When the Elite purchase condos

When people shop for a new condominium, I always advise them to make a list of must-haves and nice to-haves. It can also be fun to make a wish list of everything you would like to have if money was no object. Of course, nowadays, price looms large in most people’s consideration, but there are many buyers who can afford absolutely everything they desire. Imagine what an experience that must be!So, what can money buy? The first thing that comes to mind is the opportunity to customize a penthouse extensively. Let’s say a purchaser starts with a 5,000-sq.-ft. design. Depending on preferences, that buyer might want a traditional layout with separate living and dining rooms. Those with more contemporary tastes may opt instead to have an open concept main living area with plenty of space for entertaining on a grand scale. This ballroom-inspired space could hold tables for dining or could be kept open, depending on the event.Another benefit of money-is-no-object shopping is the ability to incorporate things such as exercise facilities, a home theatre, media room and whirlpool into the suite, rather than sharing these amenities with other residents. Talk about pure luxury! Even a private landscaped rooftop terrace with a pool is a possibility. Some of the most elite penthouses include space for staff quarters and a separate entrance as well, sometimes a private elevator. Multiple balconies and terraces may also be part of the suite’s layout to maximize views and the ability to enjoy the outdoors when the weather is pleasant.Today’s new condos all come with outstanding features and finishes, but purchasers who can afford it all can have sumptuous appointments brought in from around the world. Kitchens alone can feature items such as a barbecue stove, vegetable steamer beside the sink, pasta tap at the back of the stove and an exotic backsplash. Maybe buyers want appliances to rise out of the counter with the press of a button.And let’s talk master bedrooms and ensuites. The possibilities are positively elegant, from marble counters to lavish oval soaker tubs, spa features and steam rooms. A special wall designed specifically to fit an art collection, multiple fireplaces, backlit coffered panels on high ceilings, elegant chandeliers… if you can imagine it, a developer can likely source and install it. Think of these as the most upscale of upgrades imaginable.There is another way to live an ultra-pampered lifestyle in a condominium – purchase in a residence situated above a five-star hotel. Suite owners can tap into the world-class amenities of the hotel below. How wonderful it must be to simply hop on an elevator to indulge in spa treatments or dine at a superb restaurant.For some elite buyers, a penthouse in Toronto is one of two or more residences they own. They may consider it a home base during business trips or vacations. Yes, this is a dream scenario for most of us, but isn’t it grand to know that a condominium wish list can become reality for those who can afford it?BARBARA LAWLOR is president and CEO of Baker Real Estate Inc., winner of the pinnacle 2017 Riley Brethour Award from BILD, and an indemand columnist and speaker. A member of the Baker team since 1993, she oversees the marketing and sales of condominium developments in the GTA and overseas. Keep current with The Baker Blog at blog.bakerrealestate.com