Bark in the ParkTO

Join in the fun at Bark in the Park TO, a four-day event dedicated to pets and pet lovers! Expect special photo ops, a pet costume contest, a vibrant market featuring the best in pet products and services. Don’t miss out on the thrilling Dog Lovers Day Lure Course and amazing performances by The Ultimutts, featuring talented dog and cat stars.The event proudly supports Epilepsy Toronto, an organization providing essential services and support to individuals and families living with epilepsy.

WHEN: AUGUST 29-SEPT 1

WHERE: Woodbine Park 1695 Queen St E, Toronto

Canadian International Air Show

Toronto skies will come alive once again during Labour Day weekend, as the 76th Canadian International Air Show is expected to take off!

Soaring above Marilyn Bell Park, this year’s flight lineup includes fan favourites like the Canadian Forces Snowbirds, the CF-18 Demo Team, and the F-35 Demo Team, plus the legendary P-51 Mustang Heritage Flight.

After the air show, explore the family-friendly STEM Zone, enjoy local eats at the Refueling Station, and get up close with aircraft displays and VR experiences!

WHEN: AUGUST 28 TO SEPT 1

WHERE: Marilyn Bell Park

Canadian National Exhibition

The Canadian National Exhibition (CNE) is Canada’s largest community event and one of the top ten agricultural fairs in North America. Founded in 1879 as the Toronto Industrial Exhibition, the CNE is a not-for-profit organization that has enjoyed a distinguished history as a showcase of the nation. People came to experience the latest innovations in technology and commercial products, to enjoy the popular entertainers of the time, and to engage in a collective community celebration.

WHEN: AUGUST 15 TO SEPT 1

VISIT OUR CALENDAR PARTNERS EVENTS IF YOU FIND YOURSELF IN THE CITIES BELOW:

New York

Washington DC

Miami

San Francisco

Los Angeles

Orange County

Chicago

Greenwich

Denver  

Naples

Taho, Reno-NV

Sacramento

The Hamptons, NY

Atlanta

Tampa Bay

Park City

Sarasota

2025 Toronto Jazz Festival

Toronto Waterfront Festival

Pride Parade 2025

Pride Parade is back, and bigger than ever! We are committed to creating a truly memorable experience that is inclusive and welcoming for ALL. Whether you’re a long-time ally or part of the 2SLGBTQl+ community, this celebration is for you. The parade kicks off at 2 PM, with over 25,000 marchers and more than 250 groups participating, all united in the mission to promote diversity, acceptance, and inclusion. It’s not just a parade; it’s a vibrant display of pride, strength, and solidarity. Be sure to find your preferred spot along our Pride Route, which starts at the intersection of Rosedale Valley Rd. and Park Rd. and culminates at Nathan Phillips Square. Don’t miss our spectacular Closing Night, packed with live performances, vibrant entertainment, and unforgettable moments that will leave you inspired and energized. This celebration is about more than just enjoying the festivities–it’s a powerful reminder of the importance of community, love, and equality. We’re not only marching to celebrate how far we’ve come, but to reaffirm our commitment to shaping a future where everyone, regardless of who they love, how they look, or what they feel, can live openly and proudly.

WHEN: Sunday June 29th 2:00-6:00 p.m.

WHERE: Rosedale Valley Rd. & Park Rd., West on Church St., South on Yonge St., to Nathan Phillips Square
Begins at 2PM

VISIT OUR CALENDAR PARTNERS EVENTS IF YOU FIND YOURSELF IN THE CITIES BELOW:

New York

Washington DC

Miami

San Francisco

Los Angeles

San Diego

Santa Barbara

Seattle

Orange County

Chicago

Greenwich

Denver  

Naples

Taho, Reno-NV

Sacramento

The Hamptons, NY

Atlanta

Tampa Bay

Park City

Sarasota

Cherry Blossom Season at Colborne Lodge

Meagan’s HUG

Spring Plant Sale 2025

TSA Architects Talk: Spaces for Play

VISIT OUR CALENDAR PARTNERS EVENTS IF YOU FIND YOURSELF IN THE CITIES BELOW:

New York

Washington DC

Miami

San Francisco

Los Angeles

San Diego

Santa Barbara

Seattle

Orange County

Chicago

Greenwich

Denver  

Naples

Taho, Reno-NV

Sacramento

The Hamptons, NY

Atlanta

Tampa Bay

Park City

Sarasota

Understanding the Need for a Bigger Home

For many families in Toronto, the need for a bigger home comes when the current one feels cramped. As families grow, they find that their cozy house doesn’t meet their new needs. More bedrooms, bigger living areas, and extra bathrooms become important. This decision can be exciting but needs careful thought. Let’s explore what you should know about upsizing in Toronto.

Benefits of Upsizing

Upsizing offers several benefits for families. A bigger home means more space for everyone and every activity. Children can have their own rooms, and parents can get their own office or hobby space. Here are some more details:

• Extra Space for Growing Families: With a larger home, you’ll have room for everyone. Kids can have their own play areas or study spots, and adults can find quiet spaces to work or relax.
• Better Rooms for Guests: Having a bigger home allows you to welcome friends and family without feeling cramped. Guest rooms and extra bathrooms can make visits more comfortable for everyone.
• Increased Comfort: A larger home offers more comfort. Bigger kitchens can fit the whole family and allow for easier meal prep and family dinners.
• Higher Home Value: In Toronto’s real estate market, a bigger home can be a good investment. Larger homes often have a higher resale value, making them a smart choice if you’re planning for the long term.

Important Things to Consider

Upsizing is not just about buying a bigger house. It’s about planning and making the right choices for your family. Here are some things to keep in mind:

• Budget Planning: A bigger home usually costs more. Before deciding, look at your budget carefully. Consider all the costs, including mortgage, utilities, taxes, and maintenance. Make sure you can afford these without causing stress.
• Preferred Location: The location of your new home is crucial. Think about proximity to schools, work, and amenities. Pick a neighborhood that fits your family’s lifestyle and needs.
• Future Needs: Think about your future when you choose a bigger house. Will you need more space later? Maybe you’re planning more children, or perhaps you’re thinking about aging parents. Choose a home that can accommodate future changes.
• Lifestyle Preferences: Make sure your new home matches your family’s lifestyle. If you love outdoor activities, look for a home with a yard or nearby parks. If you’re more urban, you might prefer a city location with access to shops and restaurants.

Steps to Finding the Right Home

Finding the right bigger home involves several steps. Following a clear plan can help make this process smoother and less stressful.

1. Assess Your Space Needs: Start by identifying how much space you need. Write down what each family member needs and what you would like to have. This list will help guide your decisions.
2. Research the Market: Learn about the Toronto real estate market. Check the current prices and see what you can afford. Understand the trends in different neighborhoods to make an informed choice.
3. Set Your Budget: Having a clear budget will direct your search. Include all costs, like mortgage, taxes, and little things like moving expenses or new furniture.
4. Select a Location: Consider what areas in Toronto suit your family best. Decide if you prefer the city buzz or a quieter suburb. Research schools, parks, and public transportation availability.
5. Hire a Real Estate Agent: A professional agent can be very helpful in your search. They know the market and can find homes that fit your needs and budget. They also help with negotiations and paperwork.
6. Visit Potential Homes: Attend open houses and arrange private tours. Seeing homes in person gives you a better feel than online pictures.
7. Analyze Each House: When visiting, note each home’s pros and cons. Consider room size, storage space, and layout. Think about how each would work for your family now and in the future.
8. Make an Offer: When you find the right home, make a competitive offer. Your agent can help with this step, ensuring your offer appeals to sellers.
9. Review Legal Steps: Once your offer is accepted, there are legal steps to follow. This includes inspections and finalizing your mortgage. Professionals like real estate agents and lawyers can guide you through this.
10. Plan Your Move: After closing the deal, arrange to move. Give yourself time to pack and set up your new home.

Upsizing to a bigger home in Toronto can bring many benefits. It’s all about creating the space your family needs to grow and thrive. Understanding your needs, budgeting wisely, and following a structured plan can make the process smoother. Remember, choosing a home that fits your current and future lifestyle is key. With careful planning, you can find a home where your family can create happy memories for years.

Navigating multiple offers can be thrilling yet overwhelming, especially when selling a luxury home in Toronto. In a competitive market, making the right choice requires a methodical approach. This guide breaks down the steps to help you select the best offer for your lifestyle needs.

Understand the Market

Toronto’s housing market is always buzzing with activity. Understanding the market trends can provide you with a backdrop against which to evaluate offers. Over the past year, luxury home sales in Toronto have experienced fluctuations, driven by various factors like interest rates and buyer demand. Having a real estate expert who understands these trends is crucial. They can offer insights on recent sales in your area, enabling you to set realistic expectations and better evaluate offers.

Prepare Your Home for Offers

Before you even start receiving offers, make sure your home stands out. This involves staging your home to highlight its best features. A beautifully presented home attracts more buyers and increases the probability of receiving multiple offers. While luxury homes often come with spectacular amenities, playing up these strengths can enhance buyer interest. Consider professional photography and virtual tours, especially for international buyers who may not view the home in person.

Setting a Competitive Price

It’s important to price your luxury home competitively. Your real estate agent can provide a comparative market analysis (CMA) to help you determine the right price. This analysis compares your home with similar homes that have recently been sold, are on the market, or were listed but didn’t sell. Setting a realistic price from the start can save time and increase chances of receiving earnest offers.

Evaluate Offers Carefully

When offers start coming in, it’s critical to evaluate them carefully. Here’s what to look at:

Offer Price

While a higher offer price can be appealing, it’s not the only factor to consider. Look at the net proceeds after closing costs and other expenses. Sometimes, the highest offer may not yield the highest profit after all costs are factored in.

Buyer Qualifications

Assess the buyers’ financial readiness. Are they pre-approved for a mortgage? Do they have a good financial history? Serious buyers readily provide this information. Verifying their financial status protects you from potential deal-closing hiccups.

Contingencies

Contingencies are conditions that must be met for the sale to proceed. Common contingencies include home inspections or financing. Fewer contingencies often make for a smoother transaction, though each one should be evaluated for its impact on the sale.

Consider the Timeline

Every buyer will propose a timeline for moving forward. Could you decide how soon you need to sell your home? Some buyers may offer quick closings, while others might need more time to secure financing or close on another property. Align the offer’s timeline with your schedule and plans, especially if you’re buying another property.

Consult with Your Real Estate Agent

Having a real estate agent by your side is invaluable, especially when navigating multiple offers. They can provide analysis and insights on offers, help in negotiations, and guide you through the complexities of closing a deal. Trust in their expertise ensures you make decisions based on well-examined facts rather than emotional reactions.

Balance Emotion and Logic

Selling a luxury home is not just a financial decision; it can be an emotional one. Maybe it’s where you watched your family grow or celebrated life’s milestones. While having an emotional attachment is natural, your choice should primarily be driven by logic and informed decision-making. Weigh all factors without letting emotions override rational judgment.

Next Steps After Accepting an Offer

Once you’ve selected an offer, the process isn’t over yet. Here’s what comes next:

Due Diligence and Inspections

The buyer will likely conduct inspections and appraisals. This is a standard part of due diligence. Be prepared for negotiations that might arise from these findings. Work with your agent to handle any requests or issues, ensuring both parties remain satisfied.

Finalizing the Deal

This stage involves your real estate lawyer. They’ll handle the paperwork, ensuring everything is for closing. This process could take a few weeks, when you may need to answer queries or provide additional documentation.

Celebrate and Move Forward

Closing the sale of your luxury home is a significant milestone. It marks the start of a new chapter. Whether you’re relocating, downsizing, or investing the proceeds into a new opportunity, celebrate this achievement.

Toronto’s real estate market is known for its high demand and limited supply. This means there are often more buyers than homes available. To succeed, buyers need to be well-prepared and proactive.

Get Your Finances in Order

• Please take a look at your budget, and start by understanding how much you can afford. It’s important to consider your income, savings, and any other financial commitments.
• Get Pre-Approved for a Mortgage: A mortgage pre-approval shows sellers that you are serious and ready to make a purchase. It can give you an edge in competitive situations.

Partner with a Skilled Real Estate Agent

• Find an Experienced Agent: Look for an agent who specializes in the Toronto area and knows the ins and outs of luxury real estate. They can provide invaluable insights and help you navigate the market.
• Leverage their Network: A good real estate agent has a network that can alert you to new listings as soon as they become available, sometimes even before they hit the public market.

Be Clear on Your Wants and Needs

• Prioritize Your Needs: Make a list of what you need in a home versus what you’d like to have. This will help you stay focused, especially when time is of the essence.
• Be Flexible: In a competitive market, being flexible can increase your chances of finding a home. Consider whether you can compromise on certain features or the neighborhood to widen your options.

Be Ready to Act Fast

• Stay Alert: Properties in Toronto can sell quickly. Staying informed and ready to act will help you seize the right opportunity when it arises.
• Make a Strong Offer: When you find a home you love, be prepared to make a strong offer right away. This includes being ready to meet or go above the asking price if needed.

Consider a Personal Touch

• Write a Personal Letter: Sometimes, a personal letter to the seller about why you love the home can make your offer stand out. It’s a simple gesture that can make a big difference.

Home Inspection

• Don’t Skimp on Inspections: While you may feel pressured to act quickly, never skip a home inspection. It gives you important information about the property’s condition and can save you money and stress in the long run.

Plan for Multiple Offers

• Prepare for Bidding Wars: Multiple offers are common in Toronto. Knowing your maximum offer price beforehand keeps you from making rushed decisions.
• Stay Calm and Objective: It’s easy to get emotionally attached, but keeping a level head is crucial. Remember, there are always more homes.

Use Technology to Your Advantage

• Set Alerts for New Listings: Many apps and websites allow you to receive notifications for new listings. This helps you stay ahead of the competition.
• Virtual Tours: If possible, attend virtual tours. They save time and allow you to assess whether you want to pursue a property further.

Consider Future Prospects

• Research Neighborhood Developments: Knowing about upcoming developments in a neighborhood can give you insights into its future appeal and value.
• Long-Term Considerations: Think about your future needs and whether the home will continue to meet those as your life changes.

Be Prepared and Informed!  Preparation and knowledge are your best tools in Toronto’s real estate market. You can find a home that meets your needs by understanding your finances, working with a skilled agent, and being ready to act quickly and strategically. Always keep a calm and thoughtful approach, and your journey to owning a home in Toronto can be a success.