In Episode 62 of the Toronto Livings Podcast, Mark Savel and Joey Virgilio dive into the July real estate market numbers, unveiling a not-so-optimistic outlook.

Beyond the market updates, the hosts share anecdotes about their week, including Joey's newfound love for Midnight Cookies and Marks frustrating trip to Innisfil, Ontario, which leads to a rant about their stringent resident-only beach parking

policies. The episode also discusses broader economic impacts, like the recent dip in the Japanese market and its potential effects on Toronto's future real estate trends. Lively and informative, this episode blends market insights with personal stories, making for an engaging listen.

(00:00) Introduction and Episode Overview
(01:21) July Market Update Introduction
(02:08) Innisfil Beach Incident
(09:34) Midnight Cookie Obsession
(13:28) Market Crash and Economic Concerns
(16:55) Real Estate Market Analysis
(20:38) Condo Market Opportunities
(21:30) Quarterly Market Review
(22:41) Sales and Price Trends
(23:55) Inventory Analysis
(26:22) Housing Crisis Debate
(30:27) Market Sentiment and Predictions
(41:16) Shoutouts and Closing Remarks

Shoutouts

Midnight Cookie – http://www.midnightcookie.ca/
Innisfil Parking Lot Rules – https://innisfil.ca/en/living-here/re…

Where You Can Find Us

🏡 For all your Toronto Real Estate Needs: TorontoLivings.com/

🖥️ Instagram
Mark Savel:   / torontolivings  
Joey Virgilio:   / joey_torontolivings  

Did you know, there are at least 3 ways a condo is measured!?!

In episode 61 of the Toronto Livings Podcast, Mark and Joey discuss the complexities and confusion surrounding floor plans and measurements in the real estate world.

The episode covers standardized measurements, how to handle discrepancies in square footage, and the importance of professional floor plans versus older methods. The hosts also touch on various experiences and corrections from previous episodes, including food tips, new real estate listings, and upcoming events.

They discuss changes in parking fines, the introduction of 30-year amortizations for first-time buyers, and the challenges of accurately measuring and interpreting usable space in both houses and condos.

(00:00) Introduction and Episode Overview
(00:05) Diving into Floor Plans and Measurements
(00:33) Food Adventures and Corrections
(01:42) Weekend Activities and Busy Schedules
(03:00) More Food Talk and Restaurant Recommendations
(15:56) Traffic Fines and City Issues
(24:34) New Listings and Real Estate Insights
(28:32) Understanding Stone Measurements
(28:57) Historical Measurement Methods
(29:40) Confusion in Modern Measurements
(30:18) Real Estate Measurement Standards
(31:05) Basement Square Footage Debate
(37:00) Condo Measurement Variances
(44:05) Challenges with Accurate Measurements
(53:41) Shoutouts and Closing Remarks
(54:45) Fishing Tournament Excitement

Porchetta & Co – https://porchettaco.com/

RH Courtyard Restaurant – https://rh.com/ca/en/toronto/restaurant

Building measurement guideline – https://kwar.ca/docs/AIC_building_measurement_guidelines-2013-11-18.pdf

Measurements for Condos Explained: https://www.protectyourboundaries.ca/blog/post/condos-useable-area-vs-saleable-area

Where You Can Find Us

🏡 For all your Toronto Real Estate Needs: TorontoLivings.com/

🖥️ Instagram
Mark Savel: https://www.instagram.com/torontolivings/
Joey Virgilio: https://www.instagram.com/joey_torontolivings/

🎙 Weekly Podcast
https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/toronto-real-estate

Join Mark Savel and Joey Virgilio in Episode 60 of the Toronto Livings Podcast as they reunite after Mark enriching 3 week-long European trip. They explore the contrasting lifestyles between North America and Europe, emphasizing the relaxed pace of life in Italy and Sicily compared to the rapid, improvement-focused culture in North America.

Through a delightful mix of heartfelt travel stories and insightful observations, they discuss personal experiences from Italy and Spain, the beauty of cultural differences, and the longevity and happiness in European lifestyles. The episode features discussions on food, architecture, community, and even a memorable wedding. Plus, get the latest updates on Toronto real estate news and exciting upcoming listings.

(00:00) Introduction and Catching Up
(00:47) Welcome to the Toronto Livings Podcast
(02:14) Travel Tales and European Adventures
(03:35) Gifts and Surprises from Europe
(05:58) Food and Wine Experiences
(18:14) News and Updates
(28:08) Upcoming Listings and Real Estate Talk
(34:13) Breaking Free from the North American Mentality
(34:56) The Shift in Mindset During Travel
(35:44) Embracing a Simpler Lifestyle
(38:41) The Joy of Afternoon Siestas
(39:50) Discovering the Perfect Coffee: Cortado
(44:52) Exploring the Beauty of Sicily
(01:03:58) The Magic of Rome
(01:09:35) Final Thoughts and Shoutouts

Shoutouts

Coldplay (the band) https://www.coldplay.com/

San Vito Lo Capo (Sicily) https://wearepalermo.com/news/comprehensive-guide-visiting-san-vito-lo-capo/

Sanwicito https://sandwichito.ca/

Where You Can Find Us

🏡 For all your Toronto Real Estate Needs: TorontoLivings.com/

🖥️ Instagram
Mark Savel: https://www.instagram.com/torontolivings/
Joey Virgilio: https://www.instagram.com/joey_torontolivings/

🎙 Weekly Podcast
https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/toronto-real-estate

In Episode 59 of the Toronto Livings Podcast, hosts Mark Savel and Joey Virgilio discuss the top six ways realtors can unintentionally kill a deal, including a lack of professionalism, slow responses, and overly aggressive negotiations.

Additionally, they delve into fun topics like popular Toronto dessert spots, fishing adventures, and some of their favorite food experiences. The episode also includes a discussion about the abrupt closing of the Ontario Science Centre and Joey shares his upcoming travel plans. Tune in for real estate insights mixed with lighthearted banter about Toronto culture and food.

(00:00) Introduction and Episode Overview
(00:32) Food Adventures and Nostalgia
(08:34) Fishing Tales and Captain Tal
(15:03) News You Can Use: Ontario Science Centre Closure
(18:07) Vacation Plans and Cheese Talk
(22:46) Discovering the Magic of Cooking with Broth
(23:17) New Real Estate Listings: Riverdale and Gerrard Square
(24:41) Architectural Marvel: River City Phase Three
(27:07) Realtor Tips: Avoiding Deal Killers
(38:57) The Importance of Professionalism in Real Estate
(43:55) Setting Realistic Expectations in Real Estate
(48:50) Final Thoughts and Farewell

Reel Rush Fishing Charters https://www.instagram.com/reel_rush_fishing_charters/

Mizzica Gelateria & Cafe
https://www.instagram.com/mizzicagelato/

Lardo
http://lardo.ca/

Where You Can Find Us

🏡 For all your Toronto Real Estate Needs: TorontoLivings.com/

🖥️ Instagram
Mark Savel: https://www.instagram.com/torontolivings/
Joey Virgilio: https://www.instagram.com/joey_torontolivings/

🎙 Weekly Podcast
https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/toronto-real-estate

Mark Savel and Joey Virgilio dive into episode 58 of the Toronto Livings podcast, focusing on capital gains, how they work, and upcoming changes.

They discuss the new inclusion rates for capital gains coming into effect on June 25th and provide examples to illustrate the potential tax impacts. The episode also covers recent events, including the Sage event, and features a historical time machine segment. They emphasize the importance of consulting accountants for personalized advice and highlight strategies to minimize capital gains.

The episode wraps up with updates on local Toronto real estate listings and fun banter about recent culinary experiences.

(00:00) Introduction and Episode Overview
(02:10) F1 Race and Swag Story
(03:06) Taste of Little Italy
(03:41) Sage Spring Fling Recap
(09:21) Vegetarian Dining Experience
(11:54) Real Estate Market Insights
(15:27) Historical Events on June 15th
(17:40) Nostalgic Beginnings: 1986 Concert Memories
(18:38) 1987 Milestones: Pay Equity Law in Ontario
(19:04) 2012 Highlights: Nick Willonda's Tightrope Walk
(20:22) Capital Gains Controversy: Liberal Policies
(28:18) Understanding Capital Gains: A Deep Dive
(38:33) Capital Losses and Tax Strategies
(41:35) Conclusion and Weekend Plans

Show Notes

Fresh Kitchen + Juice Bar:
https://www.freshkitchens.ca/en/locations/on/toronto/894-queen-street-west

Writers Room Bar: https://www.hyatt.com/en-US/hotel/canada/park-hyatt-toronto/torph/dining

Capital Gains Explained: https://www.socciomarandola.com/the-real-impact-of-the-new-capital-gains-tax/

Where You Can Find Us

🏡 For all your Toronto Real Estate Needs: TorontoLivings.com/

🖥️ Instagram
Mark Savel: https://www.instagram.com/torontolivings/
Joey Virgilio: https://www.instagram.com/joey_torontolivings/

🎙 Weekly Podcast
https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/toronto-real-estate

Toronto Real Estate: May 2023 Market Updates and More| Episode 57

In episode 57 of the Toronto Livings podcast, Mark Savel and Joey Virgilio dive into last month's market updates, discuss sizzling food spots in Toronto, and even take a trip back in time to May 2023.

From the Toronto real estate market trends and interest rates to the newest sandwich shop at Yonge and Eglinton, this episode covers various topics including the arts with a visit to the ballet. Plus, stay tuned for some interesting discussions on pre-construction home updates and some shocking security breaches.

(00:00) Introduction and Episode Overview
(01:35) Food Adventures and New Eateries
(04:42) Ballet Experience and Cultural Insights
(13:50) Interest Rate Cut and Market Impact
(24:23) Market Comparison: Last Year vs. This Year
(24:38) Bank of Canada's Impact on Buyer Psychology
(25:00) Rate Cuts and Market Predictions
(26:35) Ipsos Poll Insights: Homebuyer Intentions
(29:14) Current Market Trends and Transactions
(34:32) Price Trends Across Different Segments
(38:45) Months of Inventory Analysis
(42:41) Security Breaches and AI Concerns
(49:55) Conclusion and Final Thoughts

Shoutouts

Haida Sandwich – https://haidasandwich.ca/toronto/
Hong Shing Restaurant – http://www.hongshing.com/
Four Seasons Centre for the Performing Arts – http://www.coc.ca/

Where You Can Find Us

🏡 For all your Toronto Real Estate Needs: TorontoLivings.com/

🖥️ Instagram
Mark Savel: https://www.instagram.com/torontolivings/
Joey Virgilio: https://www.instagram.com/joey_torontolivings/

🎙 Weekly Podcast
https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/toronto-real-estate

Toronto Livings Podcast: All About Garden Suites in Toronto

In episode 56 of the Toronto Livings podcast, hosts Mark Savel and Joey Virgilio dive deep into the topic of garden suites, discussing the process, costs, and regulations involved in building one in Toronto. They share insights on the necessary steps, potential challenges, and financing options.

The episode also features a lively discussion about their recent food adventures, including dining experiences at Lisbon hotel and Nodo Hillcrest, as well as anecdotes about meeting celebrities and updates on new real estate listings. Tune in for an informative and entertaining conversation about all things Toronto real estate, culture, and food!

(00:00) Introduction and Episode Overview
(01:15) Food Adventures and Restaurant Reviews
(07:43) New Real Estate Regulations in Ontario
(10:05) F1 Excitement and Personal Anecdotes
(12:38) New Property Listings and Celebrity Encounters
(18:25) Deep Dive into Garden Suites
(22:57) Celebrity Encounters and Preferences
(23:20) Building Code and Fire Code Compliance
(23:56) Tree and Ravine Protection Bylaw
(25:52) Garden Suite Requirements and Parameters
(27:58) Celebrity Discussions and Preferences
(32:05) Garden Suite Planning and Consultation
(35:13) Building Permits and Construction Process
(44:11) Financing and Cost Considerations
(48:12) Final Thoughts and Shoutouts

Show Notes

Exploring Garden Suites with Lorena M | Episode 46: https://open.spotify.com/episode/00w4gzrX6iXIhqv2yFtymi?si=06a1fd3d97804b3b

New Generation Sushi – http://newgenerationsushi.ca/

Lisbon Hotel – http://www.lisbonhotel.ca/

Nodo Hillcrest – https://www.nodohillcrest.ca/

Laneway Housing Advisors aka Marty Laneway – https://lanewayhousingadvisors.com/

City of Toronto's Portal for Garden Suites: https://www.toronto.ca/city-government/planning-development/planning-studies-initiatives/garden-suites/

Where You Can Find Us

🏡 For all your Toronto Real Estate Needs: TorontoLivings.com/

🖥️ Instagram
Mark Savel: https://www.instagram.com/torontolivings/
Joey Virgilio: https://www.instagram.com/joey_torontolivings/

🎙 Weekly Podcast
https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/toronto-real-estate

Amazon Primes Luxe Listings Toronto Review | Episode 55

In this episode of the Toronto Living Podcast, Joe and Mark (dubbed Forerunner Joe and Maserati Mark) dive into the world of luxury real estate with their review of Amazon Prime's show "Luxe Listings Toronto'.

The hosts discuss key moments from the show, such as Brett Starke's helicopter date, the Torkins' attempt to break into the downtown market, and the controversial "sign gate" incident.

They also share their favourite local dining spots, including Sicilian Café and Daddy's Chicken. As a bonus, they provide trivia on the most expensive real estate listings in Toronto and share their thoughts on the show's music and production quality… "DON'T TALK TO US, WE'RE IN THE VIP"

(00:00) Welcome to Episode 55: Diving into Lux Listings Toronto
(00:47) Introducing the Toronto Livings Podcast Team
(01:20) Luxury Vibes and Lux Listings Toronto Review
(02:01) Foodie Adventures in Toronto
(12:58) Real Estate Insights and Market Trends
(18:15) Deep Dive into Lux Listings Toronto
(32:38) Helicopter Date Recap and Unsung Heroes
(33:15) Elevated Dates and Unfollowed Plotlines
(34:18) Nostalgia and First Impressions
(34:52) Dream Dates and Culinary Adventures
(37:13) Toronto's Best and Real Estate Drama
(37:41) The Unrealistic Real Estate Showdown
(40:36) Signgate Drama and Real Estate Insights
(49:49) Luxury Listings and Real Estate Trivia
(57:37) Wrapping Up with Lux Listings Thoughts

Show Notes
Añejo Restaurant – https://www.anejo.ca/en/locations/on/toronto/600-king-street-west

Tiki Bar – https://tikibartoronto.com/

Daddy's Chicken – http://daddyschicken.ca/

Sicilian Sidewalk Cafe – https://sicilianicecream.com/sicilian-sidewalk-cafe/

Pastiche – http://www.pastichenoshery.com/

Luxe Listings Toronto – https://www.primevideo.com/detail/Luxe-Listings-Toronto/0IN8DRAOV1STVH8IDMJRX9PM1K

Team Torken – https://www.teamtorkan.com/

The Starke Group – https://thestarkegroup.com/

Where You Can Find Us

🏡 For all your Toronto Real Estate Needs: TorontoLivings.com/

🖥️ Instagram
Mark Savel: https://www.instagram.com/torontolivings/
Joey Virgilio: https://www.instagram.com/joey_torontolivings/

🎙 Weekly Podcast
https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/toronto-real-estate

Empowering Vision: The Inspiring Story of Canadian Blind Hockey

This episode of the Toronto Livings Podcast features Luca DeMontis, the program manager for Canadian Blind Hockey, who shares the inspiring journey of his brother, Mark DeMontis, and the founding of Canadian Blind Hockey.

From the origins of blind hockey in Canada to its growth into a supportive community fostering inclusion, courage, and ambition, listeners will learn about the sport's adaptations, the meaningful impact on players and families, and future goals, including achieving Paralympic inclusion.

The discussion also touches on personal stories, the importance of community and family within the organization, and how the sport is played and enjoyed by visually impaired athletes, emphasizing that disabilities don't limit one's ability to achieve greatness.

(00:00) Opening Greetings and Podcast Introduction
(00:03) Highlighting Canadian Blind Hockey with Luca De Montes
(03:23) Deep Dive into Luca's Personal Journey and Blind Hockey Evolution
(12:20) Adapting Hockey for the Visually Impaired: Innovations and Rules
(23:32) Expanding Blind Hockey: Community Building and Program Development
(28:48) Empowering Visually Impaired Kids Through Ice Sports
(29:17) Expanding Youth Blind Hockey Programs Across Canada
(29:33) Building a Supportive Community and Volunteer Network
(29:52) Aiming for Inclusion in the Winter Paralympic Games
(30:36) International Expansion and Collaboration Efforts
(32:23) The Impact of Blind Hockey on Participants and Families
(35:08) Future Goals and the Importance of Partnerships
(42:53) Seasonal Activities and the Year-Round Hockey Calendar
(48:09) Personal Insights: Favorite Eats and Community Connections

Shownotes

Canadian Blind Hockey: https://canadianblindhockey.com/
Canadian Blind Hockey on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/canadianblindhockey/
Luca DeMontis on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lucademontis/
Canadian Blind Hockey on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCYiOpdeWTKZdgq_8aD55zsQCanadian Blind Hockey on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/CanadianBlindHockeyCanadian Blind Hockey on Twitter: https://x.com/CDNBlindHockey

Exploring the Transformative Power of Cold Plunges in Toronto at Othership Ice Bath

In this episode of the Toronto Livings Podcast, hosts Mark Savel and Joey Virgilio dive into the benefits of cold plunges and sauna experiences at Othership, a wellness center in Toronto. They are joined by Sherryne (Sher) and Dan, who share insights on Othership's mission to support stress management, emotional regulation, and community building.

The podcast covers the health benefits of cold plunges, such as reduced inflammation, improved immune response, and enhanced mood. The discussion also touches on personal journeys into cold immersion, the science behind the practice, and how Othership fosters a unique environment for mental and physical wellness.

The conversation culminates in a live cold plunge experience, guiding listeners through the process and highlighting the rejuvenating effects. Additionally, the episode addresses the importance of disconnecting from technology and fostering genuine connections, positioning Othership as not just a wellness space but a crucial counterbalance to Toronto's hustle culture.

(00:00) Intro
(00:30) Diving into the Cold: The Othership Experience
(01:29) The Health Benefits of Ice Baths and Combatting Stress
(04:32) Personal Journeys into the World of Cold Plunges
(09:33) The Social Aspect: Building Community and Connections
(19:24) Breathwork: A Key Component of the Othership Experience
(24:50) Empowerment and Comfort: The Core of Our Approach
(25:29) Real Estate and Disconnection: A Personal Insight
(26:27) Exploring Membership Options and Class Variety
(26:59) The Transformative Power of Ice Baths
(28:21) Choosing the Right Class: Guidance for Newcomers
(30:39) The Unique Experience of Senses Class
(31:31) Sauna Hats: A Surprising Benefit
(32:45) Post-Plunge Hunger: A Natural Reaction
(34:25) Late-Night Food Recommendations in Toronto
(35:37) The Ice Bath Experience: A Step-by-Step Guide
(41:33) Reflecting on the Experience and Closing Thoughts

Othership Ice Bath- https://www.othership.us/

Where You Can Find Us

🏡 For all your Toronto Real Estate Needs: TorontoLivings.com/

🖥️ Instagram
Mark Savel: https://www.instagram.com/torontolivings/
Joey Virgilio: https://www.instagram.com/joey_torontolivings/

🎙 Weekly Podcast
https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/toronto-real-estate