Skyline: The Perks of Condo Living on Toronto’s Waterfront

Condo living in the City of Toronto is the ideal lifestyle for those looking to ensure maximum proximity to urban amenities and attractions with the convenience of turnkey home-life. Now, when you factor in waterfront condo living, you’re looking at Toronto residents who have unlocked the secret to “the best of both worlds”. 

Not unlike many other major cities worldwide, Toronto is a city situated next to a large body of water, Lake Ontario, which is the first Great Lake from the St. Lawrence River. 

Toronto residents living in condos along the city’s waterfront not only have access to the best of city living, but they also enjoy unique perks, like easier access to one of the world’s longest urban lakefronts between the Etobicoke Creek and the Rouge River. With this comes not only unparalleled water views, but also close proximity to city parks, local beaches, and other attractions situated in waterfront locations. In this article, the experts at Royal LePage Your Community Realty have broken down everything you need to know to give you the insider take on the perks of condo living on Toronto’s waterfront. 

History of Toronto’s Waterfront 

The history of Toronto’s waterfront dates back to the 1850’s, when it would have been unrecognizable from the developed and busy waterfront it is today. A landfill campaign launched around this time resulted in an extensive expansion of the southern shoreline, now spanning approximately 46 km in present-day. 

Once more of an industrial hub than residential paradise, Toronto’s waterfront has evolved into one of the most desirable locations for Toronto residents to call home. 

Attractions along Toronto’s Waterfront 

Along Toronto’s waterfront, you’ll find a wide array of excellent dining, family-friendly entertainment and attractions, unique shopping destinations and more. 

Just a few can’t miss “things to do” along Toronto’s waterfront include: 

• Take the family for a fun day-trip to Sugar Beach
• Check out The Power Plant, where the art-lovers in your life will be able to take in some incredible contemporary art
• Set sail - or just enjoy the views from land - during the annual Redpath Waterfront Festival   
• A treat for the ears as well as the eyes, check out the Toronto Music Garden, designed by famed musical prodigy Yo-Yo Ma 
• Please your foodies with iconic BeaverTails delicious doughy pastries along the waterfront 
• Get active with some kayaking, sailing, paddleboarding and even surfing lessons with Harbourfront’s Canoe & Kayak Centre

And of course, you can’t miss a chance to check out the absolutely iconic lighthouse at Gibrailtar’s Point

Breathtaking Views: From Water Ripples to City Light

While the views may vary from one waterfront building to another, one thing is certain: any water view of Lake Ontario from the comfort of your own balcony is a treat. Not to mention, it’s these views that support the premium residents pay for waterfront units. 

In a country with all four seasons, there really is nothing like a front-row seat to the changing vistas of Lake Ontario, as it transitions from sparkling blue ripples in the spring and summer to choppy waves in the blustery fall and finally, a sea of glass as it freezes over in the winter months. Tranquil and restorative, the ability to indulge in waterfront views while living in an urban setting is a unique perk of city life, and easily one of the most motivating incentives for aspiring purchasers of waterfront condos. 

Urban convenience meets lakeside tranquility: the best of both worlds

Life in a waterfront condominium may feel like a vacation setting, but for Toronto residents along the waterside, it’s a “best of both worlds” scenario. 

Access to all of the city’s best urban amenities while also enjoying the highly-coveted waterfront views and access is truly the ultimate in “balanced” living. 

Lifestyle perks: embracing stunning views, waterfront recreation and entertainment

One of the most obvious benefits of waterfront condo living in Toronto is the incomparable views enjoyed by residents. Year-round, through every season, Lake Ontario offers spectacular views from every angle. But beyond the views, residents along the waterfront are also privy to and in direct access of unique attractions, recreation and events. 

Check out just a few of the seasonal Toronto Waterfront events happening this August: 

• The Annual Waterfront Night Market - culinary event spotlighting some of North America’s best urban asian culture 

Fri, Aug 11, 4:00 p.m.–Sun, Aug 13, 11:00 p.m.

Stanley Barracks (115 Princes' Blvd, Toronto, ON)

• The Toronto Waterfront Festival - the return of the “world’s largest rubber duck” marks the annual, much-anticipated waterfront festival

Sat, Sep 16, 11:00 a.m.–Sun, Sep 17, 8:00 p.m.

HTO Park (339 Queens Quay W, Toronto, ON)

• Waterfront Toronto Boat Tours - 1-hour boat tours are held every Saturday in August

Sat, Aug 12, 11:15 a.m.–12:15 p.m.

Toronto Harbour Tours (145 Queens Quay W, Toronto, ON

Investment potential: why waterfront condos are rising in value

Not surprisingly, waterfront condominiums in Toronto are increasing in value. As with most property values over time, the increase is to be expected, and in this case reflects a growing desire by Toronto residents to find some balance between urban living and an escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. 

With the premium for waterfront properties at approximately 8% over the average purchase price of other homes, waterfront condominiums are not only costly, but also limited in availability. This adds to the appeal, as it creates an air of exclusivity surrounding waterfront living. For those who are savvy enough to get in early on waterfront builds or are able to buy into the waterfront condo lifestyle, it’s a safe bet that property values will continue to rise. 

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