A new day. A new month. A new chapter.
I’ve always looked forward to the first day of a new month. I see it as an opportunity to reset and try something new. Of course, you can’t always wait until the first day of a new month to start a new chapter, but here at Storeys, that’s exactly what we’re doing.
From its start in 2016, Storeys has always focused on real estate in and around the city, but over the years we’ve developed a few supporting narratives and broadened the scope from where it all began.
As the new managing editor, my goal is to keep the site focused on what truly matters: the stories.
Storeys managing editor: Joy D'Souza
Whether you rent or own or are looking to rent or own, chances are you have thoughts and feelings and experiences regarding the city’s real estate market. These are the stories we want to hear and share.
They’re the stories you tell your colleagues and friends when you find out they’re on the hunt for a new home or are ready to list the place they thought they’d be in forever. They’re the stories you’re almost too embarrassed to tell but divulge anyways, because you want to help others avoid the same situation.
For me, that last scenario is quite familiar. Upon buying my home almost four years ago, I committed a cardinal sin for first-time condo owners—I Googled my building. Don’t get me wrong… I’m not saying you shouldn’t do this. You should absolutely do your research into the builders and the neighbourhood. What you shouldn’t do is Google your building for the first time mere hours before closing.
The clear view from the front door was a big draw for me when purchasing this space. (Photo courtesy of Joy D'Souza)
That was my mistake. The night before my closing, I cried as I read horrible comments written by disgruntled renters. The next day I went to my lawyer’s office and actually said aloud the words I was thinking all night—what happens if I renege on the offer?
Thankfully, my lawyer reminded me of what I’ve always known to be true—people seldom comment on the positive and those who complain have a tendency to make it sound a million times worse online.
To me, there's nothing better than coming home, cozying up on the couch and reading a book. (Photo courtesy of Joy D'Souza)
So, I set aside my fears and worries and I took the plunge. And you know what? Four years later, I have zero regrets and a whole lot of happy memories in my home.
I was one of the lucky ones. Even though it all worked out, that story is still worth telling because I learned a lot in that moment, about myself and home ownership. So, I’ll continue to tell it in hopes that it’ll teach (or entertain) others along the way.
What’s your story?
