I didn't expect much when my buddy insisted we visit the University of Toronto's downtown campus,…read morebut what unfolded was unexpectedly moving. Born and raised in Scarborough, and having spent so much time in downtown Toronto over the years, I thought I knew the city. But walking through U of T's historic grounds stirred up memories I didn't even know I had. There's something about that campus, especially Trinity College, that feels timeless. My grandfather studied there, and while I don't have any clear recollection of ever visiting as a child, standing among those buildings sparked something deep. The architecture is stunning--stoic, storied, and soaked in a quiet reverence. It felt like the kind of place where knowledge has lived for centuries, and where you can feel the presence of the past. At one point, I came across a walkway near the clock tower, and right there was an inscription of Archangel Michael. I hadn't expected it, but it felt perfectly placed--as if the moment had been waiting for me. I sat for a while, just taking it all in, and while my friend may never fully understand the weight of what I felt, I left that campus with something more than just a tourist memory. I hope U of T never loses that energy--that spirit. It's more than a campus. For some of us, it's a portal.

The main campus of the University of Toronto is located in downtown Toronto. It is both and…read moreacademic temple, but also a "city in the city" closely connected with the city, combining a strong historical background and modern vitality. Entering the campus, it seems that an architectural history book has been opened: the neo-Roman-style University College and the Gothic Renaissance-style Hart House have a century-old legend, and the nearby modern buildings, such as the dragon-scale-shaped "student activities" The Nest and the futuristic Carpenter & Union Hall show the spirit of innovation.

Andre helped my husband and I sell our Riverside condo and buy a house in East York that we are…read morehappy to call our new home. We were unsure of exactly what we wanted in a home but Andre was so incredibly patient and insightful while bringing us to a few dozen homes before we found the one. He explained that we would know when we found it and to trust that feeling you get when you enter a home. Never once did we feel any pressure to make decisions and we always felt supported along the way until we found the house we really wanted. Andre helped us secure our home in a multiple offer situation and then staged our condo beautifully to sell for more than expected. We will definitely be using Andre for any future real estate needs and never hesitate to recommend him to anyone looking to make a move. He was a true professional and a real pleasure to work with. He actually made a process that is naturally a bit stressful really fun! Thanks Andre.

There are just not enough positive things for me to say about our experience working with Andre. We…read morewere referred to Andre from a friend who's worked with him on several housing sales/purchases and was very happy. To be clear, Andre helped us purchase our first home so I've not worked with other real estate agents. However, prior to deciding to work with Andre, my husband and I interviewed two other agents who'd both been referred to us. As this was a big transaction for us, we wanted to make sure we had the right person helping us. After that initial interview we felt Andre was that person. Before looking at any properties, we met Andre at his office to review a standard purchase agreement. We went through each clause and were able to ask questions. When we were finally in the bidding process, this made it much less stressful, since we were comfortable with the language and the discussion could be all about bidding strategy. Andre is friendly and easy to get along with and knowledgable. He gave us space to establish our own assessment/feeling for each of the properties we saw, but was sure to point out things we may not have noticed. I can honestly say that after a few months of working with him, I learned so much more about houses in the Eastend and felt much more secure in our decision to buy than I had at the beginning. Some quick operational things that he did: he picked us up at our house and drove us to and from each viewing, he was able to turnaround showings within 24 hours, he dug around to find background on properties we were interested in without us asking, and he sought out insight from other professionals (lawyer/mortgage broker) for some out-of-the-box properties we considered. He never rushed us. We got to the point about 25 houses in that we felt we 'should' bid on something. He actually talked us out of it. He could tell we weren't sold on the property and made sure to explicitly let us know there was no rush. His mantra was that "The right opportunity will come along". He reminded us that since we weren't in a rush, we just needed to be patient. He was right. After looking at about 50 houses, we found the one that was right for us. Andre flew into action as we saw it on a Sunday and offers were Monday. He kept us in the loop during the day on the number of registered offers. He had papers drawn up and came to our house to talk through the bidding strategy. We ended up closing on that first house we bid on. After closing, Andre helped us navigate the process of getting a mortgage and provided referrals to lawyers and mortgage brokers. We ended up working with the lawyer he referred. And now, that it's been a month and a half since we took possession he's still checking in and asking how he can help us get settled. We ended up with our first home being much more than we expected and Andre's guidance made that possible. If you're looking for someone who is genuinely invested in helping you to find a home that meets your needs. I highly recommend you work with Andre.

York University is my alma mater. I split my time between the main campus and Glendon College…read more I recently learned that alma mater refers to the educational institution where you completed your undergraduate degree, and not your graduate degree. I have no idea what you call the place where you got your master's degree. If you know, please share. I didn't learn that during my time doing any of my degrees... haha! I recently returned to York to take part in CRAM's inaugural learning sessions that were held at four different universities in Toronto. The panel discussion about Regent Park and the music program for youth was inspiring. The soundpainting was completely unexpected, but mesmerizing to hear, watch, and learn. These learning sessions were free and were held at Vari Hall. Even though it has been ages since I revisited the main campus, which has changed a ton, I got thrown back to when I was an undergraduate student. For this event, only the single-stall, unisex washrooms were available on the main floor of Vari Hall. Considering that there are a decent number of people attending these sessions, there weren't enough washrooms to accommodate everyone. Instead, I walked over to Ross Building (it's connected to Vari Hall), where the women's washroom has six stalls. I am assuming that there are an equal number of stalls for men. It's a knowledge advantage that former and current York students have over folks who are visiting the campus for the first time. There should have been a sign pointing folks to other washroom facilities. The campus has improved a ton since I was an undergraduate. There are far more places to eat. It isn't narrowed down to the old food court and whatever is edible at York Lanes. There is a decent variety of foods, from Thai to East Indian. There's even a Shopsy's! York Lanes also has a Shoppers Drug Mart. When I needed over-the-counter medication or snacks as a student, I had to get some off-campus. When I left at around 10:30 pm, there were a few eateries, Second Cup, and Shoppers all open at York Lanes. Nice! I like the York University subway station. It's modern, pleasing to the eye, and convenient. I used to take two buses to get to to my classes and wished that I had this subway station back in the day. Instead, I ended up learning the art of studying and napping on public transit, which has served me well over the years. I never lived in residence, so my experience is likely different and more positive than those who deem the campus boring. I did an undergraduate degree in computer science and math. I did a number of math classes at Vari Hall and Ross Building. For one of the CRAM sessions, I was in the same lecture hall where I took Linear Algebra parts 1 and 2 one summer. Gone are the desks with pull-out chairs. Instead, stadium seating with moving tray tables have been installed. As technology has evolved, so have the lecterns! The old, basic one in Vari Hall A has been replaced with a massive one with ports and cables. I had a flood of memories the other night. I had a wonderful undergraduate experience at York University. I made decent friendships with both peers and professors. I learned so much about the domains that I majored in as well as the person that I grew to become. York University paid for some of my degree and I am thankful for the finanical help. I have been fortunate to pay it forward now that I am an alumna. After the sessions were over, I took a walk around the Common area. I liked the small arches that were cheerfully lit. The stroll was nice on a warm Spring evening. Upgrades have come a long way. Well done! I need to remind myself to drop by more often. It's nice to reminisce and see all the exciting changes that have happened at my alma mater. I also want a York University sweatshirt after window-browsing the merchandise at the York University Bookstore. (125)

If there is a dispute they discourage the use of lawyers by students because it complicates the…read moreprocess. In other words they can't get away with just doing what they assume is the right thing to do when it tramples student rights. Be careful with Debbie Hansen and Alfred Ene.

Despite it's name Knox College is not regarded as one of the 7 UofT colleges, but it is the home…read morefor Christian ministry studies and theology studies and is a residence for students mainly studying that line of work although I have known a couple of students over the years to call Knox their home. To my knowledge, the rooms there are pretty typical of most single residence dorms but I've not heard any big negatives about it. While I have absolutely zero experience with them as an educational institution, what my review will be based on is their library (Caven Library) and the building in general. In my mind, University College, Hart House and Knox are the 3 most beautiful buildings on campus. And the numerous times I've seen Knox being transformed in to a movie set is a testimony to this (biggest movie set here as of 2011 is The Incredible Hulk). And due to it being a "Christian" place it is not a heavily trafficked building as students are probably intimidated by it's religious aura.They have one of the most beautiful spots in the entire campus in it's green and somewhat gothicy quad that so many students are unaware of. The library is also one of the prettiest and naturally quiet libraries around on campus. High ceilings and large windows makes you feel like you're studying in a church (well it might have been one back in the day) and the fact that most spots are individual tables with privacy screens is probably the main reason behind the natural unimposed silence you can enjoy here while studying. The last time I was there, power outlets were hard to come by, but that could have changed since UofT libraries have been undergoing renovations as of late. If you are sick and tired of studying at Robarts or Gerstein, Knox is a great alternative, if you are not in the mood to really check it out, use it as a scenic short cut to get between St George Street and King's College Circle.

[Update in response to business reply:] I want to clarify…read morethat I never asked Ben to lie or misrepresent anything (I have text correspondence to prove it). I simply requested discretion when presenting the lease application--something I later confirmed with another licensed real estate agent is entirely standard and ethical in this industry. Ben's reply avoids the core issue, which is that he disclosed private information against my clear instructions and responded with hostility and abusive language when I addressed it. Notably, in his response, he does not deny using the language I described--something that should give any prospective client, especially women, serious pause before deciding to work with him. Now that I've seen how he chooses to handle client concerns, it's clear he was never acting in my best interest. In hindsight, I'm relieved I never purchased a property through him--because the financial and emotional consequences would have been far greater. ------------------------------------------------- [Review update:] I had previously written a positive review for Ben Fenlon based on an experience in 2022, but I now feel obligated to update it after a recent encounter that was deeply unprofessional and unacceptable. When I attempted to lease a unit, Ben disregarded my clear instructions and disclosed private information to the listing agent without my consent--jeopardizing the deal and violating my trust. When I addressed this, he became aggressive and disrespectful. He raised his voice, used vulgar language, and told me that if I was going to "act bitchy," then the lease "wasn't worth his time" because the commission "wasn't high enough." I had asked Ben to follow a common and fully ethical approach, and to exercise discretion when presenting the application. I expected him, as my agent, to handle the process strategically and professionally, without disclosing unnecessary personal information that could weaken my position. Instead, he ignored my instructions, dismissed my concerns, and treated me with outright disrespect when I raised them. His conduct was not only unprofessional, but also at odds with the duty of care, loyalty, and discretion expected of a registered real estate professional under RECO's Code of Ethics. I can no longer recommend Ben's services under any circumstances.

Ben is a very knowledgeable and professional realtor who was a pleasure to work with throughout the…read moreprocess. He took the time to understand our needs, provided thoughtful advice, and was always responsive to our questions. His experience and attention to detail made the entire process smooth and stress-free. I highly recommend Ben to anyone looking for a reliable and trustworthy realtor.

Incredible - it was my first move after living in the same house for 30 years. I completed the…read moreonline inventory and received the quote - smooth, simple and highly responsive throughout the process. Badru, Farzan and Jalal were nothing short of amazing. Pleasant, non-judgemental, and kind but above all else shockingly hard-working, meticulous and efficient (in fact they were FAST) - all with care and a smile. They also sought clarification to make sure I was happy and they were doing what was asked. Thank you, myninjamovers from the bottom of my heart you made this part of a difficult move painless for my family. I will HIGHLY recommend them to anyone who will listen!

These guys helped move us into our new place in December. Very accurate with their quote, service…read moreand delivery. It was a long day and everyone was losing patience at the end, but they did a good job and also disassembled the bed.

Donna helped my wife and I buy our first house. It was an absolute pleasure working with Donna. We…read moretrusted her completely and she went above and beyond any expectations. We love the house, I see how hard she works and how promptly she answers all needed questions on late nights and weekends. Donna is a very hard working professional and I wish there were more people who do their job like she does. I would recommend only her for the job, don't waste time with anybody else!

From the owner: Award winning Toronto Realtor specializing in Residential sales, Investment properties and Luxury…read morecondominiums. Listing expert. Every sale is a record breaking sale. Excellence, attention to details, quality, responsiveness and honesty will lead you in every step whether you are buying or selling your home.

Horrible customer service would best describe this furniture showroom. I wrote a review based on my…read morecustomer service experience approximately 1.5 weeks ago on IG for this organization. It turns out the company blocked me from their social website for indicating discrimination under the Ontario Human Rights Act. They discriminate potential customers based on age and status. They discriminate potential customers wearing COVID-19 masks and follow the customer in and around their showroom without acknowledging their presence. They dismiss potential customer inquiries all together and do not conduct the necessary follow ups as indicated by the customer. I visited their showroom at the end of 2023 requesting for a writing desk with specific dimensions. As a result, the associate or owner I conversed with insisted he would follow up regularly. All communication ties were cut after my initial visit and made a conscientious effort to stay in touch with them. I DO NOT RECOMMEND THIS ORGANIZATION TO THE COMMON CUSTOMER. CLEARLY, THEY DESIRE SPECIFIC CUSTOMERS SUCH AS INTERIOR DESIGNERS AND THEIR CLIENTELE. AS A MARKETING INSIDER WHO HAS TRAINED AND OFFERED SOUND RECOMMENDATIONS FOR MANY COMPANIES, "PLACE PEOPLE OVER PROFITS FIRST!!!" SUCH A SHAME THAT CANADIAN COMPANIES DISCRIMINATE YET USE BUZZWORDS SUCH AS "BUY LOCALLY, SPEND LOCALLY!" TO LURE THE CANADIAN CONSUMER TO SPEND. SUCH A PITY!!!!

I have bought several pieces of furniture from Carrocel. The service has been excellent and the…read moredelivery prompt. One piece Ineeded to have which was done beautifully.