There’s a lot that goes into a successful home sale—and often, staging is one of the most crucial steps. From more impressive showings to better listing photos, the process can provide some major benefits. While a growing number of sellers understand the value of staging, many remain unsure about how it works in the virtual realm. Fortunately, there’s never been a better time to learn about this technology than now!

If you’re preparing to sell your home, here’s what you should know about virtual staging…

Staging Basics

Many sellers believe that staging is all about upping a property’s style quotient. The truth is, there’s a lot more to it than that. Using a few basic building blocks (such as paint, furnishings, and artwork), an agent with the right expertise can pull together a beautiful, cohesive aesthetic.

A staged property should be chic enough to look contemporary, comfortable enough to feel like home, and subdued enough that it won’t turn off buyers who have their own distinct sense of style. When you find the right balance, it’s like magic.

Ultimately, staging helps you attract the largest possible number of buyers. That can mean more offers, a better price, and even a quicker sale (90 per cent faster on average, according to one RESA study).

What Is Virtual Staging?

While staging can come with some big advantages, embracing it fully isn’t always practical. In some cases, properties are empty when they go on the market—which can make it difficult for buyers to see their potential. In other situations, sellers don’t have enough time to go through the staging process (or it doesn’t make sense for them to do so logistically).

Then, of course, there’s the potential for health issues. The pandemic has shown us that home tours can come with some degree of risk. While the right precautions can make them safer, digital technology can also help by reducing the need to hold them in-person. And when it comes to showing properties online, virtual staging is the perfect complement!

Through the use of graphic software, it’s possible to insert pieces of furniture and decor into a living space—and even change the paint. Your real estate agent can help make that happen remotely.

When it comes to digital tools, we’re big fans of BoxBrownie.com. This online hub provides high-quality photo-enhancing and retouching services, including virtual staging. The resulting images are polished and inviting, which is important given that sub-par listing photos could mean fewer showing opportunities.

Though it’s not used for virtual staging per se, Wowzler.com can also contribute to the positive impression your home makes. This virtual-renovation company allows you to show buyers what your property could look like once the basement is finished and the kitchen cabinets are updated.

New Possibilities

The truth is, most homes could benefit from a handful of improvements and a few stylistic tweaks. While it’s not a replacement for the real thing, virtual staging can help buyers imagine the many possibilities of your property. Depending on your circumstances, it may be the most helpful and efficient way to start marketing.

Being open to suggestions is key. A skilled local agent can help you understand the level of styling best suited to your home—and whether going the virtual route could help you achieve your selling goals. Remember: it’s not about your personal design preferences. It’s about growing your buyer pool and (hopefully) your return!

While we’ve all experienced our fair share of frustration in recent months, there’s no shortage of things that make day-to-day life a pleasure. Food is one of them. Of course, it’s not just the act of eating that’s enjoyable. Preparing a meal can be a wonderful way to pass the time—especially when you have new recipes and the freshest ingredients at your disposal. That’s where meal kits come in.

Fortunately, some of the most exciting restaurants in Downtown Toronto want to make preparing delicious dishes a breeze! Here are five places offering elevated meal kits in the downtown core…

1) Barberian’s Steak House

Who doesn’t love Barberian’s? This steakhouse is a Toronto institution, and there’s a reason it’s been serving patrons for over 60 years. The ambiance and wine selection (there are over 30,000 bottles in the cellar) may be part of it, but most devotees go for the food! Fortunately, you can continue savouring the restaurant’s signature dishes (including dry-aged steaks, butchered in-house) during the pandemic.

Barberian’s meal kits, which change every week, are worth the $100 price tag (for two people). The cuts of meat are a thing of beauty—and the sides (which range from heavenly corn chowder to ready-to-roast Brussels sprouts) will leave you wanting seconds. You’ll also get exclusive cooking tips to walk you through the process—and help you become a masterful home chef.

2) Wvrst

Ready to order something a little different? Take a break from the pizza and pad thai to enjoy a hearty German feast. Wvrst serves up everything from pretzels to currywurst sausage to duck fat fries, not to mention a wide selection of brews and ciders.

Right now, it’s all available for delivery and pickup (along with pantry items such as preserved beets and potato salad). Get in touch to make an order from the Union Station location—then fire up the stove, fill up your plate, and let the craft beer flow!

3) Miku

As far as we’re concerned, Miku is one of the best Japanese eateries in the city—let alone downtown. Its gorgeous cuts of fish, combined with fresh and unexpected flavours, have made the restaurant’s kaiseki menu incredibly popular. Now it’s providing a must-try option to prepare at home.

You can order Miku’s Temaki Sushi Meal Kit through Loblaws. Assemble your handrolls using high-quality ingredients (which include spicy salmon, pickled daikon, and perfectly-prepared sushi rice, among others). For just $55—and a $5 delivery fee—you can get this bundle of deliciousness delivered straight to your door. (Oh, and for all you taco enthusiasts, there’s also a PC Chef’s Meal Kit from La Carnita, too).

4) General Assembly

While every night can’t be pizza night, we’re definitely big fans of the perfect savoury slice. That’s why we’re thrilled that Bay Street’s General Assembly is offering kits that allow us all to prepare its famous pies at home. Italian food lovers, rejoice!

We’re talking about a place that, according to Toronto Life, serves up the city’s “best pizza right now.” With naturally-leavened dough and truly inspired flavour combinations, it’s no wonder General Assembly has been recognized by the magazine. If you’re planning to order a kit tonight, you can’t go wrong with a classic: the margarita.

5) 852 Curbside Collective

If you’re looking for variety, check out 852 Curbside Collective. This group of local Toronto businesses is putting out an exciting selection of foods available for pickup. First off, there are the kits. From burgers to brunches to vegan picnic spreads, these bundles contain everything you need to whip up something impressive.

If you’re looking for prepared foods or pantry items, this collective on King West also has an online market. Enticing options include fennel and ale vegan sausages, bake-at-home miso cinnamon buns, and Asian caesar salad (think nori and sesame seeds). Need we say more?

Are you ready to find the perfect home within walking distance to the best restaurants in Downtown Toronto? Reach out to learn how we can help you purchase your perfect place!

In my first years in Real Estate, the look that was selling was white walls, shag carpeting and exposed brick. As a matter of fact, we did not call the purveyors of that formula “builders”, we called them “WHITE PAINTERS”. However, it was a look that sold and it seems that in the past years we have seen “White” come and go, “Shag carpeting” has returned, exposed brick has been covered by stucco and now Stucco is being replaced with brick. Architectural staircases and Victorian detail in principal rooms are being forced out by totally open-concept and wall-less main floors.

It seems that every 5 to 10 years there is a new look adopted by the buying public. As a realtor, it is a constant challenge to keep abreast of the “Latest Look”. Luckily we now have companies like BoxBrownie.com and Wowzler.com to assist. BoxBrownie can take existing photos, change colours in the existing photos and virtually stage them. Wowzler can show your clients what an existing home can look like updated with a fresh stylish renovation. These are great assists to us these days. As a realtor, it does not take long to realize that as much as we love our clients, there are few that can see past evident challenges.

For instance…We have a wonderful listing at 2 Indian Grove in Toronto’s High Park that has what I would consider a timeless architectural design, by a prominent International Architect, John Patkau. There is a wonderful staircase centred below skylights that rises up three floors allowing natural sunlight to bathe what would have probably been a darker home. That staircase is presently painted a teal blue which with the white walls and ceilings really accentuate the architectural detail. However, after one of the recent showings, a comment was made that the Teal Blue was overpowering and that the buyer would have wanted more white. BoxBrownie to the rescue and now “We Need Your Vote”.

Feel free to comment, or email us with your thoughts!

It’s no secret that Toronto is a mecca for young professionals. With incredible employment opportunities, an abundance of housing options, and an almost endless number of things to do, this city is tailor-made for the youthful and ambitious. Of course, some areas are better suited to those who are building a career—and enjoying the perks of urban living—than others.

Here are five of best areas to live in Toronto for young professionals…

1) Yonge-Eglinton

Much of the population of Yonge-Eglinton works in the area. That’s really not surprising, given that the neighbourhood has one of the highest employment densities in the city!

Residents here skew younger, and that’s reflected in the lively amenities you’ll find nearby. Trendy local eateries (like Bar Buca and Grazie Restorante) and eclectic boutiques (such as the Drake General Store and Eko for contemporary jewellery) abound. While you’ll find everything you need in the neighbourhood, travelling to other parts of the city is convenient thanks to the Eglinton subway station.

2) Distillery District

Gorgeous, turn-of-the-century architecture. Lively local businesses. An abundance of galleries, festivals, and outdoor events. Who wouldn’t want to live in the Distillery District? While this vibrant area draws buyers of all stripes, it’s a particularly good fit for young professionals.

The Distillery District’s one-of-a-kind developments are ideal if you want to embrace condo living—without resorting to a cookie-cutter unit. Its central location makes getting downtown a breeze, and there’s an incredible selection of local places to grab a coffee, enjoy a cocktail. or savour an incredible meal. The neighbourhood also hosts a Christmas Market that’s one of the city’s biggest annual attractions!

3) Cabbagetown

If you’re looking for residential charm without the commute, there’s no better place to be than Cabbagetown. This east-end community—with its revamped Victorian homes—is pretty, peaceful, and relatively close to downtown.

Locals grab their morning fix at Jet Fuel Coffee or It’s Jenny Espresso Boutique. Those who have a car and work downtown enjoy a less than 10-minute drive to the office. After work, amateur chefs check out the incredible selection of specialty foods at the Epicure Shop, while fitness enthusiasts hit up the Pam McConnell Aquatic Centre.

4) Liberty Village

West of downtown, Liberty Village is an ultra-convenient neighbourhood known for its young and vibrant population—and for being condo central. If you’re looking for a shiny new unit, you’ll find plenty of options here.

For many buyers, the biggest perk of living in and around Liberty Street is being close to the office. That usually means one of the creative agencies, startups, or other small businesses in the area’s converted warehouses and factories. The neighbourhood is also known for its hip eateries (like Mildred’s Temple Kitchen) and watering holes (think Liberty Commons Brewery).

5) King West

It might be the king of all neighbourhoods for young professionals. If you work in one of the area’s corporate offices, you’ll enjoy the convenience of living in King West. You’ll also appreciate its condo price tags, which tend to be a little lower than what you’ll find right downtown.

Buzz-worthy restaurants (like Ascari and the Green Wood), along with enticing pubs and nightclubs, line the neighbourhood’s main drag. Having the Entertainment District nearby means residents never have to endure a boring night, while the King streetcar ensures that they have no trouble getting to other parts of city when need be.

If you’re young, ambitious, and looking for a Toronto neighbourhood that will perfectly suit your lifestyle, your options are almost unlimited. By carefully considering your needs and exploring your options, you can find the ideal place to call home.

Have you got another neighbourhood that you consider to be one of the best areas to live in Toronto for young professionals? Let us know!

When you’re ready to find the right place, we’re here to help. Reach out to learn how we can ensure that your transition is as smooth as possible.

Introduction to Downsizing Your Home

Are you ready to downsize your home? Whether you’re looking to cut back on expenses or you’re seeking a lower-maintenance lifestyle, committing to life in a smaller space can be truly empowering. While the downsizing process may seem daunting, it doesn’t have to be. Careful planning and expert advice can help ensure that your transition is as smooth as possible.

Here are five tips for making your downsizing journey a success…

1) Embrace the opportunity

Many homeowners see downsizing as a negative thing, and that’s understandable. Unfortunately, we live in a culture where bigger is often seen as better. The truth is, a smaller space can mean a less cluttered existence, a lower-stress day-to-day, and even a clearer head!

For this reason, we like to think of taking on less square footage as “rightsizing.” It’s not about living a smaller life. It’s about finding a place that matches your current lifestyle—and making the most of the space you do have. Plus, it’s the perfect opportunity to try a brand new aesthetic on for size!

2) Start decluttering early

Sifting through years (or even decades) of belongings takes time. While you may be tempted to put it off, waiting until you have a week or two to move is far from ideal. From the bedroom closet to the junk drawer to the attic, you almost certainly have more stuff to sort through than you think.

Then there are the logistics. Coordinating pick-up and drop-off times can be a hassle, which is why you’ll want to call local donation centres as early as possible. Ideally, you should give yourself a few weeks—or even a couple of months—to pare down your possessions.

Click here to read our comprehensive guide to Rightsizing

3) Make it fit

Part of the downsizing (or “rightsizing”) process is making sure everything you decide to keep will fit nicely in your new home. This is the time to break out your measuring tape and start recording the dimensions of your furniture and major appliances—along with the rooms in any property you’re thinking of buying.

Remember: the last thing you want is to feel boxed-in. As part of your fresh start, you should have plenty of space to move freely. With that in mind, try to plan for a foot and a half (at the very least) between large pieces of furniture. If the fit is going to be tight, think about opting for more compact pieces.

4) Work together

There’s no doubt that getting organized is a big job—one that can be both stressful and time-consuming. Luckily, sharing the experience with people you care about can make it not just tolerable, but fun.

Enlisting the aid of loved ones can help you turn your decluttering spree into a time to reminisce and enjoy one another’s company. While you do that, take a moment to honour your possessions and the memories attached to them—whether you decide to let them go or not.

Of course, there are also times when it makes more sense to get through the process as efficiently as possible. When that’s the case, finding a professional downsizer may be helpful.

5) Display your memories

While a lot of possessions can be purged without a second thought, some are precious. Downsizing gives you the opportunity to think about them all—and decide which ones can help make your new living space a home.

The photos in your box under the bed could make for a tasteful gallery wall. Your family heirlooms could find their perfect home on a floating shelf in the living room.

The truth is that even brand new decor you love can feel a little cold until you warm it up. Once you decide which personal touches you’ll want to transfer over to your new property, you’ll begin to feel more comfortable parting with the rest!

When you’re ready to start the downsizing process, we’re here to help. Reach out to learn how we can ensure that your transition is as smooth as possible.

One of the greatest things about Toronto is its vibrant arts and culture scene, and the street art is a big part of it. Turning the grey walls into bright pieces of art, graffiti have become part and parcel of Toronto’s urban landscape. And Torontonians are absolutely loving it! Their Instagram feeds are bursting with pictures from Toronto street art. We’ve chosen the top 10 most popular Toronto murals on Instagram to help you find the best destination for your next photo walk.

1. Graffiti Alley

Graffiti Alley, also known as Rush Lane, is a home for, perhaps, the most popular collection of street art in Toronto. The alley is located between Queen St. and Richmond St. and its walls are covered with graffiti from top to bottom.

A post shared by Madi ? (@_mmwhite) on Sep 28, 2017 at 10:24am PDT

Photo by _mmwhite

2. Underpass Park

Underpass Park is a unique community park located under the Eastern Avenue, Richmond and Adelaide overpasses. It used to be just a neglected underpass before revitalization project by Waterfront Toronto transformed it into a beautiful and hip public space.

A post shared by viv lynch (@rabbit_hearts) on Oct 13, 2017 at 10:06am PDT

Photo by rabbit_hearts

3. Kensington Market

Kensington Market is one of the most eclectic and vibrant neighbourhoods in Toronto, and probably the most photographed one too. And the beautiful street art of Kensington Market definitely adds to its charm.

A post shared by Trevor (@trevor_york) on Jun 20, 2017 at 3:35pm PDT

Photo by trevor_york

4. Bloor St. W and Howland St.

This beautiful mural is a creation of a Toronto based street artist Nick Sweetman. As part of the city’s StreetARToronto (START) program, he worked on this mural as a tribute to the National Pollinator Week to support the protection of the dying off bees.

A post shared by Sasha (@indulgence.project) on Jul 25, 2017 at 8:25pm PDT

Photo by indulgence.project

5. Bloor St. West and Shaw St.

The eye-catching “Make Good” graffiti is located on a side of the building of Studio 835 – a hip artist center for designers, artists, musicians, photographers and film-makers. This stunning mural serves as an inspiration not only for the artists from Studio 835 but also for Instagrammers.

A post shared by CC (@1lyf.2_liv) on Oct 15, 2017 at 6:57pm PDT

Photo by 1lyf.2_liv

6. Barbara Hall Park

It seems logical that this graffiti is located in a park named after Barbara Hall – the first Toronto mayor to march in the Pride Parade. You can find Barbara Hall park with its beautiful murals and cute rainbow lights near the intersection of Church St. and Wellesley St.

A post shared by Nagraj (@nmsalian) on Oct 14, 2017 at 10:21am PDT

Photo by nmsalian

7. Gerrard India Bazaar

Toronto’s “Little  India”, or Gerrard India Bazaar is located in Leslieville, one of the trendiest neighbourhoods in Toronto. India Bazaar is the largest South Asian Market Place in North America and it has its own unique vibe and its stunning graffiti are a part of it.

A post shared by Ĵøs€° Aɭѵɑrez ♥☆! ? (@nonelikejose) on Sep 1, 2017 at 6:37pm PDT

Photo by nonelikejose

8. Bathurst and Harbord

If you go for a nice walk in Toronto’s Annex, make sure you don’t miss this spot. You can find this colourful bear graffiti on the wall of the funky teahouse and board games spot Bampot on the corner of Harbord and Bathurst. You can continue following the James Hales Lane to see more beautiful murals painted in a similar style.

A post shared by Toronto West Street Art (@torontoweststreetart) on Aug 5, 2016 at 5:54am PDT

Photo by torontoweststreetart. Check out more stunning photos on her Toronto Street Art blog.

9. Toronto Carpet Factory

This stunning mural is painted near the heritage building of Toronto Carpet Factory in Liberty village. The graffiti has become one of the favourite backgrounds for Torontonians’ wedding photos! Not to mention the building itself is spectacular. Built between 1899 and the 1920s as an actual carpet factory, it is now repurposed as a creative office space. You can find the carpet graffiti at the back wall of the School restaurant on the intersection of Fraser Avenue and Liberty Street.

A post shared by Jane Miranda (@diaries_of_jane) on Nov 2, 2016 at 2:31pm PDT

Photo by diaries_of_jane

10. Dundas West

You can find this and several more murals at Dundas and Brock in Toronto’s Little Portugal. On the photo is one of the two murals unveiled in July 2017 and painted by the indigenous Mapuche artists from Chile – Paula Ferrer and Aner Urra. This graffiti was created to honour Violeta Parra, a Chilean singer-songwriter and activist.

A post shared by Toronto Murals (@muralstoronto) on Sep 23, 2017 at 9:19am PDT

Photo by muralstoronto

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