This two-storey penthouse loft boasts a lot of living space, plenty of natural light and a prime Little Italy location. The Ideal Condo Building (that's it's name, just to be clear) at 301 Markham Street is comprised of 68 soft lofts that benefit from high ceilings and relatively low maintenance fees. This penthouse at #804 is definitely more condo-like than a true loft--the only industrial feature here is a metal and glass stair rail--but what it lacks in grit, it makes up for in size.

The corner unit has more than 1,300 square feet of floor space, including two bedrooms, three bathrooms and a long and skinny outdoor terrace. The floor-to-ceiling windows on each floor let in huge amounts of light, but since this is a mid-rise building the view isn't exactly expansive (hello, neighbouring parking lot). Although #804 is more plain and predictable than some of the other apartments in the building, its overall design is consistent, warm and livable.

It's hard to find much fault with the Little Italy location. The building is just one street west of the hub of College and Bathurst, and all neighbourhood amenities from bars to libraries are within walking distance. There's even a Shoppers Drug Mart right downstairs, so get ready for some major Optimum points.

SPECS

• Address: 804-301 Markham Street
• Price: $799,900
• Sq-Ft: 1200-1399
• Bedrooms: 2
• Bathrooms: 3
• Parking: 1 underground space
• Taxes: $5,445 (2013)
• Maintenance fees: $907 monthly
• Walk Score: 97

NOTABLE FEATURES

• Building is less than 10 years old
• Outdoor terrace with BBQ included
• New hardwood floors
• Tall windows with custom blinds
• Storage locker in building

GOOD FOR

A buyer seeking highfalutin, modern style in a popular and established neighbourhood--but without the typical penthouse price tag. Another penthouse in this building (slightly larger, and somewhat fancier) was recently listed for $1.1 million, so, bidding war or not, this price seems like a bargain. Night owls and homebodies alike should be pleased by the space: the size and layout of this unit is conducive to both entertaining and quiet nights in.

MOVE ON IF

Keep the search going if you're after a penthouse with a stellar view of downtown. Most of these massive windows are north-facing, meaning you'll get diffused light and residential views rather than bright sun and skyscrapers. The terrace also looks down onto College Street, which can be fun on a summer evening but less-than-ideal when a streetcar loudly scrapes past at 4am.

ADDITIONAL PHOTOS

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