East TO Living Creatively

2 Trust Me, Try This

Eadrey Hemmings, founder of Eadrey Foods, gets creative with simple snacks and meals.

18

6

Bulk Buy Buzz

Reduce waste without sacrifice! Matt Foster checks out East-End bulk food stores.

8 Expert Advice –Do I Lock In?

Matt Olinksi and Angie Alvarez talk climbing interest rates and choosing the right mortgage.

10 Beaches Sandbox

A new charitable centre gives east enders a place to meet, connect and thrive.

14 Small Treasures for the Home

We asked our team for their favourite under-$100 homeenhancing purchases.

16 EAST TO A Home Above

East Design House transforms a builder-basic condo into a home with character.

20

Wall to Wall Creativity

Creative strategies for working around long lead times and supply shortages.

How Does She Do It?

How realtor and mother of four Adrienne Scott gets it all done.

24 Creative Buying Agent Bram Goldman shares how smart buyers can get creative and land their dream homes.

26

I Like the Way You Work It

From spray paint to vintage finds, the ultimate guide to refreshing your decor this autumn.

30 East TO Market Highlights: Cameron Levitt answers buyers’ and sellers’ questions.

32 Special Feature:

Cultivating Community in Northumberland County

Upcoming events featuring local artists, incredible farm-to-table markets, restaurants and artisans.

A publication by The Richards Group 1945 Queen St E Toronto, ON M4L 1H7 416.699.0303 therichardsgroup.ca Editor-In-Chief Selene Richards Advertising selene@therichardsgroup.ca

Art direction and design Parcel Design Cover Photography Ehsan Majd

Thank you to our contributors Eadrey Hemmings Matt Foster Angie Alvarez Matt Olinski Shannon Cooper Jenny Simon Samantha Davies Adrienne Scott Bram Goldman Bianca Zorzi Cameron Levitt

Not intended to solicit buyers or sellers currently under contract with a brokerage. Not intended to solicit properties currently for sale.

Editor’s Letter

Every time we plan an issue of East TO Magazine, I ask myself: “Are we back to normal yet?”

Restrictions are lifting, places are open, and on the surface, things seem… fine Now we get to face the challenges that have emerged after being shut down and shut in for so long: supply chain issues, labour shortages, economic turbulence, inflation. It’s no wonder our mental health continues to be under strain.

While some things may seem back to normal, most of us have simply become conditioned to a new reality. And what continues to inspire me is not only the resilience I see amongst our team and our clients but their creativity in navigating constant change.

Do we go back to the office? How has COVID affected our kids? How do we handle social situations? Will our businesses recover? Should we rethink our diet and exercise routine? What does life at home look like now?

I’ve seen so many creative answers to these questions. So we’re dedicating this edition of East TO to the role creativity plays in helping us gain back a sense of control and positivity despite turbulent times.

Whether it’s how to find or create your dream home, how you balance professional and personal lives, or how you inject joy into your day-to-day, this issue is packed with creative inspiration. The common thread? There’s always something to help you achieve this in our diverse East End community.

Want to share your ideas for living a creative life in East Toronto? Be sure to join our community on the social media channel of your choice and hashtag #eastto!

Selene Richards

Trust Me, Try This

Your EastTO Fall To-Do List

By Eadrey Hemmings

We’ve all been there – after a few weeks (or maybe even months) of eating the same three or four meals and snacks every day, you’re bored. You find yourself on autopilot as you move around the kitchen with a Netflix show or podcast playing in the background, as you assemble a meal that once graced your Instagram story but now feels lacklustre and routine at best. But as Madame Benoît once said, a recipe is only a theme which an intelligent cook can play each time with a variation. So, if you’re feeling uninspired by your home-cooked creations lately, it might simply be time to mix things up and get a little more creative with your go-to dishes.

To give you some inspiration, we recently sat down with Eadrey Hemmings, the founder of Eadrey Foods, a beloved Toronto company offering gourmet prepared meals and catering services. Eadrey is, after all, an expert in curating simple but delicious (and healthy) meals that help make dinner feel less like a chore, and more like an occasion.

Shop Local and Intuitively

“Right now, and especially in the fall, a lot of the farmers have stands at markets happening on a weekly basis,” shares Eadrey. “This gives us access to an amazing (and usually affordable) selection of fresh herbs, meat, and produce right from the source. Last night, as an example, I picked up fresh fish from the market, chopped up some fresh herbs from my friend’s garden, and blended them with olive oil to roast the fish on the BBQ. It was delicious!”

Eadrey recommends that Torontonians check out all the local markets, like East York Farmers Market or the Leslieville Farmers Market, from now until October/November to take advantage of amazing Ontario-fresh produce while it’s in season. “Let the produce speak to you,” she explains. “My mouth starts to water just walking through the market, and the recipe comes together on its own. Doing small grocery hauls at local markets on my way home, based on whatever mood I’m in, allows me to be intuitive with my grocery shopping and helps keep my meals interesting and seasonal. Not everything has to be exotic or meticulously pre-planned.”

PRO TIP:

Eadrey tells us it’s currently plum season, so you could make an incredible pie (just by stewing them with some butter and making a nice crust), or use ripe plums in a salad.

Eadrey’s Best Kitchen Tip: Be Flexible

According to Eadrey, sometimes the best plan of action is no plan at all – but rather, a willingness to get creative with whatever you have in the fridge. “Sometimes when I come home, I take whatever I have in the fridge out and use everything up for that meal,” she shares. “This is especially common for families with kids who want to avoid wasting any fresh produce or meat they picked up that week. There are no rules in the kitchen, in my opinion. You should be able to make a meal out of anything in the fridge, especially when it comes to plant-based items.”

Eadrey notes that many individuals and families now maintain small gardens with herbs, which are an edible goldmine for interesting flavour profiles. “You can take herbs like thyme, basil, oregano or rosemary, and blend them with olive oil to create a ‘secret ingredient’ base. When it’s time to throw a meal together, simply lather a tablespoon over your vegetables and roast them in the oven, or use it to grill your meat or plant-based protein.

As for her favourite dishes using herbs, Eadrey says she loves to utilize tofu whenever she is craving a plant-based protein alternative. “If you cut tofu into small cubes and season it really well with herbs, olive oil, garlic, salt, and pepper, you can roast it in the oven. Once it’s cooled, toss it with the vegetables or with fresh greens, like spinach or arugula.” Eadrey also uses this herb-and-oil base when she cooks chicken breast to make a healthy and savoury roast dish or salad.

What Is Eadrey Snacking On?

Of course, we had to ask Eadrey what her current go-to snacks are – and the answer might surprise you. “I love pickles, and they make a great snack. I also love beets (roasted or boiled and cut up into cubes), lightly salted radishes, peaches, soups, and stews,” she shares. “My favourite summer salad that I can load up and eat is watermelon black bean salad which has feta cheese in it. It's fresh and light and still fills you up thanks to the black beans. It’s both sweet and salty – all the flavours work so nicely together, and I garnish it with cilantro.”

Eadrey’s Summer Salad Recipe:

Watermelon (cubed)

Black beans (1 can)

Corn (it’s in season!)

(roasted; take the kernels off once it's cooled)

• Toss everything together with a vinaigrette dressing, maybe with some maple syrup, lime juice and olive oil.

• Crumble feta cheese on top, and garnish with cilantro

How to Set a Memorable Table

For table-setting, Eadrey prefers not to follow rules. “If I’m being honest, I don’t like a perfect table. Similar to my approach with ingredients, I think people can curate a beautiful mix of whatever is in their cabinet,” Eadrey explains. “A bit of mismatch and a vibrant theme of colours can make for a really warm and inviting table setting. I like old and new table settings, basic linen tablecloths, linen napkins, and wildflowers, and, FYI, you don’t always have to have roses as a centrepiece!”

The style described here is officially termed “whimsical”, and a quick Pinterest search will give you endless inspiration for your own whimsical table setting.

How to Save Money With Home-Cooked Meals

“Meats are expensive right now, so they can be replaced with things like legumes or beans, which fill you up and go a long way,” Eadrey shares.

“Chicken breast, as an example, has increased in price by 30 percent in the last few months, so lately I’ve been opting for more alternatives like tofu, grains, chickpeas, beans, etc.”

When she does feel like eating meat, Eadrey will buy a whole chicken to roast, and will break it up to use different parts of the chicken for different meals.

“A whole chicken goes a long way – you can use it for stir frys, stews, sandwiches, and more. Usually, if I roast a chicken and use the dark meat for a meal, I will use the breast meat for sandwiches or salads, or even an appetizer dish. You can do so much with it.” Eadrey is also a big fan of stews, calling them the ultimate, easy-to-make comfort dish. “You can buy beef and use it for a stew with a nice red wine reduction, with vegetables like carrots and celery, and it can be frozen to ensure nothing is wasted.”

Eadrey’s Kitchen Evolution

Eadrey has loved cooking since she was a kid, and grew up watching shows that featured chefs in their element. “I’ve always loved watching chefs, and I’ve learned a lot from them,” she shares. “I’m not classically trained, but I frequently seek out cooking courses and classes while travelling, like French cooking techniques in Paris. I also read a lot of cookbooks.” Eadrey describes her cooking style as wholesome and rustic, and says her favourite Toronto chefs to follow are Suzanne Barr, Miriam Echeverria, Ron McKinlay, Cheryl Torrance, and Rob Gentile. “I also love following great restaurants in the city, like Scaramouche, Ascari Enoteca, and Maison Selby.”

Seasonal Cocktails Are the Cherry on Top of Any Meal

“Lately, I’ve been seeing a lot of amazing cocktail trends with elaborate garnishes,” explains Eadrey. “Seasonal cocktail trends are great: I love looking at the LCBO book to see all the new trends with cocktails. Even when I travel, I make it a point to go to bars and explore their cocktail offerings, taking in all the details, the flavours, the garnishes, the glassware and presentation.” When she goes shopping, Eadrey tries to visualize a plate and what cocktail would pair best with it, both in terms of its aesthetic and its flavours.

“The LCBO book is always a good guide, but if you have a lot of liquor at home, you can start with a simple syrup (there are tons of easy recipes online) and squeeze your own citrus (like grapefruit, lime juice, lemon juice, etc.). Start there, and use social media for inspiration and experiment with whatever glassware you have in your house.”

What’s for Dessert?

Of course, we had to ask Eadrey what her favourite dessert is. “Oh, that’s easy. My favourite dessert is crème brulée,” she shares. “But I make it in small ramekins instead of bigger ones, and it’s the perfect end to any meal.”

@maisonselby

EAST TO

Bulk Buy Buzz

If you’re a fan of bulk food stores – and their deliciously categorized bins of assorted dry goods and snacks – The Richards Group agent Matt Foster has your back.

There’s something undeniably satisfying about roaming the aisles of a perfectly organized bulk food emporium, with rows of ingredients and specialty goods you often can’t find anywhere else. With an 8-year-old aspiring baker at home, Matt Foster has become a regular at these places –constantly on the hunt for the best local purveyors of the best ingredients for his daughter's favourite dishes and treats.

Of course, Toronto offers an incredible (and diverse) food scene, and has no shortage of shops and markets to choose from in the grocery department. Our city, in many ways, thrives on small businesses and boutique brands that offer a unique experience or selection of goods compared to large brands and chains. With this in mind, Matt set out to find the best bulk food purveyors that the East End has to offer, to ensure your pantries remain well stocked this summer.

Connect with Matt today. C 416.720.0024 / E mattfoster@therichardsgroup.ca

Matt Foster

1. The Source Bulk Foods

A major, emerging theme amongst modern bulk food stores is the issue of sustainability. Many of these markets have made it a key part of their brand and mission to fight against waste and help community members make eco-conscious decisions. The Source Bulk Foods, whose Leslieville location is a neighbourhood favourite, offers customers over 450 bulk foods including organic whole foods, cooking liquids and oils, healthy snacks, and sustainable personal and household products. The best part? Everything is packaged and delivered plastic-free, making The Source a zero-waste establishment.

The brand actually originated in Byron Bay, Australia, and now has locations around the world, including locations in both Leslieville and Roncesvalles Village. Their social media accounts and website share delicious, healthy recipes with their community using ingredients sourced from their store. Toronto owner, Charles Peronnin, often speaks to his passion for food, and educating consumers on where their food originates from.

2. Bare Market

Bare Market was Toronto’s first one-stop, plastic-free shop for package-free goods, offering our city an incredible selection of locally grown and sourced produce, dry goods, oils and vinegars, and more. Bare Market places an emphasis on keeping quality goods and ingredients affordable and local, empowering Torontonians to shop in a way that is good for the planet. Their mission is simple but undeniably impactful: to make sustainable and ethical living easy and accessible for everyone, everywhere.

Essential oils? They’ve got ’em. Laundry detergent? Yup, they’ve got it. From bamboo toothbrushes to eco-friendly toys, DIY ingredients, dairy/vegan food alternatives, and ready-to-go prepared foods, Bare Market has a little bit of everything. They also work with The Eco Well to review the claims and ingredients of every single body care product and home cleaner they source to ensure they are safe for their customers and safe for the planet. If you can’t make it into the store, Bare Market also offers Canada-wide shipping and delivery!

4. Urban Bulk & Refill

3. Moberly Natural Foods

Moberly Natural Foods is a natural foods grocery store located at 2044 Danforth Ave. in Toronto.

Considered one of Toronto’s most beloved, friendly neighbourhood health food stores, Moberly Natural Foods is family-owned and offers a wide selection of organic bulk foods, produce, dairy, vitamins and supplements, natural household products, and more.

Moberly is known for their friendly and helpful staff (always chock-full of recommendations and knowledge) and great selection of goods. Oh, and customers also rave about their gluten-free goodies, if you’re feeling snackish.

Rounding out our list is Urban Bulk & Refill, another Leslieville favourite, which stocks grocery and party items, household cleaners, personal care products, and more (all in bulk, of course). Originally, the store was known as Urban Bulk Emporium, and was opened as the continuation of a family bulk food legacy (the owner is the third generation in her family to run a bulk food business). Now, Urban Bulk & Refill is a neighbourhood staple, known for its great selection, quality, and (extremely competitive) prices.

Much like the other stores on our list, Urban Bulk & Refill is manned by incredible, knowledgeable staff members that always greet customers with an easy smile and a list of recommendations (be sure to try their vegan cheese). Acting as Lesliville’s zero-waste grocery hub, customers can shop sustainably (the store’s owner calls this “low-impact living”) by coming back to the store whenever they need refills on products. Urban Bulk & Refill also offers online ordering for in-store or curbside pickup.

Angie Alvarez and Matt Olinski

Do I Lock In?

By Matt Olinski

In July, the Bank of Canada raised its key interest rate by one percentage point, the largest one-time hike since 1998, followed by another 0.75 percent on September 7th.

In this global climate – amidst the COVID-19 pandemic, the war in Ukraine, and unending supply chain disruptions – it’s no surprise that policymakers have aggressively increased rates to combat inflation.

Rising rates make choosing the right mortgage crucial, and in a climate of climbing interest rates and inflation, many are left wondering, Do I lock in?

To parse through this rapidly evolving topic, I sat down with Angie Alvarez, a mortgage expert specializing in a broad lending spectrum.

Matt: Over the last several months, we’ve seen dramatic rate increases. What’s causing this spike?

Angie: During the pandemic, the Bank of Canada cut interest rates. In 2020, some lenders offered a five-year fixed rate of 1.49 percent, the lowest in Canadian history. These rates were unsustainable long-term, so they’ve risen again.

M: And is this panic justified? How are your clients handling these rapid changes?

A: The shift was a shock at first. Sudden fluctuations are unnerving, but clients are settling into the changes and learning how to pivot. Many now see this as their opportunity to get into the market.

M: Buyer psyche also plays a part. I was working with several buyers who decided to pause. Now they’re back because they see a more balanced market and a more favourable negotiating environment where they have some leverage.

Even though rates are up, prices are down. In some instances, mortgage payments are the same or even lower than earlier in the year when rates were lower, because housing prices were 15-20 percent greater.

So naturally, the question everyone is asking is: Will rates keep increasing?

A: It's hard to predict. The Bank of Canada considers its “neutral rate” between 2 and 3 percent. Within this range, interest rates aren’t so low that they encourage borrowing but aren’t so high that they’re restrictive. The current bank’s key rate is just above that zone at 3.25 percent. While some experts believe that inflation has peaked, we are nearing the end

of the rate-hike cycle. It might not be enough for the Bank of Canada to hit the brakes just yet – we could see higher rates in the short term until inflation is tamed.

M: What does an interest rate increase mean for one’s mortgage? What different types of mortgages are available?

A: Not everyone will be equally impacted by rate hikes. Generally, first-time homebuyers and those with existing variable mortgages are most affected.

The two main mortgage rate options are variable and fixed. A variable rate fluctuates throughout the term. While there’s some risk, this is an attractive option for many people because of the lower initial interest rate compared to a fixed-rate mortgage. There are also ways to mitigate risk: some lenders offer a variable-rate mortgage with a static payment. In this case, you wouldn’t have to worry about a fluctuating payment and would still take advantage of the flexibility of a variable product.

The other option would be a fixed-rate mortgage, so you know exactly what your payments will be for the duration of your term. This offers some peace of mind –a fixed rate acts like a built-in insurance policy to protect against possible rate increases during your term. But there are some downsides: this option typically comes with higher penalty calculations if you need to break mid-term, sell, or want to switch lenders. If rates fall and you want to break for a better rate, you could face a hefty payout.

M: How do you decide what type of mortgage is right for you?

A: Consider your individual financial budget from a cash-flow perspective. Based on this, you can create a plan that is comfortable and affordable for you. And remember, there are always options. If locking into a fixed rate will help you sleep at night, consider a short-term fixed rate rather than committing to a five-year term. This allows you to reassess in one, two, or three years while also giving you peace of mind.

Your ideal mortgage also depends on other factors, like whether you plan to move or refinance in the short term. If so, you don’t want to be stuck with a longerterm fixed rate.

Looking a few years ahead can help you mitigate risk. Remember, there are

penalty calculations to consider. Breaking your mortgage on a variable rate will typically cost about three months of interest. In contrast, the penalty for a fixed rate is calculated as an interest rate differential – often much higher.

M: It sounds like a fixed rate offers more stability. Is this a good solution for people who want to protect against rate volatility?

A: It can be an excellent option for those anxious about fluctuating rates. Fixed rates are based on the Government of Canada bond yields rather than the Central Bank. In July, bond yields fell under 3 percent, which could mean the 3.59 percent level reached in June may have marked the peak for the year.

So we may see fixed rates come back down before any softening on the variable or prime rate. We’ve already seen a drop in insured fixed rates and could hopefully see all rates come back down over the next 18-24 months – maybe even sooner.

M: What should people do if they currently have a variable rate?

A: For existing variable-rate holders, I’d say budget and prepare for more fluctuations. You’ll have to embrace the increases over the short term, but you’ll benefit when rates inevitably decline. Statistics show that variable-rate holders save more over time if they can stay the course.

If you’re considering converting an existing variable mortgage to a fixed one, you could take a rate of at least 5%.

If you’re willing to do that, the next logical question is: What if fixed rates start to decline? Consider this. What if you were to take a five-year fixed rate today, but rates come down in 2024 – are you comfortable with that risk? We’ve seen this happen before.

While we’re experiencing volatility now, there are perks with a variable rate –especially for those who may be able to weather the short-term increases. But it’s worth noting: if you’re someone that panics every time the Central Bank meets to announce its policy rate, a variable rate may not be the best product for you.

M: What advice do you have for firsttime homebuyers entering the market?

A: If you want to enter the market today, you have to determine a realistic plan. Look at your affordability and decide

based on that. Mortgages are a long-term commitment – you’re probably in it for the next 20-30 years, not just the next three to five.

If you’re a first-time buyer who has been struggling to enter the market, this could be your window of opportunity. You might take a slightly higher rate today, but that could change when you come up for renewal.

M: Yes – more leverage, opportunities for conditional offers, and better negotiating conditions in a more balanced market has enormous upside. Are there other strategies people can use that might mitigate some risk down the road?

A: Of course. One possibility is to make additional principal payments if your plan allows – this will reduce your interest over time. But of course, this can be hard to do when rates are high. A good strategy is to take advantage of prepayment privilege. This is where the lender allows you to prepay a portion of your principal mortgage as either a lump sum or an increased percentage of your regular payment. It’ll chip away at your principal and knock down the amortization or life of the loan.

M: Whether someone is deciding between a fixed or variable mortgage or contemplating getting into the market, what’s your biggest takeaway?

A: Never make a decision based on fear. We’re bombarded with alarming headlines, and our reactionary instinct might be to prioritize short-term gain. Instead, figure out what you can afford by looking at your short and long-term goals. The volatility that worries some might present an opportunity for others, so deciding whether or not to lock in depends entirely on you. If you’re ready to commit to or want to change your mortgage, it’s important to sit down with a professional and create a plan that will best suit your needs.

Want to learn more?

Connect with Matt at C 416.937.6293 / W insidewithmatt.com

Connect with Angie at C 416.315.6261

E angie@capitalhomelending.ca

EAST TO

For many, a sandbox evokes images of carefree play, creative imagination, and meaningful connection. It’s this sense of wonder and joy that animates Beaches Sandbox, a non-profit centre that provides highquality programs related to art, physical activity, and fun.

Opening in September, the Sandbox is built around a concept that is more relevant now than ever. It provides a chance to reconnect after the COVID-19 pandemic has shuttered businesses, separated friends and family, and isolated so many.

“We want to bring the community together. We want everyone to know that there’s always something happening at the Sandbox,” said director Michelle Brunet.

And there certainly is. The range of programming is impressive – drop-ins, special events, speaker series, art, cooking, wellness classes, local workshops, and much more.

Central to the Sandbox mission is offering a safe and welcoming environment to people of all ages and levels of ability. Beaches Sandbox provides many programs and activities at low or no cost.

This was an important part of founders Jason Schuy and Paulette O’Leary’s mission: to create a space for all to enjoy, regardless of ability or financial means.

That’s just one of the ways that this 13,000square-foot, fully accessible facility is a truly inclusive space. People of all ages and backgrounds are encouraged to come together and enjoy the fun activities, educational classes, and inspiring events.

Situated in the heart of the Beaches, Sandbox has a strong local focus. As long-time residents, Schuy and O’Leary wanted to give back to their beloved neighbourhood by creating this vibrant community hub.

Built with the community in mind, Beaches Sandbox's offerings have even been modified to fit Beachers’ needs. After discussions with residents, Sandbox created special programs tailored to seniors and individuals with special needs –groups among the most affected by the pandemic.

Beaches Sandbox is supported by the Paul W. O’Leary Foundation, an organization that supports children through sports, art, and education. Inspired by Paulette’s father, Sandbox continues his legacy of community service and his dedication to fun and play.

In this open and vibrant space, attendees are sure to feel the sense of levity and joy central to the Sandbox mission. The inclusive programming balances creativity and relaxation so that people of all ages can recapture the feeling of playing in a sandbox.

After a drawn-out pandemic, this centre offers a place for people to meet, connect, and thrive. Beaches Sandbox is sure to become a landmark in the community.

What is the drop-in schedule?

Monday – Friday: 9:30 a.m. – 11:30 a.m. Caregiver and Baby/Tot 1:00 p.m. – 3:00 p.m. Seniors 3:30 p.m. – 5:00 p.m. Youth (ages 10-14)

How do you register for classes and events?

All registration can be done on our website: www.BeachesSandbox.com

Who is eligible for the after-school program?

Priority is given to families in need and our centre’s beneficiaries. However, all youth are welcome to attend. Daily registration (or sign in) will be filled in on a first-come, first-served basis.

A collaborative art piece from the Beaches Sandbox Grand Opening features their slogan, Create, Connect, and Have Fun!

“We’re here to serve the community. Listening to our community members is a top priority for us, and we’ll continue to evolve in the ways best to support them,” said Michelle Brunet.

Paulette O’Leary and Jason Schuy

Small Treasures for Home

There is something to be said about simple pleasures giving the best rewards. We reached out to The Richards Group team to find out what recent under-$100 purchase delivered the best value.

ZOE COOK

“My Quip toothbrush!”

“The money tree plant is said to bring good luck and fortune.”

MATT FOSTER

“Definitely my air fryer –it’s the best kitchen gadget!”

JULIA COSTA

SELENE RICHARDS

“A round pin tuck pillow –a perfect accent!”

“All of Uncle Chuck’s sauces and rubs! We use the Rib Rub on everything!”

JENNY SIMON

“A marble and glass wine carafe.”

BRAM GOLDMAN

“My wireless library light”

ADRIENNE SCOTT

“A Pizza Rocker! This has changed the pizza-cutting game!”

MARK

RICHARDS

“The Vegan At Times cookbook. Even though I'm not a vegan.”

SABRINA CAMERON

“My portable phone charger.”

CAMERON LEVITT

“A customizable pillow by Endy. Five stars!”

SHANE LITTLE

“An ivory pampas adds a sophisticated soft touch to any room!”

JACQUELINE GALANG

“The “Thermapen” digital thermometer for grilling.”

MATT OLINSKI

“My cozy TNA fleece boyfriend zip hoodie!”

CERA DANN

“My WACACO Nanopresso, a portable espresso maker.”

EHSAN MAJD “My LetterFolk customizable floor mat.”

SAMANTHA DAVIES

ARTHUR KERSHAW

“My clear acrylic dry erase board”

MELISSA DOWSETT-COOPER

“A good coffee-table book. My favourite is The Complete Cartoons of the New Yorker!”

BIANCA ZORZI

EAST TO

A HOME ABOVE

Not satisfied with builder basics, a professional couple turned to Shannon Cooper of East Design House to transform their condo into a home.

Cooper had a front entryway bench/ cabinet produced by Silverbirch Custom Millwork (silverbirchinc.com) to create functional storage of shoes, a vacuum, and outdoor accessories.

EASTDESIGNHOUSE.COM

Custom leather cushions produced by Scarboro Interiors (scarborointeriors.ca) provide a convenient spot to sit. A custom runner by Elte (elte.com) allows guests to enter the condo’s long hallway without worrying about messy footwear.

A focal point of the living room is the entertainment centre made of custom millwork. The stunning wood finishes sit opposite a custom sofa from Montauk (montauksofa.com).

Modifications to the kitchen island, a Brizo faucet (brizo.com), and backsplash from M2 Tiles (m2tilestone.com) give the kitchen a completely new look.

The powder room was wallpapered with paper from Drop It Modern (dropitmodern.com) and the vanity doors were replaced with white oak doors. Hardware, lighting, and a medicine cabinet elevate the space.

Reeded glass and metal doors produced by 1925 Workbench (1925workbench.com) were installed in the primary bedroom, bathroom, front entry closet, and powder room. This was a considerable part of the budget, but it delivers an impressive return on that investment.

The homeowners understand that good design is in the details – so they commissioned East Design House to curate a collection of art, furniture, and accessories.

Wall-to-Wall Creativity

With lead times for furniture and accessories stretching further and further out – and with HomeSense being hit or miss, The Richards Group’s design team has had to get creative when it comes to transforming client homes.

Agent Jenny Simon and design manager, Samantha Davies, share their tips on giving your home that all-too-valuable ‘it factor’ without breaking the bank. The best part? All of these ideas can be done over a weekend!

Find Your Feature Wall

“It never ceases to amaze me, the power of a feature wall,” says Jenny. “Don’t buy into the adage that dark or bold colours can make a room feel smaller. The effect is always transformational!”

Instead of painting a primary wall, consider painting nooks, inset walls, doors, and fireplace mantels. Always get a sample pot and test the colour before you paint.

To ensure your feature wall stands out, source accessories in the opposite colour family. “If your feature wall is navy, go for paler, peach-based ceramics,” says Samantha. “Or if you have dark green, find vases in mustard yellow.”

Add Dimension

Wainscot, panels, mouldings, and other elements instantly add character and warmth.

“Shiplap is an easy way to add texture,” says Samantha. “Depending on how handy you are, you can DIY it or snag your closest handyman to install.”

Curate Creative Appeal

The photo wall is a surefire way to add warmth and charm to a home. For the greatest impact, Samantha suggests thinking beyond the gallery wall and filling your wall edge-to-edge and top-to-bottom. “A photo wall is a great excuse to check out your local vintage stores in East TO – but you can also shop your home and repurpose art and wall decor to fill your wall. Don’t overthink or worry about things matching. The more eclectic, the better!”

To start, measure your walls and outline the space you have to work with on the floor using masking tape. This gives you an easy place to lay out your art before you install your selections.

These East Toronto vintage shops are always a source of great finds!

Look Up!

“An often ‘overlooked’ opportunity for impact and glam is the ceiling,” says Jenny. Have coffered ceilings? Even better!

And if you’re feeling particularly adventurous, Samatha suggests wallpapering your ceiling for maximum impact. “Dark, light, or colourful, you can’t go wrong!”

Guff Furniture

1 Davies Ave. gufffurniture.com

Vintage and Antiques 1462 Kingston Rd.

Bronze Home Decor 1120 Queen St. E.

The Leslieville Flea Ashbridge Estate and Jimmie Simpson Community Rec Centre leslievilleflea.com

CREATIVELY THE JUGGLING

Since joining The Richards Group in the spring of 2022, Adrienne Scott has hit the ground running. There’s never been a dull moment at work –or at home, either, thanks to her four busy young daughters.

Adrienne’s roots in the Beach community run deep. Growing up on Rhyl Avenue and Williamson Road, she attended Kew Beach, Glen Ames, and Malvern public schools and, to continue the tradition, has sent her kids to Williamson Road. As a teen, she hung out at The Goof (as locals call the Garden Gate Restaurant), met up with friends at Mac’s Milk (now the Circle K), and worked her first-ever job at Mastermind. It’s not surprising that Adrienne returned to the Beach after earning her MBA and a stint working in Boston. It’s equally unsurprising that she has managed to transform her Pine Crescent home into both a haven and a hub from which she helps her clients and her community. Here’s what she told us about how she pulls it all together with style and grace.

MANAGING ACT.

Seize the Day

Before becoming an agent, Adrienne co-founded a smartphone app that crowdsourced home sale prices across the GTA, helping consumers access information that is typically only available to real estate agents. So when she began looking for a career change, Mark Richards felt it was fitting for Adrienne to become a real estate agent. “I knew she would be a natural in the business,” he says. “Her work ethic, her ability to connect with her community, and her spirit in the East End are second to none.”

Mark saw this back in 2014 when he first met Adrienne at an open house. Adrienne bought the Duart Park home from him and then hired Mark as her agent for her next home on Glen Manor.

When it came time to purchase her current home on Pine Crescent (one of the only streets with interlocking brick), Mark was impressed at how keen Adrienne was to make a strategic strike over the May long weekend when many other buyers leave town. “One of the keys to success is not letting opportunities in those quiet moments pass you by,” she says.

It's this proactive attitude that Adrienne’s clients have come to rely on, and shifts in the market have meant that her working hours are unpredictable. When a client calls on an evening or weekend, Adrienne has to be ready to rush out the door, leaving her girls – ages 11, 9, 7, and 5 – with their dad or a friend on their street. “I’m successful because of my mom tribe and the many babysitters and little helpers all over the neighbourhood,” she says. “Being close to so many other families is part of the magic of the East End.”

Stay in Sync

When it comes to keeping track of family, work, and personal time, Adrienne turns to the Google Suite. She syncs her family calendar with her work calendar to ensure she doesn’t miss a beat.

And since Adrienne often finds herself out and about with clients – and kids — she saves each child’s art, schoolwork, and essential paperwork directly to Google Drive folders using her iPhone and the Google Drive app. She has everything set up to go straight to recycling except for anything she tags as a favourite. This has radically cut down on time spent scanning and filing.

It Takes a Village

Scott credits local Beaches businesses for saving the day regularly. “They’re what get us through the week,” she says. After school, she ferries her daughters to and from the Toronto Dance Company, Beaches Scholars, and other activities, stopping off at Carload Food Market, Dyson’s Valu-Mart, Rowe Farms or the Yumei Sushi for groceries or takeout.

Adrienne keeps breakfasts and snacks simple by rotating through the same 5-6 options while being more flexible and seasonal with dinners.

“I’m not a chef, and we like to buy food in small batches, so the ability to zip to Queen for options is a lifesaver,” she says. “The local and easily accessible food options are part of why people love the Beach.”

Clear the Clutter

Adrienne knows first-hand that a tidy home is critical for keeping a busy house moving – and with four young girls at home, the pile of out-grown clothes and toys can build up quickly. So Adrienne found a neighbour with kids younger than hers who is more than happy to take any hand-me-downs. Her eldest kids get involved by dropping the items off themselves, so no one is tripping over bags of old clothing waiting to be taken to Value Village.

To clear her busy mind, Adrienne takes on a sweaty hot Pilates session at Beaches Hot Yoga, owned by her best friend, Dana Dineen.

Inspired Every Day

The family’s six-bedroom Pine Crescent home does triple duty as a cozy sanctuary, entertaining haven, and workspace. There’s plenty of space to showcase each family member’s personality.

Though the four girls each have their own bedroom, the rooms speak to one another through common themes of playful wallpapers, colourful paints, and unique light fixtures. Adrienne recruited a friend and stylist with The Richards Group to create distinct vibes for the adult and kid spaces, punched up with midcentury modern-inspired furnishings and lighting.

“The living room walls are a dark navy because that’s the adult zone, and it should feel grown-up. We’re not shy about using pink in the girls' rooms.”

Relatively low-cost, low-commitment accessories and wall accents allow Adrienne to let her creative side run free. The approach also gives the house room to evolve as the family’s needs change, resulting in a home that’s a never-ending contributor to Team Adrienne. When life moves at a hectic pace, it takes a well-designed home to keep everyone in step.

Want to learn more?

Connect with Adrienne at C 416.300.7390 / E adrienne@therichardsgroup.ca

Thanks to The Richards Group’s print partner, Proprint Services

EAST TO

Creative Buying

By Bram Goldman

Buying real estate in Toronto is a challenge, regardless of market conditions. Bram Goldman, an agent with The Richards Group, shares his strategies to make it happen for you.

A true ‘buyers’ market’ is defined when inventory is at six months or more. With inventory in East Toronto at 2.45 months, we are still in a sellers’ market. All this means that finding the right home requires more than a little patience – it demands creativity.

First and Foremost: Align Your Agent With Your Goals

Most people get excited by scrolling through realtor.ca and just want to see homes. Sure, this can be fun, but unless you dive deep with your agent to understand what is important to you over the short- and longterm, you may risk getting wooed by an exposed brick wall in a home that will not serve you and your family a few years from now.

You and your agent should know what you want and wait only to see properties that are pretty darn close to what you want.

But wait… won’t that just make your list shorter? Yes, it will, and that’s okay because good agents have a network of potential sellers.

Most buyers don’t realize that many homes are sold without ever hitting realtor.ca. Some sellers may not be quite ready to list yet – or simply prefer to sell off-market, and only when they have a matched buyer does listing their home make sense. Your agent’s access to this pool of future sellers can put you on the inside track.

Go Forward With Confidence: Sell Before You Buy

Of course, your ability to sell your current home (if you have a home already) often comes down to circumstance, financial flexibility, and comfort level. But in these conditions, buyers who have already sold their existing home benefit from the confidence of knowing what they can afford. And they can protect their purchase because they don’t have to rely on a sale to move forward.

Be Selective (Even When There’s Little Selection)

You’re making the most significant financial investment of your life during a competitive market. This is not the time to trust your newly licensed cousin in Mississauga to find you a home in the Beach.

As mentioned previously, professional agents have solid networks of future sellers. Find out who is the best Realtor in the neighbourhoods you are hoping to buy in. Ask them about their ability to get you early access to homes before they hit the market, access to exclusive (off-market) homes, and their understanding of home values.

This expertise will help you make an educated decision about what to buy and how to approach your bid. They can also put you in the best negotiation position should you be in a multiple-offer situation.

Above All: Have an Open Mind

You want specific goals regarding what kind of house will support your future needs. But that said, I see some clients become a little too fixated on very particular features — for instance, a list of only select streets they’ll consider, which can dramatically limit your options in a competitive market. Boundaries and hotspots are changing quickly – and many fantastic homes in neighbourhoods are on the cusp of being the next “street to be.”

And while the media loves to share horror stories about bidding wars on one hand and the bottom falling out of the real estate market on the other, the fact is that many buyers are still finding gems in this market. Whether you’re a first-time buyer or moving up the property ladder, the secret to success in this market is to partner with a professional who can help you stay strategic and uncover those hidden opportunities.

Want to learn more? Connect with Bram today. C 416.688.2468 E bram@therichardsgroup.ca

Beware the “I Have a Buyer” Trick

You’ve probably seen this letter in your mailbox: a real estate agent writes that they have a buyer for your home. Exciting news! But not really.

Unfortunately, many agents use this technique to try and drive up listings without having a legitimate buyer. If an unsolicited letter from an agent gets you thinking about selling, ask the agent detailed questions about the buyer, what they’re looking for, and how to connect with them.

Anyone with a legitimate buyer will be happy to share these details. If they don’t, contact a professional who can advise you on your next move.

Bram Goldman

I like the way you work it.

Fall is on the horizon, and as the season changes, so too will our decor. We’re swapping out light and bright summer accents for warmer, cozier pieces. This year, design trends have featured warm tones – terracottas, plums, and cognac browns coordinated with creams and greys – the perfect palette for fall.

But if you’ve searched through shops recently, you’ve likely noticed a problem: supply chain disruptions have left many items indefinitely out of stock, and inflation has made the available pieces more expensive than ever.

This can be a challenging time to redesign, but beautiful results are still achievable – all you need is a bit of creativity.

With the help of staging and property styling expert Bianca Zorzi, we’ve put together the ultimate guide for reinventing your home, right now.

Bianca Zorzi

Before heading to the store, take stock of the items you already own – think of this as shopping your collection. What do you love, what needs fixing, and what are you ready to part with? Sometimes, wellloved items might just need some repairs. Consider what you can quickly mend yourself or, reach out to a local vendor to bring the piece back to life.

Try different configurations. When we’re bored with our decor, it’s often because we’re seeing the same pieces in the same places, day after day. Before purchasing something new, switch up your layout. Move the couch or even rearrange the art on the wall. Reorganizing might just change the space enough for you to fall in love with your items once again.

It might not be glamorous, but a deep clean can make all the difference. Powerwash your outdoor surfaces and pick up a fabric steamer for upholstered items. Sprucing up your favourite pieces can make them feel like new.

Make what you have work for you.

Create a focal point.

Design is in the details. If you’re feeling uninspired by your current artwork, or if the frames are eclectic or too small to stand on their own, create a statement with a gallery wall. It’ll read as one unified installment, but will invite the viewer to explore the different images, textures, and colours within it. In fact, staging experts often incorporate gallery walls to create that custom lived-in feel.

Before hanging your pieces, place them on the floor to map out the size and layout. You can even incorporate other items like plates or bowls for more variety and visual interest. Find your inner artist and incorporate a sketch or painting –this could be the perfect place to frame and showcase your little one’s newest masterpiece. These details add a personal touch that can’t be bought.

Vintage shopping and upcycling.

Antique markets, Value Village, Habitat for Humanity ReStore, and Facebook Marketplace are great places to find unique pieces at affordable prices. You’ll also feel good knowing that you’re purchasing items second-hand, supporting local stores, and not contributing to waste. We recommend scoping out the glassware, vase, lamp, and book sections.

When looking through the shelves, think about how pieces can be repurposed to fit your home. It can be hard to imagine a new find in context, but look at its bare bones: Do you like the shape and size? Other details like colour or fabric can be swapped out to perfectly suit your style.

Spray paint is your new best friend.

Find a beautifully shaped vase but the colour won’t match your decor? This is the perfect opportunity to upcycle. While vintage finds add character to your home, they might need an update. Refresh them with a quick coat of paint.

Even current items can be transformed with a spray of matte black, white, or brass paint. If you’ve accumulated numerous clear vases from floral arrangements, spray paint them for a new accent piece or candle holder.

Material swaps.

Our biggest items – the couch, dining room table, dresser – are visually impactful and often pricey to replace. Instead of buying new, updating parts of these items can give them a fresh look or even change their style completely.

Look for cushion covers in a different colour or texture, replace couch legs with a new set, or swap out old doorknobs and handles. These small tweaks can drastically change the look and feel of your space.

By reworking current or secondhand pieces, you can refresh your decor without maxing out your budget. With these thoughtful swaps, make your home a new place to explore and enjoy.

soulfoodstudio.com

EAST TO

Market Highlights

The state of Toronto real estate is always a hot topic and tends to conjure more questions than answers. The Richards Group’s Cameron Levitt addresses the most common questions we’ve been hearing from buyers and sellers.

"I'm looking to trade up. How does this market affect me? Or does it?”

Consider selling first to have budget certainty. This is a considerable change in approach from years past because those who had sold first risked getting priced out as the market moved higher quickly. There are still some details to navigate when selling first, but it's an approach many are choosing.

“Are there good deals out there right now?”

A boilerplate answer isn't the right way to answer this question! Prices are lower, but carrying costs are at 20-year highs. So you need an individually tailored approach to risk based on your planned leverage and ability to weather potentially higher interest rates in the future.

“Are there still multiple offers and lots of competition?”

The listing statistics are a bit misleading and bloated, as there are still some sellers on the market trying to get a price from six months ago. But these houses won't sell.

The inventory of quality, appropriately priced homes is actually very low. So multiple offers are still happening in some cases. But competition is also very areaand price-point dependent. Many buyers have paused or were priced out of the budget they had in Q1. That said, the irrational bidding wars where prices made no sense are gone.

“Has the bubble burst?”

Despite what the media says, a bubble bursting isn't a 15-to-20percent drawdown in housing prices.

If you want to see what a bubble bursting looks like, check out NFTs, crypto, SPACs, the ARKK ETFs or any of the other speculative junk that got supercharged by firehose fiscal /monetary policy. Real estate still is a less risky asset.

“What's the East End market like compared to last year?”

Last September/October was a fairly standard autumn market. This year, there are more unanswered questions about the future.

In 2021, there was a predictable rise in activity coming out of a slow summer. In 2022, we’re still seeing that same dynamic with sales activity up off the summer low. Interestingly, this rebound in the East End is counter-trend to the rest of the GTA market, where it appears that September will be the lowest number of transactions for the year. The big difference between this year and last is that values are down 15-20 percent this year from a large shock to buyer sentiment, whereas last year, prices were fairly steady coming out of the summer.

Questions? Ask Me Anything!

Cam is always happy to answer questions or discuss trends in the market.

Email cameron@therichardsgroup.ca to submit your questions!

Local business owners, festival organizers, politicians, restauranteurs, and other East End influencers share their stories and their love for the east.

Listen along as Shane and Jenny chat with their friends, and make some new ones.

Northumberland CULTIVATING A COMMUNITY

Northumberland County is filled with local artists, incredible farm-to-table markets, restaurants, and artisans that set the bar for communities coming together in support of sustainable growth.

Team Pennington has been giving the gift of Cultivate’s locally curated crates to our clients through their holiday baskets for years. We are proud to be able to extend that by ensuring all children 18 and under can attend events for free. In addition, we are hosts of the kids’ zone, which is filled with creative activities, music, games, and treats just for them!

Events kick off with the Cultivate Festival. This flagship production is held every September and is a three-day event with the chance to come together to celebrate a farm-to-festival menu with a live soundtrack of the very best in Canadian music.

Not only is local a focus of the festival but a sustainable, eco-friendly approach is also top of mind. We are supplying reusable drink mugs for everyone to use during the event to keep waste at a minimum and to have a fantastic event-branded souvenir to take home!

Hibernate is an ongoing series from December to March held at the beautiful Capitol Theater in downtown Port Hope. The festival is a celebration of live music and diverse voices, local food and drink, collaborative art installations, and a feel-good vibe that is second to none.

Finally, in the summer months, the Road to Cultivate series begins. A picnic, local music and food festival, and block party all rolled into one! Grab a blanket and enjoy weekly family-friendly programming, food vendors, arts, crafts, and more.

For more information on Cultivate community events, visit their website for full details: cultivatefestival.ca

No matter the season, there is always something new to discover and explore within Northumberland. We hope to see you soon!

The Richards Group Effect

Even in a hot market, The Richards Group earns 10 percent more for your home in half the time compared to the average TREB agent.

Given that the average price of a home in Toronto’s East End is $1,443,556, choosing The Richards Group could mean an additional $144,356* or more for your home.

**Based on TREB 2022 Q2 stats E01/E02 combined

The Team That Makes It All Happen

Realtors

Cera Dann Sales Representative

Cameron Levitt Sales Representative

Matt Foster Sales Representative Lisa Clarke Broker

Matt Olinski Sales Representative

Zoe Cook Sales Assistant

Shane Little Sales Representative

Amélie Trudeau Commerical Sales Representative

Bram Goldman Sales Representative

Daniel Landry Sales Representative

Adrienne Scott Sales Representative

Jenny Simon Sales Representative

Sabrina Cameron Sales Representative

Mark Richards Founder and Team Leader

Selene Richards

Melissa Dowsett-Cooper Team Administrator

Arthur Kershaw Broker of Record

Samantha Davies

and

Julia Costa

and

Care Assistant

and

Staging and Property Styling

Staging and Property Styling

Melville-Allen

Staging and

What’s