The Power to Move You October 2023 by tbrealtygroup

THE REALTY GROUP

theTBrealtygroup.com

OCTOBER 2023

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OCTOBER 2023 FEATURES 5

What our clients say

About our team

Multiplex Makeover - From a single-family downtown Toronto dwelling to 10 rental units

Mississauga Real Estate Board - September

September market update

Home Suite Home - A Bay Area bedroom gets a dreamy makeover

What can we do for you

Why we work by referral

US real estate remains attractive for Canadian buyers

Buying and selling at the same time

La dolce vita - Florence, Italy

Haunted Pumpkin Patch Margarita

Brown Butter Pumpkin, Tortellini Alla Vodka

Why fall is the ideal season to sell your home

OAF - Locale King City Reviewed by Julia

OAF - Colossus Greek Taverna Reviewed by Theresa Baird

When you put others first, you will never be second

PROPERTIES

11 Highland Park Drive, Dundas For Sale

1291 Glenayr Gate, Oakville For Lease

9084 Falling Leaf, Florida For Sale

65 Port Street, Mississauga Sold

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Dear Fantastic Readers, It’s that time of year when we’re knee-deep in pumpkin spice everything and crunching leaves beneath our feet. The October 2023 edition of Power to Move You is here to add a touch of fall-flavoured fun to your real estate and lifestyle adventures! Our Features section is where the magic happens, and this month, it’s brimming with stories that light up the real estate world. You know it’s going to be a good read when clients spill the beans in “What our clients say.” It’s like peeking behind the curtain to see the wizard at work. Rest assured, our team is making real estate dreams come true, one satisfied client at a time. “About our team” introduces the real MVPs – our fabulous crew! We firmly believe in the power of personalities, and our team is here to sprinkle a little stardust on your real estate journey. Let’s talk makeover madness in “Multiplex Makeover.” We’re taking a single-family home in downtown Toronto and turning it into ten captivating rental units. It’s like the ultimate home makeover show, but without the TV drama. Mississauga, we’re shining the spotlight on you! The “Mississauga Real Estate Board - September” update and our “September market update” have all the juicy deets to keep you in the loop and ahead of the curve. Design aficionados, prepare to have your creative juices flowing with “Home Suite Home.” We’re jetting off to the Bay Area to give a bedroom a dreamy makeover. You’ll be bursting with ideas for your next DIY project in no time. If you’ve ever dreamt of owning a piece of the American dream, “US real estate remains attractive for Canadian buyers” is your golden ticket to understanding the cross-border allure of US properties. Real estate juggling is no easy feat, but “Buying and selling at the same time” is your trusty guide for navigating the real estate circus like a pro. Want a quick escape? “La dolce vita - Florence, Italy” whisks you away to the charming streets of Florence. It’s like a mini-vacation within the pages of our magazine. But wait, there’s more! Our culinary adventure gets a Halloween twist with the “Haunted Pumpkin Patch Margarita.” Sip on a little spookiness and add some chill to your evening. For the foodies among us, we’ve cooked up a delightful treat: “Brown Butter Pumpkin Tortellini Alla Vodka.” This dish tastes like fall on a plate. “Why fall is the ideal season to sell your home” is a page-turner for anyone thinking of selling this season. Find out why autumn is the perfect backdrop for your real estate story. And now, for the foodie fun. Our OAF (Out And About Foodie) segments, “Locale King City” reviewed by Julia and “Colossus Greek Taverna” reviewed by yours truly, promise to tantalize your taste buds. We’re eating our way through the town, one scrumptious review at a time. Lastly, “When you put others first, you will never be second” is a heartwarming reminder that kindness is the real secret sauce of life. Our Properties section is like a real estate treasure hunt: “11 Highland Park Drive, Dundas For Sale”: A property waiting for its next lucky owner. “1291 Glenayr Gate, Oakville For Lease”: The perfect rental opportunity in Oakville. “9084 Falling Leaf, Florida For Sale”: Your dream in the Sunshine State. “65 Port Street, Mississauga Sold”: Celebrating a successful sale in Mississauga. So, grab a cozy blanket, your favourite warm beverage, and dive into this October issue of Power to Move You. We’re here to inspire you, inform you, and add a touch of fun to your real estate journey. As the world of real estate keeps turning, we’re dedicated to keeping you informed and entertained. Wishing you a season filled with laughter, colourful leaves, and exciting opportunities. Happy reading! Warm regards,

Theresa Baird Broker Keller Williams Real Estate Associates, Brokerage 103 Lakeshore Road East, Mississauga 647-298-0997 | tbaird@tbaird.com

REALTY GROUP theTBrealtygroup.com

Your Home Sold GUARANTEED Or I’ll Buy It!* * Some conditions apply. Inquire for details.

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WHAT OUR CLIENTS SAY SECURED A TENANT FOR MY RENTAL PROPERTY WITHIN 24 HOURS Wow! Theresa and her team managed to set a new record! I have been working with Theresa’s team for a few years now. They were able to secure a tenant for my rental property within 24 hours. The previous record they held was 48 hours for reference. I’m always super happy with her communication and recommendations. Her advise is always on trend with the ever-changing market situations. I look forward to working with her team for year to come. - Marc D.

HUGE THANK YOU! Well, we are still busy packing. How is it, this is such an endless job. And it’s been crazy over the last two days. So sorry I haven’t reached out sooner with a huge thank you! Our dream house is beyond our dream house. I can’t get over how great the place makes us feel - I am instantly at home. And it only proves how important and impactful your environment is. Yesterday when we were there we saw a coyote in the backyard. Then we saw a rabbit - thank goodness it was in that order. I’ll be putting my desk together and can’t wait to have that view for work. So thank you again, from the bottom of our hearts. We were a little nervous when we weren’t finding anything that makes us go wow - and then questioned...Yikes , are we doing the right thing? Oh my goodness - did we ever to the right thing!

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- Irene and Matt

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About our team At the TB Realty Group, we take great pride in being a dedicated group of professional realtors who strive to deliver the best possible service to our clients. Our team is passionate about inspiring and sharing the lifestyle that comes along with buying or selling a property, regardless of price point. With decades of combined real estate experience, we have the knowledge and expertise to provide exceptional representation and expert negotiation, all while building the long-lasting relationships and trusted partnerships that set us apart. As members of the Keller Williams Luxury Brand, we have access to a global network allowing us to reach buyers not only locally but also internationally through our affiliation with Who’s Who in Luxury Marketing. This gives our clients a distinct advantage in the competitive world of real estate. Our team is there through every step of the real estate process, holding ourselves accountable to the highest standard of integrity and always placing our client’s interests above all else. We ensure that the experience of buying, selling, or investing in real estate is as easy as possible. By prioritizing our client’s needs we work hard to exceed expectations and are committed to going above and beyond to provide an unmatched level of customer service. We are developing relationships that last a lifetime and invite you to take this journey with us!

CLICK HERE TO MEET THE TEAM

REALTY GROUP theTBrealtygroup.com

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Multiplex Makeover

From a single-family downtown Toronto dwelling to 10 rental units Toronto just loosened its zoning rules around multi-unit dwellings. Multiplexes like this one could make renting in the city more affordable. In 2019, Toronto architect Craig Race received a whopper of a proposal: convert a single-family home into 10 rental units. The ask came from real estate developer Leonid Kotov, founder of GreenStreet Flats, a construction firm that focuses on small-scale residential developments. GreenStreet had purchased a 2,000 square-foot, three bedroom, two-bathroom house on Howland Avenue, close to Casa Loma. The company’s ambitious plan for the three-storey residence—which occupied one half of a double-wide lot—was to divide the interior into four apartments, build an exact replica on the left side of the property, then tack on a laneway suite out back.

To Race, all that construction sounded like the easy part. The real challenge with making multiplexes in Toronto circa 2019 was red tape. Conversion of this sort required an onerous application process with the City’s Committee of Adjustment, one that exposed applicants to appeals from neighbours and frequently resulted in construction plans being outright scrapped. “We would rarely receive requests to build apartments with more than three units because very few developers had the patience for them—many neighbours weren’t keen on new residents crowding their street, which was a shame,” says Race, who had completed roughly a dozen such multiplex conversions prior to the

By Alex Cyr. Photography by Craig Race. Source: https://macleans.ca/economy/realestateeconomy/greenstreet-toronto-multiplex/ Power to Move You

Howland project. “I thought then, and still do now, that more multiplexes would make living in this city far more affordable.” As predicted, the Howland project eventually got the city’s stamp of approval, but not before being delayed by what Race calls “lengthy and specious” appeals from neighbours. Complaints ranged from the building’s deviating from the area’s majority single-family aesthetic to worries about street parking and its impact on laneway traffic. The project’s construction finally resumed this past May, when the City of Toronto loosened its zoning bylaws, newly permitting the construction of as-of-right multiplexes containing up to four units—no committee oversight (or neighbourly nuisance) involved. Once the multiplex makeover was underway, the first objective was to gut the existing house down to its bones, build an addition into the backyard and section the home into four 800- to 1,000-square-foot, two-bedroom apartments: one in the basement, one on the main floor and two upstairs. The team also fully greened the home, wrapping it in continuous insulation and installing a high-efficiency HVAC system—additions that reduce the home’s average energy consumption by 40 per cent. The team mirrored all the specs on the home’s left side, then added an 800-square-foot stucco-covered laneway suite, with two bedrooms and a bathroom. Aside from its multiple mailboxes and four visible front doors, the multiplex blends in seamlessly with the rest of the neighbourhood. The laneway suite features a 10

pop of personality: a flowery mural painted by Toronto street artist Chris Perez, one of Race’s favourite parts of the whole property. “Laneway suites often get tagged in this area,” he says. “There are two ways to deal with that: buy expensive graffiti-proof cladding material or just tag it yourself.” Not counting the litany of appeals, the Howland multiplex took 16 months to complete. Race says that since Toronto’s bylaw change back in May, his firm has been approached by many small and medium-sized developers who want to undertake their own house conversions, not counting the dozen multiplex projects currently in development in various neighbourhoods around Toronto. (Some are on lots as narrow as 15 feet.) Race says builders are particularly drawn to the fourplex-with-laneway-suite model—or, in developer-speak, “The Four Plus One”—because of how quickly they can come together. Race, Kotov and their teams put the finishing touches on the multiplex earlier this summer, then listed each of the 10 units between $2,500 and $4,180. The property will be fully tenanted by October 1 by a diverse mix of residents that includes students, couples and young families. “The idea was to create five units that appealed to a broad spectrum of renters—people who need a rental but have struggled to find available, quality units in the city,” he says. Race predicts that it won’t be long before larger developers produce multiplexes by the hundreds across the country, filling what he calls “the missing middle.” Power to Move You

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CLICK HERE TO VIEW THE FULL MARKET UPDATE 12

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The TB Realty Group September 2023 market update The impact of high borrowing costs, high inflation, uncertainty surrounding future Bank of Canada decisions and slower economic growth continued to weigh on Greater Toronto Area (GTA) home sales in September. However, despite the market being better-supplied with listings, the average selling price was up year-over-year. “The short and medium-term outlooks for the GTA housing market are very different. In the short term, the consensus view is that borrowing costs will remain elevated until mid-2024, after which they will start to trend lower. This suggests that we should start to see a marked uptick in demand for ownership housing in the second half of next year, as lower rates and record population growth spur an increase in buyers,” said TRREB President Paul Baron. REALTORS® reported 4,642 home sales through TRREB’s MLS® System in September 2023 – down 7.1 per cent compared to September 2022. The year-over-year dip in sales was more pronounced for ground-oriented homes, particularly semi-detached houses and townhouses. On a month-over-month seasonally-adjusted basis, sales were also down slightly. New listings were up strongly on a year-over-year basis from the extremely low level in September 2022. The number of listings also trended upward on a month-overmonth seasonally adjusted basis. The MLS® Home Price Index (HPI) Composite benchmark was up by 2.4 per cent year-over-year. The average selling price was up by three per cent over the same time period. On a month-over-month seasonally-ad-

justed basis, both the average selling price and the MLS® HPI Composite benchmark edged lower by less than one per cent. “GTA home selling prices remain above the trough experienced early in the first quarter of 2023. However, we did experience more balanced market in the summer and early fall, with listings increasing noticeably relative to sales. This suggests that some buyers may benefit from more negotiating power, at least in the short term. This could help offset the impact of high borrowing costs,” said TRREB Chief Market Analyst Jason Mercer. “TRREB’s annual consumer polling has shown that half of intending home buyers in Toronto will be first-time buyers in any given year. The average price of a condo apartment in Toronto is over $700,000. Yet, the firsttime buyer exemption threshold for the City’s upfront land transfer tax has remained at $400,000 for a decade-and-a-half. With this in mind, TRREB applauds Toronto City Council for asking City staff to provide a report on a more appropriate exemption level moving forward,” said TRREB CEO John DiMichele. He further stressed that “many housing and taxation policies are currently set in opposition and we need all levels of government to align policies and work together to solve this housing crisis.”

Source: The Toronto Regional Real Estate Board Power to Move You

Home Suite Home - A Bay area bedroom gets a dreamy makeover Most couples spend the day after their wedding on a honeymoon. Sacha and Melissa Leclair spent it redecorating their home. “After showcasing our space online, friends started asking us for help,” says Sacha Leclair. Pro bono work led to paying clients and eventually, the establishment of Leclair Decor, the couple’s Ottawa-based design firm that serves North America. “The space was a blank slate,” says Leclair. “The vision was a bright, airy, and most of all, cozy space that our clients could retreat to at the end of a busy day.” The U-shaped architecture of the home offers a natural masterpiece outside each window. Framed by an existing set of French doors, the primary bedroom’s floating sitting area was designed to maximize views. With so much of the home simultaneously visible, the Leclairs were intentional in utilizing complementary design elements and pieces.

With a particular focus in new builds and highend remodels, Sacha and Melissa were the ideal team for this San Francisco Bay Area refresh. The homeowners were a young family looking to add both personality and functionality to their space - basically, says Leclair, “make it feel like a home.” It was imperative the redesign fit the family’s active lifestyle while leaving room for growth. The sandy, neutral palette is a nod to the project’s location, coupled with easy-to-care-for natural

By Victoria Hittner. Photography by Yoni Sambo Source: https://article.homebydesign.com/pages/article/HBD_AUG_23_07/275454/index.html#

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fibers and textiles befitting a beachy abode. Wool, for example, pops up frequently throughout the home. “It’s the most luxurious material,” explains the designer, “[and] it’s natural and offers tons of textural interest.”

“Everything in our projects is hand-selected by our design team and comes from all over the world,” says Leclair. Many of the standout pieces featured in this Bay Area design, like the large area rug, came from their own inventory.

“We wanted to highlight the coastal aesthetic without going too far in that direction,” notes Leclair. “To achieve that, we juxtaposed those coastal touches with clean, modern lines to create a balanced, inviting space.”

The eye-catching Mollino chandelier suspended between the sleeping and seating areas - a team favourite “for its plaster, textured finish and soft glow”- is one such piece. “Lighting is a huge part of all our designs,” notes Leclair. “Our focus is on layering lighting to suit a space’s many functions.”

And while the Leclair team’s work can be seen throughout the entire house, the primary bedroom suite showcases the best of their vision: a cozy, sophisticated retreat with room to relax and recoup. The home is shaped like a U, curled around a central courtyard that links the primary bedroom to both the dining room and family room. Existing architectural elements like vaulted ceilings and expansive windows begged for an airy, organic aesthetic. In the primary suite, this meant maximizing the view and placement of the French doors leading to the courtyard. The designers strategically placed a seating area looking outside, providing the perfect spot to savor a morning coffee or sip a nightcap. “We love creating different zones with furniture to really maximize the use of space, like the seating area that floats at the foot of the bed/bench,” explains Leclair. “The key to making that work is to align your zones [with] one another.” The Leclairs created that balance by centering the seating area with both the bed and entry door. An oversize wool rug from the couple’s own retailer, LD Shoppe, visually links the sleeping and seating areas together. Focal pieces like the made-to-order headboard and frame from Restoration Hardware and textured-wood side table from LD Shoppe help anchor the individual areas.

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With plenty of natural light, the designers needed few fixtures to brighten the bedroom. The room’s earthy tones keep the space feeling airy, while greenery ushers the serenity of the courtyard beyond the French doors. To prevent plants from overwhelming a room, the designer recommends mixing a variety of natural elements like dried branches and flowers, in addition to fresh sprigs, like the seeded Eucalyptus seen on the curved side table. A shiplap wall adds depth and dimension without compromising the urban, beachy feel. The space’s cool aesthetic is carried behind the wall and into the ensuite bathroom, where a black-and-white wallpaper - Enso Waves by Eijffinger - adds a splash of coastal sophistication. Modern prints and metallic finishes complement the mirror and artwork found in the primary room. It’s that careful attention to detail that makes the suite feel elevated, yet practical enough for everyday use and enjoyment. Ultimately, Leclair and his team created a space that became home. “We want our clients to feel inspired every time they walk into their door,” he says. “Everyone’s home should be a space of calm, peace, and rejuvenation, and a beautifully designed, harmonious space can help achieve that feeling.”

FOR SALE - HOT NEW PRICE

11 HIGHLAND PARK DRIVE, DUNDAS

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Whether you love nature, shopping, food, history, or all of the above, the charming town of Dundas should be on everyone’s bucket list. This picturesque town offers an array of activities for all ages and interests. Steeped in history, the downtown is filled with one-of-a-kind boutiques and eateries in a setting that combines old-world charm and new-world vibrancy. Located on the west end of Hamilton, it’s a short scenic drive from Oakville and Burlington. From hiking and cycling to downtown shopping and al fresco dining, there are so many ways to fill your day! CLICK HERE TO VIEW THIS LISTING

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Nestled within one of Dundas’ most coveted neighbourhoods, this charming two-story family home is easy to love. With fabulous views of the pool and professionally landscaped backyard from every bedroom window, you will instantly appreciate the true pride of ownership that has gone into its design. Situated conveniently near amenities, schools, conservation trails, and highways, this impeccably maintained residence has it all.

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U.S. real estate remains attractive for Canadian buyers Just as Canadians enthusiastically travelled back to the United States once borders re-opened, they also began investing in U.S. real estate again. In fact, based on the 2022 International Transactions in U.S. Residential Real Estate report published by the National Association of REALTORS®, Canadians spent $6.6 billion on U.S. real estate purchases in 2022, continuing to be one of the largest groups of foreign U.S. property buyers (10%). Despite interest rate increases, U.S. homes remain affordable for Canadians. While the inventory of homes for sale in the U.S. is well below pre-pandemic levels, there were 48.3% more homes for sale in April 2023 compared to the same time last year, according to the realtor. com April 2023 Monthly Housing Market Trends Report. And in the 50 largest metro areas, the number of homes for sale increased by 52.7%. Yes, housing markets continue to face challenges as affordability headwinds endure, but according to the Fannie Mae Home Purchase Sentiment Index 64% of respondents feel that now is a good time to sell in the United States. The median sales price for an existing home was $430,000 USD in April, up from $424,000 USD in

March (however, this is down from a record high of $449,000 USD in June of last year). The median list price represents a yearly growth rate of only 2.85% – the lowest rate of growth since April 2020. While U.S. buyers aren’t feeling particularly keen to purchase in 2023 (only 22% said now is a good time to buy), the market environment is attractive to Canadian buyers who have their eye on U.S. property. Here’s why: While homes in Canada are slightly more affordable than they used to be, they are still out of reach for many buyers. The ability to pay off a mortgage in full without penalty is a considerable benefit for Canadians who

Source: https://www.creacafe.ca/u-s-real-estate-remains-attractive-for-canadian-buyers/

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have limited access to this opportunity back home. It’s easier than ever for Canadians to get a mortgage in the U.S., with some lenders taking Canadian credit history into account. While the CAD to USD exchange rate isn’t favourable for Canadians at the moment, easy access to financing reduces the upfront impact of foreign exchange. Despite higher interest rates, buying a home in the U.S. is still more affordable than it was a few years ago. Average home prices, while strong in key U.S. locations, remain lower than prices in some Canadian markets. Florida remains the top purchase destination Florida has long been a prime destination for Canadian short-term vacationers and snowbirds who enjoy an extended winter stay. As temperatures dip north of the border, the Sunshine State’s warm weather broadens its appeal to Canadians. So, when it comes to purchasing real estate, it’s not surprising that Florida is again top of the list for Canadians. According to CREA’s 2021 International Activity in Canadian Real Estate Report, the U.S. is the top location for Canadians looking to buy abroad (at 39%) and the top location remains Florida for those buyers. 72 million people visit Orlando each year. Aside from weather considerations, one of the reasons Florida remains so attractive to Canadian buyers is its affordability – particularly in Orlando and Central Florida. This reality, combined with the considerable short-term rental zoning in Orlando, makes the area particularly appealing for those looking to 26

purchase investment properties. Buyers interested in purchasing a short-term rental will want to confirm the terms with the Homeowners Association, as they can vary across properties. Other areas to watch include Arizona, where cities on the west side of the Valley of the Sun are up and coming. There’s a lot of construction happening in that region, and it’ is one of the more affordable areas for buyers in that state. Canadians are primarily buying vacation properties According to CREA’s report 78% of Canadian buyers of U.S. real estate purchase a property for use as both a vacation home and/or a rental unit/investment property. While most Canadian buyers purchase detached single -family homes in the U.S., they also purchase condominiums. This is likely because their properties are primarily used for vacations. As Theresa knows, the real estate market both north and south of the border is complicated and trends are difficult to predict. While interest rates, home prices, inflation and other broad economic conditions may have thrown a wrench into some buyers’ plans, there continue to be opportunities for some. The bottom line is that Canadians are back to buying U.S. real estate again, and – they just need some guidance from experienced Realtors® like Theresa Baird, who can partner with them through the exciting journey. Power to Move You

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FOR LEASE - HOT NEW PRICE

1291 GLENAYR GATE, OAKVILLE

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This exquisite end-unit townhome, located at the peaceful end of a culde-sac surrounded by nature, is available for a 6-month lease. As it’s fully furnished, it’s the ideal option for individuals in need of temporary housing due to relocation or home renovations. Enjoy a cup of coffee on the charming backyard deck, or barbecuing dinner on the natural gas grill while listening to the soothing sounds of nature. This is hassle-free moving at its best. Just bring your suitcase! CLICK HERE TO VIEW THIS LISTING

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La dolce vita - Florence, Italy The capital of Italy’s Tuscany region, Florence (Firenze) is home to many masterpieces of Renaissance art and architecture, but also the best of today’s culinary creations. If you desire a dose of culture, history, and edible works of art, Florence is an ideal vacation locale - and the dream of many. Although you could do Florence in a weekend, you would only scratch the surface. We suggest a week, spending the majority of the time in the city and a day or two touring the Tuscan countryside for wine tastings and the postcard-worthy cities of San Gimignano and Siena. Get ready to embark on an Italian adventure of food, art, architecture, shopping, and beautiful vistas - all in one spot. Andiamo! City Center. Without a doubt, the top destination in Florence is the Santa Maria del Fiore or il Duomo; the cathedral is located in the city center - an UNESCO World Heritage Site. This terra-cotta–tiled dome cathedral is one of the largest in the world, bowing to St. Peter’s Basilica in Vatican City. The construction of il Duomo lasted from 1420 to 1436, and today the engineering feat is admired by visitors and locals alike. The cathedral’s creation included valuable contributions from the Renaissance’s most prominent artists - Michelangelo, Donatello, and others. Entrance into the cathedral is free, but if you want to tour Brunelleschi’s Dome, Giotto’s Bell Tower, the Baptistery of San Giovanni, and the Opera del

Duomo Museum, you’ll need tickets. For the adventurous, il Duomo presents a challenge: climbing to the top. It is a tight spiral staircase, but the views are worth every step. Plus, you can reward yourself with tasty Tuscan delights when you return streetside. Fine Dining. If Italy is known for one thing, it’s food. Some traditional dishes not to skip are ribollita (a hearty bread, bean, and greens soup); bistecca alla Fiorentina (typically served rare); and lampredotto (offal, yet delicious, sandwich). You can pair all of these with the local, bold red wine, Brunello di Montalcino. A great stop for any foodie and even the pickiest eater is the Mercato Centrale. This market is a combination of food stands with local cheeses, olives, oils, and

Written by Heidi Siefkas, Photography provided by baratroli/istock/Getty Images Source: https://article.homebydesign.com/pages/article/HBD_AUG_23_09/275454/index.html

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Exploring the narrow streets of Florence is like strolling through pages of a history book. Il Duomo is the focal point for navigating Florence and a highlight of most visits; its terra-cotta tiled dome is spectacular, but don’t forget to tour inside to witness the Renaissance masterpiece on the ceiling. Enjoy la dolce vita by sampling local cured meats and artisanal cheeses paired with a Tuscan vino. Florence is best discovered via a small moped, bicycle, or on foot.

breads as well as restaurants with plenty of room to sit and enjoy multiple courses. Save room for exceptional desserts, such as Florentine chocolate or zuccotto (a chilled, dome-shaped dessert similar to tiramisu). Jewel of the Renaissance. Florence is an art lover’s paradisical visit. Although there are masterpieces of art around every corner and in every piazza, it would be a shame to miss Botticelli’s “Birth of Venus” and da Vinci’s “Annunciation” at the Uffizi Gallery. Those, along with Michelangelo’s “David” in the Galleria dell’Accademia are the classics trifecta in the city of lilies. Other must-sees, particularly for shutterbugs, are il Porcellino—a bronze wild boar statue that promises good luck for those who rub its snout—and

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Piazzale Michelangelo for the best panoramic view of it all: il Duomo, Ponte Vecchio (medieval covered bridge), and the Arno River. If you love to shop or just want to pick up a few souvenirs for you or someone special, Florence is famous for its leather craftsmanship (think gloves, jackets, handbags), gold jewelry, and pottery. Head to Mercato Nuovo/ Mercato del Porcellino (an open-air market where you can also find the bronze boar) for one-stop souvenir shopping. Florence has a way of captivating your senses. From the aroma and taste of a glass of Tuscan Brunello to the intricate details of “Birth of Venus,” Florence rekindles an appreciation of natural and manmade beauty. Experience la dolce vita - the sweet life with a trip to Firenze.

FOR SALE

9084 FALLING LEAF, FLORIDA

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Welcome home to this immaculately maintained home that includes full golf membership at the renowned Shadow Wood Country Club! Step inside to be “WOWed” by the picturesque lake view through the rear glass sliders. Cool off in the serene pool or unwind and enjoy the water views from your elevated spa. Heading north after season? The electric shutter/enclosed lanai, make closing up for summer a breeze. This home is a must-see that will not last long! CLICK HERE TO VIEW THIS LISTING

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Haunted Pumpkin Patch Margarita

Whimsical, sweet, and spicy Haunted Pumpkin Patch Margarita. Sweet spiced pumpkin butter, apple cider, tequila, and orange liquor are all mixed together to create an autumn-inspired spicy, sweet pumpkin margarita. Rim your glasses in spicy cinnamon sugar, and top each drink off with ginger beer, to create a magical fall cocktail that everyone will love! This whimsical haunted cocktail is both spicy and warming. Perfect for cozy autumn nights and every holiday from Halloween, to Friendsgiving, to Thanksgiving. And then every other day in between. INGREDIENTS 1-2 tablespoons pumpkin butter 1/3 cup apple cider 2 ounces tequila 1/2 ounce orange liquor Ginger beer, for topping INGREDIENTS - CINNI SUGAR RIM 1 tablespoon coarse sugar 1 tablespoon granulated sugar 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon 1 pinch cayenne pepper Pomegranate juice, for the rim DIRECTIONS STEP 1: On a small plate, mix the coarse sugar, granulated sugar, cinnamon, and cayenne. Dip the rim of the glass into a thin layer of pomegranate juice. Then dip the glass into the sugar mix. STEP 2: Fill the glass with ice. STEP 3: Combine the pumpkin butter, apple cider, tequila, and orange liquor in a cocktail shaker. Shake to combine, then fill with ice and shake 1 minute. Pour into your prepared glass. Top with ginger beer and garnish with apple slices, cinnamon sticks, and a sprinkle of the cinni sugar mix. Makes one drink.

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Written by Tieghan Gerard Source: https://www.halfbakedharvest.com/ pumpkin-patch-margarita/ Power to Move You

Brown Butter Pumpkin Tortellini Alla Vodka INGREDIENTS 3 tablespoons salted butter

2 tablespoons tomato paste

8 fresh sage leaves

1/4 cup vodka

1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil

1 cup pumpkin puree

1 shallot chopped

kosher salt and black pepper

4 cloves garlic, chopped

1/2 cup heavy cream or canned coconut milk

1 teaspoon dried oregano

1 pound cheese tortellini

1-2 teaspoons crushed red pepper flakes

1/3 cup grated parmesan cheese

DIRECTIONS Prep Time: 10 minutes Cook Time: 15 minutes STEP 1: In a large skillet, melt together 2 tablespoons butter and the sage. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the butter is browning and the sage is crisp, 4 minutes. Remove the sage leaves from the butter and set aside. STEP 2: To the skillet, add the olive oil, shallot, garlic, and oregano. Cook until the shallots begin to caramelize, about 5 minutes. Reduce the heat to low, add the tomato paste, pumpkin, and red pepper flakes, cook 4-5 minutes, until thickened. Stir in the vodka, cook another 2 minutes. Stir in the cream, 1 tablespoon butter, and the parmesan. Season with salt and pepper. Keep warm over low heat. STEP 3: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the tortellini and cook according to package directions until al dente. Just before draining, remove 1 cup of the pasta cooking water. Drain. STEP 4: Add the tortellini to the vodka sauce, tossing to coat. If needed, thin the sauce with pasta cooking water. STEP 5: Divide the tortellini among plates and top with crispy sage and parmesan. Serves 6. Enjoy Written by Tieghan Gerard Source: https://www.halfbakedharvest.com/pumpkin-tortellini-alla-vodka/ Powerto toMove MoveYou You Power

SOLD

603 - 65 PORT STREET, MISSISSAUGA

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We’re very excited to announce that this beautiful suite in The Regatta has sold over the asking price in just 2 days! Our clients are thrilled and looking forward to their next chapter. Congratulations! We’re so thankful to be a part of your journey.

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Why fall is the ideal season to sell your home Did you miss this year’s prime spring real-estate selling season? Not to worry. Fall is also an ideal time to sell your home, complete with its own set of specific advantages. Read on to learn how you can maximize your real-estate game this autumn. More Time for Curb Appeal If your house needs exterior work, fall is the ideal season to sell. Don’t put your house on the market in the spring with these reno projects incomplete. Give yourself the warm weather months to paint the exterior, fix the deck or install a new fence, and don’t try to rush these projects so you can list in the spring. Waiting it out until fall, and having the right curb appeal, might just get you a higher selling price. Less Competition Most people list their homes come spring, and that’s a given. By the time autumn rolls around, most sellers have either sold their place or taken it off the market. This means less competition

on the real-estate market. The reduced inventory also means fewer options for buyers, and that can potentially lead to a more competitive price for your home. Corporate Moves To avoid higher “on season” real estate rates, employers who need to relocate their workers often wait for the fall, when the market tends to cool down. These out-of-towners will probably need to get through the process quickly, which could mean a relatively speedy closing on your sale. More Serious Buyer Pool The best thing about selling your house in the fall is that you’re dealing with a more serious pool of

Written by Scott McGillivray Source: https://www.hgtv.ca/benefits-selling-home-in-fall/ 38

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buyers. By the time September or October rolls around, these buyers are itching to get their move settled. Nobody wants to move in the snow or during the busy holiday season, so potential buyers usually want to get things signed and sealed as quickly as possible. Different Demographics Autumn is when both empty-nesters and millennials begin looking for new properties. Stage your house to appeal to these buyers. Empty-nesters are often looking to downsize, so it’s a good time to sell a condo or a small house. If you have a large three or four bedroom house, consider staging one of the bedrooms as a home office or TV room to help them visualize how they can use the space. When marketing to millennials, also help them see the potential of the space. For instance, with a two or three bedroom house, consider staging one room as a nursery. 40

Flexible Market As you enter the market in fall, chances are good that those still left on the market from spring and summer will be desperate for a sale. If you’re selling in the fall, it likely means you’re also buying something new, and you’ll likely find that those sellers are more willing to negotiate. If you can snag a deal on your new home, you’ll be able to make more strategic decisions in the selling of your old home. An Attentive Realtor Marketing from an agent is a big part of selling any home, and when you sell at your agent’s busiest time, which is spring, you run the risk of getting a little less attention than you may want. But if you can catch them during the off-season, he or she can give your sale more consideration, and perhaps even allot more of the marketing budget to your property. Power to Move You

FORT LAUDERDALE, FLORIDA, USA

PARK CITY, UTAH, USA

LONDON, UNITED KINGDOM

LOS CABOS, MEXICO

THERESA SELLS PACASO 1/8 CO-OWNERSHIP PROPERTIES

SANTA CRUZ, CALIFORNIA, USA

All the benefits of a timeshare with none of the hassle...Imagine the possibilities

EXPERANZA, MEXICO

MIAMI, FLORIDA, USA

CHARLESTON, SOUTH CAROLINA, USA

NANTUCKET, MASSACHUSETTS, USA

AVALON, NEW JERSEY, USA

TULUM OASIS, ARIZONA, USA

Looking for a vacation home that exudes luxury and exclusivity? Look no further than Theresa and her TB Realty Group, certified specialists in resort and second-property ownership. With Pacaso, you can finally realize your dream of owning a beautiful, resort-like home in a breathtaking sun-filled location. Unlike a traditional timeshare, Pacaso offers true real estate ownership without any of the hassles. As co-owners of a property, you’ll have access to all the luxurious amenities and comforts of home, without the stress and upkeep of maintaining a second property on your own, (typically 1/8 fractional ownership). Don’t let your dream of owning a vacation home remain just that. Take the first step towards a life of luxury and contact Theresa at 647-298-0997. With her guidance and Pacaso’s innovative co-ownership model, you can start living your best life now. To see more properties visit www.theTBrealtygroup.com/fractional_ownership. Power to Move You

OUR AGENTS FAVOURITES

Julia recommends Locale In King City

I had the pleasure of dining at Locale recently, and it was an experience worth sharing. Tucked away in a charming 150-year-old building in the heart of King City, Locale effortlessly combines top-notch cuisine with a warm, inviting atmosphere. It’s no surprise that they made it to the coveted “Most Beloved” restaurants in Canada list for 2022. What struck me most was its high-energy neighbourhood vibe. Their Italian-focused menu is all about quality, and it shows. The grilled calamari and gnocchi were mouth-wateringly delicious – they certainly know how to work their culinary magic. Whether you’re planning a romantic evening with your special someone, a laid-back night out with friends, or you’re in need of a perfect spot for a special event, Locale has you covered. It’s the kind of place that leaves you smiling and looking forward to your next visit.

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OUR AGENTS FAVOURITES

Theresa recommends Colossus Greek Taverna In Port Credit

Colossus Greek Taverna, now at it’s new location in Port Credit, is undoubtebly a hidden gem for Greek cusinine enthusiasts. I visited a few weeks a go with a friend from the United States. The star of the evening, without a doubt, was the veal shank. It was a symphony of flavours and tender, fall-off-the-bone goodness. The succulent veal was perfectly seasoned, and the accompanying sauce was a savoury masterpeice. Beyond the outstanding food, the service was top-notch. The staff was attentive. It was so good I went back this week with a co-worker. If you haven’t been there, it is worth the trip. Their saganaki is incredible too.

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When you put others first, you will never be second We are on a mission to raise $10,000 for CAMH (Centre For Addiction And Mental Health) and CADDAC (Centre For ADHD Awareness Canada). It is without a doubt that ADHD and mental health issues are common in our community and continue to be a contributing cause of death around the world. The Centre for Addiction and Mental Health is a psychiatric teaching hospital located in Toronto and ten community locations throughout the province of Ontario. At CAMH, it’s their goal to provide hope and a path toward recovery from mental illness and substance use for anyone in need. There are approximately 2 million individuals affected by ADHD in Canada. Individuals, families, and parents with children are left scrambling to cope, figuring out how and where to get support for their ADHD. As well, they are trying to figure out how to pay for expensive programs. CADDAC is a national charity that improves the lives of Canadians affected by ADHD through awareness, education, and advocacy. Our families have been directly affected by ADHD and Mental Health issues so in hopes that one day no one else will have to experience the angst of dealing with ADHD or any kind of addiction or depression, we have chosen to donate a portion of our professional fees to these charities. As well, when you refer a friend or family member to our team not only will they receive award-winning service, but they will also be contributing to these extremely worthy causes. Together we can help calm minds and ensure that everyone gets the support they need. We encourage you to visit both of their websites at www.camh.ca and www.caddac.ca and check out the incredible work they are doing in our community and beyond!

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HappY HalloweeN From the

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