Homes for Sale in Corktown, Toronto, ON

As the Don River reaches the southern edge of the city, it veers west before finding an outlet into Lake Ontario, forming a path reminiscent of a backwards “L.” Corktown makes up the charming neighbourhood tucked right into the corner of the river, and although it’s practically surrounded by water, the area still manages to feel extremely urban.

Although neither tourists or locals flock to Corktown for its shopping, a few notable businesses make the neighbourhood worth a trip. Most notably, camera fanatics likely know that Vistek is the place to go in Toronto for all things photography.

And what better way to reward oneself for scoring a great purchase than by chowing down on some schnitzel? Schnitzel Queen has not only been around for over 25 years, but the restaurant’s owners even used Kickstarter and Dragon’s Den to raise the money required to stay open after its original home was sold to a condo developer.

Corktown has been decidedly citified for well over 100 years, and much of the area’s ambiance comes from the historical appearance of its architecture. The neighbourhood was originally home to Irish settlers working in the surrounding brickyards or breweries. Some of the original workers’ housing can still be found on Corktown’s side streets, providing a charming time warp for those wandering down Bright Street, Trinity Street, Wilkins Avenue, and the likes.

For a lesson in history, Corktowners can visit Toronto’s first post office, where the Town of York Historical Society currently operates a museum inside the cozy heritage building. Also, Toronto's first free school is right in the neighbourhood. The Enoch Turner Schoolhouse, established in 1848, was mainly attended by children of poor immigrants. Today, the schoolhouse functions as a museum, as well as a venue for private events.

Speaking of schools, Corktown residents with out-of-the-box views on education can send their children to Inglenook Community High School, an alternative school run by the TDSB. The school is more tight-knit than most, with around six teachers and only 100 students. While it may not be as old as Enoch Turner, Inglenook happens to be the longest running school in the city.

On the weekends, Corktown comes alive with people and produce. Fresh fruits and vegetables are sold at a shipping container market on the front lawn of the Toronto Community Housing buildings at Queen and Berkeley, every Friday, Saturday, and Sunday. Residents who've purchased Toronto condos for sale in the area can also often be found spending sunny Saturdays at Corktown Common, an industrial area that was transformed into a park in 2013.

Corktown is a flourishing neighbourhood that enjoys a mixture of history, innovation, nature, and local culture. Most significantly, Corktown’s opportunities for commerce, education, and entertainment reflect the outward-thinking group of families who call the area home, and the recent influx of Corktown condos being constructed in the area, is a testament to the neighbourhood’s continued desirability.

The architecture in Corktown may be predominantly mature, however that doesn’t mean there isn’t room for some diversity in terms of residences. In fact, besides the 10 existing condos in the neighbourhood, there are already 5 more in the works.

Some of the most impressive — and innovative — residences to join the neighbourhood in recent years are the three buildings that make up the River City complex: River City I Lofts, River City II Lofts, and River City Phase 3. Beyond their distinctive and striking façades, these Corktown condos were designed to maximize both sustainability and liveability.

Alternatively, Trinity Courtyards Townhomes is an ideal spot for prospective buyers looking for something a little more low-key. These charming brick townhouses have been around since 1987, and with only 18 units in total, the complex comprises a miniature community of its own.

With Queen and King East running straight through the neighborhood, residents of Corktown simply can’t avoid using these major roadways to get around the city; streetcars heading east and west along both will land passengers at the Yonge subway line, if they so please.

Corktown condos are great for car owners; Richmond and Adelaide come in handy for drivers, as these one-way streets are streetcar-free. Those heading out on lengthier car trips can also hop onto the Gardiner Expressway or the Don Valley Parkway in no time, as these highways are about equidistant from the centre of Corktown.

The Locals: Parents and yuppies who know what’s up.

Code of Conduct: Stopping to appreciate the antique architecture is highly encouraged.

What You’ll Find: The very end of King Street East.

What You Won’t Find: Hoards of map-wielding tourists.

The Homes: 19th century cottage homes alongside industrial warehouses.

Sealing the Deal: Living within walking distance of the Don River and Lake Ontario.