King West: loft character, downtown convenience

Between Bathurst and Spadina, south of Queen, King West has restaurant-row energy along King Street, quick streetcar access on the 504, and Stanley Park and Massey Harris Park for a breather. The condo stock runs from converted brick-and-beam lofts to full-amenity towers.

Two things I check on every King West purchase. First, the building's age: loft conversions and early-2000s buildings often have larger suites but older mechanical systems, so the health of the reserve fund matters more than the lobby. Second, maintenance fees: I compare each building's fees with similar buildings nearby before you make an offer. One-bedroom suites here appeal to both owners and renters, which can help when it is time to sell. The trade-off: for a similar monthly cost, Liberty Village or CityPlace may give you more space.