Video Tour: Flaire Condos at Shops at Don Mills (Sales Centre)

We recently had the pleasure of chatting with Johnson Cheng, Sales Manager for Flaire Condos, to find out just what it is that makes this new condo at Don Mills and Lawrence so unique.

Flaire Condos, to be built jointly by Cadillac Fairview and FRAM Building Group, is the latest addition to Cadillac Fairview's master-planned community The Shops at Don Mills.  It is also the much anticipated follow-up to Reflections and LivLofts.

Flaire Condos is the third building to be part of Toronto's finest open air village, The Shops at Don Mills, which will ultimately be home to 2,500 new residential units.  The community "offers people a place to live, work, and play" says Cheng.  "It is like a Yorkville environment, but without the hustle and bustle of downtown traffic."

For more video footage and information about this unique development, follow the jump...

How the Mikey Network Gives a Second Chance at Life

Every now and then, a good cause comes along that tugs at our heartstrings enough that we feel compelled to share it.  In this case, it's not only a great cause, but one that ultimately can affect anyone.

Yesterday afternoon, we had the pleasure and privilege of attending a Thank You Luncheon held by The Mikey Network, a not-for-profit organization that works to promote heart healthy lifestyles.

Through their MIKEY programs, the network is committed to placing MIKEY's (Automatic External Defibrillators) in high-risk locations to help people affected by sudden cardiac arrest.  The proper use of an AED unit can improve a victim's chance of survival by up to 50 percent.

With a focus on placing these units in locales where such equipment might otherwise be out-of-reach, the defibrillators can now be found in schools, libraries and GO stations in primarily in Southern Ontario as well as other parts of Canada and the U.S.

As part of their Mikey On Board program, all Two Men and a Truck Canada moving trucks were recently equipped with a MIKEY defibrillator - anytime you see one of their moving trucks on the road or in your neighbourhood, help is close by.  In addition, the Monarch Group also teamed up with the network recently to install MIKEY defibrillators in all of their condos - great news for tenants and visitors alike.

Because of The Mikey Network, 13 lives have been saved so far.  It's that many others who happen to be affected by sudden cardiac arrest will have their odds of survival improved, thanks to the network's incredible programs.

For more information on The Mikey Network or to find out how you can support the cause,  click here or watch the video below.

Luxury Yorkville Living for Less?

We all know that living in Yorkville comes with a premium.  It's not unusual to find new condo developments priced well beyond $1,000/sq ft, and the market doesn’t seem to show any signs of slowing down.

So, are these skyrocketing prices justified?

Ask any realtor and they'll tell you it's all about “Location, Location, Location.”  Yorkville is, after all, where the stars come out to play -- if you want to share the same sandbox, you'll pay a premium to do so. 

But, other than the off-chance of rubbing shoulders with the Brad Pitts and George Clooneys of the world, what "premium" features and amenities are you really paying for?

Let's take a look at some of the most popular new condos as a point of reference.

A doorman will greet residents at Four Seasons Residences.

Four Seasons Residences, The St. Thomas and 77 Charles all offer future residents both a valet and doorman.  In fact, The St. Thomas will even indulge its inhabitants with a convenient hall porter.  Units in any of these buildings come with, at the very least, gourmet kitchens that will make you feel like a celebrity chef and luxurious, spa-like bathrooms that will make you never want to leave.  These are exactly the kind of homes that make for the perfect stay-cations.

So, what If you can’t justify the $1,000+/ sq ft price tag, but still want to live the "rockstar" lifestyle?  Take a closer look at some of the nearby developments and you'll find that just a few minutes' walk can save you $100,000's.

An entertainer's delight: Chaz's signature two-storey Chaz Club

Consider for instance, Chaz Yorkville.  Located just south of Yonge and Bloor, this more reasonably priced building is available for as low as $700/sq ft, with some unique amenities to boot.  Facilities will include a state-of-the-art computer gaming arena, a self-service pet spa that will allow residents to pamper their pooches in style, and not one, but two theatres (including a 3D Hollywood-style screening room).  A signature two-storey Chaz Club on the 36th and 37th floors is sure to be an entertainer's paradise, overlooking the lake and downtown skyline.

Alternatively, head over to One Bloor at Yonge and Bloor, and you'll find units starting around $700/sq ft.  This price point will get you beautiful, contemporary kitchens and baths as well as direct TTC subway access.  Some of its unique amenities include several hot and cold plunge pools, a year-round indoor/outdoor pool and fireplace features within over 46,000 sq ft of indoor and outdoor amenity spaces.

Yet another option lies at U Condominiums near Bay and Wellesley, where prices start in the mid-$700/sq ft range.  Residents of each of its two towers will enjoy their very own 4,500 sq ft penthouse amenities area with wraparound balconies and picture-perfect views.

Yorkville living certainly comes with a premium, but not without a few comparable alternatives that may prove more affordable, while still providing a competitive selection of premium features and amenities.

Interested in this neighbourhood?  Explore condos in Yorkville and its surrounding area here!

Pics: Chaz Yorkville - Exclusive Penthouse Collection

We recently visited the Chaz Yorkville presentation centre and were impressed by what's in store for residents of their exclusive new penthouse collection.

The on-site model kitchen and bath features standard finishes for Chaz's exclusive penthouses.  We love the fully integrated Miele appliances (wine fridge included!) and sleek, multi-spray shower.  Doesn't this just ooze luxury?

If you're interested in the Yorkville lifestyle, we recommend checking out Chaz Yorkville.  Visit their website here, and stay tuned for updates about their upcoming penthouse release!

 

Condo Cooking: Quick & Simple Recipes for the Condo Lifestyle

With the holidays just around the corner, there's bound to be plenty of occasion to entertain.  So, what better time to promote our new Condo Cooking feature?  Twice a month, we'll feature a new recipe from a local Top Chef.

Our first recipe comes courtesy of Christopher Palik, Executive Chef of Paese Restaurant:

Roasted Golden Beet Salad with Arugula and Goat Cheese 

This festive salad is reminiscent of a holiday wreath and holly leaves

Reminiscent of a holiday wreath and holly leaves, this festive-looking dish is sure to please your party guests.  Though it looks (and tastes!) incredibly sophisticated, the recipe is quick to prepare and simple enough for even the most amateur of chefs. 

Want to know how to make it?  Click here for the full recipe.

Condo Living...with a Baby?

When one thinks of condo living, a certain image typically comes to mind: a carefree, secure and convenient lifestyle for students, young professionals, or retirees.

For many, the thought of babies and young children is often furthest from the mind.

But why is this?  With so many advantages to condo living, it's mind-boggling that don't hear more about the pros of condo living with a baby.
 

We recently talked to some new mamas and papas to find out why they've opted for condo living, and what they love about this lifestyle as new parents.

 

Here are just some of the (often overlooked) benefits:

 

• Low maintenance.  Not only is exterior work to windows and common areas such as hallways, walkways, garage and other amenities taken care of for you, but living areas are typically smaller and often one-storey -- that means less housework and more quality time with your little one.

• Easy diaper disposal.  Convenient garbage chutes and unlimited waste disposal means that you can get rid of smelly packages as often as you need, on your schedule -- not the city's.  As such, you may even eliminate the need for a diaper genie!

• Effortless travel.  With the luxury of elevators and underground garages, you can go from door-to-door in a snap!  The option of transporting baby via stroller will spare you from the back-breaking pain of having to lug a heavy car seat or carrier, while an indoor garage will save you and your bambino from harsh weather conditions.

• On-site fitness facilities.  New mamas who are looking to get back into shape post-pregnancy will find that in-house gyms, swimming pools - perhaps even tennis courts, indoor tracks and more - can mean quick and convenient workouts (that is, when they can find a spare block of time!)

• Convenient on-foot access to neighbourhood amenities.  If you're lucky enough to have direct mall access from your condo - e.g. to Empress Walk from The Pinnacle or to Fairview Mall from Emerald City - you can bring your baby on an errand run or leisurely stroll with ease (and without having to worry about the weather!)  Even without direct mall access, many condos today are situated within walking distance of amenities such as banks, shops and restaurants, eliminating the need to get in and out of a vehicle.

• Condos have outdoor spaces, too.  While some house-dwellers will harp on the fact that condos aren't conducive to backyard siestas, condos do offer plenty of options for those seeking fresh air.  Apart from private balconies and terraces, many condos offer some type of outdoor space such as roof gardens or outdoor terraces.  In addition, many condo buildings are situated within short walking distance to local parks and public green spaces.

• Affordable living in the city.  Need we say more?  With the continual climb of real estate prices, condo units are a relatively affordable option in general, and more particularly for those who aren't ready for suburbia.  For parents with offices in the city, this can also mean less commute time and more family time.

Of course, every coin has two sides and we realize that condo living with a baby may have its drawbacks for some.  We just think this is a pretty swell list of pros!  Perhaps these factors will help to tip the scale towards condo living for new parents?

Condo Living: Downsized Space, Upsized Self-Awareness?

Moving from a house into a condo has its perks, but the transition can mean a culture shock for many.  Ellen Alban, a recent condo convert, shares her account with us as she begins to experience the condo lifestyle and adjust to some of its quirks!

By Ellen Alban

The first day I moved into my new condo my life as I had known it changed dramatically.

In my former home I could be cranky, loud, and generally obnoxious and no one would know anything about my ornery moods. I could dress as I pleased in any old thing and no one would see, hear, or care about my appearance. 

On the other hand, in my new condo I discover that my threadbare pink bathrobe and my faded pink mules would not be suitable for taking out my puppy at 7:00 in the morning. Wearing this ancient get-up I must pass the concierge desk and often scare the wits out of them. 

But alas, other issues must be considered. How would my aforementioned morning attire be received by those perfectly pressed and polished people in the elevator with me at that hour? I must smile and say good morning, even though my high voltage bed-head and no makeup are a noticeable source of shock for my fellow riders, I must not be self-conscious. I must still say good morning and hope that they are too tired to notice too much about me. I do run a grave risk of being reported to the powers that be, the building manager. The charge—reckless and inappropriate clothing, thus a major violation of condo corp. 2276487’s rules and regulations, which state clearly the following: it is not permitted to enter any public area without suitable makeup, hair and fashionable attire. Does this apply to men as well? Must they too look sharp for the elevator ride to G at 7:00 am? I certainly hope so. Does this also mean that my appearance on a normal bad hair day is grounds for a stern reminder about building protocol? Can I use Halloween as my raison d’etre for my imperfections in October? 

In order to resolve the situation a meeting must be called. The board of directors and the rules committee have too much to do. 

In the meantime, a full-length coat, huge dark glasses, a wide brim sunhat and my laundry white Nike runners might be my temporary solution. I hope it works!!

Ellen Alban is a former high school teacher of English and French who in retirement is still teaching. She leads physical fitness classes, teaches an adult creative writing class, and plays bridge and Mah Jong. She does all this in spite of the fact that she has been living with Parkinsons Disease for 16 years. Her first book of poetry is published and her second book, a group of short stories about cottage life, is ready to be published shortly. Ellen is an optimistic, humorous writer who good naturedly pokes fun at herself, often hearing from her readers  that the very same events happened to them as well. Ellen has been married to her husband Henry for forty one years. They have two adult children.

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!

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!

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!

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.

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.

Artist Interview: Clare Scott-Taggart

We’ve been very curious about the story behind some of the beautiful art we’ve seen set amongst various condos, many which were commissioned to ensure that our city does not become a plain old concrete jungle.

We took some time recently to sit down with Clare Scott-Taggart, artist and creator of Across the Great Span of Time at Shane Baghai’s St Gabriel development. Located on the north side of Sheppard just east of Bayview, the beautifully crafted sculpture sits gracefully in front of St Gabriel, quietly greeting visitors and passersby.

We visited Clare at her west Toronto studio to learn a little more about her sculpture and what makes her tick as an artist.

More after the jump...

The Condo Pre-Delivery Inspection (PDI): What to Expect & Tips

After seeing some interest on our website, we met with Chris, a condo investor, and asked him to share his recent experience of condo unit pre-delivery inspection (PDI).  Given that he was going through this process for the third time, he already had a pretty clear idea of what should be expected.

Chris arrived at the condo for his PDI a week prior to occupancy, as scheduled by the builder.  The unit being inspected was approximately 770 sq ft, and it took about an hour to review the suite thoroughly. 

Walking through the common areas in the building, it was noted that the elevators were not yet ready and the hallways still looked like construction zones.  Chris was asked to wear a hard-hat for the tour.  Inside the unit, things appeared more optimistic but there were still a few outstanding items.  The most notable were that some of the appliances were not yet connected, the thermostat was missing and some large areas were missing paint.  Other items that were missing included kick-plates at the bottom of cabinets and doorstops and caulking on tiles.  The balcony remained unfinished.  As you can imagine, the unit felt incomplete (similar to Chris' last PDI experience), but most items were completed by the time he took occupancy a week later.

5 Tips from Chris about PDIs:

1. Bring your purchase agreement and upgrade list for the inspection as a checklist.  For those looking for a more complete checklist, you can also visit the Tarion website.  This checklist is designed for both house and condo inspection, and can be used as a guideline for review.
2. Bring a small electronic device, such as a nightlight, to test the electrical outlets.  Chris discovered four outlets that were not operable.
3. Set your expectations and be prepared that there will be unfinished items.  This way, you won't be disappointed.
4. If items were missed during PDI, you can include them in the 30-Day Warranty Form to be sent to Tarion and the builder. There is also a final opportunity to report items on the Year-End Warranty Form.  

   You can now complete and submit the Warranty Forms to Tarion through their website.
5. Be prepared that the builder will require access to the suite, with notice, to complete any outstanding PDI items.

Hints & Tips: Buying A Unit In A Pre-Construction Condo Project

With such high demand for pre-construction condo projects, the LiveHigh Team recently interviewed some buyers who have purchased units in pre-construction condo projects - both for principal residence and investment - to gain some insight into their experiences.

Benefits buyers sought from a pre-construction project:

• Appeal of moving into a brand new, never-been-lived-in home 
• For investors, renters’ preference to move into brand new unit 
• Coverage of major deficiencies under the Tarion 1-year warranty 
• Longer length of time allowed for saving of down payment 
• Potential for suite customization 
• Potential for capital appreciation

Of the buyers interviewed, all agreed that overall, their pre-construction purchase was a pleasant or well-managed experience, though they provided some tips that other buyers may find helpful:

Condo Moving Tips

With the spring market upon us, many buyers, sellers and renters are preparing for a move. While moving day can be very exciting, it can also bring with it a lot of stress. Here are some tips that will better prepare you for moving day and help to make the transition a little easier.

Before Moving Day

• When looking for a mover, inquire about potential surcharges for moving heavier items such as larger TVs and pianos, or whether you’ll be charged for movers’ traveling time and/or lunch breaks. Movers are typically paid by the hour, so budget with a buffer of about 1-2 hours and don’t forget to include tips!

• If having immediate access to internet, television or a landline is important, call to schedule an appointment with your service provider(s) ahead of time to ensure that the required services will be set up when you want, as it can sometimes take a few days to secure an appointment.

• Consider setting aside any unwanted tarps, rags or flattened boxes to cover flooring or walls and minimize damage during the move.  Ensure that anything laid down on the floor is not slippery to avoid accidents and injuries (or potential lawsuits!)
  
  

Free Metropass For New Condo Projects In Toronto

A 'free Metropass' policy was introduced by the City of Toronto late last year, which will require condo developers to provide complimentary one-year Metropasses to eligible purchasers of new condos.

This new rule is intended to promote the use of public transit and will apply to development applications made after April 28, 2010 on buildings with 20 or more units, in designated areas around the downtown core as well as city centres in Scarborough, North York and Etobicoke.  

If you're considering a future condo purchase, a review of the designated 'free Metropass' areas may be useful in helping you determine some locations to consider for your next investment.  

To learn more, you can visit the City of Toronto website, where you'll find a map outlining the designated growth areas (below in green) for which purchasers of new condo units will receive a free one-year Metropass.  You can also search the site by address to determine whether the condo development you're considering is located in the area eligible for a free Metropass. 

Profile: Condo Renovation First-Timers

For many, home improvements are a more attainable goal over climbing the housing ladder in today’s competitive real estate market, and can also be a practical way of quickly increasing property value. Condo units with original or otherwise outdated finishes in older buildings can hold a ton of potential for those who’ve caught the reno bug; not only were suites generally built larger prior to the surge of Toronto’s condo craze, but many of these buildings are situated in prime locations throughout the city core.

Renovations can be daunting for first-timers, and many people have no idea where to begin (or for that matter, where to end!) The LiveHigh Team recently sat down with Jaime and Ed, typical first-time homeowners and renovators, to talk candidly about their first renovation project – the highs, the (many) lows and everything in-between – and how they converted this former investment unit into their own personal haven.

Lofty Ambitions

With the popularity of loft living continuing to grow, many are still curious about what it truly means to live in a loft...

Finishing Touches For Your Bathroom

If you're contemplating bathroom improvements but aren't quite ready for a full reno, we've got some tips and tricks to help you get started!  Many people opt for a fresh coat of paint to freshen things up, which will certainly help to achieve a new look. However, a few other easy, yet often overlooked updates, will also help to give your space a polished finish.