Are you a NIMBY when it comes to new condominiums being built in Toronto? Those who insist “not-in-my-back-yard” resent sharing their choice residential spot with others. Yet that’s what a city is all about.
Residents love living close to work and amenities. Condominium suite owners appreciate the kind of lifestyle that frees them from maintenance like snow shoveling and lawn mowing. With so many people moving to Toronto, it’s only logical that more condos will rise as the population does.
If you choose to live in Toronto, keep an open mind about future development. Accept the fact that it’s reality, and that there are thousands more people like you who want to live downtown. There may have been past residents who objected when your own building was proposed, and now you’re enjoying the conveniences of your home in the sky.
Remember, too, that although you own your condo, the sky around it belongs to everyone. Condominium shoppers should be informed consumers. If you buy a suite in a waterfront building that has a vacant piece of land between it and the water, you can be pretty sure something will eventually fill that spot. Ask the developer, and go to the City of Toronto to find out what that land is zoned for. If its intended use is for parkland, greenbelt, water or sanitary facilities, you’ll know your views will remain intact. If it’s zoned residential, be prepared to share those panoramas, and realize that different views can be just as captivating.
People worry about increased traffic as condominiums are built, and it’s true — there will be more. But remember that developers have to conduct traffic studies, and if it is deemed that the infrastructure cannot handle the increased volume, permission to build is denied. We are required to have other studies done, such as shadow impact, and if necessary we have to adjust condominium designs to accommodate the City’s regulations.
Accepting change is part of urban condominium living, regardless of where you live and what you pay. Even prestigious areas are growing, and residents must make trade-offs. Most condominium residents I know feel the positives greatly outweigh any negatives that might come from growth.
Toronto is a prime location. The desire to live in these fabulous urban surroundings will continue to grow, and condominiums will rise accordingly.
Embrace your new neighbours as like-minded individuals who appreciate the very things that attracted you to your home in the city.
Linda Mitchell is Vice-President of Marketing, High-Rise for Monarch Corporation. In 2005, Linda was presented with the coveted OHBA SAMMY (Sales and Marketing Member of the Year) award. In 2003, she received the Riley Brethour Award acknowledging outstanding and consistent professional achievement in residential sales and marketing.
