LiveHigh.com Launches in Vancouver!

Yep, you heard that right.

Thanks to your invaluable feedback, we’ve really been pounding the pavement on the West Coast. And as of today, we’re ecstatic to announce that we’ve officially launched LiveHigh.com in Vancouver!

What can you expect to find on our Vancouver website? Why, only the same up-to-the-minute market and project information and updates you’ve come to expect from us in the Greater Toronto Area -- just Vancouver-related, of course. So far, we’ve profiled over 700 condos, showcasing them through over 7,000 exclusive photos. And we’re just getting started!

To check out condos and related news and updates in Vancouver and the Greater Vancouver Area, please visit Vancouver.LiveHigh.com or simply click here.

Condo Sales at Toy Factory Lofts (Past 30 Days)

This week, we're heading downtown for a closer look at Toy Factory Lofts condos, located near King St W and Dufferin St in Toronto's booming Liberty Village.

Built by Lanterra Developments and Minuk Developments, this incredibly popular condo was once known as the Irwin Toy Factory, now converted into a unique combination of live and work lofts.  The project was named the Condominium Project of the Year in 2005 by the Greater Toronto Home Builders’ Association and was honoured with a Toronto Urban Design Award for Mid-Rise Private Building  in 2009.

 

Unlike some of Toronto's original loft conversions, Toy Factory Lofts offers a breadth of building amenities, including 24-hour concierge, a guest suite, fitness centre, party room and rooftop terrace with hot tub.

In the past 30 days, a total of two units have sold at Toy Factory Lofts, with prices starting from $436,000 for a 1-BR loft of over 700 sq ft to $618,500 for a 1+Den loft of over 1,100 sq ft.  These properties spent an average of 7 days on the market.

Three units also leased at Toy Factory Lofts during this time, from $2,000 for a 1-BR loft to $2,700 for a 2-BR loft.  These rental units spent an average of 39 days on the market.

For more information on Toy Factory Lofts, 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.

GTA New Condo Project & Market Updates

Looking for something to do this weekend?  Consider checking out a new condo sales centre.  Some ideas, below.

If you haven't yet subscribed to our newsletter and want to receive new project updates and market news directly in your inbox, simply register here.

Have a great weekend!

Project and Market Updates
Happening This Week >  VIP Penthouse Release Tonight: Theatre Park >  Preview Event This Weekend: Fuse Condos & Lofts >  $15,500 Cash Back - Limited Time Offer: The Mercer New Projects >  Breathtaking New Model Suite for The Residences at Ritz-Carlton! >  Daniels Sells Out at FirstHome Destination Drive Again! >  New Rendering Added: The Rushton Residences >  New Rendering Added: Showcase Condos Resale Projects >  Condo Sales at Esprit Condos (Past 60 Days)
Condo Living
>  Things Are Looking Up Downtown!
Condo Projects Coming Soon
		Old Market Lane Woodbridge, Vaughan Dominus Construction Group
Top 10 Most Viewed This Week
	New Developments	Completed Projects
	Terrace on Danforth Perspective Condos Uptown Markham Condos - Phase I Grand Genesis Condos York Harbour Club - West Harbour City - 3 Liv Lofts Celebration Condominiums The Rushton Residences FirstHome™ Destination Drive Showcase Condos	The Bloor Street Neighbourhood (BSN) Glen Lake King's Terrace Royal York Grand The Mansions of Humberwood II 100 Wingarden Court Parkway Terrace The Palisades The Icon II Absolute Condos

Condo Sales at Esprit Condos (Past 60 Days)

This week, we're heading west for a closer look at Esprit condos, located near Eglinton Ave W and Hurontario St in Mississauga.

Located near public transportation and major commute arteries including Hwy 403, residents at Esprit enjoy easy access to restaurants, banks, groceries, cinema and shopping at nearby Square One Shopping Centre and various retail plazas.

Inside Esprit, a fitness centre, indoor swimming pool, squash court and party room are just a few of the building's convenient amenities to round out an active lifestyle.

  In the past 60 days, a total of two units have sold at Esprit, with prices starting from $285,000 for a 2-BR suite.  These properties spent an average of 20 days on the market.

One condo unit also leased at Esprit during this time at a monthly rate of $1,225 for a 1-BR unit.  This rental property spent 31 days on the market.

For more information on Esprit condominiums, 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.

New Condo Project Updates

What are you up to this long weekend? There's a lot going on in our city of condos.  Why not check out a new condo sales centre?  Some ideas, below.

If you haven't yet subscribed to our newsletter and want to receive new project updates and market news directly in your inbox, simply register here.

Have a safe and happy long weekend!

Project and Market Updates
New Projects >  Portrait Condos: A 'Picture-Perfect' Purchase Opportunity for 1st Time Buyers >  Menkes Soon to Offer a New Opportunity to Own at Pears! >  Imperial Plaza Sky Penthouses Elevate Once-in-a-Lifetime Conversion Project >  Deerhurst Summit Lodges by Skyline: Indulge in the Ultimate Resort Lifestyle! Resale Projects >  Condo Sales at One Cole (Past 90 Days) Market News >  Urbanation Launches UrbanRental for Toronto's Condo Rental Market
Condo Living
>  Shoe Storage for Small Spaces: Tips for a Clutter-Free Condo >  Reposted: Closing Costs for Condo Sellers: Calculate to Vacate
Condo Projects Coming Soon
		The Yards at Fort York Bathurst St & Fort York Boulevard, Toronto Onni Group of Companies
		Monocle Condominiums Yonge St & Sheppard Ave E, North York Monocle Developments Inc
		3 Hamilton Lofts 3 Hamilton Street, Toronto Streetcar Developments
		Carlaw & Dundas Condos 345 Carlaw Avenue, Toronto Streetcar Developments
Top 10 Most Viewed This Week
	New Developments	Completed Projects
	Terrace on Danforth Perspective Condos Grand Genesis Condos Celebration Condominiums York Harbour Club - West Harbour City - 3 Uptown Markham Condos - Phase I Liv Lofts The Rushton Residences Showcase Condos FirstHome™ Destination Drive	Glen Lake The Bloor Street Neighbourhood (BSN) Spire the Condominium 70 Roehampton at the Republic The Loretto 5 Rosehill Ave 398 Eglinton Avenue East The Icon II One Cole The Mansions of Humberwood II

Portrait Condos: A ‘Picture-Perfect’ Purchase Opportunity for First Time Buyers

If you’re a first-time homebuyer, Portrait Condos’ latest promotion might just be what you’re looking for.    

With their limited-time offer of free parking, 8% interest on all deposits plus $5,000 cash back, there's plenty of incentive to purchase at this North York project – especially when you consider the land transfer tax rebates that you’re eligible for as a first-time homebuyer!

Portrait Condos' sales office is open Monday-Thursday from 1-7 PM and Saturday-Sunday from 12-5 PM.  The office is closed every Friday as well as the upcoming Victoria Day holiday (Monday, May 23).

For more information on Portrait Condos, please click here or visit http://www.portraitcondo.com.

Urbanation Launches UrbanRental for Toronto's Condo Rental Market

Urbanation launched their innovative UrbanRental report yesterday morning, which provides a wealth of information on the trends and changes in rental rates for over 1,100 condo buildings within the Toronto CMA (Census Metropolitan Area).

Urbanation's Ben Myers presents the
latest rental stats for the Toronto CMA

The report will be released quarterly and targets condo developers, lenders, real estate professionals, investors -- pretty much anyone with an interest in the rental apartment business.

According to Urbanation, over 50% of new condos sold in the Toronto CMA are purchased by investors (i.e. buyers who don’t intend to occupy their units).  “With the increasing number of small condo units being bought by investors, this report will be essential for anyone who owns and rents a suite,” says Ben Myers, Urbanation Executive Vice President and Editor.

Left: Attendees at the UrbanRental launch event; Right: Ben Myers with the first UrbanRental report

The first UrbanRental report released (Q1-2011) shows that overall, demand and the number of leased units in the condominium apartment rental market remain high, while the average days-on-market is low. Urbanation predicts the trend going forward will be continued flat rate index rent increases, and that index price appreciation in the new and resale condo market will outpace that of index rents.

For more details or to sign up for UrbanRental, please visit www.urbanation.ca/UrbanRental.

Closing Costs for Condo Sellers: Calculate to Vacate

Related post: Closing Costs for Condo Buyers: What to Expect When You're Expecting (a Condo!)

By Cesia Green

Most people are aware that they will have some extra costs when they buy a new or resale condo. However, there are also some important costs to keep in mind if you are selling a condo.

Condo Sales at One Cole (Past 90 Days)

This week, we're taking a closer look at Daniels' One Cole, located near Dundas and Parliament streets in Toronto's east downtown.

Completed in the fall of 2009, this development was the first condo completed in support of the 15-year Regent Park Revitalization Plan.  With its two condo buildings - 9-and 19-storey towers - as well as townhomes and rental units, One Cole houses over 900 residential units.

Residents enjoy the benefits of a Living Wall in their exclusive amenity space, as well as a 20,000 sq.ft. outdoor landscaped courtyard.  Other features include a fitness centre, lounge and 24-hour concierge.  The building's close proximity to public transportation, major commute arteries and the convenience of nearby banking, groceries and eateries make One Cole a top choice for many.
 
In the past 90 days, a total of three units have sold at One Cole's two distinct condo towers with prices ranging from $286,000 for a 1-BR unit to $407,000 for a 2-BR suite.  These properties spent an average of 29 days on the market.

A total of three condo units also leased at One Cole during this time, with rents ranging from $1,499 for a 1+Den unit to $1,799 for a 2-BR suite.  These rental properties spent an average of 24 days on the market.

For more information on One Cole condominiums, 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.

GTA New Condo Project & Market Updates

Did you miss our newsletter this week?  Below, some highlights.

Be one of the first to access our weekly project and market updates directly from your inbox - simply register here!

Happy Friday everyone!

Project and Market Updates
New Projects >  Grand Opening of CHAZ on Charles Attracts Whirlwind of Interest >  The Upgrade Dilemma - Advice from Owner of Edenshaw Homes >  $6,000 Upgrade Package at Eleven Superior   Resale Projects >  Condo Sales: The Chrysler (Past 60 Days)
Condo Living
>  The Grandma Rules for Condo Moving >  Closing Costs for Condo Sellers: Calculate to Vacate >  Thinking About Buying Real Estate in Florida?
Condo Projects Coming Soon
		Brant Park Condos 438 Adelaide Street West, Toronto Lamb Development Corp
		B.streets Condos 771 Bathurst Street, Toronto Lindvest Properties Ltd
		Two Old Mill 2 Old Mill Road, Toronto Tridel
Top 10 Most Viewed This Week
	New Developments	Completed Projects
	Terrace on Danforth York Harbour Club - West Harbour City - 3 Uptown Markham Condos - Phase I Perspective Condos Celebration Condominiums Grand Genesis Condos FirstHome Destination Drive Liv Lofts Pearl Condominiums Showcase Condos	Bloor Street Neighbourhood (BSN) Glen Lake King's Terrace The Mansions of Humberwood II Spire the Condominium Royal York Grand 15 La Rose Ave Mayfair on the Green II The Icon II Panache Condominiums

Shoe Storage for Small Spaces: Tips for a Clutter-Free Condo

Space-limited condos beg for functional (yet fashionable) storage solutions.  If you're looking for a better way to store and organize your shoes, do try this at home!

1. Get your shoes off the floor!  While your square footage may be limited by your condo's layout, every condo unit has wall space that need not be wasted!  Be sure to make use of the vertical space in closets (or any odd nooks and crannies that you may have in your suite) with cleverly placed shelving units

2. Organize by season, style and colour.  Place current seasonal items within easy reach.  Out-of-season items can then be placed on top shelves or harder-to-reach areas to eliminate clutter and chaos.  Further categorizing your shoes by style (e.g. heels, flats, sandals) and colour will help to save time when you're trying to leave in a hurry!

3. Protect your shoes from dust and overcrowding with the use of storage boxes on shelves.  Stackable boxes can help to further save space.  Transparent boxes or ones with windows will allow you to see what's inside.  Boxes that include pull-out drawers will allow you to access your shoes with ease.  There are many on the market nowadays, so be sure to shop around!

Hints & Tips:  Until this Sunday, IKEA's SKUBB Shoe Boxes will be on sale for only $6.99/4-pack (regular $14.99).  These boxes may not stack as well as others we've seen, but they work well on shelves and their large size, transparent window flap and now very affordable price make these an ideal storage solution!

Sale Alert! SKUBB Shoe Boxes from IKEA

These SKUBB shoe storage boxes from IKEA are a great way to organize and protect your shoes from dust and overcrowding.  Their  transparent mesh windows let you see what's inside while simple hook and loop fasteners allow you to open and close the windows with ease, ensuring that your shoes are always within easy reach.  Our favourite part?  The generous size of these boxes (W 8.75" x D 13.5" x H 6.25") fits even larger men's sizes!

Until the end of this week, these sturdy little boxes are only $6.99 for a pack of 4, while supplies last (regular price is $14.99).  They come in black and white to match any decor.  We've already got our limit of 2 per person - hurry and get yours today!

Condo Sales: The Chrysler (Past 60 Days)

This week, we're heading to North York for a closer look at Daniels' The Chrysler, completed in early 2003.

Part of the builder's popular NY Towers community, this high-rise tower is conveniently located at Bayview and Sheppard, across the street from Bayview Village Shopping Centre, beside Sheppard subway station and the YMCA and near major commute arteries.  The building offers a range of private amenities for its residents including a fitness centre, indoor pool, party room and BBQ terrace.

In the past 60 days, a total of seven units have sold at The Chrysler with prices ranging from $280,500 for a 1-BR unit to $372,888 for a 2-BR suite.  These properties spent an average of 11 days on the market.

A total of eight units also leased at The Chrysler during this time, with rents ranging from $1,320 for a 1-BR unit to $1,830 for a 2-BR suite.  These rental properties spent an average of 26 days on the market.

For more information on Universal Condominiums, 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.

Thinking About Buying Real Estate in Florida?

We had the pleasure of attending Baker Real Estate's free seminar on buying Florida real estate last night.

Speakers included Barbara Lawlor (President of Baker Real Estate), Jayson Schwarz (lawyer and Senior Partner at Danson Schwarz Recht LLP), Paul Howlett (tax consultant and Partner at EvansMartin LLP) and Jack Halkowich (Executive VP of Baker Real Estate's new U.S. headquarters in Boca Raton).

Topics covered ranged from current market conditions to legal, tax planning and estate considerations.

While everyone's circumstances are different, the point that was clearly driven home is the importance of consulting with trusted professionals before diving into this type of real estate investment.  If you're considering the purchase of real estate in Florida (or anywhere else for that matter), be sure to consult with your trusted real estate professional, lawyer and/or accountant before taking the plunge!

Closing Costs for Condo Buyers: What to Expect when You're Expecting (a Condo!)

By Cesia Green

Buying a condo, especially a new condo, can be a very exciting experience. You visit the showroom, pick your layout, choose your finishes – and then wait. And wait. And wait some more. Depending on the condo development, the time between submitting your offer and first deposit and moving in can be years, especially if you are buying in a high rise that will take a significant amount of time to build. By the time your lawyer contacts you to arrange to sign your documents, you may need a refresher on what exactly you are paying for.

Condo Sales: Universal Condominiums (Past 30 Days)

This week, we're heading west to Mississauga for a closer look at Conservatory Group's Universal Condominiums, completed in December 2008.

Located beside Square One and Mississauga's City Centre, this high-rise tower offers plenty of local amenities, including shopping, restaurants and ease of access to major commute arteries.  The building's unique lifestyle amenities include a fitness centre with indoor swimming pool, bowling lanes and a home theatre.

In the past 30 days, a total of two units have sold at Universal Condominiums with prices ranging from $270,000 for a 2-BR unit of 816 sq ft to $317,000 for a 2+Den suite over 900 sq ft. These properties spent an average of 13 days on the market.

A total of three units have also leased at Universal Condominiums during this time, with rents ranging from $1,300 for a 1+Den unit to $1,550 for a 2-BR suite.

For more information on Universal Condominiums, 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.