Spadina and College

Published Thursday, May. 13 2010

160 Baldwin St., No. 303, Toronto

Asking price: $439,900

Selling price: $417,000

Taxes: $2,818 (2009)

Days on the market: 15

Listing agent: Christopher Bibby, Sutton Group-Associates Realty Inc.

Buyers flocked to this authentic two-bedroom loft first and foremost for its location in Kensington Market, says agent Christopher Bibby.

The brick building – which is one of two George Brown College facilities converted into residential suites about a decade ago – is surrounded by grocers, trendy cafés and restaurants, vintage clothing shops, as well as public transit, the University of Toronto and Little Italy.

“If you want to own a condo or a loft in Kensington, this is where you have to live,” says Mr. Bibby, who explains that low-rise houses fill out the rest of the neighbourhood.

Buyers were also impressed by the size of the 1,100-square-foot loft, which is one of the largest available. “At that price, you really can’t find that much square footage located in the downtown core,” says Mr. Bibby.

The open-concept space feels even more spacious with 13-foot ceilings, which allowed for a custom mezzanine to be built above the second bedroom and semi-ensuite bathroom.

“The mezzanine made a lot of storage space up top,” says Mr. Bibby, who adds that the space can double as a bedroom or office. “[The sellers] had a small child, so they used it as a play area.”

Other highlights include original hardwood floors throughout, from a central kitchen and dining area to a living room by the operable south-facing windows.

A divider separating the master bedroom from the principal room could be left open to create one large entertaining space or closed off for privacy. “It gives you that flexibility,” adds Mr. Bibby.

Ensuite laundry facilities and parking complete the loft. Monthly fees are $526, plus hydro.

There are some amenities on site, such as a rooftop terrace and a landscaped courtyard, “which a lot of people use,” adds Mr. Bibby. “I heard there was a wedding in the courtyard.”