Author: Larry Purchase, Broker

In Ontario, buyers often add a secondary suite to narrow affordability gaps by living in one unit and using rent to offset mortgage costs.
For established multi-unit homes, buyers can count at least half of rent to qualify. Owner-occupants with one added suite may count all gross rent.
Owner-occupants may also qualify with a much smaller minimum down payment than non-owner investors, which can make a multiplex purchase more accessible.
Before converting, buyers should price mortgage, taxes, insurance, maintenance, vacancies, and renovation costs carefully, and update home insurance so coverage stays valid.
Ontario generally allows up to 4 residential units on most lots without zoning changes, but permits, separate access, and local standards still require careful planning.

Toronto’s waterfront spans communities, from condo-heavy central areas to house-focused east-end streets and island homes, so buyers benefit from matching commute, space, and amenities priorities.
Harbourfront, Queens Quay, Fort York, and Bathurst Quay offer downtown convenience, trails, culture, and walkability, though buyers need to weigh density, traffic, and noise.
East Bayfront and the Canary District have added green space, shops, and a waterfront campus, while Quayside and the Port Lands continue evolving.
Humber Bay Shores, Mimico, Long Branch, and New Toronto give buyers parks, lake access, and varied housing, with commute time shaping the trade-offs.
Across Toronto’s shoreline, buyers should look beyond lake views and consider amenities, commuting, seasons, and how future development may reshape daily life.

When considering whether a property truly fits your lifestyle, it's important to look beyond the obvious features. Over my decades in real estate, I've seen how factors like local school quality can quietly support property values, even for buyers without children. It’s a detail that’s easy to overlook, but it can have a lasting impact on your investment. Likewise, in our increasingly digital world, checking the availability and speed of internet service is no longer optional—especially if you work remotely or rely on streaming at home. These are the kinds of details I always encourage clients to weigh carefully, because finding the right home is about more than just four walls; it’s about ensuring your daily life runs smoothly and your investment stands strong.

Toronto — Most Expensive homes for August 2026.

Listings (sorted by price):
1. Listing C12853630 — $22,500,000
2. Listing C13475538 — $21,995,000
3. Listing C13619112 — $17,995,000
4. Listing C13211736 — $17,000,000
5. Listing C13525554 — $16,500,000
6. Listing C13693884 — $14,880,000
7. Listing C13142424 — $13,950,000
8. Listing C12502300 — $12,900,000
9. Listing C13527176 — $12,800,000
10. Listing C13227720 — $12,500,000
11. Listing C13142106 — $12,295,000
12. Listing C13640040 — $11,995,000
13. Listing C13612618 — $11,898,000
14. Listing C13599294 — $11,895,000
15. Listing C13461906 — $11,500,000

Labour Day in Canada marks a well-earned break celebrating workers and the unofficial end of summer, when everyone suddenly remembers all the things they meant to do in August.
It’s the last big excuse for barbecues, lake trips, and squeezing in one more summer adventure before routines and school schedules take over again.
Stores and sidewalks feel a little calmer, while patios and parks get their final big rush of summer energy and “just one more weekend” vibes.
Happy Labour Day! Wishing you a relaxed, fun-filled long weekend with good food, no alarms, and maximum enjoyment before fall shows up uninvited.

Canadian home sales are showing renewed momentum, but buyers remain cautious and overall activity is still below last year’s levels.
New listings are declining while sales improve, gradually bringing supply and demand closer to more balanced conditions.
Price growth remains restrained, giving buyers more stability without creating the sharp correction many had anticipated.
Regional differences remain significant, making market selection increasingly important for buyers and sellers across Canada.