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6 Architecture Trends That Never Go Out of Style

The world of architecture revolves around finding solutions driven by human needs — the need for shelter, security, and a place to stay warm and comfortable, to name a few. As an industry, it has always prided itself in designing not only functional spaces but also beautiful ones. Try looking up Pinterest home designs and you’ll know what we mean.

It’s amazing how architecture changed over the years. As is with every other practice, new ideas bloom, and trends are set. However, there are certain trends in architecture that have stood the test of time. In this article, we’ll discuss six of the timeless architecture trends to inspire you for your next home acquisition or project.

1. Tiny homes/Tiny living

Recent times have seen a boom in a more conscious lifestyle. With more and more people living and needing only the essentials, tiny homes have sprouted everywhere to support the movement. These houses go as small as 15 square meters (or less!), but homeowners continue to make the switch since they’re eco-friendly, sustainable, and affordable.

If you’re thinking of downsizing, or if this is your first time purchasing a home, you may want to consider living in a tiny home. Their simplistic and functional designs are perfect for minimalists or anyone on a budget.

2. Smart homes

Technology and design have come a long way. And with the rise of smart tech, it’s making its way into our homes, on to the quest to future proof our humble abode.

You’ll see these advancements through lighting gadgets, kitchen mechanisms, and even in the bathroom. Soon, automation will make day-to-day tasks obsolete. It brings a sense of ease and convenience to the present-day homeowner. A house that knows whether to keep itself cold or warm is something to marvel at, don’t you think?

3. Taking the outdoors inside

The pandemic has been ravaging for quite some time, and it brought with it a longing for the outside world. Formal dining and living rooms are fading away and are being replaced by spaces that take in fresh air. Just like that, we saw a rise in architecture and design revolving around this idea— bringing the outside world into our home.

From placing plants inside, to using earthy tones, to indoor-outdoor bathrooms, and even actual open areas in the middle of the house, this movement has set a milestone for great seamless living. Having a space that lets you breathe is now a plus in every home. It gives you a sense of wellness without having to be outside the comfort of its four walls.

4. Sustainability

As the call to let the Earth breathe continues to ring across the globe, sustainability has been at the forefront of architecture. This movement aims to reduce the carbon footprint a home leaves and makes. Architects heavily consider numerous factors in order for them to call a property “sustainable”, and some of which include the actual materials used to build it, the location of the actual property, and the design.

With architecture shifting its focus to designs that focus on sustainability, it brings with it cost-effective measures that will make the Earth and us happy. From designs that cool the house to recycling rainwater, to utilizing solar power – these are all great and easily-implementable steps that even you can do for your current home.

5. Multi-functional open spaces

If you’ve looked for home designs online, then you’ll see pictures of open floor plans dominating the feed. It’s not a shock that this trend is here. People used to be so obsessed with walls and dividing spaces. Perhaps this suffocated them. Now they want to move freely with fewer limitations.

Say goodbye to excessive walls as we welcome the era of multi-functional open spaces. It’s not very hard to be gone with the walls since there are wonderful design pieces out there that help compartmentalize spaces. Homeowners who choose to apply this approach enjoy the versatility of agile spaces. People can work, entertain guests, and lounge around in the area, essentially making the idea of having separate home offices, entertainment rooms, and even study rooms outdated.

6. Renovated or Rehabilitated Homes

As the demand for homes and spaces continue to rise, so does the demand for fixer-upper projects. With more and more homes and buildings entering old age, this trend gives home seekers a cost-effective way to acquire a property.

As we innovate, timeless ideas persist

The trends we have listed are a move to innovation, all packaged in a timeless approach. Architecture and design will continue to evolve, so expect more wonderful concepts to take hold. We hope this article inspires you to pursue only the best ideas for your home or future property.
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Multi-Generational Homes are Becoming More Popular

Multi-generational homes are residences that house multiple generations of a family, including grandparents, parents, and children, under one roof. These homes provide a practical solution to the changing demographics of Canadian society, economic pressures, and social and cultural factors.

Multi-generational homes are becoming more popular in Canada as families seek to live together to save on expenses, provide care for aging parents, and strengthen family bonds. With rising housing costs and changing demographics, multi-generational living is a viable option for families in Canada.

What’s Behind the Popularity of Multi-Generational Homes

There are several reasons for the growing popularity of multi-generational homes in Canada:

Economic Benefits

By living together, family members can share expenses such as mortgage payments, utilities, and groceries, which can help to reduce the financial burden on each individual. With rising housing costs in many Canadian cities, multi-generational living can also make home ownership more affordable for families.

Changing Demographics

Canada’s population is aging, and seniors are living longer. Many seniors prefer to age in place, and multi-generational homes provide a practical solution for families to care for their aging parents. At the same time, young adults are facing challenges entering the housing market, and multi-generational homes offer a viable option for them to live independently while staying close to their families.

Social and Cultural Factors

Living together with extended family members is a norm in many cultures, and multi-generational homes allow families to maintain their cultural traditions while living in Canada.

Advantages of Multi-Generational Homes

Multi-generational homes provide opportunities for support and care for all family members. Here are some of the advantages of multi-generational homes:

Family Support

By living together, family members can provide emotional and practical support to each other, which is essential for maintaining strong family relationships. Children can develop closer relationships with their grandparents, and seniors can benefit from the companionship of their grandchildren. Additionally, living together can help to strengthen cultural traditions and family values.

Sharing of Expenses and Responsibilities

By living together, family members can share the cost of mortgage payments, utilities, and groceries, which can help to reduce the financial burden on each individual. Additionally, sharing responsibilities such as household chores and childcare can help to reduce stress and workload for each family member.

Enhanced Care for Children, Seniors, and Disabled Individuals

By living together, family members can provide care and support to each other. For example, grandparents can help to care for young children, while adult children can care for aging parents. This can help to reduce the need for external caregivers and provide better quality care for family members.

Design Considerations for Multi-Generational Homes

A multi-generational home can be comfortable for all family members with the right home and layout. A few design considerations can help ensure each family member has a cozy yet functional living space.

The layout and space allocation of multi-generational homes should be designed to accommodate the unique needs of each family member. For example, separate living spaces should be provided for each family member to ensure everyone has personal space and privacy. Additionally, common areas should be designed to encourage social interaction and bonding between family members. The layout should also include easy accessibility to all parts of the home to accommodate the needs of elderly family members.

Accessibility and safety features should be significant considerations in designing multi-generational homes, especially when seniors or disabled individuals live there. Homes should be designed to accommodate the needs of family members with disabilities or mobility issues. This may include installing ramps, wider doorways, and bathroom grab bars. Safety features such as smoke detectors, fire extinguishers, and adequate lighting should be installed throughout the home to ensure the safety of all family members.

Privacy and personal space considerations are crucial in designing multi-generational homes. Family members should have separate living spaces, including bedrooms and bathrooms. Additionally, common areas should be designed to ensure family members can socialize without compromising privacy.

As the population ages and housing costs rise in Canada, multi-generational living is becoming an increasingly popular housing option for families. With the right adjustments, a multi-generational home can be a convenient living arrangement for all family members. Contact the real estate agents at RE/MAX to help you find the perfect multi-generational home for your extended family.

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Toronto Real Estate Market Report, April 2024

In April 2024, home sales in the Greater Toronto Area (GTA) saw a slight decline compared to the previous year. GTA REALTORS® reported 7,114 sales via the  TRREB MLS® System, a 5% decrease from April 2023. Despite the dip in sales, new listings surged by 47.2%, providing buyers with more options and stabilizing the average selling price.

TRREB President Jennifer Pearce noted that the influx of listings could be due to homeowners anticipating increased demand for homes. However, many potential buyers are holding off purchases, waiting for the Bank of Canada to cut its policy rate. The MLS® Home Price Index (HPI) Composite benchmark showed a minor year-over-year decline, while the average selling price edged up by 0.3% to $1,156,167.

Buyers are benefitting from the greater choice in the market, resulting in stable selling prices. TRREB Chief Market Analyst Jason Mercer expects that lower borrowing costs will tighten market conditions, leading to price growth in the future. TRREB CEO John DiMichele emphasized the need for policy alignment across government levels to enhance affordability and housing availability in the long term. As we move into 2025, the interplay between market conditions and policy decisions will be crucial in shaping the GTA housing landscape.

What makes Toronto and the GTA a prime area for real estate?

Toronto and the Greater Toronto Area (GTA) have several factors that contribute to their status as a prime area for real estate:

1. Economic Hub: Toronto is the financial and business capital of Canada, with a diverse economy that includes finance, technology, media, healthcare, and more. This economic stability attracts businesses and professionals, driving demand for real estate.

2. Population Growth: Toronto has experienced steady population growth due to immigration, interprovincial migration, and natural population increase. The GTA is one of the fastest-growing urban regions in North America, leading to sustained demand for housing.

3. Cultural Diversity: Toronto is known for its cultural diversity, with a vibrant mix of ethnicities, languages, and lifestyles. This diversity contributes to a dynamic real estate market, catering to various preferences and needs.

4. Strong Rental Market: Toronto has a robust rental market, driven by factors such as high immigration, a growing student population, and young professionals seeking urban living. Investors often find opportunities in rental properties due to consistent demand.

5. Infrastructure and Amenities: The GTA boasts excellent infrastructure, including public transportation, highways, healthcare facilities, schools, and recreational amenities. Access to these amenities enhances the appeal of real estate in the region.

6. Limited Supply of Land: Toronto’s geography and urban development constraints limit the availability of land for new construction. This scarcity of land drives up property values and encourages densification, particularly in desirable neighbourhoods.

7. Stable Real Estate Market: Despite occasional fluctuations, Toronto’s real estate market has historically shown resilience and long-term appreciation. Investors view the city as a safe and lucrative destination for real estate investment.

8. Foreign Investment: Toronto attracts significant foreign investment in real estate, with buyers from around the world drawn to its stability, economic prospects, and quality of life. This international interest further bolsters the market.

Overall, Toronto and the GTA offer a combination of economic opportunities, cultural vibrancy, infrastructure, and investment potential that make them highly attractive for real estate buyers, investors, and developers.

Average Home Price...

April 2024: $1,156,167

 April 2023: $1,152,519

Up: 0.3%

The Number of Homes Sold...

April 2024: 7,114

April 2023: 7,487

Down: -5.0%

Property Days on Market...

April 2024: 28

April 2023: 24

Up by: 16.7%

How Does This Impact You?

As demand for housing increases, supply remains a concern. Governments need to focus on innovative solutions to increase housing supply and improve affordability, including supporting non-traditional arrangements like co-ownership models and encouraging gentle density in high-demand areas like the Greater Golden Horseshoe.

Toronto and the Greater Toronto Area (GTA) stand out as premier real estate destinations for several reasons. These include their status as Canada’s economic powerhouse, steady population growth, vibrant cultural diversity, robust rental market, excellent infrastructure, limited land availability, stable market conditions, and significant foreign investment.

If you’re interested in specific year-specific conditions, situational analysis, or detailed home prices, feel free to reach out to me. I can provide you with a comprehensive property and neighborhood report, including up-to-date statistics sourced from the Toronto Real Estate Board. Let’s discuss your requirements, and I’ll ensure you have the most accurate and relevant information to guide your decisions.

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Toronto Real Estate Market Report, March 2024

Springtime in the Greater Toronto Area is A Prime Season for Real Estate Success

As the snow melts away and the days grow longer, the Greater Toronto Area (GTA) transforms into a bustling hub of real estate activity during the spring months. For those contemplating buying or selling a home in this vibrant region, there are numerous advantages to making a move during this time of year. Here’s why spring is the opportune season to navigate the dynamic real estate market of the GTA.

What makes Toronto and the GTA a prime area for real estate?

Toronto and the Greater Toronto Area (GTA) have several factors that contribute to their status as a prime area for real estate:

1. Economic Hub: Toronto is the financial and business capital of Canada, with a diverse economy that includes finance, technology, media, healthcare, and more. This economic stability attracts businesses and professionals, driving demand for real estate.

2. Population Growth: Toronto has experienced steady population growth due to immigration, interprovincial migration, and natural population increase. The GTA is one of the fastest-growing urban regions in North America, leading to sustained demand for housing.

3. Cultural Diversity: Toronto is known for its cultural diversity, with a vibrant mix of ethnicities, languages, and lifestyles. This diversity contributes to a dynamic real estate market, catering to various preferences and needs.

4. Strong Rental Market: Toronto has a robust rental market, driven by factors such as high immigration, a growing student population, and young professionals seeking urban living. Investors often find opportunities in rental properties due to consistent demand.

5. Infrastructure and Amenities: The GTA boasts excellent infrastructure, including public transportation, highways, healthcare facilities, schools, and recreational amenities. Access to these amenities enhances the appeal of real estate in the region.

6. Limited Supply of Land: Toronto’s geography and urban development constraints limit the availability of land for new construction. This scarcity of land drives up property values and encourages densification, particularly in desirable neighbourhoods.

7. Stable Real Estate Market: Despite occasional fluctuations, Toronto’s real estate market has historically shown resilience and long-term appreciation. Investors view the city as a safe and lucrative destination for real estate investment.

8. Foreign Investment: Toronto attracts significant foreign investment in real estate, with buyers from around the world drawn to its stability, economic prospects, and quality of life. This international interest further bolsters the market.

Overall, Toronto and the GTA offer a combination of economic opportunities, cultural vibrancy, infrastructure, and investment potential that make them highly attractive for real estate buyers, investors, and developers.

Average Home Price...

March 2024: $1,121,615

March 2023: $1,107,018

Up 1.3%

The Number of Homes Sold...

March 2024: 6,560

March 2023: 6,868

Down 4.5%

Property Days on Market...

March 2024: 29

March 2023: 27

Up by: 2

Months of Supply...

Months of Supply: 2

*The term “months of supply” is a key metric used in real estate to gauge the balance between supply (the number of homes available for sale) and demand (the number of homes being purchased by buyers) in a particular market. 

Sales to List Price Ratio...

Last Month: 50% 

Last Year: 60%

*The “sales to listing ratio” is a metric used in real estate to assess the relationship between the number of homes sold and the number of homes listed for sale within a certain period of time, typically within a month. 

How Does This Impact You?

As demand for housing increases, supply remains a concern. Governments need to focus on innovative solutions to increase housing supply and improve affordability, including supporting non-traditional arrangements like co-ownership models and encouraging gentle density in high-demand areas like the Greater Golden Horseshoe.

Toronto and the Greater Toronto Area (GTA) stand out as premier real estate destinations for several reasons. These include their status as Canada’s economic powerhouse, steady population growth, vibrant cultural diversity, robust rental market, excellent infrastructure, limited land availability, stable market conditions, and significant foreign investment.

If you’re interested in specific year-specific conditions, situational analysis, or detailed home prices, feel free to reach out to me. I can provide you with a comprehensive property and neighborhood report, including up-to-date statistics sourced from the Toronto Real Estate Board. Let’s discuss your requirements, and I’ll ensure you have the most accurate and relevant information to guide your decisions.

Read
This website may only be used by consumers that have a bona fide interest in the purchase, sale, or lease of real estate of the type being offered via the website. The data relating to real estate on this website comes in part from the MLS® Reciprocity program of the PropTx MLS®. The data is deemed reliable but is not guaranteed to be accurate.