A city councillor in the downtown Toronto area has put forth an amendment to the city’s building plan that would require builders to focus on adding more large, family-sized condos. The city’s plan currently puts more emphasis on increasing density in the downtown area and reducing the outward sprawl of residents, with not as much consideration to providing family-friendly amenities.
Adam Vaughan, councillor for the Trinity-Spadina ward, told the Globe and Mail this week that since he took office he’s asked developers to make ten per cent of their buildings three-bedroom units. This would allow a place for larger families that want to make the move to the downtown area, as well as encourage some of the condos to offer more family-oriented stores and services.
Builders have already started implementing recreation areas and day cares into their plans, but Vaughan said that is not enough to make it hospitable for families to move in. If there is no demand through the amount of children living there, there will be a lower enrollment at downtown schools and less services and activities that cater to children and their families.
Many people with children looking to move don’t often spend a lot of time considering condominiums. Much of the misconceptions about condominiums are based on the idea that they are usually better suited for the lifestyles of single people, seniors and younger couples.
All a condominium represents is a way for people to explore homeownership and still receive some of the perks involved with renting. Some of these benefits include security features, pools, tennis courts, board rooms and even bowling alleys – luxuries many homeowners would not typically be able to afford. Condominiums are low maintenance, the cost of upkeep is shared between residents and there is usually a superintendent on staff who can take care of your more basic repair needs, saving you the hassle of calling a plumber or electrician. Some tips when looking into the condominium market are:
- Get to know your neighbours, all around and above and below. Community is a large part of the condo lifestyle and being friendly with neighbours will only increase to your comfort level.
- Check out the neighbourhood for all the amenities you’ll need, such as recreation centers and family activities, schools and parks.
- Remind your family about appropriate noise levels while living in a condominium and ask about soundproofing.
- Ensure the floor plan, balcony and amount of bedrooms and bathrooms are suitable for you and your family.
With more emphasis on providing condominium neighbourhoods with services geared towards families and children, a condo can be a perfect way for families to begin experiencing homeownership.
Susan Eickmeier is a Sales Representative with Royal LePage R.E.S. Ltd/Johnston & Daniel Division working in the Central Toronto market. Susan is also a regular contributor to the Muddy York Blog. Susan’s website is located at www.susaneickmeier.com
