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.