Leslieville

Average sales price freehold (2009): $449,782; (2010): $489,769

Lowest price sold (2009):$168,000; (2010): $273,000

Highest price sold (2009): $827,000; (2010): $975,000

Average sales price condo (2009): $372,892; (2010): $382,418

Postal code: M4M and M4L

Boundaries: Gerrard St E — Lakeshore Blvd E; Coxwell Ave – Carlaw Ave

Subway Stations: Pape, Donlands, Greenwood and Coxwell

Appointed as the New Queen West, Leslieville is undergoing rapid gentrification. The neighbourhood is now known as one of Toronto’s hippest places to shop and dine. There are still plenty of old corner stores and mom and pop shops nestled in between more modern establishments, but the atmosphere is very fresh.

Along Gerrard, is the India Bazaar — a strip between Greenwood and Coxwell, crammed with restaurants, cafés, and miscellaneous stores catering to the South Asian communities.

The neighbourhood as a whole still has some challenges though. In 2007, Toronto police raided the Hell’s Angels headquarters along Eastern Ave. At the foot of Leslie is the massive Ashbridges Bay Sewage Treatment Plant — making it occasionally unpleasant for residents living on the south side of Leslieville, especially when there’s a southerly wind.

Real Estate: Leslieville is a cheaper alternative to its neighbour to the west, Riverdale and neighbor to the east, the Beaches. It draws in families who want the ‘east end’ vibe on a smaller budget.

The housing stock is similar to that of Riverdale; the standard brick semi is a common sight north of Dundas.

Small worker’s cottages are popular further south, while clusters of new red brick townhouses are popping up along Queen St E.

Parks: The Maple Leaf Forever Park, at the southeast corner of Queen and Leslie has historic significance. It is the site where Alexander Muir, composer of the famous anthem ‘The Maple Leaf Forever’, was inspired by a maple leaf that had freshly fallen from a tree onto his jacket.

Hot Spots:

It’s The Icing on the Cake – 1238 Queen St E
It’s The Icing on the Cake in Leslieville bakes custom crafted cupcakes, desserts, bread and other baked treats

Bone House – 946 Queen St E
The Bone House features 85% Canadian made and 100% eco friendly products for pups.

Brayham Contemporary Art – 1318 Queen St E
Brayham Contemporary Art presents an ambitious exhibition program bringing the work of important national and international artists to Toronto