Sale of the Week: the $630,000 Little Portugal semi that shows how far a few small upgrades can go

Sale of the Week: the $630,000 Little Portugal semi that shows how far a few small upgrades can go

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Address: 1 Delaney Crescent
Neighbourhood: Little Portugal
Agent: Leila Brewster and Colby Bayne, Royal LePage Real Estate Services Ltd., Brokerage

The Property: This three-bedroom semi uses aesthetic flourishes to make up for its relatively small lot and limited interior square footage. A custom-made flower box up front adds curb appeal and doubles as a stash for recycling bins. Inside, the exterior’s warm-wood theme extends to the home’s open-concept dining and living rooms, as well as the large eat-in kitchen. The master bedroom features a custom built-in closet and a bay window seat, and the finished lower level offers some storage space.

The History: Potential buyers viewing the property frequently asked if it was a flip. It isn’t. The sellers moved in 14 years ago, but decided to find a larger home for their growing family. While the home didn’t undergo any major renovations over the years, the sellers did spend $10,000 on cosmetic upgrades. They redid the main-level hardwood floors and installed bamboo floors on the second. They added stylish built-in storage and shelving throughout. Another addition was the backyard’s wooden deck, which complements a “living wall” of foliage. The investment was modest, but it added a lot of appeal.

The Fate: The new occupant is a young professional who, like many others, has decided to stay in the city rather than move out to the ‘burbs. He was especially drawn to 1 Delaney’s readiness for habitation. According to an engineer’s report, the home isn’t in need of significant upgrades. Dundas West’s burgeoning restaurant and shopping scene is a short trek north, and in fact the entire neighbourhood is emerging as a hotspot for young homebuyers.

The Sale: The sellers expected to attract a first-time homebuyer. The asking price took into consideration the home’s prime location, as well as its smaller size, small lot, lack of parking and lack of major renovations. Attractive staging helped make the property an easier sell by helping viewers visualize how the space could be used. There were two offers after seven days, but the agents say some viewers passed on the opportunity because the main floor’s open-concept plan didn’t encompass the entire level, leaving the kitchen isolated. An offer for $32,100 over asking was accepted, recouping the relatively small amount spent on upgrades, and then some.

By the Numbers:

• $632,000
• $32,100 over asking
• $10,000 for cosmetic upgrades, including labour
• 1,223 square feet above grade
• 604-square-foot lower level
• 105 per cent of list price
• 15.79-by-74-foot lot
• 7 days on market
• 3 bedrooms
• 2 offers
• 2 bathrooms
• No parking