RockcliffePark.com

	Meet Marilyn
	Contact Marilyn
	Marilyn in the Media
	Links
	Gallery of Solds

Marilyn in the Media

CTV News Ottawa

A look at the most expensive home ever sold in Manotick

March 2, 2023 - A two-storey, six-bedroom home on four acres of land is the most expensive property ever sold in Manotick.

CTV News Ottawa

A look inside one of the most expensive homes ever sold in Ottawa

January 15, 2023 - A two-storey home with spectacular views in the Old Village of Rockcliffe Park is now one of the most expensive homes ever sold in the city of Ottawa.

Toronto Star

Dream home: $12 million Ontario retreat with six lakefront villas built as a resort-style family getaway

June 8, 2021 - Bringing home a few souvenirs from your travels is one thing. But Brian Beatty picked up the best design ideas and artifacts from an entire continent.

Mansion Global

A Resort-Like Retreat Built Into the Rock Formations of Ontario

March 11, 2021 - Custom-built over five years on an expanse of natural rock formations, this secluded lakeside estate in Ontario offers more than 11,000 square feet of living and recreation space. The compound includes 10 buildings clustered on 5.6 acres, plus an additional 27 surrounding acres.

Ottawa Citizen

Luxury homes: Ottawa market feeling a boom in sales

March 4, 2021 - The sale of an almost $5 million home last year has helped propel Ottawa’s luxury home market into the spotlight.

All Things Home

Ottawa’s luxury home market “is so hot”

February 23, 2021 - The sale of an almost $5 million home last year has helped propel Ottawa’s luxury home market into the spotlight.

CTV News

The seven most expensive homes on the market in Ottawa in February

February 7, 2021 - The Ottawa Real Estate Board says 63 homes sold for more than $1 million in Ottawa last month, driving up the average sale price in the capital.

The New York Times

House Hunting in Canada: Octagonal Riverfront Views Outside Ottawa

January 27, 2021 - After lagging behind larger Canadian cities for years, Ottawa saw home prices balloon in 2020, fueled by a surge in demand and ‘inventory at historic lows.’

CTV News

A look inside Ottawa's most expensive home

December 22, 2020 - If you have been to Commissioners Park at Dow's Lake you have likely seen it, a landmark home adorned with wood and windows.

Ottawa Magzine

House of the Week: $8 million for a modern mansion overlooking Dow’s Lake

November 10, 2020 - We return to our House of the Week series with a peek inside this showstopper of a home.

Ottawa Business Journal

Ottawa Salus sets new record of $165K at annual soirée held at French embassy

October 3, 2019 - Funds to give increased access to supportive housing and services to "much too long" waiting list of people living with mental illness.

The Ottawa Citizen

$2M condo offers front-row seat to Redblacks and Fury FC games at TD Place

September 22, 2019 - What may be Ottawa’s coolest condo — offering a front-row seat to game nights for both the Redblacks and Fury FC — is for sale.

The Globe and Mail

New buyers driving change in some of Ottawa's most exclusive neighbourhoods

March 8, 2018 - Venerable Rockcliffe Park and The Glebe are attracting Ottawa's new tech titans – and their renovating instincts.

The Globe and Mail

How Ottawa has become a top real estate market to watch

February 1, 2018 - You could be forgiven if you've paid no mind to Ottawa's real estate market as the action in Toronto and Vancouver has stolen the headlines. But those in the know are already seeing Canada's capital as a market to watch in 2018 and beyond.

Mansion Global

Historic Rockcliffe Park Offers Elegance and Community in Ottawa

February 3, 2018 - Tracing its history to the early 19th century, Canada’s Rockcliffe Park began as a neighborhood of summer cottages, and has steadily grown into a picturesque, park-like community.

The Globe and Mail

Price cut for Ottawa's most expensive condo

November 30, 2017 - The sellers have knocked $200,000 off the price of a condo that, at $2.45-million, currently ranks as Ottawa's most expensive high-rise home. The two-bedroom, two-bathroom suite is located on the 19th floor of 1035 Bank St., in the heart of the capital's posh Glebe neighbourhood.

Luxury Defined

Luxury on Ice: Five Homes to Delight Skaters

January 12, 2017 - Skaters arenÕt like other people: Their aesthetic combines the speed and aerobic rigor of sport with the grace and artistry of dance. To indulge this special lifestyle, Luxury Defined presents five elegant properties in proximity to some of the worldÕs most unique ice skating venues.

The Ottawa Citizen

Conscientious Design: Chantale Charette on Creating a Designer Perfect Condo

November 24, 2016 - Chantale Charette, the Principal Interior Designer and Landscape Architectural Technician at Studio 853, has plenty of ideas when it comes to finding a condo that suits your own personal aesthetic. I recently sat down with Charette to discuss her style advice for condos.

The Washington Post

They came, they saw, they slept: Properties of the powerful up for sale

November 14, 2016 - When not in their official residences, world leaders need somewhere to live. Their choice in homes or their childhood abodes offer a peek into their lives away from the pomp and circumstance. Below are houses where some of the worldÕs politicians resided or visited that are on the market.

The Ottawa Citizen

Developing Lifestyles: A one-on-one with Mizrahi Development's Sam Mizrahi

November 11, 2016 - Visionary, detail-oriented and articulate are the three words I would use to describe Toronto-based Sam Mizrahi, owner of Mizrahi Developments. On a recent trip to Toronto, I not only sat down with Mizrahi but also received a tour of his gorgeous 133 Hazelton development in Yorkville. This beautiful and luxurious building welcomes you with glass doors overlaid with wrought iron detailing, giving Parisian flair to a chic Toronto neighbourhood.

Luxury Defined

Capital Living: Five Homes Near National Leaders & Lawmakers

November 3, 2016 - Not everyone can live at the beach, in the country, on the mountainsideÑor chooses to: Some must reside in world capitals and walk the corridors of power. With a nod to the US presidential election and inauguration, Luxury Defined showcases a collection of premier properties in world capitals, situated near the official residences of heads of state or government leaders.

The Ottawa Citizen

Condo Scene: Make a small space feel bigger through organization and home furnishings

October 12, 2016 - Most condos are small spaces. While homeowners can store things in basements, extra closets, spare rooms and backyard storage sheds, condo dwellers likely donÕt have that luxury. Most condos have a couple closets Ñ with varying degrees of storage space Ñ one or two bedrooms, a bathroom or two and a general living area typically open to the kitchen.

The Ottawa Citizen

Condo scene: Planning your best condo move

September 28, 2016 - Booking the elevator: The first and most important thing to do is to book the move-in elevator. Depending on your building, there are different ways to arrange this. If you have a concierge, first inquire there.

The Ottawa Citizen

Condo Scene: Get all your building's news on elevator ride

September 6, 2016 - The digital revolution has influenced condo living in a big way. Now residents can vacuum remotely while sitting poolside in Miami and turn on their lights while riding up the elevator. Max TVÕs founder, Moshe Lokshin, is taking advantage of the digital mindset to bring condo dwellers news and entertainment value on their ride from the lobby to their unit (or vice versa).

The Ottawa Citizen

Condo Scene: Investor or end user? Not all condo buyers are the same

August 17, 2016 - Most condo developers love investors because most investors take the buying process less personally Ð they are more willing to go in when a project is just getting off the ground and they typically care more about the bottom line cost than the ins and outs of day-to-day lifestyle in the building.

The Ottawa Citizen

Condo Scene: What can I do about my neighbour's barking dogs?

August 4, 2016 - Question: My mother bought a condo in a new development. There were no neighbours for some time, but now the building is full. Every time she gets off the elevator, the new neighboursÕ dogs start barking. Not one but two! What can she do?

The Ottawa Citizen

Condo Scene: When is the best time to buy a condo?

July 21, 2016 - I am always delighted to receive readersÕ questions and comments. This week is the first in a two-part series addressing some interesting condo questions. Q. What is the best time of year to purchase a condo?

The Ottawa Citizen

Condos: How to seriously clean your condo

July 7, 2016 - Summer is here and spring cleaning is over, but if you live in Canada, summer is the time to clean and scrub your condo to get it seriously clean. Fresh air will help to eradicate the stale odours that have been lurking around in unknown places Ñ the odours that you donÕt smell as the owner, but your guests get a whiff of every time you open your door.

The Ottawa Citizen

Condo Scene: Things to consider when furnishing your condo

June 23, 2016 - Whether youÕre a downsizer or a new condo buyer, itÕs important to think about furnishing in a way that will both suit your unit aesthetically and your own lifestyle. Many condo buyers are downsizers, who bring furniture from their old homes into their new condos. If you are using older furniture, you may want to reconsider the way it functions in your new space.

The Ottawa Citizen

A builder sheds light on what it takes to build condos in Ottawa

June 9, 2016 - I wanted to get some insight into the process by which a condominium development evolves, so I met with Terry Walker, founder of ZW Project Management Inc. Walker has impressive credentials as ZW Project Management has 30 years of experience in the construction and project management businesses, having managed more than $5 billion worth of hospital, airport and university projects.

The Ottawa Citizen

Condo Scene: Terraces at Greystone Village inspired by nature

May 26, 2016 - It would be any developer’s dream to develop 26 acres within the City of Ottawa and The Regional Group is in the process of making that dream come true. Steve Gordon, CEO of The Regional Group, a company with a long history of shaping Ottawa developments, is ecstatic about Greystone Village. He describes it as “a visionary riverfront community.”

The Ottawa Citizen

Condo scene: Design considerations for sleek condo bathrooms

May 12, 2016 - When people consider condo finishes, they often place the most emphasis on the kitchen. In a typically open concept condo, you will certainly spend a large portion of your time in the kitchen/family area; however, bathrooms are places we also spend a significant amount of time.

The Ottawa Citizen

Get smart about spring cleaning

April 28, 2016 - Most of us do not want to clean, clean, clean. And yet every year when spring rolls around it feels like the right thing to do.

The Ottawa Citizen

Condo Scene: The ABCs of condo living, part five

April 13, 2016 - In the final part of this A to Z series on buying your new condo, we tackle letters S to Z.

The Ottawa Citizen

Condo Scene: The ABCs of condo living, part four

March 30, 2016 - In the fourth part of this series on things to consider from A to Z when buying your new condo, we tackle letters P to R.

The Ottawa Citizen

Condo Scene: The ABCs of condo living, part three

March 17, 2016 - In the third part of this series on things to consider from A to Z when buying your new condo, we tackle letters J to O.

The Ottawa Citizen

Condo Scene: The ABCs of condo living, part two

March 3, 2016 - The ABCs can be a useful rubric for condo buyers who want to be sure of their purchase before taking the plunge. Last time I looked at A to E. Today I’ll tackle F through I.

The Ottawa Citizen

Condo Scene: The ABCs of condo living, part one

February 18, 2016 - Trying to decide if a condo is right for you? Organizing your pros and cons into ABCs is a manageable way of sorting through them. This week we look at A to E.

The Ottawa Citizen

Condo Scene: Colour your world with neutrals

February 4, 2016 - According to Benjamin Moore, the colour of the year is Simply White. But don’t let that fool you into thinking 2016 will be bland.

“White is a perfect way to define a space in a really beautiful and sophisticated way,” says a video on the paint brand’s website.

The Ottawa Citizen

Condo Scene: Lighting your way to relaxation

January 21, 2016 - Creating ambience through flickering light may involve installing a fireplace but there are other less complicated options as well. A recent column tackled the issue of fireplaces in condos and I was delighted to receive reader questions on how to get approval to install bioethanol fireplaces.

The Ottawa Citizen

Condo Scene: You can still have a fireplace even if you can't vent one

January 7, 2016 - One thing few condos in our city have is a fireplace. Chilly winter weather invokes images of hunkering down by a cosy fire. So why don’t more condos have them?

The Ottawa Citizen

Real estate: What they got in Rockcliffe Park

December 8, 2015 - Five-bedroom, four-bathroom home in one of the city’s most desirable neighbourhoods. Just a few doors from Prime Minister Justin Trudeau’s residence at Rideau Cottage and adjacent to the home of the Norwegian ambassador to Canada. It offers an indoor pool and private gardens on a large lot.

The Ottawa Citizen

Condo Scene: Appreciating value — how buyers, sellers, developers assess worth

November 26, 2015 - Many developers price their condos by the square foot, while others prefer instead to think of the value of the end product. But besides end product and square footage, there are many ways buyers and sellers try to justify their condo’s value. Here are some.

The Ottawa Citizen

Condo Scene: Design tips from award-winning architect Houry Avedissian

November 12, 2015 - Houry Avedissian, owner of Ha2 Architecture Design, recently won a plethora of awards at the Housing Design Awards put on by the Greater Ottawa Home Builders’ Association. Impressive and bright, she is organization and talent at its best. I spoke with her about trends, architecture and design and found common ground between her design sense and her condo sense.

The Ottawa Citizen

Condo Scene: Marrying art and architecture key to Charlesfort Developments' designs

October 29, 2015 - Doug Casey merits his great reputation. So does his latest development project, The Merit. A sparkling blend of thoughtfulness and design savvy, Casey laments: “A lot of buildings are just boxes now,” and he strives to introduce buildings of architectural interest to the market.

The Ottawa Citizen

Condo Scene: Vote yes to buy — the impact of elections on real estate

October 15, 2015 - Each time a federal election rolls around, the real estate market is fraught with indecision. Buyers can hold their purchasing power close to the vest like chess players waiting to make the winning move.

The Ottawa Citizen

Condo Scene: Windmill Developments on Zibi, trends and Ottawa's market

October 1, 2015 - Windmill Developments has a plan to become known around the world for its creation of environmental developments. Case in point — its ambitious mixed-use project Zibi on the former Domtar lands, a condo development that Rodney Wilts, one of five Windmill partners, says will be a “sustainability showpiece.” The company is aiming for it to be among the greenest developments in the world.

The Ottawa Citizen

Condo Scene: What's on your must-have list?

September 17, 2015 - With many similar-looking condos coming to market, it’s easy to think that the majority of condo buyers want the same thing. Walls of floor-to-ceiling glass windows, a view and certain amenities have come to be seen as must-haves, but buyers need to think about just what they want. Each buyer is, in reality, seeking something different.

The Ottawa Citizen

Condo Scene: 4 ways to tackle condo clutter for fall

September 3, 2015 - When space is at a premium, a higher degree of organization becomes important. With the changing of the season, now is the perfect time to get organized: As the seasons change, so does your wardrobe, so take the opportunity to swap things out.

The Ottawa Citizen

Condo Scene: Locking in security

August 20, 2015 - The great debate on condo living for those who have lived in detached homes is whether it will intensify interactions with neighbours. Private people may fear moving to a condo will bring a level of intrusiveness, while others think it will enhance their sense of security.

The Ottawa Citizen

Condo Scene: Just what is interim occupancy?

August 4, 2015 - When you buy a new condo from a builder, you may not legally own it when you think you do. Most people think that once their condo is built and they have their key in hand, they are the legal owner. This is not necessarily the case.

The Ottawa Citizen

Luxury home's unusual open house aims to create a buzz

July 24, 2015 - Want to spend a bit of time in fantasy land today? Then check out an open house at a stately mansion in Manotick that’s being dressed up with a handful of new Mercedes arrivals from Star Motors.

The Ottawa Citizen

Condo Scene: Creating a Zen living space

July 22, 2015 - In a world as hectic as ours, with a culture of immediacy and the stress it creates, it’s getting harder and harder to shut off and detox. Creating a Zen condo is the ultimate way of ensuring your home time is down time.

The Ottawa Citizen

Condo Scene: Bringing the beach to your balcony

July 9, 2015 - One of the most iconic sounds of summer is waves crashing on a beach. Because it invokes relaxation and vacation, living with the peaceful sound of water in motion is a dream for many. Canadian cottage country offers lakes and rivers that deliver background boating and wildlife noises, but I love the sounds of the ocean, always ebbing and flowing.

The Ottawa Citizen

Condo Scene: Cathedral Hill joins trend in pet-friendly spaces with dog washing station

June 25, 2015 - Spotted: pet friendly city spaces everywhere. Walk down the street and you can spy boutique shops offering a quick walk-by drink for Spot or Bandit. It’s no surprise that condo developers have taken note and are creating pet-friendly condos.

The Ottawa Citizen

Condo Scene: A closet system is key to making the most of limited space

June 10, 2015 - You can’t beat a great closet design, where function and beauty coexist. Whether or not moving into your new condo means downsizing, you will want to work with the limited storage space it offers by optimizing the organization of your closets.

The Ottawa Citizen

Condo Scene: How to beautify your balcony

May 28, 2015 - It takes a little bit of effort to bring our balconies back from the depths of their winter hibernation. Sweeping, scrubbing, glass cleaning and reviving furniture are all in order, before you think of decorating. But once you’re ready, and now that it is once again warm outside, it’s time to bring the outside in and increase your living space.

The Ottawa Citizen

Condo Scene: Turning your condo into a five-star luxury space

May 14, 2015 - Realtors love to say that a home offers “resort living.” It simultaneously suggests pampering, relaxation and easy living. But five-star luxury is certainly not limited to single-family dwellings; it’s a mentality that is equally relevant to condos.

The Ottawa Citizen

Condo Scene: Surface Developments and Edge LeBreton Flats

April 30, 2015 - Discussions of Ottawa’s condo scene can often focus on highrise luxury developments, but there is also a plethora of lower priced, lowrise developments making waves. Surface Developments is one developer focusing on this niche.

The Ottawa Citizen

Condo Scene: The 88th-floor philosophy — an anthropological view of the condo

April 16, 2015 - I recently had the chance to sit down with one of the world’s foremost anthropologists to talk about condos.

Dr. Lionel Tiger grew up in Montreal as a friend of Leonard Cohen. Ever heard the term male bonding? Tiger coined it.

The Ottawa Citizen

Condo Scene: The price is right — putting a value on your place

April 3, 2015 - All buyers decide to purchase based on their perception of value and there are many ways of attributing value to a piece of property.

The Ottawa Citizen

Condo design decisions simplified

March 24, 2015 - When it comes to designing a condo, the developer usually offers a range of decor choices with alternative upgrades.

Of course, that's just the start of your decision-making. After you've chosen bathroom tiles, kitchen counters, moulding and lighting, you still have to choose furnishings and window coverings.

The Ottawa Citizen

Condo Scene: Oh, chute! Taking out the trash

March 19, 2015 - Condo buyers give thought to a lot of different aspects of the building — views, design, availability of amenities and common space all factor into the decision-making process. Here’s another one to add to the list, something that might seem insignificant but is actually important in everyday condo life: How will you take out the garbage?

The Ottawa Citizen

Condo Scene: Contemporary decor is not the only option

March 4, 2015 - I noticed recently that many of the smaller design magazines focus almost exclusively on contemporary design. The impression is that sleek, modern decor and architecture are what all younger people want, but my clients make up enough of a sample size for me to insist otherwise.

The Ottawa Citizen

Condo Scene: When hiring your own designer makes sense

February 5, 2015 - When it comes to designing a condo, the developer usually offers a range of decor choices with alternative upgrades. Of course, that’s just the start of your decision-making. After you’ve chosen bathroom tiles, kitchen counters, moulding and lighting, you still have to choose furnishings and window coverings.

Leader-Post

Make a checklist when condo shopping

January 10, 2015 - Compiling a condo checklist is an excellent way of keeping track of the "must haves" of your future building and unit. Condo shopping can be overwhelming; a pre-shopping checklist can help limit your stress and visits to showrooms.

The Ottawa Citizen

Condo Scene: Legal advice to know before you buy

January 7, 2015 - Russell Gibson is a partner at Vincent Dagenais Gibson LLP and he offers his perspective on the condo buyer’s legal due diligence. The first thing on the purchase checklist should be a copy of the status certificate, he says, which will be available from the builder or Realtor.

The Ottawa Citizen

Condo Scene: Buyer beware — some legal advice before you jump in

December 11, 2014 - If you’re thinking of buying a condo, there are legal matters you need to consider. When it comes to condo advice, lawyers Joshua Sprague and Nancy Johnson of Burke-Robertson LLP have got it in spades. That’s why I’ve asked them to dish it out to prospective buyers before they’ve taken the plunge.

The Ottawa Citizen

Real estate: What they got in Rothwell Heights

December 10, 2014 - “This home is breathtaking,” says Marilyn Wilson of Marilyn Wilson Dream Properties Inc. “The design is magnificent and elegant. The finishes are beautiful and showcase fine craftsmanship and quality throughout.”

The Ottawa Citizen

Condo Scene: Turn your child's bedroom into their private retreat

November 28, 2014 - Your child’s bedroom is their sanctuary and its design, particularly in a condo, is important for several reasons. There are a few differences between condo bedrooms and those in a house that you need to consider — sound, light and one-level living are all typical issues that come into play.

The Ottawa Citizen

Condo Scene: Luxury listing at Toronto's Four Seasons may be a sign of things to come

November 12, 2014 - On a recent trip to Toronto I got to see a superb, top-end condominium listing. At almost $13 million, this condo is completely off the scale of Ottawa prices, but it’s also unlike anything our city has seen in the condo market.

The Ottawa Citizen

Condo Scene: Claridge set to break ground on Ottawa's tallest condo tower

October 29, 2014 - Make room, Ottawa condos, there’s a new building in town and this time its one of iconic proportions.

Claridge Homes is about to break ground on Icon, enabling the residential market to soar to new heights — 45 storeys to be exact — making it the highest condo building in the city.

The Ottawa Citizen

Rothwell Heights home sale believed to be Ottawa's second highest

October 17, 2014 - A spectacular stone manor with views of the Ottawa River and Gatineau Hills has commanded what’s reportedly the second highest price ever paid for an Ottawa home: $7.675 million. It is also the highest Multiple Listing Service sale so far in 2014.

CTV Ottawa

A huge house with a huge price tag

October 17, 2014 - There is buying a house. And then there’s buying a mansion. A home in Ottawa recently sold for $7.675 million. It’s the second-highest price for a listed house ever in the city. The buyer, and seller, wish to remain anonymous.

The Ottawa Citizen

Condo Scene: What women (and men) want — designing your lifestyle

October 16, 2014 - Sometimes I go into a home or stay in a hotel and think, “Yes, this is it — why didn’t I put these features into my home?” A well-placed outlet or thoughtfully installed drawer can make your life more organized and your morning or evening routines much smoother.

The Ottawa Citizen

Condo Scene: Should you buy new or resale?

October 2, 2014 - As a buyer, you might debate between purchasing a condo in a new development or buying resale. In my experience, many buyers start out thinking one way, yet do a complete turn around after shopping. There is no right or wrong; it’s all about what is right for you.

The Ottawa Citizen

Condo Scene: Soaking in Lansdowne's village feel and fabulous views

September 18, 2014 - Last week, I became one of the fortunate few who’ve been able to take a tour of Lansdowne Park and get a bird’s-eye view of the striking vistas.

Since sales opened in November 2012 for The Rideau and Vibe, Minto’s condo apartments on the site, the residential portion of the project has been making headlines.

The Ottawa Citizen

Condo Scene: It's a bit more than a lock-and-go lifestyle

September 4, 2014 - If you bought into the condo lifestyle to have less property ownership responsibilities, that’s a worthwhile idea.

Condos have less outdoor maintenance and are easier to maintain from afar, especially those with a concierge.

The Ottawa Citizen

Condo Scene: More parents buying units for university-bound children

August 21, 2014 - Unless you’ve had your head in the sand, you know it’s almost September, thanks to stores advertising pencils and notebooks, fall clothing and back-to-school discounts. While many might feel summer has barely started, it’s true that fall is closing in on summer’s heels.

The Ottawa Citizen

Condo Scene: Stylish ways to make the most of a small space

August 7, 2014 - The tiny house phenomenon is one that has gained a lot of steam recently. It has been documented on TV and in film, through shows like Tiny House Nation or documentaries, as well as all over the Internet.

The Ottawa Citizen

Condo Scene: Knobs, pulls and handles can have a big impact

July 24, 2014 - Unlike moving into a previously owned space, when you move into a new condo you have a say over many details such as finishings, colours and design schemes. If you want granite counters or hardwood flooring and are willing to pay the upgrade fee, you can do just that.

The Ottawa Citizen

Condo Scene: Go for change when choosing paint

July 11, 2014 - One of the questions I am most often asked is what colour should an owner paint their house or condo. It’s a great question, and one that deserves a more insightful answer than simply one colour name.

Leader-Post

Carefully consider needs when outfitting kitchen

July 5, 2014 - Ever hear the saying the devil is in the details? When it comes to your new condo, that's certainly true. And if you can properly accessorize, the excitement, rather than the devil, can occupy your details.

The StarPhoenix

How to personalize your condo

July 5, 2014 - Many people think all condos in a building will look the same, given their similar blueprints and that buyers often choose to copy model suites. But by changing a few minor details you can make your condo reflect your personality.

The Ottawa Citizen

Condo Scene: Shaping your condo board's personality

June 23, 2014 - When you think about moving to a condo there’s the implication that your lifestyle will become more carefree and you’ll have less to worry about. Many have told me they don’t miss the responsibilities that come with maintaining a large family home.

The Ottawa Citizen

Condo Scene: Curb appeal is not just for houses

June 9, 2014 - Strictly speaking, curb appeal refers to the impression imparted to a passerby by a property’s exterior. That’s just as true for a house as it is for a condo.

The Ottawa Citizen

Condo Scene: Get into the spirit of summer

May 29, 2014 - After another long Canadian winter the weather is finally warming up. Whether it’s your first summer in your home or you’ve been there for a while, sometimes a simple change can make it feel new and exciting, especially as the seasons change.

The Ottawa Citizen

Condo Scene: Appliances should not be an afterthought

May 16, 2014 - Many condo buyers move to make their lives easier. Those who have been renters until now may be happy with whatever appliances are included. Downsizers may also be just as happy with these appliances, as they are new and will mean a fresh start.

The Ottawa Citizen

Condo Scene: John Thomas brings international design flair to his flagship tower The Azure

May 1, 2014 - There is a new luxury condo development in Ottawa called The Azure. Located at the intersection of Woodroffe Avenue and Richmond Road, just past Westboro, The Azure is being developed by Azure Urban Developments Inc.’s, John Thomas, who is bringing sophistication to the Ottawa design scene.

The StarPhoenix

Pick a unit that makes condo life work for you

April 12, 2014 - While condo units are often used as primary homes, they can also be investments or vacation spots. Let's take a look at uses for the extra condo, by which I mean a unit that is not your primary residence, but rather one that has a secondary function.

The Ottawa Citizen

Teron puts Kanata home up for sale

Innovative house built to be at one with nature

April 6, 2014 - One of the most unusual homes in Kanata is going up for sale. The forward-designed green home that Kanata founder Bill Teron built for himself a decade ago is listed on the Christie’s International Real Estate website for $2.75 million.

The Ottawa Citizen

Condo Scene: Making a condo space her own

Longtime Rockcliffe resident Brenda Robertson leaves her neighbourhood for a lifestyle change

April 3, 2014 - Over the years, Brenda Robertson has become known as a tastemaker in the Ottawa home market. She has built and renovated several houses in Rockcliffe Park and, each time, has transformed them into spectacular homes.

The Ottawa Citizen

Condo Scene: Turning your bedroom into a relaxing haven

March 20, 2014 - Whether or not you have a large master bedroom, there are things you can do to make it comfortable, serene and sleep inducing. As condo buildings are most often not situated in quiet residential areas, they can be subject to noise and light.

The Ottawa Citizen

Brigil makes its mark on both sides of the river

March 6, 2014 - Brigil Construction’s recent revival of a central condo site dormant since last summer prompts me to turn the spotlight on this well-established builder, who has been quietly building in the National Capital Region for almost 30 years.

The Ottawa Citizen

Condo Scene: A tale of two cities

Six differences between the Ottawa and New York markets

February 20, 2014 - Richcraft Homes’ latest condo project, The Bowery, is touted as “condominium living with a distinctly New York vibe.” That got me thinking about what distinguishes the two cities’ condo markets.

The Ottawa Citizen

Condo Scene: Contain your condo — a decluttering how-to

February 6, 2014 - Everything you bring through the door has the potential to become clutter. If you have recently downsized, you may still be used to hiding the mess in another room, the basement or the garage. That just won’t work in the restricted floor plan of a condo.

The Ottawa Citizen

Condo Scene: All the Singhal ladies

An interview with Richcraft’s second generation of the Singhal family

January 24, 2014 - The latest in my series of interviews with prominent local developers turns to Richcraft Homes’ Angela and Monica Singhal. These bright young women are the daughters and co-workers of Kris Singhal, who started the real estate development company more than 30 years ago.

The Ottawa Citizen

Condo Scene: Making use of a part-time condo

January 10, 2014 - While condo units are often used as primary homes, they can also be investments or vacation spots. Let’s take a look at uses for the extra condo, by which I mean a unit that is not your primary residence, but rather one that has a secondary function.

The Ottawa Citizen

Condo Scene: Perfect gifts for the condo owner

December 12, 2013 - Let’s face it … despite the Christmas cheer and the joy of the season, holiday gift giving can be a little stressful. First you have to think of the perfect gift. Then you have to find the real-life version of your imagined perfect gift.

The Ottawa Citizen

Condo Scene: How to host the holidays in a condo

November 28, 2013 - It’s beginning to look a lot like that time of year. As the twinkle lights are tacked up, the thermometer drops and the snow starts to appear, it’s time to consider your holiday plans.

The Ottawa Citizen

Condo Scene: Tips for an easier unpacking job

November 14, 2013 - Moving is a big endeavour and anyone who has done it will tell you one thing: It takes nearly twice as long to unpack as it does to pack.

The Ottawa Citizen

Condo Scene: The big reality of little details

Seven ways to improve your condo architecturally

October 31, 2013 - Refined details can help elevate your condo from regular to outstanding. Many people think all condos in a building will look the same, given their similar blueprints and that buyers often choose to copy model suites. But by changing a few minor details, you can inject your condo with its own personal style, one reflective of your personality. Here are seven ways to influence the architecture of your condo.

The Ottawa Citizen

Condo Scene: Will it always be a room with a view?

October 17, 2013 - If rooms with a view are on your condo wish list, you’ll have to consider whether your potential choices will have unobstructed views in perpetuity. Driving through Westboro recently, I was startled to see that one condo building under construction appears to have altered the views of other nearby buildings.

The Ottawa Citizen

Next generation of developers: Claridge’s Shawn Malhotra

October 7, 2013 - I recently began a series of interviews with the next generation of Ottawa’s top condo developers. This week I’m talking to Claridge’s Shawn Malhotra. Shawn and his brother Neil are the sons of president and founder Bill Malhotra. Both are company vice-presidents and Shawn oversees residential development.

The Ottawa Citizen

Condo Scene: Create a checklist for the best buying experience

September 19, 2013 - Compiling a condo checklist is an excellent way of keeping track of the “must haves” of your future building and unit. Condo shopping can be overwhelming; a pre-shopping checklist can help limit your stress and visits to showrooms.

The Ottawa Citizen

Condo Scene: The ABCs of amenities — Spelling out what you need

September 5, 2013 - Candy Spelling is having a time with her real estate choices. Before selling her 56,000-square-foot Spelling Manor in Holmby Hills, California, she bought a condominium.

The Ottawa Citizen

Condo Scene: The next generation of developers — Niki Choo, Ashcroft Homes

August 22, 2013 - Ashcroft Homes is an Ottawa-based builder brand, run by David Choo, founder and president. His daughter, the beautiful and dynamic Niki Choo, is vice-president. I sat down with her to discuss condo trends, Ottawa’s condo future and her own career in residential development.

The Ottawa Citizen

Condo Scene: Window shopping in New York; new ideas for your condo

August 8, 2013 - I spent last weekend in New York and it really got me thinking about how to live vertically. Everywhere you look in the Big Apple, people are living in apartments and condos and there is no end of design shops to suit all budgets.

The Ottawa Citizen

The condo palette: An exercise in taste and trend pairing

July 25, 2013 - There are many factors to consider when choosing a new condo. Competing for attention are details concerning location, site orientation, views, size, potential for resale and, often most importantly, cost. There is, however, another set of factors that buyers may not fully consider.

The Ottawa Citizen

Condo Scene: Getting away to Mont-Tremblant

July 11, 2013 - I often have clients who ask about Mont-Tremblant real estate. Due to its easy distance from Ottawa, Tremblant is a draw for families and couples looking to get away for a few days now and then.

The Ottawa Citizen

Condo Scene: The benefits of Canada Day in a condo

June 27, 2013 - As we approach July 1, it’s time to think of how best to celebrate. Though living in a condo might alter the plans of the traditional barbecue, it does not mean that you will have to forgo your festivities. So pull out your patriotic gear and prepare for a condo-perfect Canada Day.

The Ottawa Citizen

Condo Scene: Keeping safe in a condo fire

June 13, 2013 - Do you know what to do if there’s a fire in your condo? Though there are codes to ensure buildings are constructed to a high standard of safety, there are other things you can do as a condo resident to ensure you and your family are prepared for a fire emergency.

The Ottawa Citizen

Condo Scene: Dos and don’ts of the condo party

May 30, 2013 - Perhaps you are an old hand at entertaining — you’ve hosted cocktail, birthday and dinner parties many times before. But that was in your home and now you are in a condo unit, a space where you are closer to your neighbours and where entertaining guests can be more difficult. From party prep to providing parking, here are the how-tos of condo entertaining.

The StarPhoenix

Children and condos can go together with careful planning

May 18, 2013 - The most famous condo kid surely must be Eloise, who grew up on the "tippy-top floor" of the Plaza Hotel in Manhattan. Technically, she lived in a hotel, but she occupied the penthouse, so it counts. Eloise may be a character in a children's book, but that doesn't mean that your dreams of raising a family in a condo can't come true.

The Ottawa Citizen

Condo Scene: The condo conundrum

How to know if you’re ready for the big move

May 16, 2013 - Many people come to me — clients and readers alike — to help them consider if they are suited to condo living. This is a particularly tough decision for families living in larger homes. But once the nest is empty and you are a couple living in a family-sized space, you may find you are ready for a change.

The Ottawa Citizen

Condo Scene: Children and condos can go together

May 3, 2013 - The most famous “condo kid” surely must be Eloise, who grew up on the “tippy-top floor” of the Plaza Hotel in Manhattan. Well, technically she lived in a hotel, but occupied the penthouse, so it counts. Eloise may be a character in a children’s book, but that doesn’t mean that your dreams of raising a family in a condo can’t come true.

The Ottawa Citizen

Condo Scene: A sneak peek at Tega Homes’ Rhombus Tower

April 18, 2013 - I recently sat down with home builder and developer Spyro Dimitrakopoulos, president and CEO of Tega Homes. He has been building luxury homes and condos in Ottawa for over eight years and is currently working on his first highrise condo project, a development called Rhombus Tower at 111 Parkdale Ave.

The Ottawa Citizen

Condo Etiquette — the power of please and thank you

April 4, 2013 - Do you ever have days when everyone seems downright rude? I have no idea what the cause is — perhaps it’s the barometric pressure or the phase of the moon. But when you try to keep calm and carry on you simply can’t let other people’s attitudes get you down.

The Ottawa Citizen

Condo Scene: Making the big move: pros and condos

March 21, 2013 - Many buyers looking for a lifestyle change wonder what it would be like to live in a condo. The move they are considering could be lateral financially and/or space-wise or it could be related to the need for a space change. For others, it will simply be a change from renting to ownership.

The Ottawa Citizen

Condo Scene: Urbandale offers a sneak peek at 99 Parkdale

March 7, 2013 - Richard Sachs is over the moon about his latest and greatest project, a new condo development called 99 Parkdale. Sachs, president and CEO of Urbandale Construction, asked me to stop by his office to unveil some of his plans.

Leader-Post

Dust busting tips

February 23, 2013 - A reader wrote me recently about how frustrated she and her husband are with the dust that accumulates in their 16th-floor condo. They love everything about condo living except the dust, which was the last thing they anticipated in a relatively new building.

The Ottawa Citizen

Condo Scene: Choosing art is its own art form for both first-timers or downsizers

February 21, 2013 - Although there are many types of condo buyer, this article is aimed at those who are either downsizing or upsizing, often first-time buyers who want to switch from renting to owning. While the upsizers may not bring a lot of art with them, the downsizers will likely have collected many pieces over the years.

The Ottawa Citizen

Condo Scene: Inspections needed even when buying new

January 24, 2013 - Many purchasers think it’s unnecessary to hire a building inspector before purchasing a new condo. Prospective buyers often assume a condo building and their unit of interest is fine and everything is to code and working properly. While this is usually the case, purchasers still need to protect themselves against those rare occasions where there is a pre-existing problem.

The Ottawa Citizen

Condo Scene: Six things to do in 2013 to enrich your condo lifestyle

January 10, 2013 - There are many resolutions that have been ushered in with the New Year. When crafting yours you may have opted for the popular fitness goals or decision to eat healthier. You may also have decided to do other things for yourself or those around you. I propose the following six condo-centred resolutions to help you enjoy your unit, building and neighbours even more in 2013.

The Ottawa Citizen

Condo Scene: The condo quandary — have I ensured I’m insured?

December 14, 2012 - As we near 2013 it may be a good time to revisit the insurance coverage for your condo or, if you are in the market to purchase, to learn how condo insurance works. As a longtime homeowner you likely think you know all about home insurance, but think again. Condo insurance is different from home insurance in a number of important ways.

Read more...

Financial Times

Carney makes lifestyle leap

November 30, 2012 - A look around Mark Carney’s neighbourhood of Rockliffe Park on the outskirts of Ottawa gives a sense of the leap he is making by moving to London.
It is the city’s most prestigious address, close to the prime minister’s residence, but it is a quiet village that feels a long way from Mayfair or Notting Hill.

Read more...

The Ottawa Citizen

Condo Scene: Deck the hall

Your guide to condo decorating

November 29, 2012 - It’s officially the holiday season and your condo should reflect this joie de vivre. You may think that condo decorating is the same as house decorating but that is just not the case.

Read more...

The Ottawa Citizen

Condo Scene: Frequently asked questions

November 16, 2012 - Since I’ve been writing this column, I’ve had lots of people asking me questions about various aspects of condo living. So I’ve put together this FAQ — some of them are questions that are, in fact, frequently asked and others just make good condo sense.

Read more...

The Ottawa Citizen

Condo Scene: Frequently asked questions

November 1, 2012 - This is it! This is where I want to live. I’m home suite home. Why? Because this master suite is perfect. It’s sweeter than all the other suites.

Read more...

The Ottawa Citizen

Condo Scene: When opportunity knocks … upgrade your doors

You only get one chance to make a good first impression and while people may have learned not to judge a book by its cover, they don’t know not to judge a home by its door.

Read more...

The Ottawa Citizen

Condo Scene: Taking a tower from concept to reality

Scott Denmark is a few minutes late to our meeting. He’s cycling from his Cathedral Hill project at the end of Sparks Street to the Windmill Development Group head office near Hampton Park.

Read more...

The Ottawa Citizen

Condo Scene: Movers and shakers

Advice for a smooth move

New condo bathrooms are sleek, fresh, exciting. Many developers and designers have been caught using richly textured tiles in taupes, champagnes and putty colours to up the wow factor in this particular room.

Read more...

The Ottawa Citizen

Condo Scene: Focus on Westboro — the condo-munity

The condo scene in Westboro is hot. Jalapeno hot. It seems every time you pass through the neighbourhood, a new condo is on the rise. And why not when Westboro has achieved cult status among the young and urban hip?

Read more...

The Ottawa Citizen

Condo Scene: Room with a loo — the condo bathroom

The Ottawa Citizen

Condo Scene: What’s in it for you?

Weigh your options when it comes to building amenities

So the kids have moved out and you’re ready to downsize from your two-storey with a pool or you’re too busy working to care for a lawn, pull weeds and plant perennials. Sounds like you are gearing up for a condo. But just because you’re minimizing your maintenance doesn’t mean you can’t maximize your amenities.

Read more...

The Ottawa Citizen

Condo Scene: Vvvaroom with a view — car condos make space for your vehicle

One of the downsides to condo living can be the lack of a private garage. Many prospective buyers think twice before purchasing a new condo because they have no idea what to do with their cars and garage stuff.

Read more...

The Ottawa Citizen

Balcony boosters: Make the most of your outdoor space

The most wonderful thing about buying a new condo is that it will most likely afford fantastic views of the city or skyline. It puts things in a different perspective to see the world from new heights.

Read more...

The Ottawa Citizen

Condo scene: Getting the scoop on pets

I must admit that I love watching reality TV real estate shows. Not long ago, I was watching an episode of one of my favourites, Selling New York, in which an agent was scouring the city for two clients — a man and his pet reptile.

Read more...

The Vancouver Sun

Calm the five senses to make the most of downtime

At the end of a long work day, we all want to come home to a relaxing atmosphere far removed from the day's stresses.

Read more...

The Ottawa Citizen

Condo Scene: Creating a private enclave with river views in Orléans

Ask Pierre Boulet of Boulet Homes “what’s new” and you’ll hear breaking news — he’s breaking ground in Orléans this month. The Gatineau builder, in his ninth year of business, is known for quality design features and finishes.

Read more...

The Ottawa Citizen

Romanticize your condo with the five senses

At the end of a long work day, we all want to come home to a relaxing atmosphere far removed from the day’s stresses. What’s really needed is a few hours at a retreat and, fortunately, you can turn your condo into just such a place. It’s as simple as accessorizing. All you have to do is focus on tantalizing the five senses.

Read more...

The Ottawa Citizen

Condo Scene: Coming into the closet; does size matter?

I was sitting at a party next to a friend when she glanced down and noticed that her husband’s pants were from another suit and did not match. Though he had previously asked for her opinion, neither of them had perceived the faux pas. This unfortunate mismatched man had fallen prey to the curse of the disorganized closet.

Read more...

The Ottawa Citizen

Poised for noise: What is your condo’s decibel quotient?

It’s 4.02 a.m. and there’s still another two hours of blissful sleep before the Monday morning routine begins. You begin to drift back to sleep, only to be jolted awake, yet again, by the sound of fire trucks heading to a false alarm.

Read more...

The Ottawa Citizen

Condo scene: How smart is your condo?

Of course you didn’t choose your condo solely for its looks — you also wanted some smarts to enrich your relationship. Perhaps you think of condo intelligence as starting with main entrance security, increasing with parking security and culminating in unit security. If so, you, like many others, would be underestimating the potential intelligence of the younger generation of condos.

Read more...

The Ottawa Citizen

French Country charm

Attention to detail key in stately Rideau Canal condo

Read more...

The Ottawa Citizen

Adding value: All upgrades are not created equal

One thing buyers of new condos often lose sight of is that one day they may want to sell their property. It’s understandable; they’re typically faced with the sometimes overwhelming choice of many optional upgrades.

Read more...

The Ottawa Citizen

Turn up volume to avoid cabin fever

Making a successful transition to condominium living takes knowledge and preparation.

The local condo market, once a less-than-desirable option for Ott awa living, has now taken a dramatic upswing in popularity.

Read more...

The Ottawa Citizen

Check out the Condo Scene

Condominium living in Ottawa has taken a giant leap in popularity in Ottawa in recent years, with units being built at a rate of more than 1,000 a year.

Read more...

The Ottawa Citizen

Ottawa’s top properties offer lots of bling

Luxury living comes with pricetags in the millions

Read more...

The Ottawa Citizen

Christie's picks up Ottawa agent

Christie's International Real Estate is the real estate branch of Christie's, the London-based art auction house.

Read more...

The Ottawa Citizen

Selling luxury

When the prices are high and the buyers are scarce it’s all about making connections

Read more...

Ottawa Sun

A tale of two cities
Ron Corbett on capitals's economic divide

May 14 2011 - The richest neighbourhood in Ottawa can be found on an escarpment overlooking the Ottawa River, with beautiful tree-lined streets and large, Tudor-style homes.

Read more...

Ottawa Magazine

Blockbuster Bungalow

On the market for just over $4 million, a Rockcliffe showstopper is proof positive that with the right renovators and craftsmen – and a lot of imagination – one storey can really pack some serious punch

Read more...

Ottawa Business Journal

The housing market's dizzying Heights

September 10, 2008 - When Jean-Louis and Colette Bellemare recently put their Rothwell Heights home on the market for $3.9 million, their neighbours nodded their heads knowingly. They probably weren't surprised the Bellemares were asking so much, given the home's spectacular "curb appeal" and its location, with commanding views across the Ottawa River to the Gatineau Hills.

CTV National News

Big jackpot

Rosemary Thompson reports on one of the most substantial lottery prizes in history

Watch Video...

The Ottawa Citizen

2.3-million Vista
City's priciest penthouse boasts spectacular skyline views

People often talk about a "million-dollar view," but in this case, it's literally true. How else do you explain the $2.3-million price tag for a two-bedroom apartment?

Read more...

Ottawa Business Journal

Executive Lifestyles
Making the rounds with the queen of Rockcliffe real estate

Whenever a million-dollar residential real estate deal goes down in Ottawa, the chances are good that Marilyn Wilson will be in on it, especially if it's on her home turf of Rockcliffe Park.

Read more...

Ottawa Living

Meet the Ambassador of Real Estate

Marilyn Wilson, human dynamo, sells million dollar properties and unwinds in a home she bought without opening the front door.

Read more...

The Ottawa Citizen

Santa, baby
Check out this priority list to slip under the tree

It's a good thing Santa has two major elves to help him sort through requests for pricey goodies to put in very expensive homes.

Read more...

The Ottawa Citizen

Sweetsenses
Banish the onions and tempt the eyes, nose and tastebuds when selling your home

Dale Carnegie, North America's original motivational speaker, made a fortune extolling the virtues of first impressions and getting it right from the get-go. This philosophy applies to our human interactions and it's also key in our homes, especially when entertaining and even more importantly, when selling and hoping for a speedy sale.

Read more...

Financial Times

Diplomatic baggage

The three-storey house for sale on Acacia Avenue in Ottawa, Canada has plenty to recommend it. Set on an acre of land in the leafy, upmarket Rockcliffe Park district, it includes five bedrooms, lush English gardens and a sunroom large enough to entertain dozens of guests. It even has a Hollywood connection, having featured in the 1990 Paul Newman and Joanne Woodward film Mr and Mrs Bridges

Read more...

Ottawa Citizen Style

PowerAgent: Selling the life

Available day or night to the wealthiest and worldliest, Marilyn Wilson buys and sells half the houses in Rockcliffe Park. "I don't take lunch," she says, "and I don't take holidays".

Read more...

Ottawa Business Journal

Executive Homes:
Crunching numbers – Home buying in Gatineau vs. Ottawa

A 5,000-square-feet mansion was recently offered for sale in a thickly wooded neighbourhood of large, modern homes a 15-minute drive from Parliament Hill.

Read more...

The Globe and Mail

U.S. Embassy residence
Home of the Week

What: A house that has belonged to the U.S. Embassy for 58 years in Ottawa's exclusive Rockcliffe Park neighbourhood. The three-storey, 4,800-square-foot residence has six bedrooms and four bathrooms, and sits on a lot measuring about three-quarters of an acre.

Read more...

The Ottawa Citizen – City Section

Rockcliffe home featured in Paul Newman film on the market

Mr. and Mrs. Bridges’ house is for sale.

Read more...

Ottawa Life Magazine

Ottawa’s Top 50 People for 2006
Marilyn Wilson

Volume 9 / Number 12006

Marilyn Wilson is the number one residential sales representative for Ottawa’s prestigious Rockcliffe Park community. With a wide background in marketing and advertising, Wilson is the top seller for the entire Eastern Ontario market.

Read more...

The Ottawa Citizen

The Dominator:
Super-seller Marilyn Wilson reveals secrets of her remarkable real estate career; she seldom sleeps, talks fast and makes permanent friends of her clients

Marilyn Wilson – not just Royal Lepage’s queen of Ottawa real estate, but also the company’s top seller for all of Eastern Ontario...

Read more...