The Kingsway ($850k-$4 million +)  W08

Think of this area as the west end version of Lawrence Park meets Hoggs Hollow. For many decades it's been pretty commonplace that when you say The Kingsway most people think well-to-do. That's what it is exactly. Most grander homes on the actual Kingsway that back onto the Humber River are the most coveted as the views are magnificent and the homes themselves can set you back over $4 million, no that's not a typo. The last home that sold on the south-eastern side of the Kingsway right near where Kingsway Crescent begins sold about a year and a half ago (in need of a major overhaul) for $4.5 million. The area is defined geographically as anything north of Bloor Street West where the Kingsway more or less begins going westward to Montgomery Road and going northbound to Dundas Street West.

As far as shopping is concerned, frankly one would be better off driving to where they need to in this case the Kingsway shops starting west of Prince Edward Drive and Bloor Street West moving westward towards Montgomery Road. Many decent shops have remained over the years in addition to the area boasting a well stocked LCBO with a great vintages section. Plenty of street parking abounds as well as Green P's on the north side of Bloor Street West directly behind the shops.

Typically the housing stock consists of 2 and 3 storey grand tudor style homes while others boast impressive stone fronts. Lot frontages tend to be wider as well, around 35 feet and up. Many home owners take care to maintain a higher level of curb appeal as well as making outdoor decor choices that are in keeping with the neighbourhood. It's a pleasure to look at! Who knows you may even run into Thurston Howell III.

The average price of a house in this area as of 2011 hovers slightly above the $1,464,000 mark.

Besides The Kingsway, further north- west exist addtional exclusive enclaves of the west end that again gracefully mimic the Hoggs Hollow aesthetic. With large lots, mature trees and interesting topography, many of these properties command a noteable price, such pockets inlcude the Edenbridge- Humber Valley area.

copyright 2011