Three agents explain why they sold at a discount

Dear reader,

If you want to know what this city will look like in 10 years, set your sights on Trinity Bellwoods. Since the turn of the century (yes, I’m that old), the west-end neighbourhood has been a symbol of Toronto’s tranformation from British backwater to culture capital. First came the art galleries and bars; then came the quirky boutiques and weekend ragers in the park. And so followed the luxury lofts and gawk-worthy renos, with multiplexes coming soon to add density to a city desparate for housing.

Consider Curb Appeal’s top story this week: a Parisian-style stunner right in the heart of Bellwoods. It’s equipped with a separate unit in the basement and a garage that could be converted into a laneway suite. It’s not a Victorian semi with a driveway, nor is it a post-war strawberry box with a backyard. It’s a beautiful, bold (but gentrifying) bit of real estate. And it’s where Toronto’s other neighbourhoods, particularly in the suburbs, seem headed.
Today’s newsletter also features three very different properties that recently sold for under asking—an increasingly common occurence since interest rates have cooled the market—as well as a tour of a condo among the clouds at Yonge and Eglinton. Visit torontolife.com for all our real estate coverage.

In 2018, Toronto builders B2B Home Solution purchased the bungalow then sitting on this property, tore it down and built a brand new three-storey inspired by classic French townhouses. The 2,400-square-foot home has a palatial main suite, two fireplaces and a fancy garage—and it’s currently on the market for 4.8 million.

How about a detached red-brick steps from U of T, a pristine semi in Greektown or a Junction Victorian with plenty of green space? Find out why they all sold for a bargain.

Here’s a 1,000-square-foot Sherwood Park unit selling for $1.1 million. It comes with three bathrooms, a walk-in closet, plenty of amenties and a stunning midtown view.

Five years have passed since we last ran our neighbourhood rankings, and oh, how things have changed. In our November issue, a mostly scientific, slightly inflammatory, deeply informative portrait of this ever-evolving city. Plus, the scary pursuit of the perfect face, a taxonomy of Toronto’s new socialites, and more. Still not receiving Toronto Life at home? Subscribe today.