Harbourfront-Toronto Islands

Average sold price freehold (2009): N/A; (2010): N/A

Average sold price condo (2009): $345,146; (2010): $376,810

Postal code: M5V and M5J

Boundaries: Wellington St W — Toronto Islands; Church St — Strachan Ave

Subway Stations: Union

Separated from the rest of downtown Toronto by the Gardiner Expressway, Harbourfront  feels like a city within a city. Toronto’s waterfront has been a subject of much debate, as the area has been criticized for not having enough garden walkways, parks or green space. Despite all this, there have been recent developments like the HTO park (a faux beach packed with bright yellow umbrellas), the Waterfront Wave Decks and the Martin Goodman trail. Harbourfront has remained a popular place for families, tourists, cyclists and runners, especially on Summer weekends, when Harbourfront plays host to Toronto’s International Music and Food Festivals.

Real Estate: Cityplace, to the north of the Gardiner at Spadina, is the master-planned community which holds the title as the largest condo development in Toronto. The 6 building, 1,500 unit complex offers residents fantastic amenities (a Fitness Facility, Squash, Tennis, an Indoor Running Track, Pool, Sauna and Bowling Alley — to list a few), but gives off a campus-like vibe with a younger demographic and a large population of renters. You’ll also find an abundance of cookie-cutter condos offering that spectacular view of the lake along Queens Quay as well. Also included in the Harbourfront area are homes on the Toronto Islands where some prime real estate is located. The island’s quaint cottage style homes rarely go up for sale, and when they do, they are sold to applicants placed on a government-instituted waiting list via lottery.

Parks: The award-winning Toronto Music Garden is unlike any other park in Toronto. It was designed to interpret in nature the music of Bach’s first suite. It is a place where young and old alike can enjoy summer concerts and gorgeous landscape.

Hot Spots:

Toula — 1 Harbour Square
Located on the 38^th floor of the Westin Harbour Castle, Toula offers guests not only a fine dining experience, but also one of the best panoramic views in the city. Best time to go is when the sun is setting and the city lights are glimmering.

Harbourfront Centre Sailing and Powerboating — 275 Queens Quay W
Formerly known as Queen’s Quay Yachting, the centre offers those who are curious about sailing an excellent opportunity to learn. The introduction to sailing courses allow students of all ages experience the sport hands on with some of Toronto’s best sailing instructors.

The Fairmont Royal York Hotel – 100 Front St W
This historic hotel has been a luxurious contribution to the Toronto skyline since 1929.  The hotel offers its discerning guests elegant accommodations in a heritage setting, it also serves as a prime wedding venue for affluent brides.