Happy New Year!

The LiveHigh Team would like to wish you and yours a very happy new year!

Thank you for your enthusiasm and continued support of LiveHigh.com.  Your opinions and feedback are important to us, and help to shape and improve the site.

We've got some exciting things in store for you in the new year, so stay tuned!

See you all in 2011!

The LiveHigh Team

What was the #1 Most Popular Condo in 2010?

With only one day left on 2010's calendar and almost 1,300 condos now profiled in the GTA, we began to wonder which of these buildings was the most popular on LiveHigh.com this past year.

Let's take a look back to see which condos made it into the Top 5 Most Viewed in each of our three stage-of-development categories (or, skip to the jump to view the #1 Most Popular Condo in 2010!)

Top 5 Most Viewed 'Condos Coming Soon' in 2010

These are condo projects that are not yet (but soon-to-be) available for public sale.  Typically, these projects are still in the 'blueprint' stage of development.  While these projects aren't yet open to the public, there are often private VIP or Broker sales held before the project is released (just one of the many reasons it's important to build a good working relationship with your Realtor!)

     1.  Jade Condominiums (North York)

     2.  Edge on Triangle Park (Downtown)

     3.  One Rainsford (The Beaches)

     4.  The Fountains (Thornhill)

     5.  Loft Twenty Five (The Beaches)

Top 5 Most Viewed 'New Condo Projects' in 2010

These are condo projects that have already opened their doors to the public.  These projects vary in their stages of development, ranging from the 'blueprint' stage (the project hasn't broken ground yet), being under construction (the project is being built), or already in occupancy (residents have begun to move in).

     1.  Liv Lofts (North York)

     2.  Park 570 (Mississauga)

     3.  one valhalla (Etobicoke)

     4.  Twenty One Clairtrell (North York)

     5.  The Avanti (North York)

Top 5 Most Viewed 'Completed Condos' in 2010

As the name suggests, these are condo projects that have already been completed and titles registered in the Land Registry.  In the GTA, these buildings can range in age from less than one year to over 30 years old!

    

     1.  The Bloor Street Neighbourhood (BSN) (Downtown)

     2.  VU (Downtown)

     3.  The Mansions of Humberwood II (Etobicoke)

     4.  Tiffany Place (Etobicoke)

     5.  King's Terrace (Etobicoke)

So, what was the #1 Most Popular Condo under all categories in 2010?  Follow the jump to find out!

Condo Sales: The Past 60 Days at Minto Gardens - Radiance

This week, we're heading to North York for a closer look at Minto's Minto Gardens - Radiance, located in the popular Yonge/Sheppard neighbourhood.

The first of two phases, Minto Gardens - Radiance is located just steps to Sheppard subway station and a quick drive from Hwy 401.  Residents enjoy the convenience of neighbourhood restaurants, shops and banks.  With continued development at Yonge and Sheppard well underway, this corner of the city will soon be met with new neighbours and even more public amenities.

In the past 60 days, a total of four units have sold at Minto Gardens - Radiance, with prices ranging from $224,000 for a Studio suite to $323,000 for a 1-BR suite.  These properties spent an average of 46 days on the market.

Three units were also leased, from $1,120 for a Studio to $1,350 for a 1-BR unit.  These rental units spent an average of 48 days on the market.

For more information on Minto Gardens - Radiance, please click here.

If you’re a Realtor and would like to share similar stories, please contact us at info@livehigh.com to participate or be featured in a post.

Please note that units can vary greatly in features and finishes which would normally be considered in any purchase or sale. Any transactions outlined above are for general information purposes only and may not reflect those of typical suites. LiveHigh.com is not responsible for the accuracy of information provided or for any damages or loss resulting from the use of such information. For further information on these or other sales, please consult a real estate specialist.

Post-Holiday “Wrap-Up”: Store Your Holiday Decorations Safely

So, your tree has been trimmed and the party’s in full swing. No one wants to think about it, but inevitably, there will soon be some post-holiday cleanup to address!

What can we do with all those beautiful, delicate (and often expensive) Christmas ornaments, ribbons and other trinkets? Here are some simple and cost-effective ideas to consider when putting your decorations away after the holiday decor (sadly) comes down.

A place for everything, and everything in its place

There really is something behind that old adage. If you take the time to store your decorations carefully now, you won’t have any problems finding it all next year. This can save both time and money, and will take the stress out of what should actually be a fun time of year.

Display your favourite things

There’s no reason why you should have to put away your favourite items when the holidays are over. Placing greeting cards, ornaments or ribbons that hold special meaning in simple matted frames or shadow boxes can create artful objects that beautify your home and remind you of something special year-round.

Keep original packaging intact for future storage

Instead of spending more money on specialty storage, the boxes that items such as ornaments and lights come in can be kept to help preserve your decorations for future use. These packages are often already lined with the necessary dividers to help prevent your décor from breaking in transit and storage, and will also keep your goodies organized in neat little packets.

Keep related items together

Storing like items together, such as Christmas tree trimmings, gift wrap and decorative platters, respectively, will help when it comes time to retrieve these items and prepare for next year’s festivities.

Make use of clear, stackable storage bins

Keep loose items and smaller packages safely stored in larger bins. Clear, stackable storage bins come in a wide range of shapes and sizes and are an economical way of building additional storage. They are ideal for tucking away under furniture or stacking in small spaces, and will make it easy to find what you’re looking for, when you need it.

More storage tips

For further tips to help protect your belongings, click here.

Condo Sales: The Past 90 Days at Red Hot Condos

This week, let's take a closer look at Camrost Felcorp's Red Hot Condos (a.k.a. R Condos) in North York.

Located south of Lawrence Ave just off the DVP, this low-rise condo offers its residents 9,000 sq ft of building amenities and an incredibly convenient location with easy access to the highway.

In the past 90 days, three units have sold at Red Hot Condos with prices ranging from $237,500 for a 1+Den under 700 sq ft to $290,000 for a 2-BR unit of 850 sq ft.  These properties spent an average of 23 days on the market.

Five units were also leased, from $1,195 for a 1-BR suite to $1,500 for a 2-BR unit.  These rental units spent an average of 38 days on the market.

For more information on Red Hot Condos, please click here.

If you’re a Realtor and would like to share similar stories, please contact us at info@livehigh.com to participate or be featured in a post.

Please note that units can vary greatly in features and finishes which would normally be considered in any purchase or sale. Any transactions outlined above are for general information purposes only and may not reflect those of typical suites. LiveHigh.com is not responsible for the accuracy of information provided or for any damages or loss resulting from the use of such information. For further information on these or other sales, please consult a real estate specialist.

Could Your Holiday Décor be Hampered by Your Condo’s Bylaws?

When you’re decorating your condo for Christmas this holiday season, keep in mind that many condo boards have strict rules about what is and isn’t permitted.

You should be able to find these rules outlined in your condo’s declaration and bylaws. While these restrictions may seem a pain to abide by, keep in mind that they were created to maintain harmony in the building and keep its residents safe and comfortable.

Some typical rules that could affect your holiday décor might include:

• No live trees, typically due to fire risks and costs of disposal;
• No décor on the exterior of front doors and/or in hallways (although we have come across a condo where this is permitted, but only with board approval and within certain dates of the holiday season);
• No décor that can be seen on the exterior of the building (e.g. in windows and/or balconies).

Be sure to check your condo’s bylaws for specific rules that might apply to you.

Happy decorating!

Condo Sales: The Past 30 Days at Residences of College Park

This week, we're heading downtown for a closer look at Canderal Stoneridge's Residences of College Park, located at Bay and College.

The two towers of the Residences of College Park represent the ultimate in urban living.  As its name suggests, this complex is situated in the heart of Toronto's College Park.  Located within walking distance to popular shops, eateries and the Toronto Eaton Centre, residents enjoy everyday conveniences.  Its direct proximity to the subway and TTC also provide easy access to the rest of the city.

In the past 30 days, a total of five units have sold at the Residences of College Park, with prices ranging from $275,500 for a Studio suite of 430 sq. ft. to $1,090,000 for a 3-BR suite of 1,675 sq. ft.  These properties spent an average of 30 days on the market.

Five units were also leased, from $1,690 for a 1+Den to $2,450 for a 2+Den unit.  These rental units spent an average of 15 days on the market.

For more information on the Residences of College Park, please click here.

If you’re a Realtor and would like to share similar stories, please contact us at info@livehigh.com to participate or be featured in a post.

Please note that units can vary greatly in features and finishes which would normally be considered in any purchase or sale. Any transactions outlined above are for general information purposes only and may not reflect those of typical suites. LiveHigh.com is not responsible for the accuracy of information provided or for any damages or loss resulting from the use of such information. For further information on these or other sales, please consult a real estate specialist.

Condo Sales: The Past 30 Days at The Mansions of Humberwood

This week, we're heading west to Etobicoke for a closer look at Tridel's The Mansions of Humberwood, located at 700 & 710 Humberwood Boulevard.

The two grand towers of The Mansions of Humberwood overlook the Humber Valley and back onto the lush gardens of the Humber Arboretum, a prestige enclave of natural beauty.  This condo is conveniently located just minutes from Woodbine Shopping Centre, parks, schools, airport and highways.  Creatively planned to embrace an element of nature in its design, The Mansions of Humberwood provides its residents with a picturesque backdrop and encourages an active lifestyle with its 25,000+ square feet of incredible amenities.

In the past 30 days, a total of four units have sold at The Mansions of Humberwood I & II, with prices ranging from $228,500 to $274,500 for a 2-BR suite.  These properties spent an average of 29 days on the market.

Two units were also leased, from $1,200 for a 1+Den to $1,350 for a 2-BR unit.  These rental units spent an average of 10 days on the market.

For more information on The Mansions of Humberwood, please click here and here.

If you’re a Realtor and would like to share similar stories, please contact us at info@livehigh.com to participate or be featured in a post.

Please note that units can vary greatly in features and finishes which would normally be considered in any purchase or sale. Any transactions outlined above are for general information purposes only and may not reflect those of typical suites. LiveHigh.com is not responsible for the accuracy of information provided or for any damages or loss resulting from the use of such information. For further information on these or other sales, please consult a real estate specialist.

12 Tips for Hosting a Fabulous Holiday Condo Party

Planning a festive condo party? We’ve got 12 tips that will help you maximize the fun, yet minimize the stress.

THE PRE-PARTY COUNTDOWN...

#1:  Book condo party rooms in advance, if required. Around this time of year, condo amenities like party rooms and guest suites tend to get booked up pretty quickly, so if you haven’t already booked your space, don’t wait til the last minute! If it so happens that your date of choice is no longer available, consider tips #2 and #3, below.

#2:  Choose your dates early. Ok, it’s probably too late for that now, so if you haven’t yet sent out your invites (what were you thinking?!) do keep in mind that weekends are a busy time for most during the holiday season. If you’re attempting a late notice gathering, aim for a Thursday or Friday night. Or consider having a party after Christmas and before New Year’s Eve, when schedules may be a little less hectic.

#3:  Keep the numbers low. Smaller, intimate parties are easier to manage and tend to be more rewarding. Although the size of your party is often determined by capacity limitations of your condo space anyhow, keep in mind that it’s almost always less stressful to throw a few smaller parties rather than one huge bash. Not only will preparations and clean-up be easier, you’ll have more quality time to spend with each guest.

#4:  Consider a dessert party in favour of dinner. Think chocolate truffles, candies, holiday cookies, spice cakes and squares. Basically, anything that can be made bite-size, served in napkins and eaten with ease while standing works well. This will help to cut down on post-party dishes and clean-up! Another advantage? Guests can drop in and out with greater ease, and the party will be less painstaking to host. A fancy coffee bar adds an elegant and thoughtful touch. Do be sure to let guests know ahead of time that it’s dessert only – to minimize stress levels, the last thing you want is a room full of hungry guests!

PREPPING FOR THE PARTY...

#5:  Set the mood with music and/or video. Upbeat holiday music and classic holiday movies playing silently in the background will help to make spirits bright. And remember, when you're ready for the night to end, there’s no subtler hint that the party is winding down than when the music softens (or gets turned off, for guests who need a stronger signal!)

#6:  Keep the menu simple. Take advantage of foods that will feed many mouths (think buffet-style as opposed to recipes that are meant for individual plating) and that can be prepared ahead of schedule so that you don’t spend your entire day slaving in the kitchen. Some tried-and-true classics might include marinated vegetable or pasta salads, dips, and spice cakes/bread. You can even make some freezer-friendly cookies or cut up cheese squares and the like ahead of time to avoid a last-minute frenzy.

#7:  Remember the designated drivers and non-drinkers! A holiday party just isn’t the same without a festive concoction – whether it’s alcoholic or not – so consider adding an interesting non-alcoholic punch or eggnog to the menu. If serving alcoholic beverages in fancy stemware, try to use the same fancy glasses for non-alcoholic drinks. After all, you have the chance to host a holiday party but once a year and it’s time to impress! Your guests will appreciate your thoughtfulness and won’t feel out of place with a boring old cup of pop, soda or juice.

#8:  Décor? Do it before. Decorate your space before beginning food and drink preparation. Once guests begin to arrive, the last thing you'll want is to be running around your apartment hanging tinsel and mistletoe!

WHILE THE PARTY IS PUMPIN'!

#9:  Keep your phone handy so that you can buzz guests up as they arrive – being left to wait in a lobby is no way to set a festive mood. Remember to keep an eye on your front door or party room entryway so that you can greet and say goodbye to guests as they come and go.

#10:  Greet guests with drinks and send them off with party favours to make your party even more memorable. Remember, the favours don’t have to be anything fancy – even a simple bowl full of candy canes or chocolates for guests to grab as they go would do – it’s just a nice way of saying “thank you for coming”.

#11:  Work the room! Remember, you’re the host – your guests took time out of their busy schedules to attend your party, so make them feel welcome by spending some time chatting with each and every one.

LAST BUT NOT LEAST...

#12:  If you manage to follow only one party tip, this should be the one! Remember that your holiday party is all about your guests. They are the very reason you’re hosting an event to begin with! So, don’t stress over your culinary skills or talent for interior décor – spend your time enjoying the company and being hospitable. Small, personal touches make for a warm, intimate and memorable event, so keep guests in mind when preparing for your fete. You'll want to be in high spirits when guests arrive, so plan your menu, décor and prep time around your available time and budget - not what you feel is expected from you. As long as you keep this in mind, your guests will be happy they were there and will be sure to remember your party as something special and wonderful.

Happy hosting!

Contemporary Colours for Hip Holiday Décor

It's December (already?!) and so it appears that the “real” countdown to the holidays has officially begun!

We’re completely inspired by the new contemporary colour schemes for holiday décor!

For a modern take on timeless holiday traditions this year, try a new colour scheme in your room design.

Photo inspiration comes after the jump!

Condo Sales: The Past 30 Days at Ellington Park

This week, we're heading to Markham for a closer look at Del Ridge Homes' Ellington Park.

Possessing a distinctly European allure, the intimate Ellington Park is located in Markham's popular Unionville area, at the north-east corner of Warden Ave and Hwy 7.  Here, residents enjoy formal gardens as well as building amenities that include a fitness centre and games and party rooms.  Just steps to the new Downtown Markham and within close range of shops, restaurants, highways and more, Ellington Park presents its residents with a classical backdrop to a modern lifestyle.

In the past 30 days, a total of two units have sold at Ellington Park, with prices ranging from $545,000 for a 3-BR suite of 1,538 sq ft, to $555,000 for a 2+Den unit of 1,500+ sq ft. 

These properties were sold after an average of 21 days on the market.

For more information on Ellington Park, please click here.

If you’re a Realtor and would like to share similar stories, please contact us at info@livehigh.com to participate or be featured in a post.

Please note that units can vary greatly in features and finishes which would normally be considered in any purchase or sale. Any transactions outlined above are for general information purposes only and may not reflect those of typical suites. LiveHigh.com is not responsible for the accuracy of information provided or for any damages or loss resulting from the use of such information. For further information on these or other sales, please consult a real estate specialist.

Portrait Condos Meet and Greet

Were you at the Portrait Condos event this Sunday?  A Meet and Greet was held for existing buyers - a great turnout throughout the afternoon, refreshments and delightful hors d'oeuvres were served, along with giveaways which included a coffeemaker, iPad, and a TV.  Buyers also had the chance to meet the Developer Team themselves.

Interested in this project?  Construction has already begun, and anticipated occupancy begins early 2012.  Plus for a limited time only, purchasers can now take advantage of free parking and up to $15,000 in free upgrades.  For existing buyers, refer a friend and receive a $4,000 bonus if a unit is purchased.

For more details and renderings for this project, visit this page.

Follow the jump for the pictures from the event:

VIP Invite to The Station this Saturday - Priced from $189,900!

Interested in The Station condos in North York, located near Wilson Station?


There's a VIP Event this Saturday, November 27 from Noon to 4 pm.  Special pricing will be offered, starting at an unbelievable $189,900!  Refreshments will be served, along with an opportunity to win tickets to see Billy Elliot at the Canon Theatre.

No RSVP is required, so head on over for your opportunity to purchase before the doors open to the general public!

Happy Friday!

To Dim or Not To Dim … That is the Question!

There’s nothing quite like good mood lighting to set the perfect backdrop to a holiday party - or any occasion for that matter!  Even a slight change in lighting can have a dramatic effect, particularly in a small condo space.

Dimmer switches are an ideal way to do just that.  Not only are they an economical way to add value to your home, they will also enrich the way you live in it.  Plus, the effective use of dimmers can help to offset continuously rising hydro costs.

Thanks to Sarah (a.k.a. Thrifty Decor Chick) we've discovered just how easy it is to install dimmer switches, sans costly labour.  She's graciously given us the green light to share with you with her simple step-by-step instructions (with photos!) for this quick little project.

Why not try this DIY and give yourself the gift of beautiful lighting this holiday season?  It’s much easier than you think! 

Follow the jump for detailed instructions.

Condo Sales: The Past 30 Days at VU

This week, we're heading downtown for a closer look at Aspen Ridge Homes' award-winning VU.

Completed earlier this year in March, VU is located in Toronto's desirable St Lawrence neighbourhood, at the north-east corner of Jarvis and Adelaide.  Situated within walking distance to everything that the urban lifestyle has to offer, VU's residents enjoy not only neighbourhood amenities such as the St Lawrence Market, but also the luxury of having not one but two in-house party rooms and fitness centres, as well as a rooftop lounge.

In the past 30 days, a total of six units have sold at VU, with prices ranging from $325,000 for a 1-BR suite, to $610,000 for a 2+Den unit of 1,250 sq ft.  A total of three units were also leased, from $1,500 for a 1-BR to $2,700 for a 2+Den.

These properties were sold after an average of 50 days on the market, while those for lease spent an average of 6.

For more information on VU, please click here.

If you’re a Realtor and would like to share similar stories, please contact us at info@livehigh.com to participate or be featured in a post.

Please note that units can vary greatly in features and finishes which would normally be considered in any purchase or sale. Any transactions outlined above are for general information purposes only and may not reflect those of typical suites. LiveHigh.com is not responsible for the accuracy of information provided or for any damages or loss resulting from the use of such information. For further information on these or other sales, please consult a real estate specialist.

Greeting Card Displays Made Easy

What might one do with all the fabulous greeting cards they receive over the holidays?  Share and display them of course!  They are little pieces of artwork, after all!

We’ve pulled together some of our favourite ideas for creating simple, decorative displays using everyday household items.

Christmas cards hung from branches can add a whimsical touch to any room.  Consider displaying cards on many branches in a vase to create an entire Christmas card 'tree'!

An easy centerpiece for your dining table can be created using forks as cardholders. This would be a lovely way to share cards with friends, family and acquaintances at your next holiday party!

This decorative frame from by WhipperBerry is both fashionable and functional. The little wooden clothespins will hold your greeting cards securely in place, and will continue to display your seasonal cards, photos and notes throughout the year.

 

 

The simplicity of tossing cards onto a plate or shallow bowl is not only pretty but practical – if you’re looking for an inspirational boost, simply pull out a card and read it!

Remember, these ideas are great for the holidays but would also be perfect to use year-round!

Condo Sales: The Past 30 Days at Skymark West

This week, we're heading to Mississauga North for a closer look at Tridel's Skymark West.

Completed in December 2000, Skymark West is located at Hurontario St and Eglinton Ave W.  The building's incredible amenities, which include an indoor pool, squash / tennis courts, virtual golf and bowling, provide residents on-site access to activity and entertainment.  Skymark West is also just a quick drive away from the popular Square One Shopping Centre, restaurants, entertainment venues and Hwy 403, offering convenience for all.In the past 30 days, a total of ten units have sold at Skymark West, with prices ranging from $226,500 for a 1-BR suite of 732 sq ft, to $460,000 for a 2-BR unit of over 1,300 sq ft.

These properties spent an average of 29 days on the market.

For more information on Skymark West, please click here.

If you’re a Realtor and would like to share similar stories, please contact us at info@livehigh.com to participate or be featured in a post.

Please note that units can vary greatly in features and finishes which would normally be considered in any purchase or sale. Any transactions outlined above are for general information purposes only and may not reflect those of typical suites. LiveHigh.com is not responsible for the accuracy of information provided or for any damages or loss resulting from the use of such information. For further information on these or other sales, please consult a real estate specialist.

Christmas Ornaments: 5 Ways

Ornaments aren’t just for trees! Here are some quick, easy and alternative ways to create festive displays using items you probably already have around your home.

Happy decorating!

You can make an ornamental display by placing a bunch of ornaments in a serving bowl.  The antiqued silver tray here looks great with its sparkly metallic ornaments, but we think that a wooden tray displaying ornaments in more muted tones would be great for a more rustic look.

As you're decorating for Christmas, think about filling several martini glasses with ornaments in varying sizes for a sophisticated centrepiece.  Sticking with ornaments of the same colour will maintain a sense of unity, while glasses of different shapes and sizes will keep the design interesting.  This idea would also work well on a mantle or shelf!

Placing Christmas decorations of the same colour family into baskets would be a great way to incorporate a some festive decor into a more casual room design.

  

Why not opt for a touch of elegance by placing ornaments and lights in a clear glass vase?  This can make for an elegant centrepiece at your holiday party.  The ones shown here are displayed in a rectangular vase, but glass vases of all shapes and sizes would work just as well.  We love the substance attained with a grouping of vases.

Last but not least, a simple serving platter would be a beautiful and interesting way to display some decorative ornaments.  We love the idea of this on a side table or buffet. 

Condo Sales: The Past 30 Days at The Bloor Street Neighbourhood (BSN)

This week, we're heading downtown to the Bay Street Corridor for a closer look at Cresford's The Bloor Street Neighbourhood (BSN).

Completed earlier this year, the new BSN is located southeast of Yonge and Bloor streets, conveniently surrounded by everything that's quintessential downtown.  Steps to the Yonge/Bloor subway station, Starbucks, The Second Cup, The Bay, Varsity Theatre and of course world-renowned shopping on Bloor Street makes BSN ideal for those who want it all.  

In the past 30 days, a total of eleven units have sold at BSN, with prices ranging from $299,900 for a 1-BR suite to $578,000 for a 2-BR unit. Seven units were also leased over the past month, from $1,375 for a 1-BR unit to $3,500 for a 2+Den.

Of these units, those for sale spent an average of 23 days on the market, while those for lease spent an average of 25 days on the market.

For more information on The Bloor Street Neighbourhood, please click here.

If you’re a Realtor and would like to share similar stories, please contact us at info@livehigh.com to participate or be featured in a post.

Please note that units can vary greatly in features and finishes which would normally be considered in any purchase or sale. Any transactions outlined above are for general information purposes only and may not reflect those of typical suites. LiveHigh.com is not responsible for the accuracy of information provided or for any damages or loss resulting from the use of such information. For further information on these or other sales, please consult a real estate specialist.

Treviso Condos - Neighbours Sneak Peek

Treviso condominiums, a project by Lanterra Developments, held a special Sneak Peek for their neighbours and pre-registrants yesterday. The fun event was family-oriented and looked more like a county fair: there were balloon twisters and temporary tattoo artists on-site, and of course plenty of pizza, hot dogs and popcorn to go around. There were even cooking demonstrations by professional chefs! Needless to say, there were line-ups everywhere we turned. 

Photos courtesy of Jack Kazmierski

In the Sales Centre, groups hovered around the scaled model and floorplans. With this being only the first of three phases in the development, the Dufferin and Lawrence corner will soon be transformed! And the local amenities are sure to be a hit: Lawrence subway station is right around the corner, while Yorkdale Shopping Centre is only a short distance away. Residents will also have quick access to Highway 401 and Allen Road.

Available suite styles range from Bachelor to 3-Bedrooms (up to 1,232 sq ft), with prices starting from the low $200,000s.

For those interested, there will be preview sales for pre-registrants, with the Grand Opening slated for the end of November. Click here for more information and look out for more details to come!

Christmas Tree Alternatives for Condo Dwellers

Hello, November!  Well it’s hard to believe, but once again it seems that the holidays will soon be upon us. That being said, today’s post marks the first of a weekly holiday series that we hope will inspire you to celebrate the season in style.

So, you live in a condo. You’d like to get into the festive spirit, but your building has rules against the use of live Christmas trees. While today’s artificial variety looks pretty good, even the best “faux firs” lack that certain luster for you. If this sounds about right, stay posted because we’ve come up with some simple and modern natural alternatives to the traditional Christmas tree that should help to spark some holiday cheer!

How about these visually stunning art pieces by possibiliTree®? They offer a 3-ft tabletop option or an incredible 6-ft option that’s designed to be suspended in an ethereal fashion. Available in a variety of natural woods, we love the idea of these strewn with sparkly monochromatic ornaments or simple white lights. When the holidays are over, you can pack and store these trees with ease, or continue to enjoy their artful simplicity throughout the year, unadorned.

This charming pinecone tree as seen at Country Living is a simple DIY that can be decorated, though we adore the natural ruggedness of it bare. Directions for this project can be found after the jump.

As a tabletop alternative, we like the look of these decorative Evergreen sprigs in pretty vases or pots. While it’s an easy DIY, they can also be found at various retailers online. You can embellish the sprigs with Christmas decorations to create an ornamental focal point, or leave them natural for a clean, simple accent in your holiday room design.

Last but definitely not least, we're head over heels for the simple elegance of natural bare branches displayed in vases. As featured on Plush Palate, consider adorning these using ornaments, lights or even crystals for a sophisticated touch.

A Closer Look: Portrait Condos

We’re always interested in hearing the story that lies behind a new condo project, and Norstar Group’s Portrait Condos is no exception. We sat down with the developers to learn a little more about this new condo and what it offers to potential buyers.

For those who like the idea of luxury living in the city, Portrait may offer exactly what you’re looking for. Quietly nestled at Bathurst and Sheppard amidst parks, trails and lush greenery, this dramatic eight-storey mid-rise is just minutes from a wide array of family amenities including schools, community centres and synagogues. For shoppers, local plazas offer daily amenities such as banking and groceries, while Yorkdale Mall provides the style-conscious with access to over 240 stores and services. Downsview Station is right around the corner for easy access to public transportation, while the highway is a quick drive away.

If you’re downsizing or looking for that perfect pied-a-terre, Portrait’s impressive list of features and finishes will certainly help to ease the transition, making you feel right at home. Some of these include:

     •   Large terraces with exterior gas & water lines;

     •   Granite countertops throughout, including bathrooms;

     •   8’4”, 8’6” and 9’ ceiling heights;

     •   2nd parking spot available for purchase;

     •   Unique, one-of-a-kind layouts (there are about 50 floor plans in the building, no

         floor the same as the next).

 Nature will be brought to life at Portrait with its warm façade, manicured gardens and expansive courtyards – all inspired by the Mediterranean classical style.

True to its name, we think that Portrait Condos is a picture of elegance in an upscale neighbourhood, and at just over $400 per sq ft, its value proposition can’t be denied. Suites start at $271,900 and include a parking spot.  Plus for a limited time only, purchasers can now take advantage of up to $15,000 in free upgrades.

For more information on Portrait Condos, click here. Anticipated occupancy begins early 2012, and construction has already begun – watch these homes grow via Portrait’s new live construction link!

Condo Sales: The Past 30 Days at Majestic Court

This week, we're heading up to Markham for a closer look at Times Group's Majestic Court.

Completed in Fall 2008, Majestic Court is located at the corner of Warden and Hwy 7, on the outskirts of the new Downtown Markham.  With plenty of big box plazas, malls, grocery stores and banks nearby, residents can complete daily errands in a breeze, while nearby golf courses, theatres and restaurants provide a convenient source of entertainment.  A quick drive to both highways 404 and 407 provides ease of access to all corners of the GTA.

In the past 30 days, a total of seven units have sold at Majestic Court, with prices ranging from $253,000 for a 1+Den of 632 sq ft, to $396,000 for a 2-BR unit of 1,025 sq ft.  Fourt units were also leased over the past month, from $1,250 for a 1-BR unit to $1,650 for a 2-BR suite.

Of these units, those for sale spent an average of 38 days on the market, while those for lease spent an average of 26 days on the market. 

For more information on Majestic Court, please click here.

If you’re a Realtor and would like to share similar stories, please contact us at info@livehigh.com to participate or be featured in a post.

Please note that units can vary greatly in features and finishes which would normally be considered in any purchase or sale. Any transactions outlined above are for general information purposes only and may not reflect those of typical suites. LiveHigh.com is not responsible for the accuracy of information provided or for any damages or loss resulting from the use of such information. For further information on these or other sales, please consult a real estate specialist.

Condo Sales: The Past 30 Days at ARC Condos

This week, we're heading to Bayview Village for a closer look at award-nominated ARC Condos.

Completed in Fall 2009, ARC is located at the corner of Bayview and Sheppard.  With direct access to Bayview subway station and right beside the upscale Bayview Village Shopping Centre, ARC is within easy reach of all that Toronto has to offer.  Near-immediate highway access both east/west and north/south makes ARC a practical choice for people who want quick access to the best of the GTA.


In the past 30 days, a total of two units have sold at ARC, with prices ranging from $343,500 for a 1+Den suite, to $347,900 for a 1-BR unit of 697 sq ft. Nine units were also leased over the past month, from $1,250 for a Studio space to $1,800 for a 2+Den suite.

Of these units, those for sale spent an average of 38 days on the market, while those for lease spent an average of 21 days on the market.

For more information on ARC Condos, please click here.


If you’re a Realtor and would like to share similar stories, please contact us at info@livehigh.com to participate or be featured in a post.

Please note that units can vary greatly in features and finishes which would normally be considered in any purchase or sale. Any transactions outlined above are for general information purposes only and may not reflect those of typical suites. LiveHigh.com is not responsible for the accuracy of information provided or for any damages or loss resulting from the use of such information. For further information on these or other sales, please consult a real estate specialist.

What’s the Deal with Green Roofs?

The growing popularity of green roofs had us wondering what it really means to "go green".  We recently met with Toronto-based landscape architect Scott Torrance to find out exactly what the buzz is all about.

Condo Sales: The Past 30 Days at Pure Spirit Lofts & Condos

As a follow-up to Janice Mackie's informative post on the Distillery District earlier this week, we thought it would be fitting to have a look at the Distillery's Pure Spirit Lofts & Condos.

Completed in Spring 2009, Pure Spirit is located in the heart of Toronto's historic Distillery District near Parliament and Front streets.  Rich in character, the Distillery provides a picture-perfect backdrop to this residential tower which is within walking distance to critically-acclaimed restaurants, shops and galleries.  Its quiet location just ouside the downtown "core" also provides quick access to public transportation and highways.

In the past 30 days, a total of three units have sold at Pure Spirit, with prices ranging from $290,000 for a 1-BR suite to $325,000 for a 1+Den unit of about 639 to 645 sq ft, respectively. Two units were also leased over the past month, from $1,065 for a Studio space to $1,350 for a 1-BR suite.

Of these units, those for sale spent from as little as 9 days to over 4 months on the market, while those for lease spent an average of 14 days on the market.

If you’re wondering how property values are holding up, a 1-BR unit that sold in June 2009 resold last month for $12,100 more than it did last summer, while a 1-BR unit that sold in September 2009 resold this past June for $20,000 more than it did last fall.

For more information on Pure Spirit, please click here.

If you’re a Realtor and would like to share similar stories, please contact us at info@livehigh.com to participate or be featured in a post.

Please note that units can vary greatly in features and finishes which would normally be considered in any purchase or sale. Any transactions outlined above are for general information purposes only and may not reflect those of typical suites. LiveHigh.com is not responsible for the accuracy of information provided or for any damages or loss resulting from the use of such information. For further information on these or other sales, please consult a real estate specialist.