Homes for Sale in King West, Toronto, ON

Upon entering King West, it’s difficult not to notice how the commercial spaces in the neighbourhood cater to residents with extremely high standards of living. From elegant restaurants such as Buca, Lee, and Jacobs & Co. Steakhouse, to swanky bars and clubs like the Citizen, and Early Mercy, King West is the epitome of urban luxury.

It might be hard to believe, but the sophistication that now defines King West is a rather new development. In fact, the area was only deemed a residential zone as of the mid-1990’s, prior to which factories churning out farming equipment comprised the bulk of the buildings. These factories are now repurposed, and serve as King West condos for sale — they also happen to be some of the most desirable and most expensive buildings in the neighbourhood.

Some of the city’s most prominent advertising agencies and art galleries are also located within the King West area. Between the ability to avoid traffic by walking to work and the endless options for entertainment, employees of nearby businesses have quite the incentive to take up residence here.

King West locals who are looking for a break from routine can always walk over to the less polished Queen West and Chinatown areas, just to the north. Grassy spots such as HTO Park and Coronation Park also line the lakeshore below. For those who can afford it, King West has it all.

Many King West condos are completely new creations; however, some hard loft conversions offer additional character as well as hints of times gone by. The West 833 lofts exist within a perfumery from the 1930’s; the Gotham Lofts are sitting pretty inside a harness factory built at the turn of the 20th century. Options like these provide homeowners with modern amenities, a hint of authenticity, and of course bragging rights.

Unsurprisingly, the condo scene in King West is quite robust — there are nearly 100 buildings in the neighbourhood, and prospective buyers will encounter everything from modest townhouse complexes to flashy high-rise towers. Amenities, features, and prices are just as diverse, though the neighbourhood isn’t a great choice for anyone who’s hunting King West condos on a restrictive budget.

A Globe and Mail article once called developer Peter Freed “the man who made King Street West.” By building King West condo after condo, loft after loft, Freed has aided in the rapid growth of the King West neighbourhood and its ritzy reputation. Freed is not only responsible for billions of dollars worth of residential developments, but is on an ongoing mission to provide businesses such as trendy eateries and exclusive golf clubs for those who share his vision of an ideal Toronto lifestyle.

And the residents that Freed’s buildings beckon are typically far from frugal. Even international celebrities seem to understand the neighbourhood’s newfound significance, especially as the setting for the Toronto International Film Festival has shifted from Yorkville to King West since the opening of the TIFF Bell Lightbox in 2009. While stars such as James Franco and Marion Cotillard have stayed briefly at the Thompson Hotel, residents of the King West neighbourhood can choose to call The Thompson Residences home year-round — yet another triumphant effort from Peter Freed.

As proof of his love for the neighbourhood, Peter Freed even purchased the penthouse at 500 Wellington West for himself. While the mastermind developer never ended up moving in, the home was placed back on the market in 2012 for another prosperous buyer to enjoy its 6,200 square feet, which includes a private rooftop terrace and pool.

For travel within the neighbourhood, most residents can run errands on foot, as the neighbourhood is as self contained as any in the city. East and westbound streetcars on King make is easy to reach neighbouring areas, or connect to subway lines.

King West condos are ideal for residents who want the shortest commute possible; as Sunday night rolls around, King West locals need not fret over tomorrow’s travel plans. The financial district is a simple walk, streetcar, or bicycle away, although congestion during rush hour may have drivers thinking twice.

For those who do require a vehicle for their morning commute, The Gardiner Expressway is just south of the neighbourhood, allowing for quick travel to the QEW or Don Valley Parkway.

The Locals: Young singles and couples, plus retirees and empty nesters finally allowed to shake things up.

Code of Conduct: King West locals even look glamorous when taking the garbage out or walking the dog.

What You’ll Find: Attractive and well-groomed people, buildings, and businesses.

What You Won’t Find: Smooth moving traffic, especially during rush hour.

The Homes: High rises and lower boutique-style buildings, including an array of eye-catching soft lofts and a careful selection of updated hard lofts.

Sealing the Deal: Getting to live in the centre of it all.