Toronto Broker Urges Buyers to Prioritize Lifestyle Over Finishes

Toronto real estate broker Michelle Kam is urging buyers to think beyond the excitement of purchasing a property and focus on long-term lifestyle considerations. With condominiums now accounting for more than 70% of new residential construction in Toronto, Kam emphasizes that preparation and thoughtful decision-making are more important than ever. She advises clients to prioritize factors like transit access, building financial health, and neighborhood planning over cosmetic upgrades. Drawing from her experience across luxury resale, pre-construction developments, brokerage leadership, and Toronto's fast-changing condo market, Kam has seen many buyers make costly mistakes by focusing on short-term aesthetics. She recalls a client who originally wanted the largest unit they could afford but after discussing daily routines, chose a smaller unit near transit, cutting their commute by almost an hour each day. Kam believes this type of long-term thinking should become standard for anyone entering today's housing market. With over 80% of Canadians now living in urban areas and Toronto remaining one of North America's fastest-growing metropolitan regions, the stakes are high. Kam encourages buyers to visit neighborhoods at different times, review a building's reserve fund and maintenance history, and think about how their lifestyle may change over the next five to ten years. She also advises learning about future transit projects and neighborhood development plans. "Small decisions today shape everyday life for years," Kam says. "Preparation doesn't remove uncertainty, but it gives you confidence." Michelle Kam is a Toronto-based real estate broker who graduated with honors from York University, began her career with Re/Max, founded City Accord Realty Inc., and now works with Re/Max Condos Plus. Her practical guidance helps clients navigate Toronto's evolving housing market with a long-term perspective.