Done Deal, 225 St Johns Rd., Toronto
225 ST JOHNS RD., TORONTO
ASKING PRICE $779,000
SELLING PRICE $888,000
PREVIOUS SELLING PRICES $609,000 (2007); $199,000 (1994)
TAXES $4,198 (2011)
DAYS ON THE MARKET Eight
LISTING AGENTS Irene Kaushansky and Philip Brown, Keller Williams Advantage Realty
The Action: This detached, three-storey house had nearly three dozen groups book private showings and another 80 through the open house, in addition to virtual tourists who viewed its online profile.
On the day bids could be presented, there was an extremely competitive multiple offer situation.
What They Got: Over the past four years, this century-old house was professionally renovated by Sage Design Studio, so it had more modern mechanics and cosmetics, from new roofing, wiring and plumbing to a stylish four-piece bathroom with a rain showerhead, body sprays and refurbished clawfoot tub.
The kitchen was not only opened up to the dining room, which has double doors to a south-facing deck and private patio, but also revamped with marble finishes, stainless steel appliances and custom cabinetry.
Private quarters consist of three second floor bedrooms, including one with access to a sunroom, and a third floor master suite with skylights, a dressing area and partially open bathroom.
A large foyer off the living room, a laundry room off the kitchen and an unfinished basement offer additional entry and exit points to the 24-by-120-foot grounds, which does not have private parking.
The Agent's Take: "It was beautifully landscaped front and back, and the home in general had incredible curb appeal, so it was totally turnkey from outside in," agent Irene Kaushansky said. "It was a very extensive renovation – it wasn't just pretty – so those two things combined made buyers not just appreciate the finishes, but were comfortable the house was solid and sound."
Even areas for cleaning and bathing were fashionable and functional. "The main floor laundry room was nice, which is pretty rare for the neighbourhood," adds Ms. Kaushansky.
"The spa-style wet bathroom was quite beautiful, and I've certainly seen it in other homes, but not in this price point. It's more common in more upscale, grander renovations."