By SYDNIA YU
Friday 24 March 2006

140 Bathurst St., No. 101

Asking price: $179,900

Selling price: $174,500

Previous selling price:

$161,649 (2002)

Taxes: $1,242 (2005)

Days on market: 14

This one-bedroom suite at the base of a new nine-storey condominium building in King West Village is ideal for first-time buyers who want to be downtown. It's near the business and financial districts, and a wealth of antique shops, restaurants and galleries along King and Queen streets.

But it offers something more: electrical outlets and light switches are placed lower on the walls to make this ground-level suite wheelchair-accessible.

The nine-foot ceilings and open-concept living area enhance the sense of spaciousness in the 530-square-foot unit. The living room has cork floors and windows facing away from the activity on Bathurst.

From the front entrance, the kitchen is along the right wall, and has modern features such as ceramic floors, track lights and an island. Across the room, there is a four-piece washroom, stacked washer and dryer, and the bedroom with broadloom flooring.

The suite includes a locker; an underground parking space can be rented for $100 a month. The monthly maintenance fee of about $350 covers utilities and common elements.

Residents have access to a recreation room, gym and patio with barbecue area. Locally, there is Stanley Park, and major cultural attractions such as Harbourfront and the Rogers Centre.

Listing agent: Julie Kinnear, Royal LePage Real Estate Services Ltd.