All the buzz is about Barbie and its star Margot Robbie at the moment. The actress, known for her roles in The Wolf of Wall Street, Once Upon a Time… in Hollywood and Suicide Squad, may be associated with the all-pink Dreamhouse currently, but she has renovated some impressive properties of her own in Venice and Los Angeles, California, and her signature style couldn’t be more different.
As the highest-paid actress of 2022, Australian-born Margot spends the majority of her time living and working in Los Angeles. Since marrying her husband Tom Ackerley in 2017, she has acquired and renovated three homes, playing on the modern beach house décor that California is known for.
We take a look at her property portfolio.
Margot’s former Californian home – purchased in 2017
(Image credit: Engel & Völkers Beverly Hills / Paul Barnaby)
In 2017, Margot Robbie and Tom Ackerley bought their first property together in Hancock Park, one of the wealthiest districts in LA. The couple purchased the property the year I, Tonya came to cinemas, a role which won Robbie an Oscar nomination.
Margot Robbie’s chic So-Cal home is characterized by its perfect garden spaces and white wood panelling – and that’s just the exterior.
This 3,300 square foot property was built in 2016, and sits on 0.15 acres of land. The house’s high ceilings and oak hardwood floors contribute to the splendor and openness of this property which incorporates West Coastal and New England aesthetics. The house has four bedrooms and six bathrooms.
(Image credit: Engel & Völkers Beverly Hills / Paul Barnaby)
The property includes a number of stand out features, including French doors, ocean views from the primary suite’s balcony, a wine cellar, fireplace and a Carrera marble kitchen counter. The backyard contains a pool, bar and cabana.
This property is not only architecturally stunning, but also exudes charisma with design that isn’t taken too seriously, evident by the living room’s indoor swing, round sofa and pet room with a separate entry door to the property, which was likely enjoyed by the puppy they adopted earlier that year.
(Image credit: Engel & Völkers Beverly Hills / Paul Barnaby)
Put simply, this home is manicured perfection, with its open concept, bright, beachy vibe, it’s easy to see why the actress fell in love with it. It’s safe to say this property lives up in its grandeur to Barbie’s Malibu Dreamhouse.
The house listed in June 2021 for $3.4 million.
(Image credit: Engel & Völkers Beverly Hills / Paul Barnaby)
Margot Robbie’s former Bungalow – purchased in 2018
The same year Margot Robbie starred as Mary Queen of Scots, she purchased a bungalow in Hollywood Heights to renovate. She is said to have bought the two bed, one bathroom property from Dustin Lance, the writer of Milk, for $950,000.
The bungalow, built in 1951, is 945 square foot, making it a manageable project for the star to renovate between and during filming. This included refinishing the hardwood floors, renovating the kitchen and painting throughout. The exterior of the house is painted white with blue accent shutters, banister and doors. The house also has blue window covers, and plant beds on various levels, and in the back of the property there is a tiered yard.
The primary bedroom is close to nature, with French doors leading onto a small courtyard. The living room also has French doors, creating a light and airy flow throughout the property. The highest level of the terrace captures plenty of natural light and is surrounded by plants, creating a peaceful spot for drinks and sunbathing. This spot also has views of the canyon behind the property.
Margot is said to have sold the house in 2021 for $1.2 million, after renting it out for three years.
Margot Robbie’s current Venice beach house – purchased in 2019
In 2019, Robbie invested in an edgy Venice Beach compound (see above) which she bought for $5 million in an off-market deal. This Los Angeles property is made up of three separate concrete structures on a double-wide lot, including a loft space which includes a kitchen and office space, a second separate structure, which is a two-bed bungalow and, thirdly, a cottage.
Although from the outside the concrete property appears uninviting, with only two windows above the three-car garage, the inside of the property is quite the opposite, and ensures utter privacy. With plenty of natural light, white walls, high exposed wood ceilings and light wooden flooring, it captures the Venice Beach lifestyle.
The property is strikingly modern, repeating the concrete and silver metal theme throughout and in the yard, and which is harmoniously balanced by the wooden furniture and doors that enhance the natural elements of the home.
With the stunning modern interiors of the house, fans were delighted when Margot Robbie gave viewers a peek into the property during a Vogue 73 Questions video series.
This revealed some stand-out features, such as a barn door and an outdoor decking area with a long dining table, surrounded by plants and enclosed by other parts of the property.
Margot Robbie grew up on a farm on Australia’s Gold Coast which appears to be where some of her interior style has rooted from.
The house features a lap pool which Margot told Vogue she loves to start her day swimming in. The separate living spaces mean outdoor space is integrated into the home, ensuring plenty of natural light is introduced into the living spaces, which is furthered by the large windows and French doors.
In 2021, it was reported by TMZ that Margot had donned her renovator hat again, putting the house under major construction work. When completed, this will reportedly up the property’s worth to over $15 million.
Knowing Margot and Tom’s love for beachy interiors, possibly influenced by her Australian roots, we’re excited to see how this property turns out.
MONTREAL – Two Quebec real estate brokers are facing fines and years-long suspensions for submitting bogus offers on homes to drive up prices during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Christine Girouard has been suspended for 14 years and her business partner, Jonathan Dauphinais-Fortin, has been suspended for nine years after Quebec’s authority of real estate brokerage found they used fake bids to get buyers to raise their offers.
Girouard is a well-known broker who previously starred on a Quebec reality show that follows top real estate agents in the province.
She is facing a fine of $50,000, while Dauphinais-Fortin has been fined $10,000.
The two brokers were suspended in May 2023 after La Presse published an article about their practices.
One buyer ended up paying $40,000 more than his initial offer in 2022 after Girouard and Dauphinais-Fortin concocted a second bid on the house he wanted to buy.
This report by The Canadian Press was first published Sept. 11, 2024.
MONTREAL – The Quebec Professional Association of Real Estate Brokers says Montreal-area home sales rose 9.3 per cent in August compared with the same month last year, with levels slightly higher than the historical average for this time of year.
The association says home sales in the region totalled 2,991 for the month, up from 2,737 in August 2023.
The median price for all housing types was up year-over-year, led by a six per cent increase for the price of a plex at $763,000 last month.
The median price for a single-family home rose 5.2 per cent to $590,000 and the median price for a condominium rose 4.4 per cent to $407,100.
QPAREB market analysis director Charles Brant says the strength of the Montreal resale market contrasts with declines in many other Canadian cities struggling with higher levels of household debt, lower savings and diminishing purchasing power.
Active listings for August jumped 18 per cent compared with a year earlier to 17,200, while new listings rose 1.7 per cent to 4,840.
This report by The Canadian Press was first published Sept. 6, 2024.
In the quest to find cities where renters can enjoy the best of all worlds, a recent study analyzed 24 metrics across three key categories—Housing & Economy, Quality of Life, and Community. The study ranked the 100 largest cities in Canada to determine which ones offer the most to their renters.
Here are the top 10 cities that emerged as the best for renters in 2024:
St. John’s, NL
St. John’s, Newfoundland and Labrador, stand out as the top city for renters in Canada for 2024. Known for its vibrant cultural scene, stunning natural beauty, and welcoming community, St. John’s offers an exceptional quality of life. The city boasts affordable housing, a robust economy, and low unemployment rates, making it an attractive option for those seeking a balanced and enriching living experience. Its rich history, picturesque harbour, and dynamic arts scene further enhance its appeal, ensuring that renters can enjoy both comfort and excitement in this charming coastal city.
Sherbrooke, QC
Sherbrooke, Quebec, emerges as a leading city for renters in Canada for 2024, offering a blend of affordability and quality of life. Nestled in the heart of the Eastern Townships, Sherbrooke is known for its picturesque landscapes, vibrant cultural scene, and strong community spirit. The city provides affordable rental options, low living costs, and a thriving local economy, making it an ideal destination for those seeking both comfort and economic stability. With its rich history, numerous parks, and dynamic arts and education sectors, Sherbrooke presents an inviting environment for renters looking for a well-rounded lifestyle.
Québec City, QC
Québec City, the capital of Quebec, stands out as a premier destination for renters in Canada for 2024. Known for its rich history, stunning architecture, and vibrant cultural heritage, this city offers an exceptional quality of life. Renters benefit from affordable housing, excellent public services, and a robust economy. The city’s charming streets, historic sites, and diverse culinary scene provide a unique living experience. With top-notch education institutions, numerous parks, and a strong sense of community, Québec City is an ideal choice for those seeking a dynamic and fulfilling lifestyle.
Trois-Rivières, QC
Trois-Rivières, nestled between Montreal and Quebec City, emerges as a top choice for renters in Canada. This historic city, known for its picturesque riverside views and rich cultural scene, offers an appealing blend of affordability and quality of life. Renters in Trois-Rivières enjoy reasonable housing costs, a low unemployment rate, and a vibrant community atmosphere. The city’s well-preserved historic sites, bustling arts community, and excellent educational institutions make it an attractive destination for those seeking a balanced and enriching lifestyle.
Saguenay, QC
Saguenay, located in the stunning Saguenay–Lac-Saint-Jean region of Quebec, is a prime destination for renters seeking affordable living amidst breathtaking natural beauty. Known for its picturesque fjords and vibrant cultural scene, Saguenay offers residents a high quality of life with lower housing costs compared to major urban centers. The city boasts a strong sense of community, excellent recreational opportunities, and a growing economy. For those looking to combine affordability with a rich cultural and natural environment, Saguenay stands out as an ideal choice.
Granby, QC
Granby, nestled in the heart of Quebec’s Eastern Townships, offers renters a delightful blend of small-town charm and ample opportunities. Known for its beautiful parks, vibrant cultural scene, and family-friendly environment, Granby provides an exceptional quality of life. The city’s affordable housing market and strong sense of community make it an attractive option for those seeking a peaceful yet dynamic place to live. With its renowned zoo, bustling downtown, and numerous outdoor activities, Granby is a hidden gem that caters to a diverse range of lifestyles.
Fredericton, NB
Fredericton, the capital city of New Brunswick, offers renters a harmonious blend of historical charm and modern amenities. Known for its vibrant arts scene, beautiful riverfront, and welcoming community, Fredericton provides an excellent quality of life. The city boasts affordable housing options, scenic parks, and a strong educational presence with institutions like the University of New Brunswick. Its rich cultural heritage, coupled with a thriving local economy, makes Fredericton an attractive destination for those seeking a balanced and fulfilling lifestyle.
Saint John, NB
Saint John, New Brunswick’s largest city, is a coastal gem known for its stunning waterfront and rich heritage. Nestled on the Bay of Fundy, it offers renters an affordable cost of living with a unique blend of historic architecture and modern conveniences. The city’s vibrant uptown area is bustling with shops, restaurants, and cultural attractions, while its scenic parks and outdoor spaces provide ample opportunities for recreation. Saint John’s strong sense of community and economic growth make it an inviting place for those looking to enjoy both urban and natural beauty.
Saint-Hyacinthe, QC
Saint-Hyacinthe, located in the Montérégie region of Quebec, is a vibrant city known for its strong agricultural roots and innovative spirit. Often referred to as the “Agricultural Technopolis,” it is home to numerous research centers and educational institutions. Renters in Saint-Hyacinthe benefit from a high quality of life with access to excellent local amenities, including parks, cultural events, and a thriving local food scene. The city’s affordable housing and close-knit community atmosphere make it an attractive option for those seeking a balanced and enriching lifestyle.
Lévis, QC
Lévis, located on the southern shore of the St. Lawrence River across from Quebec City, offers a unique blend of historical charm and modern conveniences. Known for its picturesque views and well-preserved heritage sites, Lévis is a city where history meets contemporary living. Residents enjoy a high quality of life with excellent public services, green spaces, and cultural activities. The city’s affordable housing options and strong sense of community make it a desirable place for renters looking for both tranquility and easy access to urban amenities.
This category looked at factors such as average rent, housing costs, rental availability, and unemployment rates. Québec stood out with 10 cities ranking at the top, demonstrating strong economic stability and affordable housing options, which are critical for renters looking for cost-effective living conditions.
Québec again led the pack in this category, with five cities in the top 10. Ontario followed closely with three cities. British Columbia excelled in walkability, with four cities achieving the highest walk scores, while Caledon topped the list for its extensive green spaces. These factors contribute significantly to the overall quality of life, making these cities attractive for renters.
Victoria, BC, emerged as the leader in this category due to its rich array of restaurants, museums, and educational institutions, offering a vibrant community life. St. John’s, NL, and Vancouver, BC, also ranked highly. Québec City, QC, and Lévis, QC, scored the highest in life satisfaction, reflecting a strong sense of community and well-being. Additionally, Saskatoon, SK, and Oshawa, ON, were noted for having residents with lower stress levels.
For a comprehensive view of the rankings and detailed interactive visuals, you can visit the full study by Point2Homes.
While no city can provide a perfect living experience for every renter, the cities highlighted in this study come remarkably close by excelling in key areas such as housing affordability, quality of life, and community engagement. These findings offer valuable insights for renters seeking the best places to live in Canada in 2024.
