How this couple scored a semi for $80,000 under asking
The wish list: two storeys, three bedrooms and a backyard in the east end. The budget: $950,000
The Buyers: Jean-Luc Wannamaker, the 32-year-old proprietor of Jean-Luc Cosmetics, and Ryan Wannamaker, a 31-year-old HR consultant.
The Story: In 2020, after nine years of dating, Jean-Luc and Ryan bought their first home, a 690-square-foot condo in Liberty Village for $625,000. Five years later, with their mortgage up for renewal, they were ready to upsize. They wanted a two-storey, three-bedroom house with a backyard, somewhere in the east end. In December of 2025, they set a budget of $950,000 and started their search.
Option 1: Cosburn Avenue near Woodbine
Listed at: $999,000 Unsold
The first place Jean-Luc and Ryan visited was this two-bedroom bungalow in Woodbine-Lumsden. It had a certain turnkey appeal, with fancy appliances, meticulous finishes and a backyard overlooking Stan Wadlow Park: perfect for their boxer–American bulldog mix, Simon. It also had a separate basement unit, which they figured they could rent out to help offset their mortgage payments. But the main-floor living room felt “condo-like” in size and functionality, and they really wanted a second storey, so they kept looking.
Option 2: Coleridge Avenue near Woodbine
Listed at: $850,000 Unsold
Next, they saw this three-plus-one-bedroom semi, just around the corner from the first house they viewed. It had that coveted second storey and was a bit closer to Woodbine station. But, while the property seemed move-in ready, a closer inspection revealed signs of possible water damage from the bathroom’s skylight. The basement also gave off “dungeon vibes,” says Ryan, and would have needed upgrades before it could house a tenant. They weren’t afraid of the work, but at such a high selling price, it didn’t feel worth it.
The Buy: Birchmount Road near Kingston
Listed at: $799,000 Sold for: $720,000
In mid-December, Jean-Luc and Ryan saw this three-bedroom house in Birchcliffe-Cliffside. It had lots of charm, with a rustic fireplace and stained glass. And they loved that the neighbours were friendly and chatty. The home’s wiring needed updating, but it was listed well below their budget, so they would have cash to spare for the work. Confident, they offered $720,000. The sellers accepted, and the couple took possession in January. “It’s a bit hectic, living through renovations,” says Jean-Luc, “but we’re so excited about the place.”
Amanda Whalen is a Toronto-based journalist who works as a communications professional for a tech hub. She has also worked at BNN Bloomberg and CP24, and her writing can be found in Toronto Life, the CBC and the Toronto Star
