Inside Look: Unique Church Conversion Project in Toronto

Join Mark Savel and Joey Virgilio as they reveal details about their latest real estate project – a unique church conversion located at 1183 Dufferin Street in Toronto.

They dive into the rich history of the property, the creative development process, and the various unit offerings up for sale. The hosts also discuss the local neighborhood, best spots for coffee and food, and the advantages of buying into this project.

Perfect for first-time homebuyers or those looking for a property with character, this episode gives you a full tour of one of Toronto’s most intriguing real estate opportunities.

(00:00) Introduction and Setting the Scene
(00:14) Revealing the Big Project
(02:06) Exploring the Church Conversion
(03:59) Unique Selling Points and Market Details
(09:21) Neighborhood Highlights and Personal Favorites
(17:17) The Origin of Caesar Salad
(17:30) Exploring Local Eateries: Sugo and Sandwich
(19:05) Hidden Gems: Paradise Theater and More
(20:43) Community and Real Estate Insights
(25:34) Target Market and Ideal Buyers
(27:15) Maintenance Fees and Value Proposition
(29:09) Soundproofing and Construction Quality
(33:44) Final Thoughts and Open House Invitation

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

Price Drops & Pogo Sticks: Navigating Toronto’s Real Estate Market in August

Join Mark and Joey on episode 64 of the Toronto Living’s podcast as they return after a brief hiatus. In this episode, Mark and Joey catch up on their recent activities and unveil where they’ve been over the past few weeks.

They dive into August’s real estate market update, revealing some interesting opportunities in the Toronto condo world and discussing the impact of recent rate cuts.

Along the way, they share exciting food experiences, including trips to Bellwoods Brewery and the Ex, as well as Joey’s unexpected discovery of the best burger in town. Plus, enjoy their entertaining references to WWE and the Sopranos.

Don’t miss this fun-filled episode packed with valuable insights and lively conversations about Toronto real estate, food, and more!

(00:00) Introduction and Episode Overview
(01:05) Welcome Back and Catching Up
(03:04) Food Adventures in Toronto
(16:40) Market Update and Real Estate Insights
(22:17) Exciting News and Upcoming Projects
(26:13) Joey’s Pro Tip: Keep Your Eyes on the Sky
(26:27) August Real Estate Market Overview
(26:47) Sales and Transactions Analysis
(28:02) Active Listings and Inventory Trends
(29:02) Price Drops and Market Insights
(31:13) Condo Market Takes a Hit
(39:52) Months of Inventory Explained
(42:13) Buyer and Seller Advice
(45:17) Sopranos and Sleep: A Tangent
(52:54) Final Thoughts and Shout Outs

Show Notes

Papamio’s
934 Manning Ave, Toronto, ON M6G 2X4
papamios.com

Philthy Phillys

Home

Bellwoods Brewery
124 Ossington Ave
https://bellwoodsbrewery.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

Join Mark Savel and Joey Virgilio in episode 63 of the Toronto Livings podcast as they dive into heated discussions about the inefficiencies of Toronto’s landlord-tenant board and the complex issues surrounding rental market policies.

The hosts share personal stories from the Toronto real estate scene and debate the pros and cons of damage deposits and prepaying rent for a competitive edge. Emphasizing the need for policy reform and a balanced approach, they offer practical solutions, tips on navigating frustrating delays, and a passionate vent session on improving the housing market.

The episode also includes lighter moments, such as a hot sauce challenge and various shout-outs. Don’t miss this packed episode full of insights and real-life examples.

(00:00) Introduction and Episode Overview
(01:35) Landlord and Tenant Board Frustrations
(02:11) Weekly Catch-Up: New Food Spots
(09:32) Fishing Adventures on Lake Ontario
(14:43) The CNE: Food and Fun
(25:17) Landlord-Tenant Board: Issues and Solutions
(30:58) The Nine-Month Wait: A Tenant and Landlord Nightmare
(31:51) Speeding Up the Process: Urgent Matters and Overhauls
(32:50) Real-Life Example: The Cost of Delays
(33:46) Naming Conventions: Simplifying the Forms
(35:20) Flowcharts and Legal Newsletters: A Helping Hand
(38:15) Common Mistakes: The Brutal Consequences
(41:46) Eviction Rules: Tightening the Regulations
(42:23) The Philosophical Side of Renting
(49:01) Selling a Tenanted Property: The Risks Involved
(01:02:04) Prepaying Rent: The Gray Area
(01:09:24) Final Thoughts and Shoutouts

SHOUTOUTS

Captian Tal – Reel Rush Fishing Charters https://www.reelrushfishing.com/
Yaffa Shawarma & Falafel – http://www.yaffashawarma.com/
Midnight Cookie – http://www.midnightcookie.ca/
Zachary Soccio-Marandola (Form Flow Chart) https://www.socciomarandola.com/our-ltb-cheat-sheet-removes-the-legal-jargon-for-you/?ref=realtor-r-newsletter

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

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

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

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

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

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

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