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The prevailing style in this kid-friendly
‘hood is the ’50s bungalow, sometimes
one-and-a-half storeys, like this house on
Elford Boulevard

Real Estate Guide › West

Islington - City Centre West

Average 2008 sale price:

$391,730

Property crime:

high

Crime against people:

low

Neighbourhood map:

See map

All of central Etobicoke south of the Westway and east of Highway 427 is being developed right now, but nowhere more so than here, where townhouses are overtaking industrial lands to the south and mega-homes are emerging near Kipling. Families prefer the ’hood just the way it is (green lawns and reputable schools, such as Bloorlea Middle School, Wedgewood Junior School and Our Lady of Peace Catholic School), but the area’s convenience makes change (and rising prices) inevitable. Shopping is limited to malls, but the historic Village of Islington has cute boutiques.

HOUSING STOCK: The prevailing style is 1950s bungalows and smaller post-war homes.

BARGAIN ZONES: The best deals may be townhouse developments, such as the one on Islington south of Bloor. There are also affordable bungalows, but builders are converting the best of them into new $1-million builds.

THE VERDICT: The region can seem suburban through and through (see the car dealerships on Dundas West), but it’s redeemed by easy access to the Gardiner and public transit.

NEIGHBOURHOOD HOT SPOTS:
Artisano Bakery Café Fresh bread and sandwiches hit the spot. 1020 Islington Ave., 416-207-9940.
Rocco’s Plum Tomato Locals love Rocco’s for its simple and tasty traditional Italian food. 1068 Islington Ave., 416-234-5555.

Today in Toronto: February 9, 2010

• Hub 14: The postage stamp measurements of the Hub 14 space will ensure close encounters with the performers taking part in the new series Under a Paper Moon
• More things to do tonight
• Something to do this weekend

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