Psssst. Want to score a bargain? The Toronto real-estate market is full of them. With sales down -- the Greater Toronto Realtors says that 2,623 homes changed hands in the first two weeks of September, 22 per cent fewer than the same period last year -- it's a buyer's market. The average price of a Toronto residential property home might now be $550,900, but there are decent properties out there for far less. The trick is knowing where to look. On her hunt through the city for cheap homes that still pay dividends in terms of looks, location and resale value, Deirdre Kelly found a house on the outskirts of Riverdale, a Queen's Quay condo and a funky new loft apartment in a west-end foundry, all listed for sale for more than $100,000 below the city average.
6 KINGS PARK BLVD.
Asking price: $450,000
This two-storey brick semi with a garage is located close to Pape and Mortimer, an area dubbed the new Leaside by realtors for its sturdy homes and leafy, family-friendly streets. Within walking distance of the Danforth, this three-bedroom, one-bathroom home was built circa 1932 and features such original details as stained glass French doors and picture windows in the living and dining rooms. A deck is at the back and the front has room for pad parking.
WATERFRONT CONDO
500 QUEENS QUAY, UNIT 610
Asking price: $450,000
This spacious two-bedroom, two bathroom condo has a panoramic view of the lake and the Toronto skyline. Flooded with natural light, the 1,000 square foot unit features a fireplace, and a master bedroom with a walk-in closet. The present owner took well care of it, and is leaving behind built-in cabinets in which to store all those lovely purchases to be had from the boutiques around Harbourfront. The building is also well-maintained and offers a gym, a library, a barbecue area, a party room and 24-hour concierge service.
LOFT CONVERSION
1100 LANSDOWNE AVE. UNIT 321
Asking price: $450,000
Located in an historic 19th century foundry, this two-storey, two-bathroom loft has exposed brick, large warehouse-style windows and ceramic floors in the ensuite laundry and bathrooms and hardwood flooring in each of the two bedrooms. While parking is included in the price, it is within walking distance of the Corso Italia on nearby St. Clair W., Earlscourt Park and the TTC. The building itself is a gem and features a 16,000 square foot atrium as well as a gym and a media room.