We had decided to sell our North York house where we have lived happily for forty years, for a number of reasons: to be closer to our daughter and her family at Christie and Bloor; to make it less time-consuming to participate in our numerous downtown cultural activities; and to be able to leave our home without extra responsibilities, when we are at the cottage in the summer or when we travel.

The first thing Shawn asked us to do was to send him a ‘wish list’ of our parameters for a condo. These included:

• Being very close to a subway line
• Preferably 1500-1600 sq. ft of space,
• Central air conditioning
• Laundry inside the unit
• At least two bedrooms and a den or alcove
• Two bathrooms
• Eat-in kitchen
• Balcony
• Hardwood floors
• Visitor parking
• Updated kitchen and bathrooms
• Swimming pool
• Green space
• Good walking opportunities nearby.

Of course, some of these items were a ‘must’, others a ‘nice to have’.

Things looked rather grim, as we were following the Internet listings of available condos sent by Shawn. Most places were 1200 sq. ft. or less and each one that was worth having a look had serious problems and would require major changes or renovations. Time was ticking by as well, since the new owners of our house get the keys on April 1st.

Throughout all this, interacting with Shawn provided hope and reassurance. Every time we had a question or wanted to see a condo, Shawn answered our e-mail within minutes and made himself available so that we would not miss an opportunity. Shawn understood clearly what we were looking for and guided us with skill and intelligence. Most of all, throughout this process, we always felt that Shawn was on our side.

In just a few weeks, a condo that seemed to offer everything we were looking for came on the market on a Saturday morning. We realized that we would have to move fast to have a chance at it, because of the shortage of places that would fit so well. Shawn changed his Saturday plans and arranged a visit that day. He confirmed our feeling that this was the right place for us. It had every item on our wish list! The location, the size, the features all were just right. All it needed was some fresh paint. We gave an offer the next day and the rest is history. Shawn guided us through the negotiations for the price with knowledge and insight.

We feel very lucky to have gone through this potentially harrowing experience with Shawn’s help. He has been there for us every time we needed him. His professional approach and his attention to detail resulted in our finding a new home that we really look forward to with confidence. Thank you, Shawn!

Marika and Robert Kemeny