Dear reader,

In this week’s Curb Appeal: a shameless real estate fraudster who bilked dozens of investors out of millions of dollars. Plus, a stunning semi just steps from Greektown and a North York fortress that would be at home in the Hollywood Hills. 

From a young age, Courtney Wallis Simpson had big plans, and she was ruthlessly ambitious when it came to achieving them. To finance her lifestyle, she hatched a series of property schemes that would cost her victims millions.

This $1.5-million townhouse in Pape Village more than doubled its selling price after an impressive renovation. At 1,100 square feet, it comes with three bedrooms, a fancy kitchen and walls designed to show off art. 

How about a 12,000-square-foot mansion selling for close to $14 million? Located in the posh neighbouhood of Winfields, it has a saltwater pool, a stunning spiral staircase and a wine cellar big enough to live in.

After two years of takeout and home cooking, Toronto diners are keen to splurge on caviar, seafood towers and prime cuts of beef. And this is all happening at a time when chicken breasts are going for $23 a kilogram and we’re price-matching at supermarkets like it’s a blood sport. The message, in short, is that if people choose to dine out, they’re going big. In our June issue, 20 restaurants where we’re more than happy to put our money where our mouths are. Still not receiving Toronto Life at home? Subscribe today.