There is no Toronto neighbourhood quite like the Annex. It has an entirely distinct feel, a little slice of paradise amidst the bustle of the downtown core. Hence the name, the Annex.

Since its amalgamation in the late 1800s, the Annex has earned a reputation as one of Toronto’s best neighbourhoods. Here, convenience and luxury combine to create a welcoming ambiance for people from all walks of life, from families and affluent professionals to university students at the prestigious University of Toronto. If you are considering the Annex as your next home, here’s everything you need to know about buying in one of the most elite areas of Toronto.

Easy Access to High-Quality Education

If access to education is your top priority, then the Annex just might be the perfect place for you. Well served by both the private and public sectors, you will find plenty of high-quality schools for your child. Here is a short list of your options:

Of course, you are also steps away from the University of Toronto, one of the top universities in Canada. Even if you’re established in your career, it’s the perfect place to brush up your skills even more.

Want to know more about the private schools in Toronto? See our article “Top 10 Private Schools In Midtown Toronto.“

Convenience at Your Fingertips

Convenience and an elevated lifestyle are the highlights of living in the Annex. You will find an endless array of restaurants, cafes, and shopping options. And with the University of Toronto at the heart of the neighbourhood, there are also many bars, and the nightlife is thriving. Get out your dancing shoes and bust a move at one of the many nightclubs nearby. Or visit the Miles Nadal Jewish Community Center for a swim or a rousing basketball game. The Annex provides endless opportunities to pursue your passions, wherever they lie. 

Safe, Scenic, and Energetic

“Exciting” and “vibrant” are not words that usually accompany “safe” and “scenic.” But the Annex is not like any other neighbourhood. This established area has plenty of trees lining the quiet residential streets and adorning the front and backyards of the spectacular houses. 

There is no shortage of peaceful green spaces where you can relax and get away from it all. Try meditating at one of the many parks you’ll find in the Annex, including Taddle Creek, Jean Sebelius Square, or Paul Martel Park. 

History Comes to Life

A stroll through the neighbourhood is like taking a journey back in time. The Annex is full of wonder and heritage, with stunning architecture you have to see to believe. 

Residents of the Annex take intense pride in their history. With over 500 buildings under the protection of the Historical Board of Toronto, its incredible legacy won’t be uprooted by developers anytime soon. 

Do you want to know even more? Check out our post “Why Buy Your Next Home in Toronto’s Annex?“

The Real Estate Opportunities

Let’s talk about the incredible homes you’ll find amidst the picturesque streets of the Annex. Construction took place from 1880 to 1910, and many of these original buildings still stand today. They’ve been lovingly maintained and modernized but are still full of the historical character they were built with. These homes are magnificent to behold, with beautiful red brick exteriors, pyramidal roofs, turrets, and extravagant archways and front porches. 

As a university neighbourhood, many of these residences were converted into multi-unit dwellings. As the area grows and diversifies, many of these have since been reconverted back into luxury single-family homes. 

The Annex is known for its stately heritage homes and mansions. However, there is still an impressive selection of modern apartments and luxury condos. 

Are you thinking of upgrading your home in Toronto? The articles below will help:

Your Ticket to the Annex

As a high-end community, the Annex understandably attracts many affluent and high-income buyers. Does that mean it is out of reach for everyone else? Not necessarily. 

Many young professionals and ambitious first-time buyers are getting creative to amplify their purchasing power. Here are a few ideas that will help get you into your first home in the Annex.

  • Buying as a group: the down payment, monthly mortgage, and maintenance costs are all more affordable when split between multiple parties.
  • Buying a home with a secondary suite or laneway house: A property with income potential can help you qualify for higher amounts of financing. Living in the smaller suite while renting out the rest of the home can cover most of your carrying costs.
  • Are you attending university? Some savvy students are buying a house to rent while they occupy a single bedroom. Once school is over, you will have your degree. Plus, you will have something most of your peers can only dream of; a smaller debt load, budding equity, and the joy of homeownership. 

As Toronto housing becomes more in demand, you can expect values to increase substantially, particularly in highly sought-after neighbourhoods like the Annex. If you’ve ever thought about owning your own home here, now is a perfect time to begin your search.

Do you have questions about buying or selling a home in Toronto? With over three decades of experience, you can count on us to guide you every step of the way. Reach out to us right here or call (416) 485-7575 for more information or to get started.