How this renter made the leap to ownership after a demoviction

The Buyer: Nathan Dodds, 41, a former model, flight attendant and tournament director with the Toronto Gay Hockey Association.

The Story: In the spring of 2025, Nathan was renting a unit in an Annex fourplex for $2,200 a month when the owners informed him that they were tearing the place down to build a condo. He’d known it was a possibility: his lease stated that he’d be given four months’ notice and three months’ free rent if they decided to redevelop. His landlords ended up giving him six months’ notice. His wish list included one bedroom, natural light and high-quality amenities. So, with a budget of $525,000 and a move-in date of October 1, Nathan began hunting for his first property.

Related: Toronto condo prices have sunk to the $300,000s

Option 1: Yonge Street near Wellesley

Listed at: $399,000 Sold for: $590,000

Nathan liked the layout of this one-bedroom, one-bathroom home, with its east-facing views and huge patio accessible from the living room. He was thrilled, too, that the condo was near Wellesley station and within walking distance of the Mattamy Athletic Centre, where he regularly plays. His realtor, predicting a bidding war, told him that the sellers likely wouldn’t accept anything under $600,000. Nevertheless, Nathan placed an offer of $525,000. The sellers then re-listed at $599,000, and Nathan walked away.

Option 2: Church Street near Carlton

Listed at: $498,000 Unsold

This condo is across the street from the Mattamy Athletic Centre, so Nathan was enticed. It was farther south than the last option, which he liked, with more grocery options nearby. But the unit itself was only 560 square feet and looked a little tired, making it feel slightly overpriced. Imperfections aside, the location was ideal, so he put in an offer of $477,000. The sellers countered with $490,000, but Nathan was convinced that he could find a better place for a similar price. He kept looking.

Related: When the condo market went cold, these 20-somethings pounced to buy their starter home

The Buy: Wellesley Street near Church

Listed at: $502,000 Sold for: $457,000

Then Nathan came across a corner unit a few blocks north, in the heart of the Village. It was brand new, sleek and immaculate, with modern finishes and an airy feel. The location was right, the building’s gym was top notch and there were plenty of other shared amenities. Best of all, it was super close to his favourite bars and restaurants, like the Churchmouse, where he goes for a post-game pint on Sundays. He offered $45,000 under asking and got it. “It’s worked out great for me,” he says. “The location is even better than I had hoped.”