Here is our October 2012 Real Estate Update in Our Home Toronto. September saw strong price growth versus 2011. The average price of a resale home in the GTA in September was $503,662 a +9% increase from 2011. We also saw strong growth in single detached homes (+8%), semi-detached homes (+12%), townhomes (+6%) and apartment condos (+6%). This month we also provide some ideas for decorating for the fall season including tips on rugs, lights, plants and backdrops. This month in Legally Speaking we discuss the legalities of the home inspection clause with a case from the Ontario Court of Appeal. We also provide you some tips on how to strengthen home inspection clauses from the seller’s point of view. Finally this month we provide you with some heat saving tips and the ever popular Pearls of Wisdom….here is a preview “Behind every great man is a woman rolling her eyes”- Jim Carrey
Consumer Best Interests
James Metcalfe’s Real Estate Update September 2012…In Our Home Toronto
Here is our September Real Estate Update for Our Home Toronto. The average price of a resale home in the GTA in August was $479,095 a +6% increase versus the August 2011 average of $450,323. Meanwhile, the apartment condo market saw a -2% decline on a year to year basis. This month also features an article on the importance of a good home inspection…learn the six most important items to look out for during a home inspection. Also, this month…know your rights as a condo owner and the responsibilities of the condo corporation…an interesting case out of Langley BC. Once again we also return with Pearls of Wisdom…here’s a quick preview ” I am fond of pigs. Dogs look up to us. Cats look down on us. Pigs treat us as equals.”- Winston Churchill.
GREEN Inspiration!
Have you been searching for some green to incorporate into your city lifestyle? It may be hard to believe but there are a number of green initiatives taking place right in downtown Toronto. From government buildings to historic sites more and more builders and planners are realizing the importance of green buildings. With the help of a publication from the Canada Green Building Council and www.greenroofs.com, Our Home Toronto has put together a list of five of the great green building projects happening all around the city.
1) The Fairmont Royal York: The Fairmont Royal York boasts a well known rooftop garden which started in 1998. According to greenroofs.com the 4000 sq. foot space grows herbs and tomatoes that are used in 6000 meals per day. Tours of the rooftop garden can be arranged for visitors and residents of Toronto when they attend afternoon tea at the Fairmont Royal York.
2) 401 Richmond: Home to “140 artists, cultural producers and micro-enterprises” (Toronto Focus: Canada Green Building Council), 401 Richmond Street offers visitors and tenants use of there 6,500 sq. foot green roof free of charge. The space offers not only a multitude of plants but also a “downtown view that includes the CN Tower.” (401richmond.net/gardens)
3) Toronto City Hall: Toronto City Hall’s Green Roof is part of the revitalization of Nathan Phillips Square. In order for the green roof to be constructed “3,250m sq of concrete was converted to vegetation” (Toronto Focus: Canada Green Building Council).
4) Minto Roehampton: According to the Canada Green Building Council, this is Canada’s first LEED Gold multi-unit residential building. Highlights of the green initiatives the building offers residents include: automatic turnoff of overhead lights and ventilation systems, dual flush toilets which reduce water consumption and individually monitored heat and electricity.
5) The Evergreen Brickworks: The green projects taking place at the Evergreen Brick Works are quite extensive. According to The Canadian Green Building Council just a few of the improvements to the well-known event space include: a computerized network that controls lighting, ventilation, heating and A/C. Other major projects include a green roof as well as attainment of LEED status.
As you can see, Toronto has many green projects. Whether you are already a Toronto resident, moving to Toronto, or just visiting be sure to visit some of these great green projects in the heart of the city.
Spectacular Views, Floor Plan, Building, Location
3209-219 Fort York Blvd in Water Park City offers phenomenal views and spacious floor plan that allows residents to take full advantage of living in the sky. Featuring two West view bedrooms, two full baths, floor to ceiling windows and bamboo style floors; this exquisite suite offers remarkable quality of life in a premium location. Visit www.OurHomeToronto.com for many more great condo listings for sale or contact me directly at 416-931-4161.
James Metcalfe’s Real Estate Update August 2012…In Our Home Toronto
Although a bit delayed here is our August 2012 Real Estate Update in Our Home Toronto. It is important to note that the average price of a resale home in the GTA in July was $476,947 which was a +4% increase from the average price of $458,646 in July 2011. Also, this month we feature an interesting article on Basement Apartment Legalities and the five areas that must be considered to establish a legal basement apartment. And finally, an important article on mold…what it is, where you can find it and how to combat it. Pearls of wisdom also returns… here’s a preview…”A vegetarian is a person who won’t eat anything that can have children.”-David Brenner