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Real Estate Guide › Central

Church–Yonge Corridor

Average 2008 sale price:

$353,574

Property crime:

high

Crime against people:

high

Neighbourhood map:

See map

Church and Wellesley has long been regarded as Toronto’s gay and lesbian neighbourhood, but the character of this iconic downtown area is transforming as quickly as a drag queen changes outfits. While younger members of the area’s queer population have been hightailing it to such places as Parkdale for a good part of the past decade, the relocation of community stalwart This Ain’t the Rosedale Library to Kensington Market is a sign that the pace of change is accelerating. Baby buggies are starting to elbow out gym bunnies, as young couples and families turn the area’s burgeoning number of condos into starter homes. Developers are cashing in on the newfound desire for addresses in the core, rapidly erecting sleek condo towers. Still, long-term residents praise the area’s personal, village-within-a-city feel, which is aided by a plethora of long-standing independent businesses, such as the small greengrocers that line the main street. While the north end of the neighbourhood is relatively safe and clean, the south retains a gritty, slightly down-at-the-heels feel, especially after dark.

HOUSING STOCK: Multi-unit dwellings and a few condo developments mingle with stately homes on such streets as Gloucester.

BARGAIN ZONES: They require a little TLC but older condo buildings, such as the ones on Maitland Street and Charles Street East, tend to have bigger units, yet in terms of square footage they still sell at under market value.

THE VERDICT: Anything this close to downtown is a pretty good long-term investment, and prices will undoubtedly climb with the addition of the tony new buildings that continue to pop up.

NEIGHBOURHOOD HOT SPOTS:
Cumbrae’s Everyone from Rosedale matrons to health-conscious scenesters heads here for perfectly marbled cuts of hormone-free beef and Berkshire pork. 481 Church St., 416-923-5600.
Hair of the Dog Though set in the heart of the gay village, it’s perfect for tête-à-têtes of any persuasion. 425 Church St., 416-964-2708.
Kaiseki-Sakura This resto offers a modern take on traditional Japanese, with $80 and $100 omakase menus. 556 Church St., 416-923-1010.