Real Estate Guide › Central

Lansing - Westgate

Median 2007 sale price:: $1,022,400
Property crime:: very high
Crime against people:: average
Neighbourhood map:: See map

A greenbelt bisects this district, which starts in the west with Burnett Park and Earl Bales Park (home to an outdoor amphitheatre), then connects to the south by Gwendolen Park, a buffer from the city-run Don Valley Golf Course. North of the greenbelt is the neighbourhood of Lansing, which is capped by more green space in the form of quiet York Cemetery. As in the adjacent Willowdale West, homes here are built on wide lots within walking distance of shops and the subway. A semi-detached four-bedroom family home could run upwards of $700,000. Commuters will also appreciate the proximity to Highway 401.

HOUSING STOCK: As in most of the north-central neighbourhoods, there are plenty of options, including modest ranch-style bungalows and three-storey mansions set on generous lots. However, this neighbourhood has not experienced the same condo-ization as nearby Willowdale (page 48), so vertical living choices are limited.

BARGAIN ZONES: Westgate—which is further from the subway line but still enjoys easy highway access—is less expensive than Lansing. Within the Lansing area, the streets further from Yonge tend to be cheaper than those closer.

THE VERDICT: This family-friendly district draws in nature lovers and pet owners, but it’s still near city amenities for the more urbane. The area also has good elementary and middle schools. On the downside, prices have been driven up in recent years, but homes may not hold their value as well as those in more central or southern areas.

NEIGHBOURHOOD HOT SPOTS:
Earl Bales Park This spot has an outdoor amphitheatre that features summer concerts, and a city-run downhill ski facility (of the bunny variety) that attracts beginners in the wintertime. 4169 Bathurst St., 416-338-6754.
Frog and the Firkin The top-floor patio at the local outpost of the Firkin pub chain gets crowded in good weather. 4854 Yonge St., 416-225-3764.
Toronto Centre for the Arts The centre is home to Broadway musicals, a Tafelmusik concert series, recitals and various other community events. 5040 Yonge St., 416-733-9388.

Nearby Restaurants

Alegno Italian Restaurant

This restaurant offers Old World charm and affordable prices in a cozy setting. Lovers grapple ... (1.19 km away)

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Commuting

401 and 400:: 8.7 km
King and Bay:: 12.4 km
Gardiner and 427:: 18.6 km
Subways:: Sheppard Station 1.4 km; North York Centre Station 1.8 km; York Mills Station 1.9 km