Issue: #56
Dec2/2014

 
                                             
RE/MAX CONDO PLUS
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Toronto Real Estate 
  Monday Wake Up  

 

The L-Tower

Alexjwilson.com presents the L Tower development - Toronto Condos
Alexjwilson.com presents the L Tower development - Toronto Condos

 

We have all seen this building being added to the Toronto Skyline. The L-Tower is now in its occupancy stage and ready to move it. It is designed by Daniel Libeskind and it will be a landmark building in Toronto. With its close proximity to the financial core, Union Station, and the St. Lawrence market it will be popular with both downsizers and young executives looking for the conveniences of having everything at their door step. Since the building is only in its occupancy stages you can only live the building by renting a unit or on assignment.

 

 

 

What is An Assignment

Real Estate 101 - Assignments, Alex J Wilson
Real Estate 101 - Assignments, Alex J Wilson

We went back into the Alexjwilson.com archives to bring you a video on assignments. Assignments are a great way for investors and end users to purchase in a building that is sold out. There is also the opportunity to potentially purchase a unit below market value.

 

 

Want to Live in L-Tower - We have a unit for Rent:

 

Unit 2010 - $1,750 per month

 

 

Brand New 1 Bedroom Unit At The Landmark L-Tower Building At Front And Yonge. 9 Ft. Smooth Ceilings. Beautiful East View With Plenty Of Natural Light. Spacious Bedroom Includes A Window. Hardwood Floors. Luxury Kitchen. When Complete Building Will Be Attached To The Path System And Union Station. St. Lawrence Market Is Around The Corner And When You Want To Eat Out There Are Plenty Of Restaurants At Your Door Step. Only Steps Away From The Financial Distinct.

 

Features Designer Munge Leung Kitchen Cabinetry With Integrated Miele Appliances And Granite Counter Tops, Stacking Washer & Dryer. Includes 1 Locker Space.


 

Interesting Reads
Here are some interesting reads of the week: (Click on title Link)
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Around the World

Designer's Corner - With Sarah Broderick

 

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Announcing a new feature in the Monday Wake Up - Designer's Corner by Sarah Broderick

 

The Annual Tree Debate

 

While out shopping with clients this past weekend I noticed a lot of people buying trees for the holidays.  Although Christmas has admittedly snuck up on me this year, it's officially December 1st and there's no time like the present to get into the spirit. 

 

When I was younger we always had a real tree.  Whether we cut it down ourselves or went to our favourite local vendor, it was a tradition to find the perfect tree as a family.  As someone with a preference for symmetry and an attention to detail, I would pride myself on finding the undisputable winner.  Confession - I am slightly OCD when it comes to finding and, not surprisingly, decorating the perfect Christmas tree... 

 

Once my brother and I left for University my parents took this task upon themselves and one year something changed.  Frustrated with the maintenance and clean up of a real tree, they made an executive decision to invest in an "imposter".  It wasn't inexpensive but it was surprisingly realistic.

 

Although initially not a fan of the fake tree based on principle alone, the symmetry, feel, distribution of lights and overall look was flawless.  Given its ease of set up, I have to admit I've become an even bigger supporter over the years. 

 

Here are a few things to consider if you are facing this debate at home as well as some tips for buying the perfect tree - whether real or artificial:

 

Cost - A realistic, high quality and not too perfect artificial tree is definitely an investment but, like most things, you get what you pay for.  It's also something you'll have for at least 10-20 years.  Quantity of branches and branch tips, the material used, the look of the center pole, whether the branches are hinged, the type of stand, how it's set up and the general design of the foliage all help make an artificial tree look more realistic. 

 

In terms of cost, artificial trees range in price from $100 to $1,000 dollars,

the Winter Wonderland sale ends tomorrow!

 

http://www.treeclassics.com/Timbercrest-Fir-Christmas-Tree-p/tmb-t.htm

http://www.treeclassics.com

 

Depending on its size, variety and place of origin, a real tree can cost anywhere from $20 to $200 dollars annually.  If you're willing to cut it down yourself you'll get the added experience for around $40 to $70 dollars. 

 

For a list of tree farms around Toronto visit: http://www.christmastrees.on.ca

 

If looking to buy your tree downtown visit:

http://www.blogto.com/city/2010/12/toronto_christmas_trees_buying_guide/

 

Clean Up - If there's a downside to a real tree it's definitely keeping it healthy and alive until the New Year.  Living in a condo makes this especially difficult given how dry they can be.  Every time I buy a real tree I end up regretting it slightly in July when I'm still finding needles in odd places.  The benefit of an artificial tree is that there's no watering, it's less of a fire hazard and very few, if any, needles are lost in the process of setting it up and taking it down. 

 

Time - Finding, setting up and decorating your tree is a relatively long process every year whether it's artificial or real and especially if you're cutting it down yourself.  This isn't to say you can't enjoy the process thoroughly by bonding with friends and family, making decorations with the kids, sharing hot chocolate, perhaps some mulled wine etc., but time is money near the holidays, so be sure to factor this into your decision making process.

 

Storage - Many artificial trees take up a lot of room.  The handy "instant evergreen" flip trees are especially large and bulky in terms of storage but a fair trade off given their quick and easy set up.  Anyone living in a condo knows storage space is especially limited.  The same often goes for most homeowners in the GTA so be sure and consider storage of your tree all year round as well as it's stand and your decorations when deciding on a real versus artificial tree. 

 

Sustainability - Is a real or fake tree more sustainable?  Given the importance of being environmentally conscious I'd be remiss if I didn't mention this ongoing debate.  According to the North American Christmas Tree Association a recent Life Cycle analysis determined that neither type of tree has a significant impact on the environment.  Personally, I'm always a fan of buying local whenever possible so be sure and consider the origin of your tree to minimize its environmental footprint.

 

Whether you choose to celebrate this season with a real or fake tree the decision ultimately comes down to personal preference and what best suits your lifestyle.  Happy Holiday prep to everyone and be sure to enjoy the process!  

 

 

 

 

Feel free to send in questions or images to sarah@highstreetdesign.ca

 

Events
Upcoming Events
This section will focus on upcoming events being hosted and sponsored by Alexjwilson.com.

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Happy Hour Monthly Social
The Thirsty Thursday
  
Date: Dec 18, 2014

 

Time:

 6-8pm 

 

Location: 

Bar Wellington, 520 Wellington St W. 

 

It seems the older we get the busier we get - therefore Alexjwilson.com wanted to dedicate 1 night a month that people can circle in their calendars and make it a priority to come. Alexjwilson.com is all about community so come out and re-connect with old friends - make some new ones - and share what is new in our lives.  

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New  Development

Our Top 2 Investment Projects for the FALL - Alexjwilson.com Has Insider Access For Them ALL

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Queen St

 

Minto Westside at Bathurst and Front (King West):

 

We are very excited for this project. With the trusted name of Minto development, the site and the 57,000 sq. ft. of amenity space planned, it will be the new jewel of King West. With roof top pools, luxury fitness facilities, and much more, Minto is looking to replicate its success of Minto Quantum at Yonge and Eglinton by redefininh the standard of a neighborhood. The demographics of King West are 35 years old and a house hold income of $100,000.00.This will be the building they will pay the premium rents for to call home. An added bonus - You can either walk or take the street car to Billy Bishop airport. In what city can you do that? Email us at contact@alexjwilson.com to get on the list.

 

Streetcar Riverside Square (Riverside/Leslieville):

 

This project is my value buy that has the highest upside for appreciation. Streetcar Developments has recently purchased the Broadview Hotel (Jilly's) and the 4 acre development site purchased across the street. They are not just building a condo tower, they are transforming a neighbourhood. This area is currently underserviced for rental inventory and continues to increase in popularity - people will need places to live. With access to the Queen East Street Car, Lake Ontario, Ashbridges Bay only a quick bike ride away, the Don Valley Trail System, the DVP, and all the new shops, lounge and restaurants on Queen, this area can only go UP. Lastly - Streetcar prices their new projects under current market value. You will have built-in profit from day one. Email us at contact@alexjwilson.com to get on the list. 

 

Alex Wilson's Listing
Alex Wilson's Listings
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260 Queens Quay W #1504
1 Bedroom + Den, 1 washroom
For Sale $315,000

Description: 
Best Value In Downtown With Forever South Views Directly Of The Lake. At 790 Sq. Ft. This One Bedroom And Solarium Is Under $400 A Sq. Ft. New Buildings With This View Would Be Over $700 A Sq. Ft. Renovate Your Unit To Your Tastes. Streetcar Stop At Your Door Step Brings You Downtown. Queens Quay Beautification Will Be Complete Next Year Which Will Make Area A Pedestrian And Biker Paradise. Rental Parking Available In Building.

Extras: 
All Appliances, Window Coverings And Fixtures (Excluding Those Owned By Tenant). Amenities In Building Include Roof Top Garden, Hot Tub, Exercise And Party Rooms, Sauna, And 24 Hour Concierge.

Link for Listing Here.
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215 Sherway Gardens Rd #1208
1 Bedroom Plus Den, 1 Bathroom
For Lease $1,450

Description: 
One Sherway Condos New Building, One Bedroom Plus Den. Next Door To One Of Canada's Most Luxurious Malls, Sherway Gardens. Indoor Pool With Whirlpool, Gym, 24 Hr Concierge, Party Room With Kitchen, Theatre, His & Her Sauna + Change Rm, Steambath, Yoga/Aerobics Rm, Media Lounge, Sun Rm, Guest Rm, Treatment Rm
Fridge, Stove, Washer, Dryer, Dishwasher, Microwave, Window Coverings

Link for Listing Here.
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1 Bedroom, 1 Bathroom
For Lease $1,750  Monthly

Description:
Brand New Never Lived In 1 Bedroom Unit At The Landmark L-Tower Building At Front And Yonge. 9 Ft. Smooth Ceilings. Beautiful East View With Plenty Of Natural Light. Bedroom Includes A Window. Luxury Kitchen. When Complete Building Will Be Attached To The Path System And Union Station. St. Lawrence Market Is Around The Corner And When You Want To Eat Out There Are Plenty Of Restaurants At Your Door Step. Only Steps Away From The Financial Distinct.
AAA Clients Only - Includes All Appliances, Stacking Washer & Dryer. Hydro Is Extra. New Blinds Installed. Includes 1 Locker Space

Link for Listing Here.
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1 Bedroom + Den, 1 Bathroom
For Sale $369,900

Description: 

Large one plus den located steps from Yonge and Eglinton. At 738. Sq. Ft., It is $500 A Sq. Ft., Which is some of the best value in area. Large Kitchen space for a small table. The den could be used as an office or converted into a second bedroom. The master suite has a walk-in closet perfect for storing all the clothes you can buy while shopping on Yonge Street. New Loblaws Grocery store opening across the street. Steps to Subway and on the Eglinton LRT line.

Extras: 

Indoor pool, Fitness Room, Rec Room, Security System, Guest Suites & Visitor Parking, Upgrades, Stainless Steel Appliances, Granite Counter Tops, Mirrored Black Splash, W/C, Exclude Dining Room Elf, Parking and Locker included.


 

Link for Listing Here.

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126 Simcoe St, Unit 612

1 Bedroom , 1 Bathroom
For Sale $328,900

Description: 'Boutique Phase 2' A Luxury Condo Building In The Heard Of Downtown Core. Steps To Osgood Subway, Financial District, King West. Excellent One Bedroom Layout, Floor-To-Ceiling, Wall-To-Wall Windows, Sunny & Bright South Facing. Stainless Steel Kitchen Appliances, Granite Counter Top, High Standard Roller Window Blinds. Exercise Room, Guest Suits, Party Room, Rooftop Deck, 24 Hrs Concierge And More. Perfect For 1st Time Home Buyer Or Investors.

Extras: Stainless Steel Fridge, Stove, Dishwasher, Microwave, Stacked Washer & Dryer. All Existing Light Fixtures. Professionally Installed Roller Solar Blinds. 1 Storage Locker Included.

Link for the Listing Here.
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3+1 Bedroom, 3 Washrooms
For Lease $10,000 Monthly Furnished, $7,500 Unfurnished

Description:

Rare 3 Bedroom 3100 Sq. Ft Fully Furnished Penthouse Condo Available To Rent In Toronto. Ideal For Sports Figure, Corporate Executive, Or Movie Industry That Requires Space For Their Family. With 4 Terraces, Over 810 Square Feet Of Outdoor Living Space, The Sprawling, Sun Drenched Residence Is Located On The 27th Floor; With North, East, West And South Views Of Lake Ontario. Atop One Of Toronto's Premier Waterfront. This Is A Turn Key Solution.

  

Extras:

2 Parking Spots And Locker Room With Unit. Walking Distance To Billy Bishop Airport Which Can Easily Take You To New York Or Chicago - Avoid The Lines Of Pearson. Be In The Porter Lounge In 15 Minutes From Leaving Your Unit. Roof Top Pool.

  

Link for the Listing Here.

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Sincerely,
  

Alexander J. Wilson B.A.
Team Lead: Alexjwilson.com
 

#1 Agent At RE/MAX Condos Plus 2013

 

Alexjwilson.com
TOP 1% Condo Sales in Toronto 2009-2013 
Platinum Club 2010-2013
RE/MAX Hall of Fame


45 Harbour Square
Toronto, Ontario, Canada
M5J 2G4

 

Sales Representative
RE/MAX Condos Plus Corp. Brokerage
Office: (647) 352-5181
Mobile: (416) 996-5181
contact@alexjwilson.com
www.alexjwilson.com