EastTO Transform or Trade-up?

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

Transform or trade-up?

Settle the question in 2022

Getaway to your vacation property What 2021 says about this year’s market trends

Winter 2022 $7.95

24 EastTO Magazine Transform or trade-up?

Issue #4 Winter 2022 A publication by The Richards Group 1945 Queen St E Toronto, ON M4L 1H7 416.699.0303

Contents 4

Trust Me, Try This The founders of Province of Canada share their faves for a cozy winter in the East End

8

EastTO: Design Refresh Freshen up your home with these 2022 design trends

16 Let it Snow Our handy guide to get your home winter-ready

19 My Neighbourhood Shane Little shares his ideal day in Riverside

20 Trading Up Three families took advantage of a red-hot market to expand their footprint

24 EastTO Cocktail Hour Bram Goldman highlights his top cocktail hangouts

26 Special Feature Waterfront Properties in Kawartha Lakes and Peterborough County

28 Best of the Binge The TRG team shares their top binge watching picks

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Editor-In-Chief Selene Richards

30 The Great Getaway Matt Olinski gives the insider scoop on buying a vacation home

32 Special Feature:

Meet the Elmers East Design House dreams up inspiring design ideas for three new homes

34 East To Community Like many animal-loving East Enders, Lisa Clarke gives back to the Toronto Humane Society

Advertising selene@therichardsgroup.ca Art direction and design Parcel Design Thank you to our contributors Julie Brown Jeremy Watt Kelsey Mortson & Paul Sobocinski Alexandra & Joel Scott Farnaz Shahed Cameron Levitt Bianca Zorzi Shane Little

36 Special Feature:

East To Northumberland Waterfront opportunities in Northumberland

38 Trends in Real Estate Cameron Levitt forecasts market trends in 2022

44 What’s For Sale,

Coming Soon and Sold Properties to watch

58 They Bought a

House on Zoom Tales of buying a home in lockdown

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

Editor’s Letter

I

like to think that I’ve been managing fairly well – pivoting, balancing, zooming, pivoting again – but I was able to do so because it seemed like there was some end in sight, some light at the end of the tunnel. And now, well….limbo.

The sense of limbo is driving me crazy. Maybe it’s the combination of planning for the coming year, but so many of those plans are on hold. We miss our team. We miss being in the office again.

We miss being together. We miss our community.

I’ve noticed how often we turn to humour as a salve to deal with this roller coaster we’re on.

For me, it got to the point that if I heard the word “pivot” one more time, I was going to scream – until my daughter made me rewatch the episode of Friends where Ross is trying to move his oversized couch up the apartment stairway.

Now when I hear the word “pivot,” I can’t help but laugh. If you don’t remember it or haven’t seen it – give it a watch!

Friends sharing videos and memes gives a soothing reassurance that we are not alone in this madness – and that while we might all experience things a bit differently, we’re all going through the same thing.

While everything is in flux, we cling to things that are constant. I recently learned that repeatedly watching the same TV series can soothe anxiety because it creates familiarity and consistency. So maybe I won’t give my kid such a hard time about watching The Office for the 15th time in a row.

We’re also clinging to home. Maybe it’s winter, perhaps it’s the New Year, but my nesting instinct is crazy. I want everything to be just so with all the comforts within easy reach. Where we live has become so much more important.

So if you’re not happy with your space, don’t settle.

We hope this edition of EastTO inspires you as we look to the trends shaping 2022. For those who have had enough of your home and feel it’s time to move on, check out our profile on three families who did just that.

No matter where you’re at right now, we’re there with you.

Selene Richards

TheRichardsGroup.ca

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Well-being

Trust me, Try this Your EastTO Winter To-Do List

By Julie Brown and Jeremy Watt

Julie Brown and Jeremy Watt, founders of Province of Canada, have lived in the East End since 2015. Their shared love of graphic design and textiles inspired this casual lifestyle brand, which strays from the typical “Canadiana” lore and prides itself on being solely manufactured in Canada. Given their love for all things Canada (and warm and cozy clothing and home accessories), this duo is the perfect tour guide for making the most of winter in the East End.

A shot of chocolate sea salt with your coffee For our morning coffee, we always head across the street to Pilot Roasters, which we still lovingly refer to as Te Aro! They have a ton of different roasts available, and there’s something for everyone. Our standard order is two Flat Whites and the Energy Balls for the kids. Whether we’re hanging out inside or on the patio – we’re always bound to run into someone we know. → Pilot Coffee Roasters, 983 Queen St E

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Well-being

The Miso Soup from nutbar For a healthy and satisfying lunch, we love nutbar.

The cafe is built around a holistic approach to health, using over twenty-five different superfoods across their menu. Our go-to is the Harvest Miso Soup. It’s one of those soups that warm you up from the inside out, and the sourdough croutons on top make it all the better.

Be sure to check out their killer pantry items when you’re there. You can buy everything from their housemade granola and nut milk to cookie baking kits and mushroom tinctures. It’s a great place to stock up your kitchen or grab a quick gift for someone. → nutbar, 899 Queen St E

The new brunch spot in town

Get’em while they’re hot!

We’re long-time fans of Bonjour Brioche. It’s been a staple in the neighbourhood since the late ’90s and has the freshest French pastries in the East End. On a cold morning, nothing feels quite as good as getting a fresh warm croissant or brioche bun, so we recommend getting there early as they sell out fast!

For brunch, we head over to Leslieville newcomer, Pasaj, owned and operated by the same team from Simit & Chai over in the west end. This bakery and brunch spot offers the experience of Instanbul, using authentic Turkish flavour in both the food and interior design. The Smoked Salmon Eggs Benedict and Pancakes are an absolute must, and if you’re going with friends, the Turkish Breakfast Spread is perfect for sharing. → Pasaj, 1100 Queen St E

→ Bonjour Brioche, 812 Queen St E

TheRichardsGroup.ca

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Well-being

Bring some self-care home The new Health Hut at Queen and Pape has everything you could need for a day of resetting and relaxing when it comes to self-care. Whether you’re looking for the perfect candle to cozy up with or a new Gua Sha, they have it all. Their puzzle selection is also top-notch — we usually have a thousandpiece puzzle going in the house. For the whole self-care day experience, make an appointment at Morrison & Co, truly the best cuts in the East End. Ask for Tristan! → The Health Hut, 1025 Queen St E → Morrison & Co, 976 Queen St E

Chill out and order in After a long week of working and running around with the kids, we like to keep it chill when it comes to Saturday night dinner. Add in the cold that Canadian winters bring, and we’re staying inside.

Nights like this call for take-out pizza and cozying up on the couch with the kids for a movie. If Mom and Dad choose, it’s something like The Incredibles, but the kids always love The Lego Movie. Our go-to is Descendant Pizza, the best Detroit-style pizza in the East End. We always get The Gatt Daddy with Mama Lil’s Peppers, red onion, sauce, basil aioli, parsley, and basil — but what pulls it all together is the house-made fennel sausage they put on top. → Descendant Pizza, 1168 Queen St E

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EastTO Magazine

@momandpopstudio

Date night at the theatre For date night, we head over to The Fox Theatre. It's been around since 1914, so it has this eclectic classic cinema feeling to it. Complete with one of those old fashion marquees to display what’s playing. Vintage factor aside, we're mostly there for the popcorn, which is the best in the city. They play a good mix of loveable oldies, underrated indie flicks and new releases. Aside from its longstanding EastTO history, one of the best parts of the theatre is its wine and craft beer, making it the perfect spot for date night. → Fox Theatre, 2236 Queen St E

Well-being

Snow Day Must Haves: Julie’s TV Show to Binge:

Succession Jeremy’s TV Show to Binge:

Mad Men Snack:

Kawartha Dairy Vanilla Ice Cream with homemade chocolate peanut butter sauce, bananas, and slivered almonds.

Video Game:

Wii Tanks!

We just beat level 20!

Get outside on a toboggan run!

Even with a little bit of a chill outside, we still love all the Canadian seasons. I mean, we made a whole brand out of our love for Canada. One of our favourite winter activities is taking our kids tobogganing (Shameless plug — our waffle knit collection is excellent for layering under snow pants!) The best spot for tobogganing is Greenwood Park, it has a good range of hills to ride down, so it’s got a little something for the true thrill-seekers and the more relaxed rider.

The park has one of the few covered outdoor skating rinks in the city, a great alternative if tobogganing isn’t your thing.

Julie’s book pick:

The Forgotten Daughter, Joanna Goodman Jeremy’s book pick:

Cover Story, Alex Wong Julie’s fave Sweatsuit:

French Terry Cotton Suit (crewneck) Jeremy’s fave Sweatsuit:

Our new Flag Fleece Suit

→ Greenwood Park, 150 Greenwood Ave

TheRichardsGroup.ca

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Insider Advice

EAST TO:

Design Refresh

By Bianca Zorzi

How to refresh your home with 2022 Design Trends With all the time we’ve been spending in our homes, I’ve been super excited to look ahead to the trends for 2022.

I find inspiration every day with my team.

High-impact decor that is accessible and easy is not only ideal for styling properties, but for transforming your home so you can fall in love with it all over again.

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Insider Advice

01 Give yourself room to work

CB2

02

If you’re like me, you’re done working at the kitchen table. Hybrid work is here to stay, so give your workspace some love. A multipurpose room may be just the ticket. My favourite sleeper sofa is the Crate and Barrel Barrett Sectional that does double duty with additional storage. But for design impact and a comfy foam mattress, I can’t help but drool a bit over the CB2 Alesso Sleeper Sofa.

While you’re at it, dedicate some focus to the wall that’s doing double-duty as your Zoom background. Aim for decoration that’s not too busy. My perfect combination when I’m styling a feature wall is greenery, and a larger piece of statement art combined with floating shelves holding some sculptural pieces.

Avoid reflective items like shiny frames or mirrors and invest in a fabulous desk lamp that can also give you the perfect halo. Our favourite is the Mi Smart LED Light from Amazon. It flips up to cast a perfect glow for your Zoom sessions.

Don’t just eat your greens, decorate with them Nothing sets a room like greenery. I’m not a green thumb by any means, but I’ve found some easy ways to bring peace to my own home this winter.

Monsteras make great statement plants once they grow and aloe vera plants are low maintenance. If keeping plants alive intimidates you, check out our High-Low feature on page 12 for great artificial options!

Another way to bring greenery into your home is to pick up a can of Benjamin Moores’s colour of 2022, October Mist. Or, one our team’s personal favourites is Sherwin Williams 7750 Olympic Range. (In fact, Selene and Mark just used it in their cottage bedroom and ensuite!)

TheRichardsGroup.ca

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Insider Advice

The Goods Tonic Living 36 Northline Rd Spruce Toronto 455 Parliament St Black Rooster Decor 1075 Queen St E VdeV 797 Dundas St W Pavilion Furniture 42 Gladstone Ave Stylegarage 78 Ossington Ave Cornerstone Home Interiors 2886 Dundas St W Gingers 95 Ronald Ave

CB2

03 Design Eco-conscious Vintage Most of us have become acutely aware of our environmental footprint – and that extends to the design of our homes. I love nothing more than to ‘shop’ my own home – and now that everything takes forever to order, repainting a tired piece or upcycling something from the ReStore in a funky colour is the fastest way to get on track with the vintage trend. You can also choose natural products like raw silk, linen and reclaimed wood with natural colours like clay and sand.

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EastTO Magazine

04

Think curvy I’m a firm believer that art doesn’t just live on your walls. Sculptural furniture pieces are one of my favourite trends. The right piece – like the Gwyneth Boucle Chair from CB2 – can elevate a room in an instant while providing much needed functionality. I like to let the piece speak for itself by skipping accents like throw pillows.

Insider Advice

Make it all happen with High-Low! Our Design and Client Care team — Samantha, Julia, Kalima — are always keeping an eye on the highest impact elements to transform our clients homes, making them irresistible to buyers. Check out their high-low picks for 2022!

Part of the magic of properly styling is knowing when to go high and when to go low. Our advice is to go high with high traffic pieces or where you spend the most of your time. You can always find even more cost effective options but if you can invest in quality, you can still be ahead of the game by focusing on value not just cost.

LIGHTING $5,300 Sax Pendant 24"d x 44"h Black Rooster

$549 Nassa Basket Pendant Light 26"d x 24"h CB2

$605

$299

Calabria Table Lamp 20"d x 20.5"h Modern Komfort

Esphera Grey Round Table Lamp 15.75"w x 15.75"d x 23"h Crate & Barrel

TheRichardsGroup.ca

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Insider Advice

GREENERY

HEADBOARD

$5,361 $3,199

Sax Pendant Anaise Cane Bed 24"diam 44"h 100.5"w xx89"d Black Crate Rooster & Barrel

$1,058 Olive Tree 36"d x 96"h Annie & Flora

$1,599 Modern Rattan Bed 64"w x 84"d West Elm

$299 Faux Money Tree 26"w x 60"h Pottery Barn

High-Low 12

EastTO Magazine

Insider Advice

SOFAS

ART

$9,877 Kapsel Sofa 92"l Design Within Reach

$2,795 Elliot 90'’l Maison Corbeil

$890 Surf side, 53.5"w x 41.5"h Modern Komfort

DINING TABLES

$1,910 Seine Dining Table 47"w x 47"d x 30"h Modern Komfort

$3,579 Aurelia Dining Table 60"w x 60"d x 30.5"h LD Shoppe

$228 Next To You In Malibu , 54"w x 40"h Minted

ARM CHAIRS

$1,949

$524

Avondale Wood Leg Chair 36"w x 38"d x 26.5"h Crate & Barrel

Penn Chair 31.5"w x 29.5"d x 30.75"h West Elm

TheRichardsGroup.ca

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OUR FOCUS IS DESIGN Hatch Designs projects range from small to large, artisanal to ambitious, and from residential to small commercial, including additions, interior alterations, and green building design.

NEW CONSTRUCTION AND ADDITIONS

3D VISUALIZATION AND PRESENTATION

RENOVATIONS AND STRUCTURAL REDESIGN

CONSTRUCTION CONSULTATION

HatchDesigns.ca | 416.333.0941 | info@hatchdesigns.ca

Let it snow

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EastTO Magazine

Is your home ready for winter?

Our handy guide will help keep you safe, cozy, and happily Netflixing (without the chill).

W

inter in Toronto can be unpredictable, with some years seeing just a dusting of flurries, others bringing blasts of arctic winds and waist-high snowbanks (remember the year the mayor called in the army to shovel the streets?). One thing’s certain: Canadian winters can be tough on our homes, large or small.

A little proactive planning in three important areas can keep the season stress-free.

Protect your plumbing One of the most common causes of property damage in the winter months is frozen pipes, which can happen in crawl spaces, attics, garages, cupboards and any uninsulated nooks near exterior walls where temperatures can dip below zero, especially in older homes. As ice expands by 10 percent inside the pipe, pressure can build until the pipe bursts with a cataclysmic gush, causing thousands in water damage. If this happens, your first course of action is to shut off the main water valve and call a plumber.

Prevention—in the form of proper insulation—is key to preventing pipe freezing. Cover pipes with insulating foam sleeves, and seal off air leaks in your home and garage to prevent icy air from getting in, taking care to check around vents, windows, doors and electrical outlets. In the fall, turn off your outdoor water supply, drain faucets, and unscrew any hoses. When leaving town for an extended period of time, be sure to shut off the water main, open the lowest faucet in the house to drain, and keep the thermostat at a minimum of 17 degrees Celsius, according to Natural Resources Canada’s recommendations. Keeping a pencilthin trickle of water flowing can also prevent freezing.

TheRichardsGroup.ca

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Winter-mergency preparedness

Three crucial things to do to protect your home for the snowy season.

Tune-up your HVAC To prevent mid-winter breakdowns, your furnace should be inspected and serviced annually, keeping it running at maximum efficiency (and saving you money on energy costs). Your air ducts should also be professionally cleaned at least every two to three years—or more often if you have pets or allergy issues, says Robert Cappellina of Capps Duct Cleaning. “If you have dust and dander building up in your ducts, the airflow diminishes, and the whole HVAC system isn’t functioning as it should,” he says. “Your furnace might be working harder and using more gas, and you’re breathing all of that stuff in.”

To optimize indoor air quality, replace your furnace filter at least every four months. If dust flies out when you tap it, it’s time for a duct cleaning, Cappellina says. Avoid super-thick filters with dense pleats— “They can actually make things worse since they make it harder for air to flow through,” Cappellina says. Instead, he recommends in-duct HEPA air purifying units that can add an additional level of whole-house filtration for allergy sufferers. Special UV lights mounted in the air return duct can kill bacteria and mould, which can contribute to asthma and allergies.

A furnace-mounted humidifier can also make dry winter air more comfortable, keeping your home at an optimal 30 to 40 percent humidity.

Optimize your outdoor space Keep your driveway and walkways ice-free with radiant heating installed under the asphalt, with smart controls that can sense drops in temperature and switch on automatically. If you plan to leave town, hire a snow clearing service—you could be fined by the city if sidewalks, driveways and stairs on your property are unsafe or impassable. Be sure to stock up on pet-friendly road salt that doesn’t irritate sensitive paw pads, and avoid any ice-melting product containing ethylene glycol—it’s the active ingredient in antifreeze, which can be fatal to dogs and cats.

To prevent water damage to your roof and foundations from melting snow, have your eavestroughs and downspouts cleaned and repaired every year. Mature trees around your house can wreak havoc if a blizzard or ice storm is in store— falling branches can snap power lines, pose a safety hazard for passersby, and even cave in your roof. Have an arborist inspect your property to see if dying or dangling limbs pose a risk.

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EastTO Magazine

In case of a frozen pipe— which could unleash a torrent of water damage in your home—make sure you know the location of your main water shutoff valve. In many Toronto homes, it’s in the basement inside the wall of the house that faces the street, where the municipal water supply enters.

More home fires occur in winter than any other season, according to the Ontario Association of Fire Chiefs— make sure to test your smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors and replace the batteries every six months, and have your chimney and flues inspected and cleaned annually.

To be ready for when Old Man Winter unleashes an epic snowstorm that knocks out the power grid or leaves you stranded on the highway, make sure your home and car emergency kits are stocked and up to date with everything you need to survive for 72 hours—find out what to put in them at GetPrepared.gc.ca.

Neighbourhood Stories

My Neighbourhood:

Riverside Shane Little, The Richards Group agent, and his partner Jenny (also a member of The Richards Group family) have called the East End home for years. After getting their dog, Dolly, Shane and Jenny upgraded their Colgate Avenue condo for a 19th century Victorian on Grant Street. Here’s how Shane would spend his ideal day in Riverside.

8:00am:

When I wake up, I let Dolly out and make myself a cup of coffee from Pilot Roasters. The Heritage Roast is our go-to. Our house has a picture window, so most mornings, I’ll sit there and sip my coffee while Dolly enjoys the views of Grant Street.

9:00am:

After coffee, I’ll take Dolly out to either Jimmy Simpson Park or the dog park at Cherry Beach to play with her dog friends. This can get a bit messy, so we may have to stop at Dirty Paws Dog Wash on the way back. The owner, Ryan Chong, is the reason our house isn’t constantly covered in sand!

11:00am:

We’ll walk down Queen Street and pop into The Bone House because they have Dolly's favourite treats in the city. And since a treat for her

equals a treat for me, we then stop

by Province of Canada. I own their Half Zip sweatshirt in nearly every colour and will probably buy any new colour they release! If I’m still in a shopping mood, I’ll head over to Good Neighbour – even though, more likely than not, I’m already wearing an outfit I bought from them.

1:00pm:

Just behind Album Hair in Riverside is a healthy Asian noodle spot, Tong Mein, where I pickup lunch pretty much five days a week! It’s run out of an old shipping container and they have some of the best noodles in the city with lots of different flavour options.

3:00pm:

From Tong Mein, I’ll walk over to Pop Music. Owner Derek Antonio is a true music lover – after talking only a few times, he had curated a collection of records for Jenny and I. Jenny helped Derek find this location, so it’s been great to see his business grow over the past 18 months!

4:00pm:

Next, I’ll hit up the Arts Market.

It’s home to a ton of local vendors and creators and I rarely walk away without a find. Since we’re still settling into our new house, finding stuff to put on the walls is a big component of my shopping, and

I love to frame vintage collectibles.

Once I’ve found my latest addition I always take it to Dimensions Framing. They do a great job and will pretty much frame anything you give them – I’ve even had them frame a pizza box!

6:00pm:

If I’m cooking dinner at home, I’ll head over to Hooked and pick up some frozen lobster tails and then over to Butchers of Distinction for some tenderloin steaks. For wine, I’ll stop at Boxcar Social’s bottle shop to pick up one of their recommendations.

Once I’m home, I’ll put the lobster and sirloin in the sous vide and call a few friends for dinner. Of course, I’ll be listening to one of the albums from Pop Music while I cook!

8:00pm:

Dessert involves a trip to Craig’s Cookies. The cookies are great, but the portrait of Dolly Parton is even better. Of course, Dolly comes along for this trip to pose next to her namesake. (Shameless pup plug, you can follow along with Dolly at @little.dolly.parton.)

TheRichardsGroup.ca

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With tight inventory and rising prices, especially for detached houses, demand in the Toronto real estate market continues to outstrip supply.

But for so many families, the past few years have made it abundantly clear that it’s time to move. Whether it’s needing more space, a growing family, or the opportunity to relocate to a new community – your next step up is still within reach.

Cera Dann, agent with The Richards Group, helped these three clients level up, leveraging her expert knowledge of the East Toronto market. “I’ve worked in real estate for over 20 years now, and my connections help me tune in to what is most important to my clients at a particular time.”

Trading 20

EastTO Magazine

Kelsey Mortson & Paul Sobocinski Upper Beaches Semi-detached, 3+1 bedroom, 4-bathroom, 1 parking

Up Kelsey & Paul:

From condo to semi-detached After a new baby, Paul Sobocinski, a software engineer, and Kelsey Mortson, a process manager, were ready to swap their hip downtown condo on Portland Street for a house in a more family-friendly neighbourhood. The East End beckoned when close friends and fellow new parents moved to the Beaches and recommended Cera as their agent. “Even though we weren’t sure exactly where we wanted to be, we felt a great connection with Cera,” says Kelsey. What sealed the deal was discovering the market value of their condo. “When we learned our selling price would be a few hundred thousand more than we had guessed, that really motivated us to upgrade,” she says. “We weren’t sure whether we should sell or buy first, but we felt confident in Cera’s advice and experience, and decided to pursue buying first to get the house we really wanted.”

They offered on two older detached houses but lost out amid multiple bidders who pushed the prices into the stratosphere. “To be honest,

we ended up feeling relieved,” says Paul. It just so happened that Cera had just bought a house in the Upper Beach Estates, a newer single-family development near Gerrard and Victoria Park.

“This pocket was one of the few remaining places that still had an up-and-coming feel, and I knew prices were about to skyrocket,” says Cera.

After checking out a property nearby, the couple decided to pop into an open house for a three-bedroom, three-bath semi with a garage.

“We fell in love with it immediately,” says Kelsey.

“It had everything we needed, and we didn’t realize it until that moment.” With Cera at the reins, they put in a firm offer that same day. “I had a good relationship with the listing agent and a lot of confidence in this neighbourhood,” Cera says. The rest was history—three months later, the world locked down, and the family was safely cocooned in their new home. “We were very thankful we got the house when we did,” Kelsey says.

TheRichardsGroup.ca

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Alexandra & Joel Scott Upper Beaches Detached, 4 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms and 5 parking

Alexandra & Joel:

From semi-detached to detached When they moved to their four-bedroom detached house on Lyall Avenue, Alexandra Scott, a lawyer, and her husband Joel, a mortgage broker, were on the edge of a big life change: the birth of their second child. By the end of 2020, their Kenilworth Avenue semi in the Beaches was already feeling crowded, with the couple both working from home with their three-year-old son underfoot. The clincher: they discovered the market value of their home was roughly twice what they paid for it in 2014, with a recently finished basement to boot. “Getting into the market at that time was really what allowed us to make the move,” Alexandra says.

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EastTO Magazine

But with Alexandra eight months pregnant, they hadn’t planned on moving right away. “We knew we had to be patient,” she says. “Before we bought our semi, we lost out in six or seven bidding wars and didn’t want to go through all that again.”

The couple asked Cera to find them an offmarket detached house with four bedrooms and a bigger yard. “They wanted to stay within the Beaches, and I warned them that it could take some time,” Cera says. “But because we sell so many homes in the area I had inside knowledge about properties coming up before they went to market.” The Lyall house crossed her radar, but the owner wouldn’t allow showings until the night before listing, so Cera managed to squeeze in an appointment that evening just after the photographer left. “I instructed Alexandra and Joel to bring a bank draft for 5 percent of the home’s value, just in case,” Cera says. With the deposit in hand and no conditions on their bully offer, the house was theirs—with a final purchase price that was only 33 percent more than what they sold their semi for. “It all happened very fast, but we’re glad we did it,” says Alexandra.

“I don’t recommend selling your house and moving at nine months pregnant, but we’re super happy where we are.”

Farnaz & her family:

From detached to dream home

Farnaz Shahed The Beaches Detached, 4 + 2 bedrooms, 4 bathrooms and 2 parking

For Farnaz Shahed, being part of a close-knit family has always meant that home is a place where multiple generations live together. Farnaz, a banker, her sister, a doctor, and their retired parents shared a three-bedroom house near the Toronto Hunt Club when lockdown hit, and long walks were the only thing to do. Farnaz noticed a “Coming Soon” sign on a house on Fallingbrook Road and called Cera to arrange a tour. “We weren’t seriously looking to move at that point, but with the pandemic, we all felt a little more space would be nice,” Farnaz says.

Soon enough, the whole family wanted a peek.

“We’re very close, but we have our own opinions, and once we’d all seen the house, we noted how odd it was that all four of us liked it,” says Farnaz.

“That was when we realized we should think seriously about buying.” The main draw was the four large bedrooms and the two distinct spaces for entertaining on the main floor. “We liked that we could have guests over without encroaching on the family room,” she says. A second kitchen in the basement also appealed to the family, who are all avid cooks.

With Toronto rents climbing, the family decided to keep their old house as an income property to help finance the new home. With two competing offers on the Fallingbrook house, Cera and Mark worked to finesse the Shaheds’ bid, and it was accepted. “We see this as our forever home,” Farnaz says. “It really worked out well for all of us as a multi-generational house.”

TheRichardsGroup.ca

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EastTO Cocktail Tour

Insider Advice

Bram Goldman, agent with The Richards Group, knows that when it comes to choosing a place for drinks with clients or friends, the East End can’t be beat. We caught up with Bram to get his recommendations for cocktail hour hangouts to get you through the cold winter months.

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EastTO Magazine

Insider Advice

In the mood for cocktails at home?

When Bram is hosting at home, he loves to take the cocktail hour to the next level by pairing a Reid’s Distillery French 75 with a Dinner Mood Box — the charcuterie board of your dreams, delivered — from The Crave 6ix.

The Comrade 758 Queen St E

The Broadview Hotel 106 Broadview Ave

On a cold weekday evening, there’s no place better than The Comrade.

Always lively and always dark, it’s the perfect cozy atmosphere for a date night or a drink with friends.

The cocktails are exceptional – try a menu favourite like the Gilded Radner or a classic Negroni. Pair a cocktail with one of their delicious eats. Bram recommends the burger (some would say it’s the best in the city) and the deviled eggs for the perfect shareable snack.

The crowd-pleasing Broadview Hotel is always a go-to recommendation for visiting friends and family. An ideal spot for after-work drinks, it was even the venue for The Richards Group holiday party! The rooftop bar prioritizes seasonal and local, with delicious shareables and large plates. Take in the stunning skyline view over a round of Late Checkouts; you’ll feel like you’ve set off on a weekend getaway, without even leaving the neighbourhood.

Beech Tree 924 Kingston Rd

Maple Leaf Tavern 955 Gerrard St E

The Beech Tree is an astonishing place. So much about it feels authentic – its homey décor, shelves filled with cookbooks, the Victorian wallpaper that shimmers in the low lighting – not to mention the faultless classic cocktails served in vintage glassware.

Maple Leaf Tavern is Bram’s go-to for drinks or dinner with clients.

Whether enjoying the sun on the patio in the summer or tucked into a cozy booth in the winter months, this polished spot always has a special that will blow you away.

1. Fill shaker with ice 2. Add 50ml Reid’s Gin (or Citrus Gin) 3. Add 30ml lemon juice 4. Add 10ml simple syrup 5. Shake to combine thoroughly 6. Strain into coupe glass 7. Top up with champagne or sparkling white wine (I use Cremant De Montgueret!)

8. Garnish with fresh or dehydrated lemon slice Enjoy! → Reid’s Distillery, 32 Logan Ave → The Crave 6ix, 2220A Queen St E

TheRichardsGroup.ca

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EastTO Magazine

TheRichardsGroup.ca

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Wellbeing

Best of the Binge Bram

WE ASKED OUR AGENTS:

MOVIE: Palmer EAT: Maha’s

What is your go-to comfort movie for the winter?

BINGE: RuPaul’s Drag Race

Favourite hotspot to order in for a movie night?

What’s your favourite recent binge-watch?

Shane

Lisa

MOVIE: Once Upon a Time

MOVIE: Pretty Woman

in Hollywood EAT: One Night Only

EAT: Tabule BINGE: Big Little Lies

BINGE: Succession

Matt F.

Cera

Jenny

MOVIE: A classic! Indiana Jones,

MOVIE: Love Actually

MOVIE: Begin Again

Goonies, Ghostbusters, etc

EAT: Green Basil

EAT: Kinton Raman

EAT: Blondies

BINGE: The Morning Show

BINGE: Only Murders in

BINGE: Succession

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EastTO Magazine

the Building

Wellbeing

Mark MOVIE: King Richard EAT: Seven Numbers BINGE: Yellowstone

Arthur

Kalima

MOVIE: Ocean’s 11

MOVIE: What’s Eating Gilbert Grape

EAT: Stone Lion

EAT: Greek Food

BINGE: Good Girls

BINGE: This is Us

Ehsan

Bianca

Sabrina

MOVIE: The Prestige

MOVIE: Lost in Translation

MOVIE: Casino

EAT: La Vecchia

EAT: Gull and Firkin

EAT: Yumei Sushi

BINGE: Lupin

BINGE: Ted Lasso

BINGE: Succession

Samantha

Cam

Matt O.

MOVIE: Roman Holiday

MOVIE: Karate Kid

MOVIE: Planes, Trains & Automobiles

EAT: The Gull and Firkin

EAT: Pizzaiolo

EAT: Breakwall

BINGE: The Morning Show

BINGE: Yellowstone

BINGE: Yellowstone

TheRichardsGroup.ca

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Insider Advice

The Great Getaway Vacation homes are more in-demand than ever. Here’s what you need to know about buying one. By Matt Olinski

W

HEN LOCKDOWNS and travel restrictions sent city-dwellers scrambling for cottage rentals last summer, some Toronto residents started thinking about a more long-term investment in lake life. After all, with many of us now permanently working from home, those back-to-back Zoom meetings would be more bearable with sunset drinks on the dock to look forward to at the end of the day.

As things stand right now, it’s a purchase many urbanites are jumping at the chance to make.

According to a survey commissioned by RE/MAX in May, more than half of those looking to purchase a recreational property in 2021 were first-time vacation home buyers. Low borrowing rates have sweetened the deal, with 22 percent of buyers saying they have increased their ability to buy.

If you’re fortunate enough to have the means, buying a vacation home is an investment that can pay significant dividends, both financial and emotional—as long as you’re prepared for the financial and practical implications, says Matt Olinski, agent at The Richards Group. “Having the luxury of being able to work from wherever you can means the value of vacation properties has gone up 50 percent or more in some areas,” he says.

With inventory stretched thin and bidding wars commonplace, expect to pay more than half of what the average home sells for in Toronto.

In the fall of 2021, the average home in the GTA sold for $1.1 million, while a waterfront property in Prince Edward County was $840,000, according

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to a report by RE/MAX. Average prices for waterfront homes in Peterborough and the Kawarthas as well as Niagara-on-the-Lake went up a whopping 70 percent since 2019, both topping $1 million.

“Buyers looking for a cottage need to be 100 percent prepared for multiple offers,” says Carley Stenson, a RE/MAX agent in Kawartha Lakes.

“We’ve seen up to 20 offers on waterfront properties, and there are no signs of things slowing down anytime soon.”

Still, there are affordable properties to be found if you’re flexible on property type and location— 57 percent of recreational property markets in Canada had listings available under $500,000, according to RE/MAX. In 2021, the average price of a condo in Muskoka, Haliburton, Niagara, Collingwood, Barrie, or Parry Sound was in that range.

Non-traditional high-end vacation homes have also seen a pandemic-induced bump in popularity—think farmhouses with five to 10 acres of land, and estate-style spreads. “These buyers want weekend retreats with a lot of space around them, far away from their neighbours,” says Jacqueline Pennington, an agent in Northumberland County around Cobourg and Port Hope. “Prices for these properties have easily doubled to $1.5 million or more.”

Financing the dream

The good news for buyers looking to add a second home: low-interest rates can make refinancing your current mortgage more attractive, freeing up cash for a down payment on a vacation property.

What’s more, with the rental market going gangbusters in the warmer months, you can recoup significant costs by renting out your property just a few weeks a year.

“Refinancing your mortgage can let you access up to 80 percent of the appraised value of your home, which means you could potentially buy your cottage outright,” says mortgage agent Angie Alvarez with Capital Home Lending.

Insider Advice

“Having the luxury of being able to work from wherever you can means the value of vacation properties has gone up 50% or more in some areas.”

If you do seek a mortgage on your vacation home, the same rules apply (mostly) as if you were buying it as a primary residence. “Lenders want to make sure you have the minimum down payment and that you qualify to carry the mortgage with your existing obligations,” says Alvarez. You’ll be expected to put 5 percent down on the first $500,000 and 10 percent for the portion over that amount. For properties worth $1 million or more, the minimum down payment is 20 percent of the purchase price.

There are exceptions to these rules for some types of cottages, however. For “Type B” seasonal properties that aren’t winterized and only have water access—such as an island cottage—lenders typically will want a minimum 10 percent down payment, Alvarez says.

If you’re buying the property exclusively as a source of rental income, you’ll be expected to put 20 percent down. Be aware that some municipalities—like Toronto, Ottawa, Collingwood and Oakville—limit short-term rentals (through sites like Airbnb and VRBO) to properties that are the owners’ principal residence (or qualify as a bed & breakfast). Other towns (such as Huntsville, Prince Edward County and Wasaga Beach) require homeowners to purchase a license if they intend to rent out their properties for 28 days or less.

What to buy and where

Some analysts say vacation home prices will level off in 2022 as the travel industry gets back on its feet, more employees head back to the workplace, and city life returns to normal. But cottages have always held pride of place in Canadians’ romantic

imaginations, and that isn’t likely to change much, especially for the most desirable properties, says Olinski.

“Most buyers put proximity to Toronto and waterfront access on the top of their wish lists,” he says, and lakefront properties within a two-hour drive of the city have traditionally had the strongest resale values.

What some buyers may not anticipate, however, is that property taxes, insurance, utility and maintenance costs can be higher than in the city and that renovations may cost more in rural areas if contractors have fewer competitors. “I generally recommend buyers set aside 1 to 2 percent of the purchase price for upkeep every year,” Olinski says. Fortunately, rentals can finance a good portion of that, and full-service agencies can make the process smooth if they take care of vetting clients, cleaning, emergency repairs and turnover.

If you’re looking to get into the market, your first call should be to a real estate agent you know and trust. As one of the best-connected agencies in the province, The Richards Group has a wide network of contacts in the top recreational home markets.

“I refer a lot of business to local specialists because they understand all the nuances and circumstances of their market,” says Olinski, who will also occasionally co-list with a local agent. “There are a lot of things to consider, and we have access to their expertise. Each community really has its unique lifestyle—it’s a big shift from living in the city.”

Want to learn more? Connect with Matt today! insidewithmatt.com

TheRichardsGroup.ca

31

Meet the Elmers!

Aiden, Adeline, Alexander

T

hree stunning new homes are being built in the Beaches on Elmer Avenue – and there’s nothing more inspiring than a clean slate. Our friends at East Design House are leading the design and have put together three distinct moodboards to capture each home’s unique character. Here’s a sneak peek!

These homes are coming soon – visit MeettheElmers.com to watch their progress!

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EastTO Magazine

From design transformations, renovations and new builds, East Design House creates beautiful spaces by combining the elements of functional design with layers of thoughtfully curated finishes that have long-term meaning, connection and beauty.

Learn more at EastDesignHouse.com

Aiden Adeline

A lover of luxurious essentialism, Aiden offers a refreshing flair for modern drama. Aiden embraces calm, elevated finishes and has never met ambient lighting he didn’t love.

Adeline: M House Development, Studio McGee Aiden: Conran and Partners, Igor Glushan Alexander: Ryan Linnegar, Angela Rose Home, Jkath Design Build + Reinvent

Alexander An incurable romantic, Adeline’s favourite season is spring, when everything is new and fresh. Hints of travels and dreams of strolls along the shore can be found in every room.

Sublime with impeccable taste. One could describe Alexander as a bit moody, finding solace in anchoring colours, rich textures, and symmetry.

TheRichardsGroup.ca

33

EAST TO

Community

Toronto Humane Society 34

EastTO Magazine

For lifelong animal lover, and Riverdale native, Lisa Clarke, the Toronto Humane Society holds special significance. Èva and Thomas, like so many East TO residents, adopted their four-legged friends from the Toronto Humane Society. Tula is one lucky doggo.

“We always knew we wanted to adopt a dog, but couldn’t have imagined the joy that Tula would bring into our lives,” says Èva.

“My husband submitted an adoption application as a surprise and not long after applying, we heard the news: a three month old puppy named Tula was waiting for a home!”

Tula came to the Humane Society from Bearskin Lake, Manitoba. According to her DNA results, she is a mix of several different breeds: Husky, Elkhound, German Shepherd, English Springer Spaniel, Akita, Lab and Pug. “The morning we met her outside the Humane Society, it was love at first sight,” says Èva. “After a few licks and snuggles outside the Humane Society, we couldn’t wait to bring her home to meet her new family.”

Tula’s gentleness and joyful personality are infectious — even drivers in passing cars often stop and smile at her bright face.

“Tula rescued us as much as we rescued her. We are forever grateful for the joy and light she has brought into our home and especially to the Humane Society for bringing us together.”

As a proud pet parent herself, Clarke values the Humane Society’s work to find forever homes for animals in need. She regularly supports the Humane Society’s efforts and encourages her fellow East TO animal lovers to do the same.

Despite the challenges COVID-19 posed for shelters in 2020, the Humane Society went above and beyond for pets in need, finding forever homes for over 1470 animals and foster homes for over 1400. While many of us think of the Humane Society as an animal shelter alone, their care and advocacy for animals reaches far beyond rehoming services.

To reduce the number of pets abandoned or surrendered for adoption, the Humane Society offers services to support pet parents, including a Pet Food Bank, subsidized veterinary care and a Pet Parent Support Network. In 2020, the Humane Society cared for over 4,970 pets through their public veterinary service (and vaccinated over 7,100!).

The Humane Society has even partnered with organizations across Toronto to offer emergency foster care for pets whose caregivers are fleeing domestic violence or dealing with housing instability.

The Humane Society also advocates for animals beyond the shelter system. Through research and lobbying, they have advanced efforts towards ending breed-specific legislation and banning declawing in Ontario.

Have a question about your own pet’s care? You can always visit the Humane Society website. Their social channels and blog offer a wealth of information on pet needs – from how to cut your pet’s nails (without a trip to the ER), to what to do if you find an abandoned animal.

For Clarke, it’s not hard to see why the Humane Society holds a special place in the heart of so many Eastsiders. But, many of us forget the Humane Society is right in our neighbourhood. To support the Humane Society, donate regularly, like Lisa or join their volunteer base. Check out their website to learn more about how you can support animals in your neighbourhood.

Find out more:

torontohumanesociety.com IG @toronto_humane_society

TheRichardsGroup.ca

35

by Jacqueline Pennington

Explore

OUTDOOR ADVENTURES IN NORTHUMBERLAND Located just east of Toronto along the shores of Lake Ontario, Northumberland County is a diverse landscape made up of small towns, villages and hamlets that all offer their unique characteristics; while sharing a bonded community camaraderie.

Though the winters may be cold and snowy along the shores, there is never a shortage of things to do.

764 King Street W is located in the sought-after lakeside enclave of Pebble Beach in Cobourg. This four bedroom, two bathroom home is a rare offering. Steps to the Lake with incredible waterfront views.

Surrounded by extensive walking and in the winter, cross country ski trails connecting to Port Hope and offering a one-of-a-kind shoreline trek experience.

764 King St W, Cobourg

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EastTO Magazine

To the north, areas such as Baltimore offer panoramic views of the Northumberland Hills. For those that enjoy a faster pace, access wide-open country snowmobile trails, a perfect outdoor activity.

3272 Harwood Road in Baltimore is an incredible example of what Baltimore has to offer. Just under an acre, this property overlooks stunning field views.

The home has been updated with care and a meticulous eye for design.

3272 Harwood Rd, Baltimore

Further to the east, Brighton boasts new communities for all stages of life as well as established neighbourhoods. 645 Whites Road in Brighton is a remodelled two-story Colonial style home set on one and a half acre property. Featuring three bedrooms, three bathrooms, large principal rooms, and a park-like backyard with a pool and hot tub.

This home checks all the boxes for country living at its finest.

645 Whites Rd, Brighton

If enjoying the colder months indoors is more your speed, Northumberland boasts many incredible restaurants, cafes, and bookshops to get lost in on a cold and blustery winter’s day.

There’s a little something for everyone within Northumberland County through each season. Each township offers its unique charm. We invite you to come and find which location is right for you.

Visit JacquelinePennington.com for more information on working with Team Pennington and find out how Life’s Better In Northumberland.

JacquelinePennington.com CALL TODAY 905.375.0062

TheRichardsGroup.ca

37

Insider Advice

Trends in Real Estate: A 2021 review and what’s to come in 2022 The burning question on everyone’s mind is whether the real estate market in Toronto will stay as hot in 2022 as it was in 2021.

Cameron Levitt, agent with The Richards Group, shares his market outlook

E

very home purchase and sale is a story.

The majority of people move for real-world reasons: they need more space or less, have to relocate for work or family, and need a lifestyle change.

So when I look at forecasts, I start by looking back at the stories that have been and continue to drive us as the best predictor for how the next year will unfold.

STORY 1:

A pandemic-driven frenzy Last year was unprecedented for many reasons.

The pandemic and the response from the various levels of government were a tipping point that sent an already rising market into parabolic gains.

First, the Bank of Canada set interest rates to historic lows. Then the psychological effect of the lockdown exponentially boosted the motivation for many people to find a larger house.

But what’s talked about the least was a massive increase in personal wealth. Working from home directly created the largest rise in disposable income in decades. Suddenly, there was no need to buy gas to get to work, no parking to purchase, no buying clothes for the office. No vacations, no

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EastTO Magazine

movies or concerts, no eating/drinking out, no impulse shopping on the way home from work.

On top of this forced savings, equity markets roared off the March 2020 crash. Along with that came a surge in retail stock trading, speculative option activity and gains in cryptocurrencies.

Some of this newly found wealth was invested as larger down payments for real estate.

After reviewing the events last year, it should be no surprise prices exploded upwards of 35% in Q1 in some areas of the GTA. Buyers pushed forward at a frenetic level of activity that surpassed the hottest years in memory.

Areas like Durham, York and Halton, which traditionally offered value compared to central Toronto, saw incredible gains as buyers flushed with cash and fueled by record-low rates desperately sought to escape smaller living quarters in the city.

Houses in central areas of Toronto stayed hot and also experienced massive gains across the board, as did recreation properties in cottage country. As the year progressed, prices remained well elevated over the previous year, but we did witness a bit more balance come back to the market.

Insider Advice

STORY 3:

A seismic shift in buyer demographics

STORY 2:

An interesting look at rates Interest rates to rise going into 2022. The Bank of Canada is signalling that several hikes will take place over the next 12 to 24 months.

The relationship between rates and housing prices cannot be understated. The 40-year long trend in rising housing prices directly correlates to the 40-year decline in interest rates. The market will react more negatively to the high rate of change rather than to the rates themselves.

If rates rise several times in a short period, the market may become a bit more hesitant as buyers lose some purchasing power. This will dampen some of the growth expectations going forward.

First-time homebuyers are the most sensitive to interest rates – especially those without significant assets. Entry-level housing (condos and small houses in suburban areas) are likely to be affected the most by rising mortgage rates.

However, it’s important to remember that rates are still very low on a historical level and that there are significant supply and demand issues driving growth.

Despite rising rates, the economy is doing well by many metrics. Employment is back to preCOVID levels. Immigration restarted as borders reopened. Financial markets are still reaching new highs, so asset holders benefit from big gains to their wealth.

While the government enacted new restrictions to combat the Omicron variant, international data suggests the outcomes will be less severe. Given Toronto boasts one of the highest vaccination rates in Canada and internationally, it is likely the economic impact of these restrictions will be mild.

Buyers who moved out of the city to the suburbs will likely not be in a position to return right away as housing changes have a heavy transactional weight and require a big commitment in terms of time and effort. It is unusual to see anyone making another move after only a year.

These buyers also moved to find more space and better value, so returning to a smaller but more expensive property seems unlikely.

In my opinion, this trend of buyers moving out of the city was, in actuality, a more specific exodus from the condo market. It’s incorrect to think this trend was solely initiated by COVID. The pandemic only supercharged a trend that was already percolating, and it demonstrates how a very important demographic shift is affecting the housing market.

Millennials are now Canada’s largest generation by population group. Born between 1980 and 1996 they now range in age from 26 to 42 years old. This is an important age as a person’s peak earning years is 35-55 years old.

Millennial couples are starting families later than previous generations – so the move from smaller condos in downtown Toronto into larger suburban homes is not simply a pandemic-driven rally. What we’re actually seeing is a fundamental shift in real housing needs by the largest population group in Canada who are now either within or entering their peak earning years and are starting to have families.

Then let’s factor in the millennial generation’s parents: the Baby Boomers. Our former largest generation is starting to retire. They’ve benefited from the full length of the multi-decade bull market in real estate and financial markets.

There is not enough official data on this, but the “bank of mom and dad” is a significant driver that is pushing real estate prices higher.

TheRichardsGroup.ca

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Insider Advice

STORY 4:

The strong Toronto market does not appear to be ending The aggregate market will cool from the rapid boil of 2021 – but only to a lower level of heat ­ because the fundamentals driving the market have not changed. The first quarter looks to be hot as buyers rush to purchase before interest rates go up.

There will still be a lack of supply for housing going forward as there are just not enough houses in good areas to satisfy the demand. There had been talk amongst various levels of government to enact policy changes to allow for more housing development, but even if approved, these will take years to get off the ground.

Some of the government’s proposed changes like increasing the upper limit for insured mortgages to $1.25 million may increase competition.

In terms of specific real estate classes, condos are the likeliest to underperform the rest of the aggregate market. Condos are the entry-level for housing within the City of Toronto so rising rates will affect these buyers the most. And as more millennials seek larger properties, there will be a natural supply-demand imbalance compared to freehold houses. Finally, the pandemic restrictions, while hopefully in the past, are still fresh in recent memory. The thought of being locked down into a small condo may reduce some buyer enthusiasm.

Fortunately, as long as rents remain high, which looks likely, investors seeking yield and

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EastTO Magazine

value will put a floor under the condo market.

So prices are unlikely to fall much – if they do at all. That said, condos in desirable areas with lower inventory and restrictions on development (such as Leslieville) will likely remain leaders in the condo market segment.

The freehold market of semi and detached houses will continue to experience the most growth. Neighbourhoods that are safe and have good schools will be highly prized, so expect The Beaches, Leslieville, and Riverdale to hold their value and see continued demand. If financial markets stay at or near their all-time highs, expect to see the luxury market continue to gain as high-income earners who hold significant assets have benefited from well above average gains since in the past year.

I also expect the “value” suburban areas around Toronto to see high demand and low supply.

Any new buyers who are just starting their search this year should always remember to keep a long-term view of real estate and use leverage wisely. While the overall market may slow slightly in 2022, the overall upward trend is unlikely to reverse anytime soon. The best real estate strategy is to invest for the long-term and try to purchase a home that will accommodate your needs for as long as possible.

Want to learn more? Connect with Cam today! insidewithcameron.com

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536 Eastern Ave (at Carlaw) 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 $1,292,577, choosing The Richards Group could mean an additional $168,035* or more for your home. *Based on TREB 2021 stats E01/E02 combined

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EastTO Magazine

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.

Realtors

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

Sales Representative

Sales Representative

Sales Representative

Broker

Samantha Davies

Kalima Tarin

Bianca Zorzi

Julia Costa

Design and Client Care Manager

Design and Client Care Manager

Staging and Styling Manager

Client Care Assistant

Design and Client Care

Management and Marketing

Mark Richards

Selene Richards

Arthur Kershaw

Zoe Cook

Ehsan Majd

Founder and Team Leader

Business Development and Marketing

Broker of Record

Administrator

Media Manager

TheRichardsGroup.ca

43

East Design House Case Study: 225 Kingswood Road

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

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

EastTOsold.ca

44

EastTO Magazine EastTO Magazine

FOR SALE EastTo Magazine Unplugged

43 Eastwood Rd

43Eastwood.com

Shane Little

C 416.471.9824

$1,379,000

Sales Representative

shane@therichardsgroup.ca TheRichardsGroup.ca

See more listings at TheRichardsGroup.ca and

@richardsgroupremax

45

FOR SALE

45

FOR SALE

9 Lawlor Ave

46

FOR SALE

9Lawlor.com

Sabrina Cameron

C 416.879.3116

$1,099,000

Sales Representative

sabrina@therichardsgroup.ca

FOR SALE

25 Wood Glen Rd

25WoodGlen.com

Jenny Simon

C 416.728.2495

$2,995,000

Sales Representative

jenny@therichardsgroup.ca

See more listings at TheRichardsGroup.ca and

@richardsgroupremax

FOR SALE

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FOR SALE

20 Benlamond Ave

00 48

COMING FOR SALESOON

20Benlamond.com

Sabrina Cameron

C 416.879.3116

$2,189,000

Sales Representative

sabrina@therichardsgroup.ca

FOR SALE

211 Woodfield Rd

211Woodfield.com

Shane Little

C 416.471.9824

$1,179,000

Sales Representative

shane@therichardsgroup.ca

See more listings at TheRichardsGroup.ca and

@richardsgroupremax

FOR SALE

49

FOR SALE

305 Lee Ave

00 50

COMING FOR SALESOON

305Lee.com

Cera Dann

C 416.569.2372

$2,179,000

Sales Representative

cera@therichardsgroup.ca

C H A R I T Y F O U N D AT I O N

OUR VISION: Inspiring positive social change in our communities, both locally and globally.

OUR MISSION: To improve the lives of those who need it the most, by contributing time and resources towards charitable initiatives.

HALLMARKGIVING.CA Hallmark Giving is a registered non-pro it charity foundation of RE/MAX Hallmark Group of Companies.

Thanks to The Richard’s Group print partner, Proprint Services

COMING SOON

50 52

95Balsam.com

Shane Little

73VictoriaPark.com

Matt Foster

C 416.471.9824

Sales Representative

C 416.720.0024

Sales Representative

90Broadview623.com

Bram Goldman

14Costain.com

Matt Olinski

C 416.688.2468

Sales Representative

C 416.937.6293

Sales Representative

233Carlaw326.com

Jenny Simon

15Baseball1510.com

Cameron Levitt

C 416.728.2495

Sales Representative

C 416.699.9988

Sales Representative

COMING SOON

COMING SOON

7Hodge.com

Lisa Clarke

15LowerJarvis4002.com

Lisa Clarke

C 416.526.9772

Broker

C 416.526.9772

Broker

21FernwoodPark.com

Sabrina Cameron

C 416.879.3116

Sales Representative

Follow us

@RichardsGroupRemax

on Instagram for your daily dose of inspiration.

TheRichardsGroup.ca

See more listings at TheRichardsGroup.ca and

@richardsgroupremax

53

COMING SOON

53

SOLD

39Wroxeter.com

85NorthernDancer.ca

54

SOLD

$1,499,000

Jenny Simon

C 416.728.2495

30% over asking

Sales Representative

jenny@therichardsgroup.ca

$2,879,000

Sabrina Cameron

C 416.879.3116

8% over asking

Sales Representative

sabrina@therichardsgroup.ca

SOLD

87ScarboroBeach.com

835Kingston.com

$1,479,000

Jenny Simon

C 416.728.2495

23% over asking

Sales Representative

jenny@therichardsgroup.ca

$899,000

Matt Foster

C 416.720.0024

39% over asking

Sales Representative

mattfoster@therichardsgroup.ca

See more listings at TheRichardsGroup.ca and

@richardsgroupremax

SOLD

55

SOLD

4Hartford.ca

136Kenilworth.com

56

SOLD

Cera Dann

C 416.569.2372

Sales Representative

cera@therichardsgroup.ca

$1,579,000

Matt Olinski

C 416.937.6293

17% over asking

Sales Representative

matt@therichardsgroup.ca

$1,499,000

SOLD

102Trinnell.com

261Kingswood.com

$999,900

Sabrina Cameron

C 416.879.3116

39% over asking

Sales Representative

sabrina@therichardsgroup.ca

$1,899,000

Shane Little

C 416.471.9824

21% over asking

Sales Representative

shane@therichardsgroup.ca

See more listings at TheRichardsGroup.ca and

@richardsgroupremax

SOLD

57

Inside Track

They bought a house on Zoom!

by Shane Little

O

ver a coffee at Boxcar Social last fall, Natalie and Craig shared their dream with Richards Group agent, Shane Little: to find a three-story, four-bedroom home in Riverdale.

Shane had found one that looked promising and secured a viewing four days before it hit the market. But it needed an extensive addition and, in the end, wasn’t in budget.

Typically, buyers would wait for something else to show up on realtor.ca and go through the bidding cycle all over again. But if he was going to make Natalie and Craig’s dream come true, Shane knew he had to shift the strategy and find an off-market seller.

Making this his mission, Shane connected with over 150 agents and personal contacts in Riverdale.

His network generated a hit. An agent and good friend of the Richards Group had clients open to selling their Riverdale at a fair asking price. Shane drove by the house and immediately knew it was perfect.

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EastTO Magazine

The only catch? It was mid-lockdown, and a member of the seller’s family had tested positive for COVID-19.

Undeterred, Shane coordinated a Zoom showing and, a few hours later, a conditional offer was accepted. The only thing left was for Natalie and Craig to finally see the home they had just purchased!

The house exceeded all expectations, and the deal was made firm. Natalie and Craig bought their dream Riverdale home, without any competition, over Zoom.

Yes, buying a house in Toronto can often feel exhausting. But when you have a team that’s not willing to settle, thinks creatively, and is always ready to bring some serious hustle to the buying process, dreams do come true!

Want to learn more? Connect with Shane today! insidewithshane.com