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Ontario Eliminates Tolls on Highways 412 and 418, Extends Gas Tax Relief

In a significant move to alleviate commuting costs, the Ontario government has permanently removed tolls from Highways 412 and 418. Effective April 5, 2022, these north-south routes in Durham Region are now toll-free, aiming to reduce traffic congestion and provide financial relief to drivers. (PC Party of Ontario)

Additionally, the province has extended the temporary gas and fuel tax rate cuts until June 30, 2025. This extension maintains the reduced tax rate of 9 cents per litre, saving Ontario households an average of $380 since the cuts were first introduced in July 2022. (Caroline Mulroney, MPP)

These measures are part of the government's broader strategy to make life more affordable for Ontarians and to encourage the use of underutilized roadways. By eliminating tolls and extending tax relief, the province aims to ease financial pressures on families and businesses alike.

For more detailed information:

 

 



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·         Stay ahead of the curve! Get the latest real estate news and insights right here.

 


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📧 Email: samichy@torontobase.com
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Let’s make your next move a smart one!


Get more market insights here.

·         Stay ahead of the curve! Get the latest real estate news and insights right here.

·         Greater Toronto Area (GTA) Real Estate Market Update – April 2025

·         Toronto Real Estate Market Update – March 2025

·         Peel Region Real Estate Market Blog – March 2025

·         Renting vs. Owning: How $2,500/Month Could Cost You $190,000

·         Metro Vancouver Condo Inventory Could Rise 60 by Year End Report 

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Discover Comfort and Convenience at 63-34 Fleetwood Crescent, Brampton

Located in the heart of Brampton’s desirable Southgate neighbourhood, 63-34 Fleetwood Crescent is a beautifully maintained 3+1 bedroom, 3-bathroom condo townhouse offering a blend of comfort, convenience, and investment potential. Let’s explore everything this exceptional property and its thriving community have to offer.


🏡 About the Property

This spacious townhouse boasts an open-concept living and dining area, filled with natural light that creates a welcoming atmosphere. The functional kitchen invites your personal touches, ready to be transformed into your dream culinary space. Additionally, a finished basement provides income potential, currently generating $1,100 per month.

The private fenced backyard is perfect for gatherings, barbecues, or simply relaxing. With low maintenance fees covering water, building insurance, and common area upkeep, plus dedicated surface parking, living here is easy and convenient.


🚌 Transit and Connectivity

The property's location makes commuting effortless:

  • Brampton Transit (Fleetwood Crescent & Clark Blvd Stop)

    • Distance: Approx. 2-minute walk (150 meters)

    • Ideal for quick connections within Brampton, linking directly to Bramalea City Centre, downtown Brampton, and Sheridan College.

  • Bramalea GO Station

    • Distance: Approx. 5-minute drive or 15-minute bus ride

    • Best for commuters traveling across the Greater Toronto Area (GTA), offering convenient rail service to Union Station, Toronto.

  • Highways 410 and 407

    • Distance: Approx. 7-minute drive

    • Excellent for drivers commuting to Toronto, Mississauga, Oakville, or beyond.


🌳 Local Parks and Recreation

Southgate is rich in parks and recreational facilities:

  • Earnscliffe Park & Recreation Centre

    • Distance: Approx. 10-minute walk (850 meters)

    • Best for family outings, sports facilities, swimming pools, and community programs.

  • Eastbourne Park

    • Distance: Approx. 5-minute walk (500 meters)

    • Ideal for casual strolls, dog walking, and relaxing outdoor activities.

  • Chinguacousy Park

    • Distance: Approx. 5-minute drive

    • A community favorite, perfect for family picnics, playgrounds, a petting zoo, splash pads, and sports fields.


🎓 Schools & Universities

Top-rated schools and post-secondary institutions nearby include:

  • Earnscliffe Senior Public School

    • Distance: Approx. 8-minute walk (650 meters)

    • Ideal for middle school students, known for quality education and excellent extracurricular programs.

  • Balmoral Drive Senior Public School

    • Distance: Approx. 4-minute drive

    • Great reputation for student performance and community involvement.

  • Sheridan College (Davis Campus)

    • Distance: Approx. 10-minute drive

    • Well-known for programs in technology, business, and healthcare, providing excellent opportunities for higher education and employment.


🏥 Healthcare Facilities

Quality healthcare is easily accessible:

  • Brampton Civic Hospital

    • Distance: Approx. 10-minute drive

    • Known for comprehensive care, emergency services, and state-of-the-art medical facilities.


🛍️ Shopping & Amenities

  • Bramalea City Centre

    • Distance: Approx. 10-minute walk (750 meters)

    • Perfect for shopping, dining, entertainment, banking, and various professional services.

  • FreshCo & Metro Grocery Stores

    • Distance: Approx. 5-minute walk

    • Convenient for everyday grocery needs.


🏢 Major Businesses & Industries

Brampton hosts numerous businesses and industries, creating robust employment opportunities:


📈 Comparative Pricing Analysis

Pricing for similar-sized 3+1 bedroom, 3-bathroom condo townhouses in neighbouring cities:

  • Toronto: Average ~$749,000

  • Mississauga: Average ~$799,900

  • Brampton: Average ~$569,999

  • Oakville: Average ~$1,189,999

This highlights exceptional value, making this property an attractive investment opportunity within a thriving and growing community.


🚔 Community Safety

Southgate enjoys a crime rate approximately 14% lower than the Canadian national average. It’s widely recognized as one of Brampton’s safest neighbourhoods, ideal for families seeking security and peace of mind.


🔑 Investment Opportunity

Given the home's excellent location, income-generating potential from the basement unit, and competitive pricing, this property is ideal for first-time homebuyers or investors seeking solid rental returns.


📅 Schedule a Visit

Explore everything this home and community offer by scheduling a private viewing. Don’t miss out on this rare and exceptional opportunity!

For more information or to arrange a tour:

Contact: Sami Chowdhury


Sources and Useful Links:

Feel free to reach out if you need any additional details!

 




🏡 Ready to Start Your Real Estate Journey?

Whether you're planning to buy, sell, or invest, I’m here to guide you every step of the way — surprises and all.

📈 Looking to capitalize on today’s changing market?
Explore a wide range of specialized listings with access to powerful tools and search portals tailored to your needs:

 


📩 Need help navigating your options?
Reach out for expert advice and market insights:

Sami Chowdhury

BROKER
📧 Email: samichy@torontobase.com
🌐 Web: www.torontobased.com | www.torontobase.ca

Let’s make your next move a smart one!


Get more market insights here.

  




 

 

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🏡 Greater Toronto Area (GTA) Real Estate Market Update – April 2025

 April marked a pivotal point in the GTA real estate cycle. While market activity followed typical spring seasonality with a month-over-month rise in sales, year-over-year figures continued to reflect buyer caution and a market in transition.

📊 Key GTA-Wide Statistics – April 2025

  • Total Home Sales: 5,601 (▼ 23.3% YoY)

    • This is the number of homes sold across the GTA in April 2025. A 23.3% year-over-year drop means significantly fewer properties changed hands compared to April 2024—showing buyer hesitation in the current market.

  • Average Selling Price: $1,107,463 (▼ 4.1% YoY)

    • This is the average price of all homes sold in the month. A 4.1% decline means prices have softened compared to last year, giving more negotiating power to buyers.

  • New Listings: 18,836 (▲ 8.1% YoY)

    • This is the number of homes newly listed for sale in April 2025. An 8.1% increase indicates that more homeowners are trying to sell—creating more competition and choice in the market.

  • Sales-to-New Listings Ratio: 29.7% (Buyer’s Market)

    • This metric compares the number of homes sold to the number of homes listed. A ratio below 40% is considered a buyer’s market, meaning buyers generally have more leverage and sellers face more competition.

  • Average Listing Days on Market: 25 days

    • This is the average number of days it takes for a listed home to sell. A 25-day average suggests a reasonably active market—though not as hot as during peak years when homes sold in days.

  • MLS® HPI Composite Benchmark: ▼ 5.4% YoY

    • The MLS® Home Price Index (HPI) benchmark tracks the value of a typical home, removing outliers. A 5.4% decline reflects a broad-based cooling across the GTA, not just in high-end or low-end segments.

📎 Source: TRREB Market Watch – April 2025


🏠 Market Insights

  • Buyer Hesitation Remains: Many potential buyers are holding off, awaiting more clarity on borrowing costs and economic direction.

  • Increased Inventory: Active listings have climbed significantly, giving buyers greater leverage in price negotiations.

  • Price Declines Broad-Based: All housing types saw YoY price reductions. Detached homes averaged $1.43M, while condo apartments sat around $678K.

  • Affordability Boost: The combination of lower prices and modest interest rate easing has improved affordability for some segments.


📌 What It Means

  • For Buyers: Now is a strategic time to explore properties without the bidding wars of past years. Ample inventory offers room for negotiation, especially in high-supply areas.

  • For Sellers: Properties priced correctly are still moving. However, expectations need to adjust in line with market softness. Presentation and value positioning are critical.


🧭 Looking Ahead

TRREB continues to forecast a market rebound in the latter half of 2025. But this is contingent on improved economic certainty, lower interest rates, and renewed consumer confidence. Immigration growth and low construction starts may soon tighten supply, reversing current buyer advantages.

As TRREB CEO John DiMichele noted:

“We will need to build more homes... or the supply pipeline will ultimately run dry.”

 

📈 Historic Market Perspective

  • Peak Avg. Price: February 2022 – $1.33M

  • Current Avg. Price: April 2025 – $1.107M

  • Annual Price Trend: Prices are stabilizing near pre-2021 levels, with slower declines compared to 2023.

🗂️ Historic Market Data – TRREB

News and Pictures Source: TRREB 




🏡 Ready to Start Your Real Estate Journey?

Whether you're planning to buy, sell, or invest, I’m here to guide you every step of the way — surprises and all.

📈 Looking to capitalize on today’s changing market?
Explore a wide range of specialized listings with access to powerful tools and search portals tailored to your needs:

 


📩 Need help navigating your options?
Reach out for expert advice and market insights:

Sami Chowdhury

BROKER
📧 Email: samichy@torontobase.com
🌐 Web: www.torontobased.com | www.torontobase.ca

Let’s make your next move a smart one!


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All Aboard the Party Car: TTC Streetcar Rentals Now a Real Thing

The Ultimate Guide to Renting a TTC Streetcar for Private Events in Toronto
Yes, You Can Party on a Moving Streetcar — Here’s How

Did you know you can rent a TTC streetcar for a private party, event, or even a DJ set while cruising through downtown Toronto? That’s right — one of the city’s most iconic public transit features can become the backdrop for your next unforgettable gathering.

The idea recently went viral after a Reddit post described a group of friends hosting a rolling party on a TTC streetcar. According to the poster, the group spent four hours riding through the downtown core, covering nearly every stretch of track while a live DJ played, non-alcoholic drinks flowed, and stopovers allowed them to grab refreshments along the way.

This might sound like something out of a movie — but it’s entirely real and available to the public.

 How to Rent a TTC Streetcar

Toronto Transit Commission (TTC) offers vehicle rentals through its official Chartering TTC Vehicles program. You can rent various vehicles — including buses and streetcars — for film shoots, corporate events, weddings, or private celebrations.

Streetcar Rental Basics:

  • Vehicle Type: CLRV/ALRV or newer Flexity streetcars

  • Passenger Capacity:

    • 70 seated

    • 181 standing

    • Total Max Capacity: 251 people

  • Minimum Rental Time: 3 hours

  • Base Cost: $2,410.29 (tax included)

  • Additional Hourly Rate: $568.39 per hour (tax included)

  • Supervisor Fee: May be mandatory for bar crawls, film shoots, or large-scale events

"A TTC supervisor is mandatory for all film shoots, bar crawls, or what TTC deems necessary," notes the TTC on its charter page.

 Why Rent a Streetcar?

Besides being a head-turner, chartering a streetcar offers a truly unique experience:

  • Mobile Party Venue: A fun and scenic option for birthdays, anniversaries, or corporate events

  • DJ-Friendly: You can set up music equipment for live performances while in motion

  • City Tour With a Twist: See the sights of Toronto while celebrating with friends

  • Safe & Supervised: Alcohol isn’t allowed on board, but you can make planned stopovers to licensed venues

As highlighted by BlogTO, many users find the experience more affordable than traditional venues when split among a group, especially considering the ambiance and novelty factor.

 What You Need to Know Before Booking

  • Plan Ahead: Rentals must be booked in advance. The TTC requires notice to coordinate schedules and supervisor assignments.

  • No Alcohol Onboard: Consumption of alcohol is not permitted on TTC vehicles, even for private events.

  • Audio Setup: DJs and sound systems can be brought aboard, but you’ll need to bring your own gear and ensure it’s securely installed.

  • Route Flexibility: You’ll cover significant ground, especially downtown, but routing is based on TTC-approved track paths.

 Ideas for Streetcar Rentals

  • Birthday parties with a twist

  • Urban tours with large groups

  • Bachelor/bachelorette outings

  • Corporate team-building

  • Film or music video shoots

How to Book

To request a quote or book your event:

  • Visit the TTC's official Charter Booking Page

  • Submit the online form or call their Charter Office directly

For questions or special requests, TTC staff will work with you to design a route and timing that suits your needs.

A TTC streetcar rental isn’t just a cool story to tell — it’s a mobile Toronto experience unlike any other. Whether you're planning a celebration, hosting a creative event, or simply want to enjoy the city from a moving lounge, it’s an adventure waiting to happen.


Sources:

 Pic Sources:

 



 

Ready to Start Your Real Estate Journey?

Whether you're planning to buy, sell, or invest, I’m here to guide you every step of the way — surprises and all.

Looking to capitalize on today’s changing market?
Explore a wide range of specialized listings with access to powerful tools and search portals tailored to your needs:

Stay ahead of the curve! Get the latest real estate news and insights right here.


 Need help navigating your options?
Reach out for expert advice and market insights:

Sami Chowdhury, Broker
 Email: samichy@torontobase.com
 Web: www.torontobased.com | www.torontobase.ca

Let’s make your next move a smart one!


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Where and When to See Cherry Blossoms in Toronto This Spring

Cherry Blossom Season in the Greater Toronto Area: When and Where to Enjoy Spring’s Most Beautiful Bloom in 2025

Spring in the Greater Toronto Area is always a time of renewal, but few sights herald the season quite like the ethereal pink and white cherry blossoms. Each year, these delicate flowers bloom in bursts of color across the city’s parks and green spaces, drawing thousands of locals and tourists alike. In 2025, the highly anticipated cherry blossom season is expected to peak in early May, with warm temperatures and ample sunlight setting the stage for one of nature’s most beautiful shows.

When to See the Cherry Blossoms in 2025

According to the High Park Nature Centre, Toronto’s most famous cherry blossom destination, full bloom is projected to begin in the first week of May. The peak bloom typically lasts between four to ten days, depending on temperature, rainfall, and wind. The window is short and weather-sensitive, so it’s best to check updates frequently if you're planning your visit. Websites like High Park Nature Centre and Destination Toronto offer daily updates during the bloom period.

Best Places to See Cherry Blossoms in the GTA

Whether you live in Toronto or are visiting from nearby, there are several stunning cherry blossom viewing spots across the Greater Toronto Area. Here are the top recommendations for 2025:

1. High Park, Toronto

With over 2,000 Sakura cherry trees, High Park is Toronto’s crown jewel for cherry blossom viewing. Originally donated by the Japanese ambassador in 1959, these trees line several paths and hillsides, creating breathtaking scenery. Due to the park’s popularity, vehicle access and parking will be restricted during peak bloom, so visitors are strongly encouraged to use TTC or ride-sharing services.

2. Trinity Bellwoods Park, Downtown Toronto

Located in the heart of Queen West, this trendy downtown park features scattered cherry trees that offer stunning photo ops, especially with the CN Tower in the background. It's a perfect choice for city-dwellers or anyone wanting to pair blossom viewing with shopping or brunch nearby.

3. Exhibition Place

Just west of downtown, this lesser-known location features a small cluster of cherry trees around the Princess Margaret Fountain and Queen Elizabeth Theatre. It’s typically much less crowded than High Park, making it ideal for a quiet stroll or photography session.

4. Kariya Park, Mississauga

For those outside of downtown, Kariya Park is a serene Japanese-inspired garden in the heart of Mississauga. Named after Mississauga’s sister city in Japan, the park features multiple cherry trees, water features, and peaceful walking paths—perfect for families and quiet reflection.

5. Centennial Park, Etobicoke

Centennial Park has emerged as a beautiful cherry blossom destination, especially since the 2024 addition of a new multi-use trail that weaves through a grove of cherry trees. With its open space and family-friendly amenities, it’s becoming increasingly popular among West Toronto residents.

Cherry Blossom Viewing Tips

To make the most of your cherry blossom experience, keep the following in mind:

  • Timing Matters: Weekday mornings are the best times to avoid the crowds and enjoy a peaceful walk among the trees.

  • Use Public Transit: Parking is very limited, especially at High Park during peak bloom. The TTC and GO Transit are the best ways to get around.

  • Respect the Environment: Do not pick flowers, break branches, or climb trees. The blossoms are fragile, and thousands of people are there to enjoy them—let’s preserve them for all.

Final Thoughts

Cherry blossom season in Toronto is a treasured and fleeting celebration of spring. Whether you're heading to High Park for the full experience or seeking quieter blossoms in Kariya Park or Exhibition Place, 2025 promises to be a beautiful year for this annual tradition. Plan ahead, respect nature, and take plenty of photos—just don’t forget to stop and take in the moment.

 

Sources: Destination Ontario  Blog.TO  HIGH PARK

 




🏡 Ready to Start Your Real Estate Journey?

Whether you're planning to buy, sell, or invest, I’m here to guide you every step of the way — surprises and all.

📈 Looking to capitalize on today’s changing market?
Explore a wide range of specialized listings with access to powerful tools and search portals tailored to your needs:


📩 Need help navigating your options?
Reach out for expert advice and market insights:

Sami Chowdhury

BROKER
📧 Email: samichy@torontobase.com
🌐 Web: www.torontobased.com | www.torontobase.ca

Let’s make your next move a smart one!


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New property listed in Brampton

I have listed a new property at 63 34 Fleetwood Crescent in Peel. See details here

Nestled in Bramptons vibrant Southgate community, this charming three-bedroom, three-bathroom condo townhouse combines modern comfort with exceptional convenience. The bright, open-concept living and dining area creates an inviting space perfect for relaxation and entertaining. The kitchen is functional and offers potential for your personal touches and upgrades.Enjoy outdoor living in the private fenced backyard, ideal for barbecues, family gatherings, or quiet relaxation. Adding notable value, the finished basement is currently rented at $1,100 monthly, providing an excellent income stream or flexible space for extended family and guests.Low monthly maintenance fees include water, building insurance, and common area upkeep, ensuring an easy lifestyle, complemented by a dedicated parking spot.Southgate is renowned for its safety, community spirit, and family-friendly environment, ranking above many neighborhoods nationwide. Steps away from Bramalea City Centre, you have easy access to shopping, dining, and entertainment. Families will benefit from nearby top-rated schools, libraries, parks, and recreation centers, creating a dynamic and engaging lifestyle.Commuters will appreciate the proximity to Brampton Transit and Bramalea GO Station, as well as quick access to Highways 410 and 407, offering seamless connectivity across the GTA.Perfect for first-time homebuyers or investors seeking a high-demand rental property, this home represents incredible value. Schedule your viewing today and experience the best of Southgate! **OPEN House- 12-2 PM, ON SATURDAY, May the 3rd***

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Open House. Open House on Saturday, May 3, 2025 12:00PM - 4:00PM

Please visit our Open House at 63 34 Fleetwood Crescent in Peel. See details here

Open House on Saturday, May 3, 2025 12:00PM - 4:00PM

Nestled in Bramptons vibrant Southgate community, this charming three-bedroom, three-bathroom condo townhouse combines modern comfort with exceptional convenience. The bright, open-concept living and dining area creates an inviting space perfect for relaxation and entertaining. The kitchen is functional and offers potential for your personal touches and upgrades.Enjoy outdoor living in the private fenced backyard, ideal for barbecues, family gatherings, or quiet relaxation. Adding notable value, the finished basement is currently rented at $1,100 monthly, providing an excellent income stream or flexible space for extended family and guests.Low monthly maintenance fees include water, building insurance, and common area upkeep, ensuring an easy lifestyle, complemented by a dedicated parking spot.Southgate is renowned for its safety, community spirit, and family-friendly environment, ranking above many neighborhoods nationwide. Steps away from Bramalea City Centre, you have easy access to shopping, dining, and entertainment. Families will benefit from nearby top-rated schools, libraries, parks, and recreation centers, creating a dynamic and engaging lifestyle.Commuters will appreciate the proximity to Brampton Transit and Bramalea GO Station, as well as quick access to Highways 410 and 407, offering seamless connectivity across the GTA.Perfect for first-time homebuyers or investors seeking a high-demand rental property, this home represents incredible value. Schedule your viewing today and experience the best of Southgate! **OPEN House- 12-2 PM, ON SATURDAY, May the 3rd***

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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.