The day I met my buyers was the day they had just received confirmation from the doctor they were expecting their first child. Wow! What a way to start your house hunt, eh?

Comfortable with their urbane mise en scene, my buyers first thought was to remain in their Queen West neighbourhood which felt very much like home. It’s entirely understandable as most people locate within a few kilometres of their existing residence. And why not? You’re already familiar with the amenities, the commute and the comfort. However, like a lot of my clients transitioning from a couples life into the family way, I encouraged them to consider a location that better suited the next chapter of their lives…an area that had a great park, a super school, fantastic shopping and loads of other young families who would ultimately become part of their social and support network. Plus, if they went a little further outside the downtown core they’d be able to purchase more house for their dollar which could effectively pre-empt the need for a future move!

Case in point was this two-and-a-half storey Victorian row house located in Roncesvalles Village a hop, skip and a jump from Sorauren Park. This property listed and sold firm for $649,900 within three days of coming to market.

While I haven’t verified this bit of information, an area resident was telling me last week that Roncesvalles Village now has the highest density of ‘under 5 year old children’ in all of Canada. This wouldn’t surprise me, as this vibrant neighbourhood has become stroller central. It’s an absolutely amazing location for family life, especially given it’s an easy commute to the central business district for working moms and dads.

This particular property was sensational value. Formerly a two-unit property, the previous owners had renovated the main floor unit into a family friendly house with a convenient main level powder room and a spacious breathtaking kitchen complete with tin ceiling and farmhouse sink. Renovated with style and panache, very little work was required on this level. On the second floor, my buyers loved the open concept former living/dining area that once comprised the upper unit. This space serves as a children’s play area and their company office space. This second level also has a bedroom with sundeck and a four-piece washroom. And located on the third floor are a further two bedrooms.

With the patina of yesteryear including plaster moldings, vintage floors and generous ceiling heights, this former five bedroom Victorian with laneway access had all the right ingredients for a first family home. It’s in a dynamite location, has loads of room to grow into, and it truly felt like “Home”. How fantastic is that?

If you or someone you love is seeking a Home like this, please know I welcome guiding buyers with their real estate needs. With a Canadian Social History Degree that includes a forte in Toronto’s 42 village neighbourhoods – from The Beach to Kingsway, Downtown to Uptown – I would be delighted to assist helping find the perfect home in the ideal location.

~ Steven

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