Pinch Me Perfect In The Junction

54 Annette is close to Toronto’s expansive High Park, but is located in The Junction proper. The Junction is the embodiment of the visual richness and investment value of an area in the full throes of transition. There is a sense of positive change, as this neighbourhood continues to evolve and enrich, leaning on the cusp of its history.

The beauty of evolution is that unbridled sense of opportunity for the future brushed with shades of history, which gives its new forms visual, social and economic context. This is demonstrated in the aging vacant storefronts that are being replaced with wholesome eateries and entrepreneurial boutiques, lending a unique style to the streetscape. The same can be said for the housing stock, viewed as an opportunity with value and tremendous upside, as it re-invents itself as well. All said, in The Junction there is this refreshing sense of discovery and engaging progressiveness, reflected in the arrival of young singles, couples and families over the past decade.

The Junction abounds with fun, flavourful and funky boutiques (like vintage shop SMASH) and bistros, and with 54 Annette’s sweet location, there’s an abundance of options right at your doorstep! Public transport is widely available from this ‘hood, making commuting a breeze! In fact, our Seller walks around the corner weekdays and hops on the bus 2 minutes to the Dundas West subway station. On his commute home he’ll get off at the Keele Subway Station and meander on foot through the neighbourhood avenues to decompress from his workday. Heading to the airport? It’s lickety-split to the Union Pearson Express Station on Bloor West and then a speedy 17 minute train journey to the airport! How brilliant is that?

A must-have amenity is close access to green space and Baird Park doesn’t disappoint, about a 5-minute walk away. It offers wide open green space, a great off-leash dog area, children’s wading pool and well-equipped playground. It’s a spot for the whole family, four-legged members and all to enjoy. Feel like expanding your hobby repertoire? Baird Park is also home to the West Toronto Lawn Bowling Club.

Also not too far away is High Park (a nice 20-minute stroll or 5-minute drive) with its abundant leisure opportunities, including a zoo, walking trails, picnic areas, dog park and a number of playground areas for the kids.

Looking for a good cup of coffee? One of our favourites is a 10-minute walk away: The Good Neighbour Espresso Bar. Fancy a casual evening out with friends or date night? Check out Vesuvio Pizzeria and Spaghetti House, also just a stroll away. Your neighbourhood craft beer spot is Indie Ale House, just about 5 minutes up the road, and check out Honest Weight for the best fish in the city! Don’t underestimate the decadence of a superior grilled cheese sandwich at Cut the Cheese, just over a 5-minute walk away. And if you get hooked, and all of that cheese starts to show around your midsection, the YMCA is just a block away, as is the new LA Fitness on Junction Road at Keele!

Forgot milk or need to pick something up on the way home for groceries? Basic necessities are here as well, with a No Frills Grocery store down the road, or the new Organic Garage Supermarket. Martin’s Flowers is also a neighbourhood favourite, with blooms perfect for any occasion!

Schools are always a coveted amenity when it comes to drawing future buyers and boosting asset value in real estate. 54 Annette is well situated to a number of reputable schools within walking distance, which is huge when it comes to logistics and child care.  A two-minute stroll up the road is Indian Road Crescent Junior Public School, which offers programming from JK through to Grade 6. They also offer before and after school care through the Toronto Dundas St. YMCA Child Care Centre.  This centre also offers care for pre-school ages, from 0-4 years. Not having to add on to your commute to accommodate childcare is a huge bonus. A 15-minute walk away is Annette St. Junior and Senior Public School, with programming from JK-Grade 8. There is also before and after school care offered through the school onsite. For High School, there is Humberside CI, also within a 15-minute walk.

Originally constructed in 1937, this two bedroom all-brick semi-detached residence has it all, including a thoughtful floor plan and a recently finished lower level that amplifies and increases living space. Having undergone around $150,000 in upgrades over the past five years, with the owners intending to stay long-term, the calibre of the house has been greatly elevated. Fusing character details with fresh on-trend renovations, this marvelous home is an ideal opportunity for urban professionals.

Crossing from the charming front porch – perfect for watching passersby – into the quaint foyer with vintage pine cabinet, it’s immediately apparent that this is a unique, enchanting residence! Retaining its original layout, hardwood floors, and baseboards, the front room is currently used as a dining room, with the living room located in the spacious centre of the house. The stylish, light-filled kitchen is well-proportioned and efficient, boasting upgraded (2015) stainless steel appliances (including gas cooking), vinyl flooring, quartz countertops, LED under-cupboard lighting,  and a glass door walk-out to the magical garden!

Upstairs, two bedrooms share a luxe, renovated (2016) 4-piece washroom with new drywall, tiling, fixtures, and fittings, as well as indulgent heated flooring. I love the fusion of original wood floors with the stylish decor, and the recently upgraded (2013) Marvin windows. Please note that, at the top of the landing, there’s the potential opportunity to add a third bedroom on top of the existing kitchen pending Committee Of Adjustment Approvals from the City (though this is not warranted).

In 2014 the lower level was completely transformed, including being dug down, outfitted with with interior waterproofing, a new concrete slab, a sump pump, and a backflow preventer. Spray foam insulation was added, along with new stairs and railings, and the electrical was reconfigured. The owners also installed a new forced air gas furnace and central air conditioning system, keeping the ductwork at floor level to reduce the need for extensive bulkheads. Fitted with recessed lighting and laminate plank floors, the media room is functional, comfortable, and family-friendly! It’s complimented by an indulgent 3-piece shower room with built-in laundry facilities – how brilliant is that?

The rear garden – redone in 2015 – is a tranquil oasis with an arbour patio, privacy fencing, a marvelous storage shed, cedar planters, and a convenient gas line for a barbecue. Enchanting by day and magical by night, this elevated outdoor refuge is perfect for al fresco dining. Better still, there’s one-car parking by right-of-way at the rear of the property!

With all the charm of yesteryear, the benefits of modern upgraded building components and fresh fittings and fixtures, this centre-in-the-city residence is a superb opportunity. Have questions? Contact Steve for more information or a private viewing!