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Nutan Brown
Sales Representative
Royal LePage West Realty Group ., Brokerage |
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644 Annette St.
Asking price: $519,500
Selling price: $500,000
Taxes: $3,500 (2008)
Lot size: 20 by 140 feet
Days on the market: 37
Listing agent: Nutan Brown, Royal LePage Real Estate Services Ltd.
Co-op agent: Curtis Field, Royal LePage Real Estate Services Ltd.
This detached, two-storey duplex is a good rental property investment given its proximity to amenities in Bloor West Village, as well as its updated mechanics and appearance, according to agent Nutan Brown.
"The rental market is very brisk," she notes. "Because of its location and condition, it will be a great property for any investor."
Built about 70 years ago, the brick residence's main and second-units have similar two-bedroom plans, remodelled four-piece bathrooms and kitchens equipped with appliances.
During the past seven years, the owners had the grounds landscaped, a new roof put on, the interior and exterior repainted by professionals, the hardwood floors refinished, and new wiring and gas boilers installed.
"These are big-ticket items," Ms. Brown says. "[The previous owner] truly touched every part of that house."
Each unit has a living room with a wood-burning fireplace and French doors that open to a dining room with a plate railing and stained-glass windows.
The second-floor unit also has a deep front balcony.
There are separate heating systems and water meters for each suite, and their residents have access to a portion of the basement, where there are laundry machines and storage space.
The property offers a deep backyard with fencing and a walkway to a double garage that exits into a laneway.
October 10, 2008 at 11:20 AM EDT
- 200 TENTH ST., UNIT 8
- ASKING PRICE: $328,000
- SELLING PRICE: $322,000
- TAXES: $2,107 (2007)
- DAYS ON THE MARKET: nine
- CO-OP AGENT: Nutan Brown, Royal LePage Real Estate Services Ltd.
An assignment to find a new home close to her young professional client's workplace lead agent Nutan Brown to this three-storey condominium townhouse in Etobicoke.
Completed about five years ago, it was the best out of 20 comparables with about 1,300 square feet of living space — similarly-priced units were often 300-square-feet smaller — and modern finishes and features.
An added bonus, the unit has a backyard that overlooks a neighbouring park.
"[The owner] loved the fact this faced onto a park rather than another building," says Ms. Brown. "It was so much more alive."
On the main level, there is a broadloom-covered family room, a laundry room and a walkout to a two-car garage.
Up the oak staircase to the second floor, there is a powder room, a combined living and dining area with parquet floors, and an open kitchen featuring ceramic floors, an island with a breakfast bar and access to a deck.
The third floor is occupied by two bedrooms and two four-piece bathrooms. One is located in the master suite, which also has a walk-in closet.
To take care of exterior maintenance there is a monthly fee of $178.
March 13, 2009
79 CORBETT AVE.
Asking price: $359,000
Selling price: $338,000
Taxes: $2,136 (2008)
Lot size: 25 by 112 feet
Days on the market: 10
Listing agent: Nutan Brown, Royal LePage Real Estate Services Ltd.; Co-op agent: Janey Hale, Royal LePage Real Estate Services Ltd.
More than $100,000 was spent improving this two-bedroom, brick bungalow with updated mechanics, contemporary finishes and scenic landscaping that left a big impression on all visitors, including agent Nutan Brown.
"It had to be one of the most beautiful bungalows I'd ever seen," she says. "[The previous owners] have worked on it from top to bottom over 10 years, never intending to leave it, so the finished product was for themselves."
It took nearly three years alone to gut and redo the lower level, where there are above-grade windows and pot lights throughout, including the bathroom, which is one of two in the house.
A guest bedroom that serves as a home office contains built-in shelves and broadloom carpeting, while the recreation room boasts a wood-burning fireplace surrounded by Indian slate and a built-in home theatre unit.
"These are things you don't normally find in a home priced in the $300,000s," Ms. Brown says. "The basement was off-the-chart gorgeous."
Other changes include refinished hardwood floors and crown mouldings on the main floor, starting in the living and dining rooms, a walk-in closet installed in the master suite, and a pull-down staircase to a newly finished attic with more than 200 square feet of storage.
Within the past year, the kitchen was upgraded with granite counters, and stainless steel appliances and sink.
The back door opens to a new two-tiered deck with custom railings and lighting, and a private, south-facing backyard redesigned with flower beds, trees, a pond and flagstone pathway, along with an angled carport that exits to a rear lane.
"I've never seen a more spectacular backyard finished with the highest level of finishes," Ms. Brown says. "Instead of using pressure-treated lumber or wood [decking], they used Trex, which is a premium product that needs no maintenance."
238 JANE ST.
ASKING PRICE: $580,000
SELLING PRICE: $420,000
TAXES: $9,315 (2008)
DAYS ON THE MARKET: 95
CO-OP AGENT: Nutan Brown, Royal LePage Real Estate Services Ltd.
Just north of Bloor Street, single and multifamily residences line Jane Street, making this three-storey house a unique mixed-use space that can accommodate an art school currently operating nearby, the buyer's agent Nutan Brown says.
"It's very close to [the art school operator's] existing and established location," she says. "This is about three [bus] stops from the Jane [subway] station, so it was very attractive to her."
Zoned for residential and commercial purposes, the 2,250-square-foot property is divided into small rooms and offices - which the buyer will open up for large classrooms - on the main and second levels.
"The nice thing on the second floor is a very large library," says Ms. Brown, drawing attention to its cathedral ceiling, wood-burning fireplace and built-in bookshelves. "It's a lovely board room or a meeting room."
Unlike neighbouring homes that are mainly two-storeys tall, this has a third floor addition with an open-concept design and skylights.
Other perks include hardwood and laminate floors, a main floor kitchen, two bathrooms and a finished basement.
The owner can park on the street or utilize a mutual driveway and three private parking spots. "[The owner] is going to take the parking area and ... landscape it with artificial grass, trees and whatnot and make it an outdoor art school for the summer months," Ms. Brown explains.
April 17, 2009
29 GLENELLEN DR. WEST
- ASKING PRICE: $649,000
- SELLING PRICE: $641,000
- PREVIOUS SELLING PRICE:
$305,000 (1999)
$352,500 (1989)
- TAXES: $4,121 (2008)
- LOT SIZE: 40 by 93 feet
- DAYS ON THE MARKET: four
- CO-OP AGENT: Nutan Brown, Royal LePage Real Estate Services Ltd.
Nutan Brown's clients wanted a place in need of a makeover, but changed priorities after visiting this stylishly updated brick bungalow in Sunnylea.
"We looked at many other [properties] that did need some degree of renovation or improvements, but this particular one was really well updated, really well appointed and in a great location," Ms. Brown says.
"It had many features that many of the other homes did not have."
The principal room has a wood-burning fireplace and crown mouldings. Hardwood floors flow throughout, including into the open kitchen decked out with granite counters, a breakfast bar and glass-front cabinetry, as well as appliances including a gas stove.
The master suite has a wall-to-wall closet and bay window, while the second bedroom has California shutters.
The lower level offers a third bedroom and a family room with pot lights, carpeting, windows and a gas fireplace, plus one of two full bathrooms with access to a sauna, and a laundry room with ceramic floors and cabinetry.
Extras include a temperature-controlled wine cellar with racking for about 1,000 bottles and a pergola-covered hot tub in the backyard. "Those weren't necessarily things they were looking for, but they were certainly very desirable," Ms. Brown says.
A side door exits to a wide driveway and single garage.
It is also easy to reach amenities on foot, such as schools, public transit, parks and trails along the Humber River.
71 BRUMELL AVE.
Asking price: $719,000
Selling price: $670,000
Previous selling prices: $749,000 (2007)
$500,000 (2006)
Taxes: $4,252 (2008)
Lot size: 25 by 130 feet
Days on the market: 94
Listing agent: Nutan Brown, Royal LePage Real Estate Services Ltd.
The major factors in the sale of this two-storey house were its premium location and modern look, agent Nutan Brown says.
In terms of its location, most buyers were attracted to its quiet setting northwest of Jane Street and Baby Point Road, within steps of parkland along the Humber River, public transit and schools.
"It's a very child-friendly neighbourhood," Ms. Brown says. "It's on a small ... street, so there's minimal local traffic."
The 1930s home underwent cosmetic improvements, structural modifications and mechanical updates over the past two years. That included a new ductless air conditioner unit, refinished hardwood floors and two remodelled bathrooms, among other things.
"It a beautifully renovated property in absolutely move-in condition," Ms. Brown says. "The house was virtually gutted."
The wall between the dining room and kitchen was also removed for a more open layout. "That has a huge appeal," the agent says. "That's how people are entertaining and living now."
The kitchen also has granite countertops, stainless steel appliances, including a gas range, and a door to the deck, fenced backyard and detached garage off a mutual driveway.
Despite all the changes, the foyer, fireside living room and three bedrooms upstairs retain some original details.
"The house has a lot of gumwood wainscoting, gumwood trims and French doors," Ms. Brown says. "It was all restored beautifully."
There is a separate entrance to the basement, where there is a sauna off the bathroom and a recreation room with ceramic floors and above-grade windows
May 8, 2009
40 SUNNYBRAE CRES.
Asking price: $299,500
Selling price: $271,000
Taxes: $2,047 (2008)
Lot size: 59 by 130 feet
Days on the market: 64
Co-op agent: Nutan Brown, Royal LePage Real Estate Services Ltd.
Agent Nutan Brown showed her clients several properties in Bloor West Village before moving their search further north to the Mount Dennis community. There, this two-bedroom bungalow was a more affordable option for the first-time buyers.
"If I took this bungalow to Bloor West or Swansea, I would have priced it at $600,000," Ms. Brown says. "The value of this location was phenomenal."
The house is situated nearby public transit and schools, and sits on a quiet street, just across from the open parkland and ravine-like terrain of the Eglinton Flats.
Owned by the same family for more than 40 years, the house maintains its character with a brick façade, stained glass windows and hardwood floors throughout.
"It had really good bones, but just needed cosmetic and mechanical updating," Ms. Brown says.
The main floor houses the bedrooms, full bathroom, eat-in kitchen and a living room with a wood-burning fireplace.
The basement contains a powder room and a large broadloom-covered recreation room - measuring more than 400 square feet - with a dry bar and second fireplace.
For parking, there is room for one car in the attached garage and another on the private driveway.
May 29, 2009
403 SUNNYSIDE AVE., TORONTO
Asking price: $529,800
Selling price: $545,000
Taxes: $3,710 (2008)
Lot size: 19 by 144 feet
Days on the market: four
Co-op agent: Nutan Brown, Royal LePage Real Estate Services Ltd.
Agent Nutan Brown showed a family several three-storey residences in High Park and Roncesvalles before they determined this semi-detached residence has the optimal setting to raise their children.
"It's literally two houses away from a school," says Ms. Brown, as well as steps from places of worship, parks, including High Park, and Roncesvalles Village shops.
The subway, GO train station and Gardiner Expressway are also nearby.
The electrical and heating systems were updated, though minor cosmetic updates are needed in the century-old house, which contains a roughly 1,700-square-foot plan.
"It has good living space," says Ms. Brown. "There is some very nice woodwork throughout the house that's in good condition."
On the main floor, there is a sunroom, living room, dining room and kitchen.
Three bedrooms, a den and a bathroom round out the second floor. Two more bedrooms occupy the top level.
The second bathroom is on the lower level, along with a recreation room with access to a private outdoor space with a vegetable garden and shed. "It has a lovely, sunny yard," says Ms. Brown.
July 10, 2009
78 Raymond Ave., Toronto
Asking price: $640,000
Selling price: $700,500
Taxes: $4,917 (2009)
Lot size: 30 by 125 feet
Days on the market: five
Listing agent: Nutan Brown, Royal LePage Real Estate Services Ltd.
Two-storey properties are a common sight in the Baby Point community, making this 21/2-storey house a rare commodity that was fought over by multiple families and first-time buyers, agent Nutan Brown says.
“It has four bedrooms on the second floor, and typically you get three,” she says. “Because this has a third storey – with a large ensuite bathroom – it's exceptionally larger than the norm.”
Built in the 1930s, the home contains five bedrooms, three bathrooms and a lower level with a separate entrance and “unusually high” ceilings nearly seven feet above.
“That tends to be a significant bonus for people looking to finish the basement,” Ms. Brown says.
For more than 40 years, the previous owner updated the wiring and plumbing systems, maintained the hardwood floors, gumwood trims and oak woodwork throughout, and preserved original crown mouldings, French doors and wainscoting in the dining room and foyer.
“Most of the people loved the fact that the original character was intact,” the agent says. “Yet they could see how they would refinish it, open things up and modernize it.”
Rounding out the main floor is a living room with a wood-burning fireplace and a galley kitchen with a walkout to the private yard, garden and detached garage that exits out a private driveway.
Many buyers were interested in its location close to schools, libraries and parkland along the Humber River. “It's perfect for someone with a young family or starting a family,” Ms. Brown says.
227 GILMOUR AVE., Toronto
ASKING PRICE: $674,900
SELLING PRICE: $650,000
PREVIOUS SELLING PRICE: $492,000 (2006)
TAXES: $3,150 (2008)
LOT SIZE: 25 by 120 feet
DAYS ON THE MARKET: 18
LISTING AGENTS: Nutan Brown and Anil Khera, Royal LePage Real Estate Services Ltd.
This detached, two-storey house has a rear addition that made it much larger than it appears, which is a big asset when the home is compared to other west-end properties nearby, says agent Nutan Brown.
“[The previous owners] took what was a typical Upper Bloor West Village home and expanded it to a size that would accommodate a family very nicely,” she says.
The expansion allowed for a new lower level studio, a second floor master bedroom with an ensuite powder room and Juliet balcony and an extra space off the kitchen with a walkout to a deck.
“The main floor family room was a very huge attraction,” Ms. Brown says. “Most homes do not have that kind of addition in the Bloor West Village area.”
The wiring, plumbing, heating and cooling systems were also updated, the roof replaced and interior gutted and remodelled by another owner within the last decade.
Modern finishes within the 1940s house include hardwood floors and pot lights in the open living and dining area, stainless steel kitchen appliances and broadloom in the lower level recreation room.
The main bathroom services the three bedrooms upstairs.
Other assets include three-car parking accessed from a lane, a private back yard and a front garden with native plants and perennials. “It's a beautiful showpiece of colours,” says Ms. Brown.
Local amenities include parks, schools and places of worship, as well as High Park and Bloor Street shops and subway further south.
August 21, 2009
604 Manning Ave., Toronto
Asking price: $559,900
Selling price: $539,000
Previous selling price: $395,000 (2005)
Taxes: $3,654 (2008)
Lot size: 20 by 118 feet
Days on the market: four
Co-op agent: Nutan Brown, Royal LePage Real Estate Services Ltd.
Looking for a renovation project in the Annex, agent Nutan Brown's clients decided this 21/2-storey, semi-detached house was a worthy candidate in need of modern updates and decor.
Likely built during the 1920s, the roughly 3,500-square-foot residence was a rooming house comprising five bedrooms, five bathrooms and three kitchens, plus a finished lower level with a separate entrance.
The roofing and windows were recently replaced, but newer mechanical systems and interior finishes were needed.
“[The buyers] just loved the potential, they loved the size and loved the location,” Ms. Brown says. “My clients will be converting it into a single-family home with a basement apartment.”
The current setup has a main floor powder room and separate living and dining rooms.
An uninsulated sunroom was built off the kitchen. “Being able to just update and renovate it rather than add it is a huge bonus,” the agent says.
The second floor houses a full bathroom and three bedrooms, including one with a two-piece bathroom, fireplace and balcony.
On the third floor, there are two bedrooms, a kitchen and bathroom.
The basement contains one bedroom, a full bathroom and kitchen.
At the back of the property, there is a double garage with laneway access. “It has private parking, which is always a premium,” Ms. Brown says.
The subway, schools and Christie Pits Park are within walking distance, as well as local performance and movie theatres, shops, restaurants and cafés on Bloor Street.
August 28, 2009
1 Harcroft Rd., Toronto
Asking price: $799,000
Selling price: $789,000
Previous selling price: $395,000 (1997)
Taxes: $5,512 (2008)
Lot size: 82 by 56 feet
Days on the market: five
Listing agent: Nutan Brown, Royal LePage Real Estate Services Ltd.; co-op agent, Holly Chandler, Julie Kinnear Team, Royal LePage Real
Estate Services Ltd.
This detached, two-storey house sold quickly mainly based on the wealth of nearby urban conveniences and natural surroundings, agent Nutan Brown says.
The previous owner - like many neighbours - was a long-time resident on the short street, which is close to local eateries, businesses and live theatre along Bloor Street West, as well as nearly 400 acres of parkland.
"[The street] only has a dozen or so homes," Ms. Brown says. "They rarely come up for sale because of their ... fabulous setting and location."
The pie-shaped lot is also set on higher grounds than adjacent homes and filled out with gardens and mature trees.
"You really don't know that you're still in the city, because you're just immersed in these beautiful huge trees ... and you can actually see High Park," the agent says.
"It's so serene and tranquil that you forget that everything you need - like the subway, library and shops - are all within a five-minute walk."
The house was built about 80 years ago with a three-bedroom plan, though two bedrooms were combined to create a large one with access to a deck.
Rounding out the upper level is a second bedroom with his and her closets, and one of two full bathrooms.
Hardwood floors are in most areas, such as the living and dining rooms. The former features a wood-burning fireplace, and the latter was decorated with wainscoting.
The kitchen has a breakfast area and a walkout to the main deck.
Ms. Brown notes that the lower level is "completely above grade" with an extra bedroom, fireside recreation room and office with large windows and a side door to the patio.
109 Uno Dr., Toronto
Asking price: $347,000
Selling price: $350,000
Previous selling price: $6,600 (1978)
Taxes: $2,196 (2008)
Lot size: 40 by 100 feet
Days on the market: nine
Co-op agent: Nutan Brown, Royal LePage Real Estate Services Ltd.
Agent Nutan Brown helped a pair of renters explore several properties across the city before they entered into a bidding war for this 11/2-storey residence in central Etobicoke.
“This one was a bit of a shining star,” says Ms. Brown, referring mainly to its family-oriented setting and solid form. “At that price point, it seemed like the house offered great value.”
Set among postwar bungalows, the two-bedroom house is located on a corner lot, close to parks, desirable schools and malls, as well as transit routes.
“It's a safe, wonderful family neighbourhood,” the agent says. “It has great access to TTC, which was important to them.”
Inside, the main floor is rounded out with living and dining rooms, an eat-in kitchen and sole four-piece bathroom.
The bedrooms are upstairs, and a panelled recreation room is in the basement.
In the past few years, the roof, oil tank and a new waterline from the street were installed.
“The condition is pretty much original, but well maintained,” Ms. Brown says.
Outdoor features include front and back gardens and three-car parking on a mutual driveway.
33 Harbour Sq., No. 3508, Toronto
Asking price: $1,190,000
Selling price: $1,110,000
Taxes: $6,211 (2009)
Days on the market: 14
Listing agent: Nutan Brown, Royal LePage Real Estate Services Ltd.
Between a couple of two-storey penthouses listed for sale at the same time within an upscale high rise on the waterfront, this three-bedroom suite was the best of the bunch, says agent Nutan Brown.
“The biggest selling feature was the quality of renovation the owner had done over the last two to three years,” she says. “It was a complete shining star compared to others.”
The 2,100-square-foot suite was dressed with Brazilian hardwood floors, custom power blinds and tumbled marble and pebble stone finishes in two of three stylish bathrooms.
High-end, stainless-steel appliances, new granite counters and slate floors complete the kitchen.
369 Orano Ave., Toronto
Asking price: $824,900
Selling price: $824,900
Taxes: not yet assessed
Lot size: 50 by 131 feet
Days on the market: 36
Co-op agent: Nutan Brown, Royal LePage Real Estate Services Ltd.
On the search for a large property for a Mississauga-based family, agent Nutan Brown showed them this four-bedroom residence as it was under construction on a cul-de-sac with only six other custom houses.
“This is unique because it's very intimate,” says Ms. Brown, who notes that these houses all face preserved green space and Cooksville Creek on the south side of the road. “My client … could see his kids playing outside on that street.”
The property is also close to schools, recreational facilities and waterfront parks, as well as Port Credit Village and the QEW. “[The buyers] love all the amenities of the neighbourhood,” adds Ms. Brown.
As the house was in the final stages of completion, the buyers had input on some elements, such as installing hardwood floors throughout. “We had not anticipated being able to personalize it like that,” says Ms. Brown. “The finishes were very high-end … and [the buyers] really liked that.”
There are a main-floor powder room, den and open-concept principal rooms, including the dining room, a great room with a gas fireplace and an eat-in kitchen with patio doors.
On the second floor, there is a bathroom to serve the bedrooms, which start at 112-square-feet. The master suite has its own five-piece bathroom and a walk-in closet. “All of the bedrooms were a really nice size,” adds Ms. Brown.
An unfinished basement and an attached double garage are also available.
8 ROSEVIEW AVE.
ASKING PRICE: $349,000
SELLING PRICE: $337,500
TAXES: $2,804 (2007)
LOT SIZE: 50 by 120 feet
DAYS ON THE MARKET: 30
CO-OP AGENT: Nutan Brown, Royal LePage Real Estate Services Ltd.
After a fruitless search for a house in various downtown Toronto neighbourhoods, agent Nutan Brown's clients finally bought the first one they saw in downtown Richmond Hill.
"When I looked up the listings, there was only one home available," she says. "This was totally move-in condition, and it was a sunny day, [so] the place was lit up like a Christmas tree. It was beautiful."
The house is likely an expansion of a century-old barn. "It has a history and charm about it," the agent says, even though it is not a designated heritage home like some others on the street.
The place has 1½ storeys with more than 1,000 square feet of space that includes three bedrooms, two bathrooms, a formal dining room, a main-floor family room, and a living room with a gas fireplace.
The kitchen opens to a deck and brick barbecue. "It has a lovely sized yard, which is really nice with perennials," Ms. Brown says. There also is a private driveway and garage.
The master bedroom is on the first floor, while the main bathroom and two bedrooms are upstairs.
The home's interesting quirks include a hatch in the main-floor powder room that leads to a partially finished basement with a laundry room. Also down there is a pit about 16 inches deep and eight by 10 feet in size that may have been created to catch oil leaks from the original furnace, which was replaced, the agent says.
72 Baby Point Rd., Toronto
Asking price: $1,875,000
Selling price: $1,625,000
Taxes: $12,461 (2009)
Lot size: 75 feet by 380 feet
Days on the market: 22
Listing agent: Nutan Brown, Royal LePage Real Estate Services Ltd.
Many of the grand homes along Baby Point Road are occupied by families for decades. This three-storey residence backing onto Magwood Park was no exception, coming into the market for the first time in 35 years, says agent Nutan Brown.
This property was prized by its sellers and buyers alike for its heavily treed and spacious 75-by-380-foot lot.
“The tableland portion is probably about 25 to 30 per cent of that, and the remainder is natural setting,” Ms. Brown says. “It’s a beautiful, private setting with no neighbours on the back side.”
The 1930s home boasts a centre-hall plan with 3,397 square feet of living space, including five bedrooms, four bathrooms, formal and casual entertaining areas and four walkouts to the backyard, pool and oversized garage.
Original details and woodwork remain, such as a foyer with French doors to the living and dining rooms. The former has a wood-burning fireplace and access to a den and sunroom with a back exit.
Over two decades ago, the kitchen was expanded with a sky-lit breakfast area and family room with cathedral ceilings, a wood stove, a wall of windows and a glass door.
“It was way ahead of its time,” Ms. Brown says of the addition. “It’s a very unique and contemporary style.”
Three bedrooms are on the second floor, including a master suite with a full bathroom. The other two bedrooms, including one with a skylight, are on the top level.
The 1,129-square-foot basement is filled with storage rooms, a fifth bedroom and a recreation room with built-in shelves and a wet bar.
Perks of living in the immediate area include many family-friendly amenities, from reputable schools to a members-only clubhouse offering events and activities year-round.
191 Grenadier Rd., Toronto
Asking price: $1.185-million
Selling price: $1.25-million
Previous selling price: $577,000 (2009)
Taxes: $5,077 (2009)
Lot size: 25 by 90 feet
Days on the market: 12
Listing agent: Nutan Brown, Royal LePage Real Estate Services Ltd.
Though this High Park residence is a century old, it looks and feels like a brand new home, agent Nutan Brown says.
The 2,177-square-foot house was recently gutted, reframed and renovated with a host of features including oak hardwood floors, a second set of laundry facilities and heated marble floors in the master ensuite and main bathroom on the second level.
Updated wiring, plumbing, sound, heating and cooling systems were installed, along with a central vacuum system and heat recovery ventilation unit to improve indoor air quality.
“There’s really nothing left for anyone to do once they moved in,” says Ms. Brown, who had expected to receive multiple offers for this property. “When a home is done up in the calibre that this was, it doesn’t surprise me.”
Original details were restored, such as the trims, staircase and a mantle above the gas fireplace in the living room.
The eat-in kitchen contains stainless steel appliances, maple cabinetry and marble-topped counters and island, as well as pot lights and coffered ceilings above the dining area. The latter overlooks a south-facing backyard with a new deck and fence.
The second floor accommodates three bedrooms with bay windows. Two more bedrooms are on the third floor, including one with a new balcony.
The basement was dug out to create eight-foot ceilings in the recreation room, which has pot lights, above-grade windows and access to a front entrance to the side of the garage.
Each level has a bathroom – two on the second floor – for a total of five.
73 Front St. W., No. 3209, Toronto
Asking price: $495,000
Selling price: $466,000
Taxes: $3,048 (2009)
Days on the market: 13
Listing agent: Nutan Brown, Royal LePage Real Estate Services Ltd.
About three years ago, the cramped layout of this penthouse downtown was successfully redesigned with a more spacious layout and more modern finishes, says agent Nutan Brown.
“It had been really beautifully renovated,” she says. “It was in move-in condition with no changes required.”
Except for the tile floors in the open kitchen, new hardwood floors were installed throughout, including a den with a built-in bookcase.
A wall was knocked down between two original bedrooms to create one large master retreat with a custom walk-in closet and access to one of two full bathrooms. “It worked really well for a single [owner] or a couple,” says Ms. Brown.
Similar to the open living and dining area, the bedroom also has the benefit of a wall of nine-foot-tall windows and sliding doors to a wraparound balcony that follows the curve of the eight-year-old building. “You had a phenomenal city view northwest,” says Ms. Brown.
Ensuite laundry machines and parking complete the unit. A monthly fee of $542 covers heat and hydro costs.
Shared amenities include an indoor pool, party room and car-wash bay, as well as a hair salon and spa. “You can go downstairs and get those services within the building,” says Ms. Brown.
For anything else, the immediate area is packed with attractions, such as major sporting and events venues, shops, restaurants and theatres, waterfront parks and public transit. “It’s walking distance to everything,” says Ms. Brown.
252 Campbell Ave., Toronto
Asking price: $400,000
Selling price: $454,000
Previous selling price: $170,000 (2001); $135,000 (1997)
Taxes: $2,074 (2008)
Lot size: 17 by 88 feet
Days on the market: five
Listing agent: Nutan Brown, Royal LePage Real Estate Services Ltd.
This semi-detached, two-storey house does not have parking on site, but its location in the Junction makes it easy enough to get by without owning a car, agent Nutan Brown explains.
The property is a short walk from schools, a library and parks, including one down the street, as well as a community centre, shopping centre and public-transit routes on Dupont Street.
“It’s a nice residential street,” says Ms. Brown. “That’s another pocket [of the city] that’s very up and coming.”
This three-bedroom house was built around the 1930s, but was fixed up in the past decade with new windows, roof and porch and modernized bathroom and wiring throughout.
“For this particular home, the attraction was that it was really renovated and updated,” says Ms. Brown.
Some original features include the claw-foot tub upstairs and a fireplace mantle with tile accents in the living room.
The adjacent dining room has an alcove to the side and an entrance to a renovated eat-in kitchen with a walkout to a fenced backyard with a flagstone patio, perennial gardens and shed. “You’ve got morning sun from the front and afternoon sun in the back,” adds Ms. Brown.
As in the main-floor rooms, hardwood floors appear in the upper bedrooms. “The rooms were all a good size,” says Ms. Brown.
Extra living space could be created on the lower level, which has over 7.5-foot ceilings above the laundry and workshop space. “It had a phenomenally high basement,” says Ms. Brown. “There’s a whole area you can make into a rec room.”
263 Pacific Ave., Toronto
Asking price: $628,000
Selling price: $703,000
Previous selling price: $621,000 (2007)
Taxes: $3,582 (2009)
Lot size: 14 by 100 feet
Days on the market: five
Co-op agent: Nutan Brown, Royal LePage Real Estate Services Ltd.
Agent Nutan Brown and her clients ended an intense, six-month-long search for a large, west-end semi-detached house after touring this 2½-storey residence just north of High Park.
“What made this one unique is the fact it was a Victorian,” says Ms. Brown. “It does have a lot of the original trim work in place and the baseboards are nice and high.”
Situated on a corner lot, the over-century-old brick house was also updated to suit the needs of modern families, complete with three bedrooms, two full bathrooms and more open principal rooms.
At some point, a wall was removed between the living and dining rooms. The living-room area has stained-glass windows and a floor-to-ceiling brick fireplace, while the dining area has built-in shelving tucked beneath the staircase.
The galley kitchen is open to a sky-lit family room, which has a walkout to a limestone patio and an English garden with perennials, lighting and built-in sprinklers.
“Typically, in most of these homes, you don’t get a main-floor family room, so this was ideal,” adds Ms. Brown.
Like the main floor, there are nine-foot ceilings on the second level, where there are two bedrooms. There is a balcony off the master suite, which was reconfigured with a walk-in closet and private bathroom, “which is also very rare in older homes,” says Ms. Brown.
The smallest bedroom is an open loft space on the third floor, complete with a walk-in closet.
The lower-level recreation room was finished with above-grade windows and carpeting rather than hardwood floors like most rooms.
One-car parking is available on a private driveway.
86 Methuen Ave., Toronto
Asking price: $684,900
Selling price: $677,500
Previous selling price: $483,000 (2006); $409,000 (2003); $275,000 (1989)
Taxes: $3,902 (2009)
Lot size: 24 by 121 feet
Days on the market: 10
Co-op agent: Nutan Brown, Royal LePage Real Estate Services Ltd.
After an intense search of nearly two dozen homes in Bloor West Village, Swansea, Old Mill and Baby Point, agent Nutan Brown found her clients a renovated two-storey house that possessed everything on their checklist.
But even better was the fact it had a price tag that wouldn’t require them to blow their budget in a bidding war. “The reason they settled on this was that they liked the street itself and the things done to the home,” says Ms. Brown.
“This particular property was put out without any holdbacks on offers, so we were able to approach the vendors with a reasonable offer and negotiate a price they were happy with and my buyers were happy with.”
Situated on a short street, this detached brick house – circa 1930 – is in good condition indoors and out.
The private backyard was especially memorable with a deck off the sunroom, winding patio and hot tub, as well as a gate to a detached garage and lane. “It’s been beautifully landscaped at the front and back, which really warmed up the property,” says Ms. Brown.
Inside, there are three bedrooms, three bathrooms and a fireside living room overlooking the dining room. “It’s a very traditional home of that vintage,” says Ms. Brown. “But having the additional sunroom at the rear was certainly a bonus we did not see in many properties.”
Finishes include pot lights in select areas; leaded-glass windows in the principal rooms; and bamboo floors in the kitchen rather than the hardwood floors installed throughout.
The lower-level family room also features broadloom carpeting and a side entrance.
In terms of local amenities, attractions range from shops and subway on Bloor Street to parks and trails along the Humber River.
25 Grenville St., No. 1406, Toronto
Asking price: $300,000
Selling price: $300,000
Previous selling prices: $220,000 (2007); $184,500 (2003); $126,000 (1998); $105,000 (1995)
Taxes: $1,515 (2009)
Days on the market: nine
Listing agents: Nutan Brown and Anil Khera, Royal LePage West Realty Group
What drew buyers to this one-bedroom plus solarium suite is its location in a high-rise on a short side street close to shops, eateries and the subway line on Yonge Street, as well as major medical and educational institutions, says one of the listing agents, Anil Khera.
“It’s one block north of College and it’s between Bay and Yonge streets, so you’re extremely central,” he says. “It’s very convenient for people who work at the hospitals or … for U of T students.”
The roughly 20-year-old unit was in move-in condition. “People are always impressed when they see things are taken care of, they assume it’s going to be a relatively headache-free place,” Mr. Khera says.
The sellers recently removed doors between the solarium and combined living and dining area to create one large entertaining area.
New laundry machines were brought in and hardwood floors were installed everywhere but the kitchen, which another owner revamped with ceramic floors and stainless steel appliances.
The rest of the unit is filled out with a bedroom, four-piece bathroom and foyer with a deep closet, “which also served as an ensuite locker,” Mr. Khera adds.
The monthly fee of $524 covers utility and cable costs. “The maintenance fee included everything, except for taxes, which is important for people so they knew what their costs were going to be every month,” he says.
Amenities within the building consist of a gym, squash court and party room, as well as a rooftop deck, visitor parking and lobby staffed by 24-hour concierge.
26 Sunnybrae Cres., Toronto
Asking price: $329,999
Selling price: $329,000
Previous selling price: $167,500 (2000)
Taxes: $2,184 (2009)
Lot size: 25 by 151 feet
Days on the market: six
Co-op agent: Nutan Brown, Royal LePage West Realty Group Ltd.
Agent Nutan Brown exposed a first-time buyer to roughly 50 properties across Toronto and as far as Uxbridge to get a sense of how to maximize a budget of about $300,000.
This detached two-storey residence in Mount Dennis, which is a five-minute drive north of Bloor West Village, proved the most promising with all the essentials and a couple of extras.
“The homes, the size and quality that you get there is tremendous,” says the agent, who sold three houses on the same street in the past 1½ years. “At a first-time buyer’s price point, it’s important to get the best bang for your buck.”
The 25-by-151-foot property has a deep backyard with a fish pond and a long front driveway and garden overlooking the Eglinton Flats across the street.
“We love the location because [the house] faces the ravine,” Ms. Brown says. “And if you look at the lot size, [the buyer] has a phenomenal, huge backyard, which is very private.”
The two-bedroom house was likely built in about the 1940s and retains original stained glass windows, wood trims and alcoves. “It looked like it had been well looked after,” she says. “It was a solid house.”
New fixtures, flooring and other upgrades were made in the two bathrooms and kitchen, which has a door to a laundry room that exits to the deck.
The master suite upstairs features hardwood flooring, while upgraded laminate floors appear elsewhere else.
The basement could be converted into a rental unit as it has an open recreation room and office, plus a full bathroom and side and front entrances. “This is a bit of a unique set up,” Ms. Brown adds. “I didn’t see it on other homes.”
27 Coney Rd., Toronto
Asking price: $489,900
Selling price: $460,000
Previous selling price: $156,666 (1998)
Taxes: $3,318 (2008)
Lot size: 44 by 116 feet
Days on the market: 71
Co-op agent: Nutan Brown, Royal LePage West Realty Group Ltd.
Agent Nutan Brown said her clients wanted a new home close to family in The Queensway and were open to properties that needed some work. A dozen houses showed potential, but the perfect fit turned out to be this detached, brick bungalow, which was taken off the market just as Ms. Brown’s clients began their search.
“This just offered everything they were looking for,” says Ms. Brown. “I approached the seller and agent after to see if they would be interested in working with us.”
The roughly 60-year-old house was recently outfitted with new roofing and ceramic tiles in the eat-in kitchen and two bathrooms, but everything else was maintained in fairly original condition.
“It’s a really good size for them, so they will work within the framework of the house and update it,” Ms. Brown states.
Currently, there are hardwood floors in the separate living and dining rooms and three bedrooms. The master suite is the one with his and her closets.
A four-piece bathroom serves the main level, while a powder room is in the basement, along with a family room and fourth bedroom with parquet floors.
Outside, there is a private driveway to the attached garage and a south-facing yard backing onto a greenbelt with hydro wires.
“My clients … considered it an extension of their backyard,” says Ms. Brown. “They don’t have any immediate neighbours at the back and the property is pretty private on the other two sides.”
207 Oakcrest Ave., Toronto
Asking price: $359,000
Selling price: $352,000
Previous selling price: $245,000 (2003); $129,200 (1996)
Taxes: $2,774 (2010)
Lot size: 15 by 95 feet
Days on the market: 18
Co-op agent: Nutan Brown, Royal LePage West Realty Group Ltd.
West-end homeowners gave agent Nutan Brown free rein to search any neighbourhood for a family-friendly house in the mid-$300,000s.
After investigating properties on a daily basis, they bought this two-storey townhouse, which is situated on a tree-lined street close to restaurants and shops on the Danforth, as well as beaches and boardwalks by the waterfront.
“When people have a limited budget they’re working with, they want to maximize the home they can get with it, so you end up covering a lot of ground,” says Ms. Brown.
“Oakcrest was perhaps not in an area at the top of their wish list, but now that they’re there, they absolutely love it.”
This three-bedroom house also has ample space to raise children, especially with the benefit of a south-facing backyard. “It’s got a nice deck and nice sized yard their child can play in,” says Ms. Brown. “This is flat with grass, so it’s perfect for a kid.”
The deck has access into a galley kitchen, which leads into an open concept living and dining room with hardwood floors, much like the sleeping quarters upstairs. “All the bedrooms are a decent size,” adds Ms. Brown.
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May 29, 2009