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Urban home with a garden and a secret weapon: laneway parking

Published

11 months ago

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Steven Liu/Steven Liu/Houssmax

164 Dovcercourt Rd., Toronto

Asking Price: $2.95-million

Taxes: $9,541.39 (2023)

Lot Size: 22 by 131 feet

Agents: Michael Wacholtz, Clearpath Realty Group, Keller Williams Referred Urban Realty Inc.

The backstory

Sometimes when Melissa Cameron meets one of her neighbours in Prince Edward Island there’s a moment of cognitive confusion when they try to grasp what she’s telling them about coming from Toronto to the garden province. “You left the city? You moved to the country?” they ask with some incredulity.

“My answer is, we love nature,” said Ms. Cameron who was born and raised in Etobicoke and Toronto and who moved to Canada’s smallest province with her four children in the middle of the COVID-19 pandemic. Her husband, who enjoys walking to his Bay Street finance job, kept the house at Dovercourt and commuted to “spud island” on the weekends and on breaks. Only now is the family ready to end the dual-house experiment and live full-time together in PEI. “For our family, what kept us sane was nature. And now we’re leaning into a little bit more of that,” said Ms. Cameron.

Another thing she’s been leaning into is a commitment to organic gardening that started while she lived in Toronto. When the couple bought the semi-detached house in 2013, it had recently undergone a gut renovation and update. Where the couple was able to put their stamp on things was the landscaping: They hired Joel Loblaw Inc., to make the backyard a private oasis with beech trees for privacy and indigenous serviceberry bushes.

The top floor had a new deck, but they raised the walls (safer for young children) gave it partial shade and filled it with raised beds for growing produce. Today there are just flowers planted, but when she lived there it was an organic food-producing garden.

With 12 acres to play with Ms. Cameron’s expanding her organic farming work, partnering with like-minded horticulturalists on charitable gardens and on her own landscaping business – The Good Seed Garden – focused on designing self-sustaining food-producing gardens.

The seeds of which were all planted on Dovercourt.

The House Today

The house is a bay-and-gable style house typical of narrow lots in Toronto in the 1870s, with the tall rooftop gables of the Gothic revival style and intricate brickwork on display.

Past an iron fence to the front door is a flagged path that splits to travel to the backyard and up the short set of stairs to the front door.

Inside the main floor is essentially one very deep room with multiple uses. Beneath the front window is a sitting area that transitions to a dining area next to the floating steel stairs. Unlike most homes of the era the stairs here are reversed so the bottom step is in the middle of the house (not right off the front door). The wall with the stairs is exposed red-and-orange brick warming up a space that’s otherwise mostly white walls.

  • Home of the Week, 164 Dovercourt Rd., TorontoSteven Liu/Steven Liu/Houssmax

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The kitchen is the third act of this level and is anchored by an island with bar seating. Beyond the shining white kitchen is a living room with a window wall walkout to the backyard. Where you might expect to find a TV across from the couch is a run of black brick framing the chimney of a fire-truck red wood-burning stove. Blond hardwood floors extend from front to back on the whole level.

There are four bedrooms on the second floor, and the primary suite occupies the back half of the home (part of the extended addition).

The last flight of stairs opens into a huge recreation room that Ms. Cameron said was the home-school classroom during the lockdowns, behind which is the once (and future?) rooftop garden and deck. The laundry room is on this floor as well.

The basement is set up as a rec room with a separate huge seasonal storage mud room. But it has all the appliance hookups and up-to-code egress windows you’d need to make it a secondary living suite, with the current mud room converted to a bedroom.

The secret weapon

The backyard was a playground for Ms. Cameron’s ideas about urban food. At one point they even had a few chickens (in violation of city bylaws): “It was an act of civil disobedience,” she said, but her elderly neighbours would tell her hens were normal in the community decades ago, just as growing backyard grapes and other produce has always been a way of life in Little Portugal.

“Food-bearing gardens used to be in so many people’s homes,” she said. “I think we can do so much in our city to grow food and feed ourselves.”

But the backyard has another advantage over some of the homes of this era: Parking.

The Camerons lived in Kensington Market previously, and one of the features Ms. Cameron really came to appreciate about Dovercourt was the rear laneway – with garbage collection – on which there is a two-car garage. No schlepping around looking for street parking here, or wrestling bins through the garden to the curb.

It’s not quite as much outdoor living space as an acerage in PEI, but for downtown Toronto, it’s pretty luxurious.

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Two Quebec real estate brokers suspended for using fake bids to drive up prices

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2 days ago

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September 11, 2024

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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.

The Canadian Press. All rights reserved.

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Montreal home sales, prices rise in August: real estate board

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1 week ago

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September 6, 2024

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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.

The Canadian Press. All rights reserved.

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Canada’s Best Cities for Renters in 2024: A Comprehensive Analysis

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2 months ago

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July 24, 2024

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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.

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