the pandemic, Shelter Movers, a volunteer-powered organization, has adapted to a staggering increase in demand for their services.

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EastTO Magazine

Pre-pandemic, they provided free moving and storage services to roughly 51 families fleeing abuse each month.

They now move more than 90 families monthly. They also expanded their service to offer restaurant-quality meal delivery to women and children in shelters during the city-wide lockdowns.

We spoke with Shelter Movers founder, and fellow east-ender, Marc HullJacquin about what inspired him to start Shelter Movers, the organization’s astounding growth, and what we as eastsiders can do to support activism against genderbased violence.

What inspired you to start Shelter Movers?

“While on parental leave with my daughter in 2016 I began doing research on gender-based violence, and felt compelled by the experience of families in Toronto who were experiencing abuse. As a father of three, I felt strongly that every parent should have the ability to give their child a safe and loving place to live.

I saw the potential for a practical service I could provide to help survivors escape violent homes with losing their belongings, or their dignity.

Shelters and services exist across Toronto for survivors of domestic violence, but what if survivors are unable to access these services or can’t escape their violent homes? Most survivors risk losing everything they own to leave their abuser. They face the unacceptable choice of falling into absolute poverty or staying in a violent home.”

Why do you think gender-based violence persists in Canada?

What can Torontonians do to support activism against gender based violence?

“I don’t purport to be an expert on the topic; but in my experience, I’ve come to believe that helping women and children fleeing abuse is really a statement about the neglect that society has shown to the experience of women. Those in positions of power tend to either be ignorant to the problem of gender-based violence or willfully blind. Men do continue to occupy most positions of power in society and many do not take their responsibility as allies seriously enough.

Many men may not even realize that they have a responsibility to participate in ending gender-based violence. Gender based violence is not a women’s issue. Men have to change for gender based violence to change. Women can (and do) reform and organize and assemble. But the problem and solution lies with men.”

“Learning would be number one – especially through volunteering.

I always urge people to volunteer for just one move with us; once you meet the client and her kids, it’s almost impossible not to want to do it again.

Ending gender-based violence is about educating ourselves and exposing ourselves to a small portion of the reality that survivors live with every day. I think many people have the misconception that there’s nothing they can do because they don’t have enough to contribute. But we all have a role to play in ending gender based violence and that begins with listening to what survivors are asking of us and having the courage to step up and make it happen.”

More than 66,000 calls were made to the Assaulted Women’s Helpline in Toronto between March and September alone.

This year, The Richards Group participated in the inaugural Shelter Movers Cross Canada Challenge, with our community raising $1825. We’re thrilled to donate an additional $10,000 on behalf of our clients, as a thank you for trusting us with their move.

Find out more about Shelter Movers: sheltermovers.com @sheltermovers

TheRichardsGroup.ca

37

Insider Advice

Unplug from a bad mortgage

By Angie Alvarez, Mortgage Agent

Most consumers get their mortgage from the first lender they speak to, and fewer than half of consumers shop around for mortgage rates.

But taking such a passive approach could you cost thousands of dollars over the life of the mortgage loan.

Mortgage loan shopping is just as important as finding the right house. And yet while Canadians spend countless hours negotiating the best deal on a car, new TV, or dishwasher, when it comes time to get the best mortgage, they aren’t always doing the work. Most see a great rate and lock-in without paying attention to all the fine print.

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EastTO Magazine

Insider Advice

How do you know if you have a bad mortgage?

First, check whether you have restrictive prepayment and lump sum privileges that limit you from paying off your mortgage faster.

A ‘good’ mortgage will allow you to prepay 15-20 percent annually without penalty.

This payment goes directly towards your principal balance. Some restricted mortgage terms will only let you do this once per year, not offer the option at all, or provide much lower prepayment amounts of only 5-10 percent.

The ability to put any extra money you have towards your mortgage during your term can knock years off the remaining life of your loan – so having this flexibility is to your advantage.

Did you exchange the best terms for a better rate?

You may have heard the terms ‘no-frills mortgage’ or bona fide sales clause. In exchange for a better rate, a no-frills mortgage has a larger penalty calculation if you want to break your mortgage before it matures. A no-frills mortgage doesn't necessarily mean it’s a bad mortgage, however, it is not suitable for everyone.

A bona fide sales clause means you are stuck with your mortgage until the end of your term unless you sell your home. If you need to refinance elsewhere before the term is up, forget about it.

As the saying goes, “The only thing certain in life is uncertainty.” Almost half of borrowers don’t make it to maturity, mainly due to negotiating a better rate or refinancing to pull additional equity.

Things change, and if you are one of the millions of Canadians who want to refinance or sell before your term is up, you want to ensure

you have good terms that allow the flexibility to do so. It’s gratifying to get the lowest mortgage rate, but what if the upfront savings cost you more in the long run?

Beware of penalty calculations Whether it’s to refinance for a lower rate or move to a new property, if you’re looking to get out of your mortgage early, the size of your IRD (interest rate differential) is something you should familiarize yourself with. The size of an IRD penalty depends on your mortgage lender. When you break a fixed-rate mortgage, the penalty clause is the greater of IRD or three months interest.

The major banks have posted IRD rates while many other lenders — often accessed through independent mortgage brokers — do not. Big bank lenders typically use the discount off the posted rate they initially gave you on your mortgage and apply it against the posted rate today for the remaining term to calculate the IRD. Other lenders do not do this — they compare the discounted rate they gave you to their current discounted rate for the term remaining on your mortgage. The difference can be significant and could cost or save you thousands of dollars.

Take the time to assess your mortgage Connect with a mortgage broker to walk you through your options, especially before you renew. They will help you make a better decision overall — one that saves you the most, without compromising your future goals. They will have a closer look at your current financial situation and explore how you can optimize your mortgage so it’s the best for you.

Contact Angie Alvarez to learn where you stand with your mortgage.

Angie Alvarez Mortgage Agent/M13001523 Verico Capital Home Lending Independently owned and operated Brokerage License #12347 416.315.6261 angie@capitalhomelending.ca www.mortgageweb.ca/angiealvarez

TheRichardsGroup.ca

39

Market Trends

Market Review The first few months of 2021 have proven to be stronger than we’ve ever seen. There’s pent-up demand from the early days of lockdown, low-interest rates and the fact that we're all getting pretty tired of the same walls.

For some, it’s the stark realization that their home isn’t serving their needs or their ‘wants.’ For others, a move is being prompted by a major life change. The need for change is strong, but that also means there are many incredible opportunities out there for a move.

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We expect the market to settle down a bit as more inventory comes on the market with the warmth of spring.

For buyers, a more balanced market will be welcome. Check out the market stats to see what prices are doing in your neighbourhood.

INSIDER TIP: With so many properties being sold ‘off market’ or exclusively, these stats only reflect what has been listed on Realtor.ca. If you’re buying in this market, that means that the homes listed on MLS are just a part of the picture.

Market Trends

Market analysis by neighbourhood The Beaches

Birchcliffe/Cliffside

Average Price

$1,543,841

Average Price

$993,220

Median Price

$1,400,000

Median Price

$885,000

Average days on market

13

14

Average days on market

Beach Hill

Leslieville Average Price

$1,044,179

Average Price

$1,133,282

Median Price

$945,000

Median Price

$1,085,000

Average days on market

14

9

Average days on market

Greenwood Coxwell

Upper Beaches Average Price

$979,567

Average Price

$1,064,377

Median Price

$945,000

Median Price

$1,073,500

Average days on market

12

8

Average days on market

Corktown Distillery

Riverdale/Riverside Average Price

$1,746,286

Average Price

$737,708

Median Price

$1,600,000

Median Price

$647,500

Average days on market

8

24

Average days on market

Danforth Average Price

$1,259,541

Median Price

$1,185,000

Average days on market

9

TheRichardsGroup.ca

41

Market Trends

The Richards Group Effect Even in a hot market, The Richards Group earns 13% more for your home in half the time compared to the average TREB agent.

Given that the average price of a home in Toronto’s east end is $1,219,385, choosing The Richards Group could mean an additional $158,520* or more for your home. *Based on TREB 2020 stats E01/E02 combined

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Market Trends

The team that makes it all happen When you work with The Richards Group, you’re backed by an integrated team of realtors, market analysts, design managers, and project planners.

Jenny Simon

Sabrina Cameron

Matt Olinski

Cera Dann

Cameron Levitt

Sales Representative

Sales Representative

Sales Representative

Sales Representative

Sales Representative

Bram Goldman

Shane Little

Matt Foster

Lisa Clarke

Julie Tranquada

Sales Representative

Sales Representative

Sales Representative

Sales Representative

Sales Representative

Christine Pacheco

Bianca Zorzi

Julia Costa

Kimberly Boot

Staging and Styling Manager

Client Care Assistant

Design and Client Care Manager

Client Care and Design

Samantha Davies Design and Client Care Manager

Design and Client Care Manager

Management and Marketing

Mark Richards

Selene Richards

Arthur Kershaw

Zoe Cook

Founder and Team Leader

Business Development and Marketing

Broker of Record

Administrator

TheRichardsGroup.ca

43

What’s For Sale, Coming Soon and Sold To see all the latest listings, visit TheRichardsGroup.ca and follow us on Instagram @richardsgroupremax!

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EastTO Magazine

FOR SALE

261 Kingswood Road

261Kingswood.com

Shane Little

C 416.471.9824

EXCLUSIVE

Sales Representative

shane@therichardsgroup.ca

FOR SALE

45

FOR SALE

1 Fallingbrook Road

46

FOR SALE

1Fallingbrook.com

Mark Richards

C 416.728.2499

$7,995,000

Sales Representative

mark@therichardsgroup.ca

FOR SALE

44 Balsam Ave.

44balsam.com

Mark Richards

C 416.728.2499

$4,760,000

Sales Representative

mark@therichardsgroup.com

See more listings at TheRichardsGroup.ca and

@richardsgroupdremax

FOR SALE

47

FOR SALE

75 Victoria Park Ave.

48

FOR SALE

75VictoriaPark.com

Matt Foster

C 416.720.0024

$1,279,000

Sales Representative

mattfoster@therichardsgroup.ca

FOR SALE

170 Bayview Ave. #908

170Bayview908.com

Lisa Clarke

C 416.526.9772

$899,900

Broker

lisa@therichardsgroup.ca

See more listings at TheRichardsGroup.ca and

@richardsgroupdremax

FOR SALE

49

FOR SALE

57 Winthorpe Road

50

FOR SALE

57Winthorpe.com

Shane Little

C 416.471.9824

$1,599,000

Sales Representative

shane@therichardsgroup.ca

COMING SOON

112Balsam.com

Mark Richards

C 416.728.2499

Sales Representative

mark@therichardsgroup.ca

1860Lakeshore.com

Cera Dann

303Lee.com

Cera Dann

C 416.569.2372

Sales Representative

C 416.569.2372

Sales Representative

27Brookmount.com

Jenny Simon

147Duvernet.com

Cameron Levitt

C 416.728.2495

Sales Representative

C 416.699.9988

Sales Representative

See more listings at TheRichardsGroup.ca and

@richardsgroupdremax

COMING SOON

51

COMING SOON

52

175Willow.com

Sabrina Cameron

134Kenilworth.com

Jenny Simon

C 416.879.3116

Sales Representative

C 416.728.2495

Sales Representative

99Blake.com

Matt Olinski

65Sprucehill.com

Shane Little

C 416.937.6293

Sales Representative

C 416.471.9824

Sales Representative

93 Lyall Ave

Sabrina Cameron

15Drummondville.com

Shane Little

C 416.879.3116

Sales Representative

C 416.471.9824

Sales Representative

COMING SOON

SOLD

27Haslett.com

106Waverley.com

$1,279,000

Shane Little

C 416.471.9824

133% of ask

Sales Representative

shane@therichardsgroup.ca

$1,589,000

Bram Goldman

C 416.688.2468

123% of ask

Sales Representative

bram@therichardsgroup.ca

See more listings at TheRichardsGroup.ca and

@richardsgroupdremax

SOLD

53

SOLD

147Waverley.com

$1,689,000

Bram Goldman

C 416.688.2468

127% of ask

Sales Representative

bram@therichardsgroup.ca

See what’s recently sold, view past listings, and listing data.

EastTOsold.ca

54 SOLD

SOLD

28Kippendavie.com

20Ravina.com

$1,379,000

Cameron Levitt

C 416.699.9988

122% of ask

Sales Representative

cameron@therichardsgroup.ca

$1,099,000

Matt Olinski

C 416.937.6293

127% of ask

Sales Representative

matt@therichardsgroup.ca

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SOLD

55

SOLD

54Beachview.com

553Strathmore.com

56 SOLD

$949,900

Matt Foster

C 416.720.0024

126% of ask

Sales Representative

mattfoster@therichardsgroup.ca

$849,000

Lisa Clarke

C 416.526.9772

118% of ask

Broker

lisa@therichardsgroup.ca

SOLD

47Lee.com

$1,799,000

Sabrina Cameron

C 416.879.3116

112% of ask

Sales Representative

sabrina@therichardsgroup.ca

$799,000

Jenny Simon

C 416.728.2495

104% of ask

Sales Representative

jenny@therichardsgroup.ca

15Baseball1507.com

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SOLD

57

SOLD

152Kenilworth.com

88Southwood.com

58 SOLD

$3,279,000

Julie Tranquada

C 416.728.4790

110% of ask

Sales Representative

julie@therichardsgroup.ca

$1,499,000

Cera Dann

C 416.569.2372

117% of ask

Sales Representative

cera@therichardsgroup.ca

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@richardsgroupdremax

As lawyers, we like to think we’re essential...

But let’s be honest, the folks at Michael Garron Hospital are the real deal.

Thank you.

T 416.465.4232 info@kormancompany.com