UrbanToronto has launched an enhanced version of its UTPro platform, providing expanded real-time data coverage for real estate development across the Greater Toronto and Hamilton Area (GTHA).
Edward Skira, co-founder and owner of Urban Toronto, shared insights into the platform’s new features. That includes how UTPro streamlines access to critical development data for industry professionals, city planners, and anyone interested in Toronto’s evolving urban landscape.
A Complete Platform Upgrade: More Data, More Insights
UTPro, which initially launched in 2021, has been significantly upgraded to track 5,500 active projects and nearly 5,000 industry-related companies, including developers and architects. Covering a geographic area from Bowmanville to Niagara Falls and Kitchener to Barrie, the platform aggregates development data in one place.
“We learned a lot from the first version. This new iteration fully integrates UTPro into the UrbanToronto platform, enhancing its capabilities and making it far more seamless for users,” said Skira.
The revamped platform introduces a range of improvements, including access to 144 data points per project—up from 90 in the previous version. This allows users to create highly detailed and customizable reports, offering insights across residential, industrial, retail, office, and transit sectors.
New Mapping Features Streamline User Experience
A key upgrade to UTPro is its redesigned map interface, which clusters projects using dynamic, colour-coded circles that change in intensity based on density. This new design allows users to quickly identify development hotspots. “Previously, markers were scattered all over the map, making dense areas like Downtown Toronto difficult to navigate. Now, users can get a clear, organized view of what’s happening at a glance,” Skira explained.
A new Dashboard page offers a high-level overview of regional development activity, including the number and types of projects underway. “We’ve added a snapshot view so users can quickly understand regional growth trends. It’s available to all visitors, but UTPro All Access subscribers can access even deeper data and specialized dashboards,” Skira added.
Historical Data and Standardized Project Information
UTPro’s ability to retain historical project documents—even after they are removed from municipal websites—sets it apart as a valuable long-term reference tool. “Municipal sites often remove approved applications, but we maintain a historical record. This lets users go back and see what was originally proposed or approved for a given project,” Skira said.
Another key feature is the standardization of data across different municipalities. “Every city has its own way of managing project data, with different fields and terms. We’ve standardized everything, making it easy to compare projects across Oakville, Mississauga, and Toronto, for example,” Skira noted. This ensures that users can seamlessly evaluate projects from different regions without the hassle of dealing with inconsistent data formats.
Practical Use Cases and Community Contributions
UTPro serves a diverse range of users, including developers, suppliers, brokers, and businesses evaluating future population growth. “For a retail client looking at expanding in North Oakville, knowing that 10,000 new residents are moving in over the next few years can be game-changing,” Skira said. This functionality also extends to transit authorities, school boards, and government agencies planning infrastructure based on future population density.
UrbanToronto’s vibrant community of 43,000 forum members also contributes real-time insights, often capturing new developments before they are publicized. “Our community is a crucial part of what we do. They keep us informed about emerging projects that may not even appear on official channels,” said Skira. “It’s this blend of community input and industry data that makes UTPro so valuable.”
Flexible Subscription Tiers for Every User
The new UTPro platform offers four tiers of access to suit various needs. The entry-level public map provides basic tools, while more advanced tiers allow for greater customization. “Users can purchase instant reports for a one-off fee or subscribe to Pro Lite for enhanced map tools and up to five discounted reports per month. UTPro All Access gives the most robust access, with unlimited data, customizable reports, and comprehensive insights into individual companies’ portfolios,” Skira explained.
UrbanToronto’s enhancements reflect its commitment to offering data-driven insights tailored to industry professionals and everyday urban enthusiasts alike. “We’re empowering people to connect more deeply with Toronto’s development scene,” said Skira. “Whether it’s a retailer planning a new location or a city planner mapping out future transit lines, we provide the data they need to make informed decisions.”
The UTPro platform, now live, is set to be a great resource for those looking to navigate the GTHA’s dynamic real estate market. As Skira put it, “There’s a lot going on, and we’re thrilled to help people make sense of it.”
