Globe and Mail

Published 22 February,2019 .   Carolyn Ireland

This Toronto real estate deal proves correctly pricing a home sale is essential
41 Maryport Ave., North York.
RIGHT AT HOME REALTY INC
The seller of a raised three-bedroom bungalow in Toronto tried two real estate agents and at least three asking prices before finding a buyer in the middle of a late-January blizzard.
Lena Preje, a real estate agent with Right at Home Realty Inc., arrived one blustery day to show the house and found the lockbox containing the key frozen solid. She had to enlist the help of a neighbour on the quiet family street to break open the contraption.
The snow and freezing rain prevented potential buyers from seeing the fruit trees in the garden and the greenbelt beyond the backyard, Ms. Preje says.
And yet the house at 41 Maryport Ave. in North York received five offers from three bidders during the three weeks it was on the market.

It sold for $970,000, $81,000 more than the asking price of $889,000.
Ms. Preje points to the sale of the house near Keele Street and Sheppard Ave. West as an example of how setting the correct asking price is all-important. Sellers, she says, need to understand the current market.
The house received five offers from three bidders during the three weeks it was on the market.
The house had previously been listed with two different agents at higher prices.
When the property arrived on the market in June, the asking price was $1,150,000. Eventually the price was cut to $1,048,888.
Not only did the house not sell during those six months, house hunters weren’t even submitting lowball offers, Ms. Preje says.
When the seller approached Ms. Preje, she recommended relaunching in January – despite the deep freeze that typically descends at that time of year. She figured there would be a market of ready buyers.
“I knew a lot of people sold their houses in November and December,” she says. “They need a house.” But she also insisted that the price had been set way too high.
“I spoke to my clients in a very serious way,” she explains, adding that she doesn’t want to take on a listing that will just languish.
“We have to take a different strategy,” she told the seller.
Ms. Preje persuaded the owner to list the property with an asking price of $889,000 – with offers welcome any time.

The circa 1965 house was very solid and well-cared for, she says, and she did a small amount of staging herself.
The house had previously been listed with two different agents at higher prices.
“I just jazzed it up.”
Ms. Preje says one lowball offer arrived the second day but it was so far below asking that the seller didn’t attempt to negotiate.
After about one week, another bid arrived. Ms. Preje advised all of the agents who had seen the property or booked showings that an offer had landed.
“Everyone started to wake up,” she says.
The original bidder returned but that party was still unsuccessful. Two others were in the running. The seller decided to work with the final offer that landed at the end of January.
After some negotiating around price and conditions, the house sold on Feb. 7.
Ms. Preje says the buyers are a family who plan to live in the house as it is, with some minor renovations.

GLOBE and MAIL

Published 22 February,2019  by Carolyn Ireland

This Toronto real estate deal proves correctly pricing a home sale is essential
41 Maryport Ave., North York.
RIGHT AT HOME REALTY INC
The seller of a raised three-bedroom bungalow in Toronto tried two real estate agents and at least three asking prices before finding a buyer in the middle of a late-January blizzard.
Lena Preje, a real estate agent with Right at Home Realty Inc., arrived one blustery day to show the house and found the lockbox containing the key frozen solid. She had to enlist the help of a neighbour on the quiet family street to break open the contraption.
The snow and freezing rain prevented potential buyers from seeing the fruit trees in the garden and the greenbelt beyond the backyard, Ms. Preje says.
And yet the house at 41 Maryport Ave. in North York received five offers from three bidders during the three weeks it was on the market.

It sold for $970,000, $81,000 more than the asking price of $889,000.
Ms. Preje points to the sale of the house near Keele Street and Sheppard Ave. West as an example of how setting the correct asking price is all-important. Sellers, she says, need to understand the current market.
The house received five offers from three bidders during the three weeks it was on the market.
The house had previously been listed with two different agents at higher prices.
When the property arrived on the market in June, the asking price was $1,150,000. Eventually the price was cut to $1,048,888.
Not only did the house not sell during those six months, house hunters weren’t even submitting lowball offers, Ms. Preje says.
When the seller approached Ms. Preje, she recommended relaunching in January – despite the deep freeze that typically descends at that time of year. She figured there would be a market of ready buyers.
“I knew a lot of people sold their houses in November and December,” she says. “They need a house.” But she also insisted that the price had been set way too high.
“I spoke to my clients in a very serious way,” she explains, adding that she doesn’t want to take on a listing that will just languish.
“We have to take a different strategy,” she told the seller.
Ms. Preje persuaded the owner to list the property with an asking price of $889,000 – with offers welcome any time.

The circa 1965 house was very solid and well-cared for, she says, and she did a small amount of staging herself.
The house had previously been listed with two different agents at higher prices.
“I just jazzed it up.”
Ms. Preje says one lowball offer arrived the second day but it was so far below asking that the seller didn’t attempt to negotiate.
After about one week, another bid arrived. Ms. Preje advised all of the agents who had seen the property or booked showings that an offer had landed.
“Everyone started to wake up,” she says.
The original bidder returned but that party was still unsuccessful. Two others were in the running. The seller decided to work with the final offer that landed at the end of January.
After some negotiating around price and conditions, the house sold on Feb. 7.
Ms. Preje says the buyers are a family who plan to live in the house as it is, with some minor renovations.

ASKING PRICE $1.3-million
SELLING PRICE $1,285,000
PREVIOUS SELLING PRICE $442,000 (2003)
TAXES $4,900 (2015)
DAYS ON THE MARKET One
LISTING AGENT Lena Preje, Re/Max Ultimate Realty Inc

The Action: Just a 10-minute walk west of Yonge Street, this two-storey house made brief market appearances at $679,900 and $779,900 in 2007 and 2008 respectively.

This year, the sellers asked agent Lena Preje – who also lives on the street – to take on the property as an exclusive listing. She reached out to her clientele via e-mail, got a response within two hours and signed a deal shortly after that.

What They Got: On a 63-by-131-foot corner lot is this four-bedroom and three-bathroom house with new hardwood floors and a remodelled kitchen with stainless steel appliances, plus an in-law suite in the basement and a garage for extra space.

The Agent’s Take: “It’s an upscale neighbourhood, close to TTC, the subway, schools and shopping centre,” Ms. Preje says. “[In addition], it’s a very nice, family-oriented street, treed-lined with a lot of new construction.”

For instance, neighbours across the road divided their land for two homes. “This is a big corner lot … so there’s a possibility to subdivide [ this as well],” Ms. Preje says. However, this was a livable house, two-storeys with a renovated kitchen.”

101 ROYAL PALM DR., VAUGHAN, ONT. ASKING PRICE $1,148,000 SELLING PRICE $1,134,000 DAYS ON THE MARKET Seven Sold For 98% Of Asking Price LISTING AGENT Lena Preje, Re/Max Ultimate Realty Inc The Action: Agent Lena Preje spent months marketing one of three custom homes backing onto a funeral home, which scared superstitious buyers. Once that one sold for $1.125-million in March, one of the disappointed bidders got another chance and bought the model next door for $1.13-million. Those two sales sparked even more interest in the third and last home at 101 Royal Palm Dr. which was snapped up for $1.134-million this summer.

191 PATRICIA AVE., TORONTO ASKING PRICE $1,170,000 SELLING PRICE $1,147,000 PREVIOUS SELLING PRICE $820,000 (2007) TAXES $6,370 (2012) DAYS ON THE MARKET Three LISTING AGENT Lena Preje, Re/Max Ultimate Realty Inc. The action: The area around Centerpoint Mall is established with older bungalows and new custom homes, such as this luxury residence with an attached double garage. Over a dozen showings and an open house were held over one weekend, and by the third day an offer was accepted. What they got: Less than a decade ago, this two-storey house on a 40-by-132-foot lot was designed with upscale appointments, from a grand foyer with 20-foot ceilings and iron-clad staircase to four bedrooms with 10-foot ceilings, hardwood floors and access to one of five bathrooms. Public quarters include a library behind French doors, an open living and dining area and a combined kitchen and fireside family room with an island, sky lit breakfast area and a walkout to a deck, south-facing patio and fenced-in yard. There is a separate entrance to a basement recently remodelled with a large sauna and fireside media room with a Sony projector, pool table and nine-foot ceilings. The agent’s take: “It was a huge house because it had 40-foot frontage, and it had nice finishings, was very bright and every bedroom has a bathroom,” says agent Lena Preje. “There was a chef’s dream kitchen with top-of-the-line appliances, custom kitchen cabinets, many windows and a walkout to an ultra-private yard.” Even the basement was a luxurious space. “The sellers made their dream entertainment space for a spa-like sauna and a theatre room,” Ms. Preje adds. “It was absolutely beautiful.” Friday, Jun, 07 2013 by Sydnia Yu

47 LURGAN DR., TORONTO ASKING PRICE $1,880,000 SELLING PRICE $1,830,000 TAXES $8,817 (2013) DAYS ON THE MARKET Four LISTING AGENT Lena Preje, Re/Max Ultimate Realty Inc. The Action: The Action: To give buyers a better first impression of this detached, family residence, agent and certified stager and designer Lena Preje furnished and decorated the interiors. The preparations were well worth the time and effort as there were only two showings and an offer registered within days rather than weeks required for some estates nearby. What They Got: About six years ago, a 50-by-175-foot property was redeveloped with this roughly 4,000-square-foot dwelling with eco-friendly and upscale elements, such as skylights, seven bathrooms with heated floors and hardwood floors in a lower-level recreation room with a wet bar and fireplace. The top floor lodges four bedrooms, including a master suite with a walk-in closet and a two-sided fireplace shared with the six-piece bathroom, while the basement houses two guest bedrooms. Large parties and families can be engaged at once as there is a library, a formal dining room, eat-in kitchen and fireside family room with a deck, patio and secluded south-facing backyard, plus four-car parking between the driveway and attached double garage. The Agents Take: I completely staged and decorated the whole house, so it totally changed the look, says agent Lena Preje. [The buyers] fell in love with the kitchen, it was the major point of the sale. Plus, this home had recreation areas for residents of all ages, indoors and out. The street has no traffic, so it was a child-safe street, and its not a typical lot, it was 50 by 175, the average is 50 by 130 ft, Ms. Preje notes. It has a very nice basement, perfect for entertaining with a pool table and wine cellar. January 10th, 2014 By: SYDNIA YU

141 SANTA BARBARA RD., TORONTO ASKING PRICE $798,000 SELLING PRICE $860,000 TAXES $5,311 (2013) DAYS ON THE MARKET Six LISTING AGENT Lena Preje, Re/Max Ultimate Realty Inc. The Action: Down the street from Edithvale Park and the community centre, this detached property had several buyers jostling to buy it in a bidding war, a common occurrence in North York late last year. What They Got: On the southeast corner of two residential streets is a 60-by-136-foot lot supporting this three-level, side split residence with an attached double garage and private driveway. Through the front door is an open living area with a gas fireplace, a dining space and an eat-in kitchen. One bedroom and one of two full bathrooms are located on the main floor. Two more bedrooms round out the upper level, which rests above a fireside recreation room and a family room with a walkout to the backyard. The Agents Take, Its an excellent neighbourhood within walking distance to Yonge Street and great schools, says agent Lena Preje. [In addition], it was a wide, corner lot on a no-traffic street. Older homes are often targeted by builders, but this one better suited end-users. The house was in very good condition, Ms. Preje states. A couple who are architects bought it, so theyre not going to knock it down like many bungalows in the area. They will keep the house and just redesign it, Ms. Preje said. Published Monday, Mar. 24 2014 By: SYDNIA YU

Price cut on Willowdale home boosts interest

Sydnia Yu
Published Friday, Jan. 25, 2013 11:00AM EST
Last updated Friday, Jan. 25, 2013 11:04AM EST

16A TERRACE AVE., TORONTO
ASKING PRICE $1,198,000
SELLING PRICE $1,160,000
DAYS ON THE MARKET 44
LISTING AGENT Lena Preje, RE/Max Ultimate Realty Inc.

The Action: This detached, two-storey house is on a quiet, child-safe street in Willowdale. It was priced at $1.225-million, but was lowered to $1,198,000 to reignite interest during a slow market. The move led to a deal negotiation after roughly 20 showings.

What They Got: About five years ago, Didiano Home Design constructed two custom residences, including this 2,800-square-foot model with a built-in front garage and private back gardens. Upscale appointments include a brick facade, copper roof and solid oak front door with antique brass details. The inside features 10-foot ceilings and hardwood floors on the main level, as well as wainscoting in areas such as the dining room and fireside family room. The main kitchen features a granite-topped island, a walkout to a deck and custom cabinetry. The cabinetry was also added in a second kitchen in the basement, near a climate-controlled wine cellar and walkout to the 33-by-127-foot grounds. The master suite is the most lavish of four sleeping quarters upstairs, with a walk-in closet and five-piece bathroom. which is the largest of five bathrooms.

The Agent’s Take: “It’s a perfect family house – great for entertaining – and you can just move in and enjoy,” says agent Lena Preje. “It was contemporary and classic in nice harmony.” Since the Italian builder actually resided there, it features top-notch materials and workmanship. “He used to have a restaurant, so the kitchen was really a chef’s dream kitchen with top-of-the-line appliances and an absolutely beautiful island with high quality granite countertops,” says Ms. Preje. “And the wine cellar was very unique, with enough shelving for a few thousand bottles of wine.”

10 WALLBRIDGE CT., TORONTO
ASKING PRICE $625,000
SELLING PRICE $627,000
TAXES $3,870 (2011)
DAYS ON THE MARKET Eight
LISTING AGENT Lena Preje, Re/Max Ultimate Realty Inc.

The Action: This spring agent Lena Preje took just days to sell an original, three-level side-split residence in Willowdale. A neighbour on the same street took notice and recruited the agent to sell this detached bungalow, which had more than a dozen showings and two competing offers.

What They Got: After the Second World War, the government sold over a dozen parcels of land on a quiet cul-de-sac to its military men, including the nearly 90-year-old seller of this solid brick bungalow who is among the last few veterans residing there.

The interior was kept fairly original with an open living and dining area, a kitchen, three bedrooms and two bathrooms, plus a recreation room with a built-in bar in the basement.

Outside, the 40-by-136-foot pie-shaped lot supports a private driveway and attached garage.

The Agent’s Take: “It’s a great location on a cul-de-sac, close to the TTC and steps to great amenities,” Ms. Preje said. “[The buyers] will enjoy the gardening because it’s very quiet, peaceful and safe property.”

Thursday, May. 31, 2012 by Sydnia Yu

7 WALLBRIDGE COURT, TORONTO

ASKING PRICE $650,000

SELLING PRICE $736,000

TAXES $4,181 (2011)

DAYS ON THE MARKET 3

LISTING AGENT Lena Preje, Re/Max Ultimate Realty Inc.

The Action: The sellers of this three-level side split residence in Willowdale reached out to three realtors and the first to respond was agent Lena Preje, who listed and sold the property three days after initial contact. Offers could be made at any time, so one of the first five visitors quickly made a strong proposal.

What They Got: For over 40 years, the original owner occupied this detached residence on a 58- by 126-foot lot facing a quiet cul-de-sac close to parks and schools to shops and bus services. Inside, there is a main floor living room and kitchen with a walkout to the backyard and patio, two carpeted bedrooms upstairs and a tiled bedroom, family room and one of two bathrooms on the lower level. Further down in the basement, there is a recreation room.

The Agent’s Take: “With the right marketing strategy, you can avoid a bidding war and still get the highest price,” says Ms. Preje, who did everything from promoting the property online to canvassing the area on foot for potential buyers. “You don’t need too many offers, the first offer is the best one.”

Though builders were more interested in the lot, the new owners plan to construct their own home there. “It’s a beautiful piece of land on a child-safe, cul-de-sac,” says Ms. Preje. “It’s an excellent location, walking distance to the TTC, shopping and everything.”

Friday, Nov. 11, 2011 by Sydnia Yu

8 ROYCREST AVE., TORONTO

ASKING PRICE $865,000

SELLING PRICE $860,000

PREVIOUS SELLING PRICE $555,000 (2008)

TAXES $4,589 (2010)

DAYS ON THE MARKET 4

LISTING AGENT Lena Preje, Re/Max Ultimate Realty Inc.

The Action: On a 50-by-194-foot ravine lot in North York, this renovated, two-storey house lingered on the market for months last year. To stimulate more interest in the property, it was relisted with another agent, Lena Preje, who staged it in a way that enticed several buyers with private showings and nearly a dozen visitors at the open house. An offer was presented within days.
What They Got: Within the past year, nearly every aspect of this three-bedroom house was replaced from the foundations up, from a high-efficiency furnace to stylish quartz counters, maple cabinetry, glass backsplashes and stainless steel appliances in the skylit kitchen. There is a fireside living room and an open dining area with a walkout to large deck, as well as a lower level family room with a second fireplace. Other desirable appointments include hardwood floors throughout, three bathrooms and a detached garage off the driveway.
The Agent’s Take: “It was totally renovated, from top to bottom, it looked like new,” says Ms. Preje, who filled the vacant interior with furniture, art and decorative accessories. “The house looked homey and presentable, so people know where they can put the TV and sofa, and where they can relax and where they can eat.”
In terms of its location, it has both urban and rural elements. “It’s on a small street and it’s on a ravine… perfect for privacy, entertaining and safety,” says Ms. Preje. “It’s a very convenient location close to Yonge and steps to Sheppard.”

Fri Aug 18, 2011

10 OLD YORK MILLS RD., NO. 407, TORONTO

ASKING PRICE $549,000

SELLING PRICE $545,000

TAXES $3,659 (2011)

DAYS ON THE MARKET 9

LISTING AGENT Lena Preje, Re/Max Ultimate Realty Inc.

The Action: In a mid-rise building in the prestigious Hoggs Hollow community, this two-bedroom suite didn’t bring in serious bids for months until it was relisted and staged with another agent, Lena Preje.

What They Got: About a decade ago, this fourth-floor suite was completed with 1,211 square feet of living space, nine-foot ceilings and hardwood floors in the eat-in kitchen, dining area and entertaining space, which has a balcony overlooking the garden and pool.

For extra privacy, there are carpeted bedrooms on ends of the unit, including a master suite with a walk-in closet and access to one of two bathrooms.

There is a monthly fee of $750, which pays for heating and water costs, as well as 24-hour concierge and maintenance of a gym, outdoor pool, party and media rooms.

Parking is included, however, there is a subway station and GO bus terminal across the street, a large park to the south and restaurants along Yonge Street including Auberge du Pommier and the Miller Tavern.

The Agent’s Take:“It’s a very nice, functional layout,” which is not the case for all units in the building, Ms. Preje says.

“It’s a split bedroom [plan] with two washrooms, open concept living and dining room and a separate kitchen with a window, top-of-the-line appliances and granite countertops.”

Fri May 19, 2011

35 WENTWORTH AVE., TORONTO

ASKING PRICE $1,968,000

SELLING PRICE $1,880,000

TAXES $10,740 (2010)

DAYS ON THE MARKET 75

LISTING AGENT Lena Preje, Re/Max Ultimate Realty Inc.

The Action: Just over a two month period, there were quite a few visitors to this custom residence in North York.

What They Got: About four years ago, a local builder bought a bungalow on a 135- by 200-foot ravine lot and constructed a pair of two-storey homes. Some land was also given away to expand the adjacent conservation area.

A 63- by 185-foot plot was allocated for this luxury residence, which the builder occupied, complete with five bedrooms, six bathrooms and multiple entertaining areas with walkouts to a south-facing yard and flagstone patio.

The main floor is bright with pot lights and large windows in the dining room and fireside living and family rooms, as well as skylights and walkouts to a party-sized deck off the eat-in kitchen.

Upstairs, the largest bedroom features coffered ceilings, one of four gas fireplaces and a six-piece bathroom.

The basement has an extra bedroom and a fireside recreation room with a rear exit.

Lavish finishes include intricate mouldings, solid mahogany doors and top-of-the-line appliances, as well as limestone, hardwood and granite surfaces.

Practical luxuries include wiring for modern communication systems, in-ground sprinklers and a triple garage.

The Agent’s Take: “It’s a very family-oriented street where most people have children and dogs,” says agent Lena Preje. “The park is just steps from this house and it’s a very quiet street with no traffic, so it’s child-safe.”

Other assets include the home’s “ravine view” and grand appointments, such as a spacious walk-in closet in the master suite. “It’s the size of a master bedroom in a downtown condo,” adds Ms. Preje.

Fri Apr 08 2011

Location: 35 Wentworth Ave., Sheppard Ave. W. and Senlac Rd.

Asking price: $1,968,000

Size: about 4,400 sq. ft.

Lot: 63 by 184-ft., built-in three-car garage, private circular drive

Taxes: $10,740 (2010)

Bedrooms: 5 plus 2

Bathrooms: 6

Steps away from three large parks, in a ravine setting and nestled amongst other million-dollar homes, this custom-built house is in move-in condition boasting many luxury and modern features.

“Four years ago, I sold an old bungalow to my client builder,” says real estate agent Lena Preje. “He subdivided this massive lot and built two houses — 35 and 37 Wentworth — as well as giving a large wooded portion of the original land to the city’s conservation authority.”

“I sold 37 Wentworth three years ago within one week, with only one showing, to a young couple for $1,810,000. Now I’m selling its sister house. This home is like a private oasis where space and privacy abound and the ravine views are breathtaking.”

Earl Bales Park, the largest of the three parks close to the house, has unique features such as a 1,500-seat amphitheatre and cross-country skiing trails. Just north of Sheppard Ave. W. and east of Bathurst St., public transit and other city amenities are easily accessible.

The exterior of the house is modern and sophisticated with varied rooflines and a beige-tone brick and stucco facade. The front door is custom made of solid mahogany with thin windows on either side.

The main floor features a spacious living room with crown moulding, a picture window, sconces, pot lights, a dark-stained hardwood floor and gas fireplace, flanked on either side by long windows. Adjacent is the dining room with pot lights, partially panelled walls, ceiling medallion and hardwood. Its large picture window overlooks the backyard and there are also two side windows.

The gourmet kitchen is cream-toned coupled with rich brown granite countertops and a large wooden centre island with an additional sink. It boasts a limestone floor, pot lights, a detailed ceiling, plenty of cupboards, some with glass inserts, and a panelled fridge door to match the cupboards. The adjoining breakfast room features hardwood, a skylight and a walkout to the party-size back deck.

There is also a family room on this level that has another gas fireplace with built-in book shelves on either side, a picture window overlooking the ravine, crown moulding, pot lights and hardwood. As well, there is a powder room.

A dramatic staircase with a skylight leads to the second floor where there are five bedrooms. Highlights of the large master bedroom include a fireplace, coffered ceiling, dressing room and a six-piece ensuite.

The second bedroom has a walk-in closet, hardwood, crown moulding and a four-piece ensuite. The third bedroom overlooks the ravine and also has a walk-in closet, hardwood and a three-piece ensuite. The fourth and fifth bedrooms also have hardwood and walk-in closets. There is a four-piece main washroom.

The basement is very large with a recreation room with a gas fireplace, built-in bookshelves, Berber carpet and a walkout to the back. There are two bedrooms as well, and a four-piece bathroom.

The house is wired for all modern communications and the yard has an in-ground sprinkler system. The circular interlocking brick driveway can hold up to seven cars.

To have a look at this property, contact listing agent Lena Preje, Re/Max Ultimate Realty Inc., Brokerage, 416-487-5131.

January 21, 2011

Location: 35 The Bridle Path

Asking price: $4.8 million

Size: over 5,000 sq. ft.

Lot: four-car attached garage, circular drive

Taxes: $26,000 (2010)

Bedrooms: 5 plus 2

Bathrooms: 9

Listing and co-op agent: Lena Preje, Re/Max Ultimate Realty Inc.

he history behind this Bridle Path multi-million dollar estate is a mystery. However, one thing’s for sure about this 20-year-old mansion: it’s one of a kind.

“It has a very unique architectural plan,” says listing agent Lena Preje. “ and it was built for family entertaining more than casual living.

“When you walk into the grand foyer you face the dramatic staircase that was handcrafted by a Chinese artist depicting ‘The Story of Eight Immortals.’ From there, the house splits into two wings.”

The house is surrounded by some of Toronto’s most expensive homes situated on huge lots and surrounded by parkland. This home is directly across from the expansive Windfields Park, just west of Bayview Ave.

The exterior of the home is beige cut stone. It has a centre hall plan and boasts a double entrance door with a palladium window above. The massive foyer has a marble floor, a curved two-storey ceiling with detailed moulding and a crystal chandelier. The entire grandiose wood staircase and railing is hand-carved with intricate craftsmanship.

On one side of the hallway is a sunken front sitting room with a skylight, picture window, hardwood floor and marble fireplace.

This opens to the huge living room with a moulded ceiling, hardwood, plenty of tall windows and pillars flanking the arched entrance from the hall.

The dining room has pot lights and hardwood as well as featuring an illuminated coffered ceiling. There is also a den with a hardwood, two large windows and pot lights.

The combined kitchen and breakfast room is large with two chandelier light fixtures, granite floors, custom-built cupboards, a centre island and granite counters.

Adjacent to the kitchen is the family room with hardwood, a fireplace, skylight and walkout to the yard. This overlooks a large solarium with an angular glass ceiling, a built-in fish tank, interlocking brick floor, gardens and a water feature.

The solarium is open to a back sitting room which has a coffered ceiling, hardwood, skylight and a sliding glass door walkout to the indoor pool area. The pool room has a door leading outside as well as stairs that go to the upper level. The main floor powder room is large and has marble floors and counters.

Upstairs, the landing is large enough to serve as a seating area with a large arched window overlooking the grounds. The master bedroom has broadloom, steps that lead to a walkout deck and a six-piece marble ensuite with two vanities, make-up area, pot lights and step-up tub.

The second bedroom has broadloom, walk-in closet, its own seating area and a three-piece ensuite. Both the third and fourth bedrooms feature hardwood, walk-in closets, seating areas and their own four-piece ensuites.

The basement is finished with a parquet floor, mirrored wall, stone fireplace, wet bar and a sauna.

The backyard is massive with a Japanese garden, a tennis court and pond.

Friday, September 8, 2010 10:07AM EST

55 Fairmeadow Ave., Toronto
Asking price: $1,589,000
Selling price: $1,575,000
Previous selling price: $1,343,000 (2006)
Taxes: $11,580 (2009)
Days on the market: nine
Listing and co-op agent: Lena Preje, Re/Max Ultimate Realty Inc.

The action: The previous owners spent thousands of dollars staging this detached, two-storey house for sale, but it didn’t help draw any solid offers for four months.

When the sellers recruited agent, Lena Preje, she redecorated the interiors again – this time free of charge. The revamped home attracted several strong bids within days.

What they got: Situated to the west of a North York parkette, this 4,800-square-foot house was custom built with five bedrooms, six bathrooms and a main floor laundry room with access to a double garage.

Also on that level is an office, fireside living room, dining room and family room with a Juliet balcony and a second fireplace. The eat-in kitchen features an island and patio doors to a two-year-old, in-ground salt water pool with waterfalls.

The lower level houses a gym, recreation room, billiards room with a wet bar and a media room with a projector and screen.

Upstairs, the master bedroom is the one with a large sitting area, a walk-in closet and a six-piece bathroom.

The agent’s take: Fluffing the interiors allowed buyers to focus on the property’s assets. “It’s a five-bedroom house, which you don’t often find in this area,” says Ms. Preje, who also notes the importance of a beautiful pool and secluded yard backing onto the park.

Friday, Dec. 18, 2009 10:07AM EST

54 Claywood Rd., Toronto
Asking price: $600,000
Selling price: $602,500
Previous selling price: $451,000 (2006)
Taxes: $3,847 (2009)
Lot size: 49 by 125 feet
Days on the market: one

Listing and co-op agent: Lena Preje, Re/Max Platinum Ltd. (Ms. Preje now works with Re/Max Ultimate Realty Inc.)

Tucked within a residential neighbourhood in North York, this three-level backsplit underwent major renovations during the past few years.

The roof, windows and furnace of the roughly 40-year-old house were replaced, but it was likely the interior makeover that convinced many buyers to submit competing offers, agent Lena Preje says.

“It was absolutely beautiful,” she says, pointing out the custom espresso-colour cabinetry and stainless steel appliances in the kitchen. “It was a brand new kitchen.”

Oak hardwood floors are installed throughout, from the three bedrooms on the upper level to the L-shaped living and dining area on the main floor. “It has nice picture windows, a fireplace and gleaming hardwood floors,” the agent says.

The basement was newly finished with an office and a recreation room with one of two full bathrooms. This level – as well as the main-floor kitchen – has a walkout to the fully fenced backyard and patio.

October 16, 2009

10 Old York Mills Rd., No. 402, Toronto
Asking price: $579,000
Selling price: $600,000
Taxes: $4,261 (2009)
Days on the market: two
Listing and co-op agent: Lena Preje, Re/Max Platinum Ltd.

On the fourth floor of a luxury condominium in Hoggs Hollow, a professional interior designer dressed her private residence with French Provincial flair.
One couple was so impressed by how much the 1,354-square-foot suite reminded them of Paris – where they had just returned from a vacation – that they bought everything, from the furniture to the dishes, says agent Lena Preje.
“[The buyers] felt like they were in Paris again,” she says. “It was perfectly presented and decorated.”
This two-bedroom suite is even more coveted since there are no more than two units for sale each year in the exclusive mid-rise – where Ms. Preje has sold 10 units so far – much less suites like this facing south.
“It’s a beautiful view of the park,” says Ms. Preje. “It was impossible to refuse this house.”
Adding further appeal were upscale features include nine-foot ceilings, a marble foyer and newer carpeting. Hardwood floors and crown mouldings appear in the combined living and dining room.
Ceramic floors and granite counters complete the kitchen, which was designed with a breakfast area by the sliding balcony doors.
The master suite has his-and-her closets and a five-piece bathroom with custom cabinetry and faucets.
The other full bathroom is in the hall, along with a laundry room with built-in shelving.
Parking and a locker come with the unit, in addition to a monthly fee of $758. The latter covers heating and water costs, as well as upkeep of an outdoor pool, party room and guest suites. Concierge is also on site.

Monday, Sep. 07, 2009 02:37AM EDT

45 York Mills Rd., No. 113
Asking price: $580,000
Selling price: $590,000
Previous selling price: $514,019 (2006)
Taxes: $4,830 (2008)

Days on the market: two
Listing agent:
Lena Preje, Re/Max Platinum Ltd.

Two days after this three-storey townhouse was listed, competing offers were submitted from buyers hoping to move into the prestigious Hoggs Hollow community, which is well known for its esteemed schools, restaurants and golf clubs, agent Lena Preje says.
“The location is excellent,” she says. “It’s steps to TTC, York Mills [Road] and one minute to the 401.”
Built about three years ago within a condominium complex, the 1,790-square-foot townhouse has a standard layout with a street-level entrance and a rooftop terrace. “It’s excellent for young professionals,” says Ms. Preje, who notes that most of the area is filled with large, detached homes.
The agent dressed the vacant space with art and flowers to complement finishes such as hardwood floors, pot lights and over nine-foot ceilings, as well as granite countertops and stainless steel appliances in the kitchen, and a gas fireplace in the combined living and dining room.
The entire second floor is occupied by a carpeted master suite with a walk-in closet and a five-piece bathroom.
The top floor contains two bedrooms and a full bathroom. The powder room is on the main floor.
The lower-level office has direct access to three parking spots in a common garage.
The latter – as well as the exterior landscaping – is maintained with funds from a monthly fee of $411.

March 6, 2009 at 11:43 AM EDT

31 Lurgan Dr., Toronto
Asking price: $449,000
Selling price: $452,000
Previous selling price: $275,000 (1989)
Taxes: $3,307 (2008)
Lot size: 50 by 175 feet

Days on the market: one
Listing agent: Lena Preje, Re/Max Platinum Ltd.
Only six potential buyers made it through this two-storey brick house before three put in offers on the same day, agent Lena Preje says.

If the price is right, you’ll sell it fast, she says, noting that other homes on the same street can take a month or two to sell.
Compared with other properties, this roughly 35-year-old home is in much better condition. It was small, but all the details were absolutely immaculate, Ms. Preje adds.

In the past few years, the previous owners expanded the second floor of the original 1.5-storey structure, which allowed for two large bedrooms with sitting areas, remodelled the main bathroom upstairs, and installed hardwood floors throughout.

But the kitchen transformation was really special, Ms. Preje says. It was finished with custom cabinetry, pot lights and an island with a breakfast bar overlooking the family room.

To give the home more appeal, Ms. Preje brought in paintings and accessories to dress up areas such as the combined living and dining room, which has a walkout to a party-sized deck and sunny, south-facing backyard with fruit trees.

There is separate access to the lower level, where there is a full bathroom and recreation room with above-grade windows and patio doors.

Last of all, three cars can be parked on the long driveway

May 30, 2008 at 5:20 PM EDT

10 Old York Mills Rd., Unit No. 510
Asking price: $579,000
Selling price: $585,000
Taxes: $4,178 (2007)
Days on the market: six
Listing agent: Lena Preje, Re/Max Realtron Realty Inc.
This fifth-floor condominium suite is situated in an elegant brick mid-rise in Hogg’s Hollow.

The unit, which has two bedrooms and a den, was previously on the market for three months, but was taken off the listings because it did not attract any offers. That’s when agent Lena Preje came in.

She had the suite staged for sale, with new paint, window treatments and furniture to make it more appealing.

As a result, it sold quickly for $6,000 above the asking price.

Among the suite’s unique features, according to Ms. Preje, is its large kitchen which has granite countertops, top-of-the-line appliances and a breakfast area with ceramic floors.

Other features include hardwood floors, a large living room with a walkout to a balcony, and a four-piece ensuite with Jacuzzi off the master bedroom.

The monthly maintenance fee for this unit is just under $700, which includes underground parking for two cars.

February 1, 2008 at 3:39 PM EST

37 WENTWORTH AVE.
ASKING PRICE: $1,880,000
SELLING PRICE: $1,810,000
TAXES: not yet assessed
LOT SIZE: 52 by 215 feet
DAYS ON THE MARKET: five
LISTING AGENT: Lena Preje, Re/Max Realtron Realty Inc.
This upscale, two-storey house was built last year on one of two lots carved out of a 100- by 300-foot ravine property.

In creating the sites on Wentworth Avenue at the base of Eddfield Avenue, the builder gave a large wooded portion of the original land to the city’s conservation authority.

This lot measures 52 by 215 feet, making it one of the largest on the short street. “It’s a beautiful new house … it’s absolutely amazing,” agent Lena Preje says, and notes that residents can enjoy the view of the wooden portion in back but don’t have to pay taxes on it. It took only one showing to sell the place, which has floor-to-ceiling windows overlooking the scenic ravine to the south from the kitchen, family room and bedrooms. A deck off the skylit breakfast area and a walkout from the basement also connect the residents to the outdoors. “The layout just follows the landscape,” Ms. Preje says. “The view was everything.”There are limestone floors in the kitchen and hardwood floors elsewhere, including the office and open dining room. The living and family rooms also have gas fireplaces.Upstairs, there are five bedrooms, a laundry room and four of six bathrooms. The master suite has a six-piece bathroom and dressing room, while another bedroom features a balcony.

The roughly 4,000-square-foot house contains more than a third more living space than most homes in the area, yet it still has additional room to entertain in the finished basement. An attached, double garage and private driveway complete the property.