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Real Estate Guide › East

Playter Estates - Danforth

Average 2008 sale price:

$665,756

Property crime:

low

Crime against people:

low

Neighbourhood map:

See map

This exclusive district east of the Don and north of the Danforth takes its name from the Playter family, Loyalists who settled the area in the 1790s. It’s the kind of close-knit, front-porch community where cats slink safely across the road (thanks to the one-way streets and speed bumps). Young families clamouring for houses within the catchment area of Jackman Avenue Public School (it’s well-known for high test scores) are commonly caught in bidding wars.

HOUSING STOCK: The largest and most beautiful homes surround the old Playter family mansion currently being overhauled on Playter Crescent, and can easily reach $2 million. Smaller houses, such as a two-storey gabled semi with a porch, might start at $650,000. The streets west of Broadview feature a mix of small Ontario cottages, smart 1940s brick homes and modern infill houses.

BARGAIN ZONES: Prices are lower the closer you get to Pape. House hunters with fast buying reflexes can also snag fixer-uppers west of Broadview or east of Chester.

THE VERDICT: Comparisons to both Rosedale and Riverdale abound. And as long as Jackman Avenue Public School keeps those test scores up, the neighbourhood will continue to draw professionals with young children.

NEIGHBOURHOOD HOT SPOTS:
Allen’s Beyond a mile-long beer list, the big draw is the back patio with an overhanging willow tree. 143 Danforth Ave., 416-463-3086.
Blackstone This premium butcher deals in organic cuts so beautiful, it almost feels wrong to barbecue them. Home deliveries are via vintage bicycle. 207 Danforth Ave., 416-463-3100.