541 Blackthorn Avenue

When developers named this condo, they probably had no idea that it would one day be the title of a novel about a haunted house, or that it would also be featured as a haunted house in the incredibly popular video game Skyrim — if you don’t know what Skyrim is, don’t be alarmed, you have a successful social life.

So, before anyone jumps to a frightening conclusion — this building isn't haunted, and instead of being a creaky old mansion, it’s actually a 15 storey high-rise located at 541 Blackthorn Ave in the York Crosstown area. Built in 1982, Blackthorn Manor is a well established condo in the Keelesdale - Eglinton West neighbourhood. The building's exterior is comprised of brown brick and concrete, similar to many Toronto condos that were constructed in the 80s.

If you’re looking for a flashy building with an extensive list of extras then you may find this property lacking, but this building does a provide a few relaxation focused amenities — gym, pool, sauna, tennis courts, and parking garage.

Nature lovers will be pleased to know that Haverson Park is just next door for that all important dose of nature, and this building has pet friendly policies, so your furry friend can enjoy the condo and the park with you.

There are very few places in the GTA where you can get a steal, but Blackthorn Manor is just that place. Within the past few years, 1 bedroom units have sold in this building for under $300k… yes, you read that correctly, as in less than $300,000. While we can’t guarantee that prices will stay that low, you can be certain than you’ll get great bang for your buck with Toronto condos for sale in this building.

Suite sizes range from 580 square feet for a 1 bedroom unit to 949 for a 3 bedroom. Prospective buyers should expect some variation among units as many have seen their share of personalization over the years. Most units have apartment style layouts with separate kitchens, hardwood floors, large bedrooms, and private balconies.

It must be stated that some units could be in need of renovation, but buyers can be confident that they’ll receive a nice return for their sweat equity, and a comfortable home as well.

Keelesdale - Eglinton West is a large neighbourhood, bounded by Eglinton to the North and Rowntree Avenue to the south. For buyers who prefer a slower pace but still want a measure of urban convenience, this neighbourhood is the perfect fit.

From your home at 541 Blackthorn Ave you’re just minutes from restaurants on Eglinton — there are bakeries like Sun-Light Bakery and Caldense Bakery, cafés such as Mello's Café, sit down restaurants like Pasta Fiorentina, Oriental City, and take out spots such as Al Noor Halal Pizza & Chicken. And if that’s not enough, you’ll find restaurants and fast food chains on Rogers Road.

If you need to do some shopping then you have options close-by; there’s a large commercial centre just north of the neighbourhood near Caledonia Rd, where you’ll find big box stores and specialized boutiques for home décor, furniture, renovation supplies, and fashion. For a larger selection, Yorkdale Shopping Centre is to the north on Dufferin.

If nightlife is what you crave — you might need to crave it somewhere else. There are few options in the neighbourhood, aside from Canecas — a large sports bar near Rogers Rd. Those who enjoy recreation, have York Recreation Centre for swimming, a pick up game of basketball, and an indoor track. As well, there are walking trails at Bert Robinson Park.

541 Blackthorn Ave has a 78 Walk Score — residents have many nearby shops on Eglinton, including a FreshCo and Shoppers drug stores for groceries and prescriptions.

Those who rely on public transit have north and southbound buses on Caledonia, east and westbound buses on Eglinton, connecting to Eglinton West Station for subway service.

Drivers have to stomach some city traffic, but can reach the nearest highway by heading east on Eglinton to Allen Road, and then north for the 401.