Real Estate Guide › West

Long Branch

Average 2008 sale price:

$361,151

Property crime:

high

Crime against people:

low

Neighbourhood map:

See map

An early incarnation of cottage country, Long Branch was a popular destination, with Etobicoke Creek and its attractive shoreline keeping city folks cool in summer months. The area is just far enough to provide respite from the downtown bustle, but close enough that it’s only a 40 minute streetcar ride away. Houses south of Lake Shore are more expensive than those to the north, where the landscaping and general maintenance tend to be better. Lake Promenade, which follows the shoreline, is the most upscale street, though a good number of the houses on the south side (their backyards directly on the shore) are quite modest. Despite the amenities (which include an extraordinary density of churches), the population dropped by more than seven per cent between the past two censuses. But with its lower housing prices, the neighbourhood is due for an influx.

HOUSING STOCK: If there’s an average Long Branch residence, it’s the 1,000-square-foot detached bungalow. However, housing runs the gamut, ranging from seven-figure waterfront homes to about $800-per-month apartments in seven-storey tower complexes.

BARGAIN ZONES: North of Lake Shore Boulevard there are still plenty of detached houses between $400,000 and $500,000.

THE VERDICT: The opening of a couple more cool shops and cafés along the now fairly desolate Lake Shore strip will surely make Long Branch the next big thing.

NEIGHBOURHOOD HOT SPOTS:
Al Lago Ristorante Owned and run by Abdul “Mike” Malik, this upmarket Italian resto doesn’t bother with menus. Ask for what you want, and if he doesn’t have it, Mike—who’s been here for 20 years—will suggest a substitution. 3423 Lake Shore Blvd. W., 416-253-0238.

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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