The $2 Million Home That Didn’t Sell
This week, we noticed something interesting in our neighbourhood. A detached 4-bedroom, 3-bathroom home was listed at $1.998 million and held offers for a week. In years past, that might have been enough to attract multiple bids. This time, it wasn’t. We went to see the house and, honestly, it has a lot going for it. It’s detached, sits on a 25-foot lot, has a large backyard, a beautiful modern kitchen, multiple living spaces, and a spacious primary bedroom with a wall of closets and a lovely ensuite. So what’s missing? Parking. The home has a mutual driveway and the next owner will most likely need to rely on street parking. It may sound like a small thing, but when buyers are spending more than $2 million, details matter. For some buyers, a private parking space isn’t a nice-to-have—it’s a must-have. The property has since been relisted at $2.295 million. It’s a beautiful home and I’m sure it will eventually find its buyer, but it’s a reminder that today’s buyers are being selective. They have choices, they’re taking their time, and they’re placing a premium on the features that matter most to them. At our sales meeting this week, we had Jason Friesen from Outline Financial share some insights into what is happening in the mortgage world. The Bank of Canada held rates steady again for the fifth consecutive meeting. The economy is sending mixed signals. Growth has slowed, but inflation remains slightly above target, which is making the Bank cautious about making any changes. For now, most experts expect rates to remain where they are when the Bank meets again in July. What I found most interesting was how borrowers are responding. Over the last couple of years, many buyers gravitated toward variable-rate mortgages because they expected rates to keep falling. That’s changing. More borrowers are now locking into fixed-rate mortgages, particularly 3-year terms. The thinking is fairly simple. Fixed rates have become more attractive, the Bank of Canada appears to be in a holding pattern, and many people prefer the certainty of knowing exactly what their payments will be for the next few years. It’s also worth noting that today’s buyers have more choices than they’ve had in a long time. Inventory remains high in many parts of the market, especially condos, and buyers are taking advantage of the opportunity to negotiate. We’re seeing people ask for longer condition periods, negotiate harder on price, and take the time to make thoughtful decisions. That’s very different from the market we experienced a few years ago. Whether it’s a missing parking spot on a $2 million home or choosing between a fixed and variable mortgage, buyers are taking a closer look at the details before making a decision. In many ways, that’s what defines today’s market. Patience, preparation, and careful decision-making are winning the day. Don’t forget, if you need to buy or sell, please call Davelle. My First Home: How to Buy Smart in Toronto Know someone who talks about buying a home “someday”? Forward them a copy of our new My First Home magazine. It covers what to know, where to look, and how to buy smart in Toronto. Want to Make This Market Work for You? As always, if you have questions about the market, or would like an updated home evaluation, we’re here to help. For Sale: Beautiful Loft-Style Junior 1-Bedroom Condo (508 Wellington Street West #401) Some addresses put you in the city. Others put you at the center of it. Welcome to 508 Wellington, a beautifully furnished loft-style junior one-bedroom in one of Toronto’s most coveted boutique buildings. Soaring ceilings and oversized windows create an airy, light-filled space, while the thoughtfully designed layout makes everyday living feel effortless. For Sale: Beautiful 3-Bedroom Family Home (2 Bettina Pl) Space to spread out. Space to come together. And a backyard that feels like your own private retreat. This beautifully updated family home offers 3 bedrooms, 4 bathrooms, and the kind of thoughtful layout that gives everyone room to breathe. A welcoming living room at the front of the home creates the perfect spot to gather with guests, while the open-concept kitchen, dining, and family room—with cozy gas fireplace—becomes the true heart of the home. For Sale: Bright 1-Bedroom Condo in Corktown, Toronto (60 Tannery Rd #516) Step into a sunlit living and dining space with clean sightlines and effortless flow. The open-concept kitchen keeps you connected – prep dinner, catch your favourite show, and take in the view all at once.









