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Real Estate Guide › West
Rockcliffe - Smythe
- Average 2007 sale price:
- $500,000
- Property crime:
- low
- Crime against people:
- low
- Neighbourhood map:
- See map
An odd blend of industrial park and natural parkland, this working-class neighbourhood, with substantial Jamaican and South Asian populations, doesn’t have as much appeal as it should, considering that drab Jane Park Plaza—home to a No Frills and fast-food joints—is surrounded by bucolic green space. The homes vary in size and splendour according to their proximity to the plaza. Glum high-rises still dominate Jane at the north and east borders, although there have been recent efforts to clean them up. Smythe Park—a 13-hectare wildlife protection area that is the jewel of the neighbourhood—contrasts dramatically with the nearby Danier Leather factory and meat-packing plants.
HOUSING STOCK: A range of affordable homes and community housing—’70s-era apartment buildings designed to take advantage of the surrounding greenbelt—lines the main thoroughfares. Squat, ragtag post-war houses, some tricked out with columns and statuary, crowd the narrow, hilly streets. Newer townhouses overlook the park. Abutting the golf course are charming two-storey stone Tudors with deep, well-maintained front yards and rock gardens.
BARGAIN ZONES: There are still good deals to be found on the streets southeast of Smythe Park, with sizable lots and access to Black Creek ravine and shopping. Homes south of the Lambton Golf and Country Club are also relative bargains.
THE VERDICT: While this region remains one of the cheapest in the city, its schizophrenic character keeps buyers away. Nature lovers, however, might find an inexpensive home base for birding.
NEIGHBOURHOOD HOT SPOTS:
James Gardens Known for its spring-fed ponds, mature trees and stone pathways, this beautiful botanical garden runs along the west bank of the Humber. Edenbridge Dr., 416-392-8186.
Lambton Golf and Country Club Lambton Golf was designed around the Humber River, making it one of the city’s most picturesque courses. 100 Scarlett Rd., 416-767-2175.
Nearby Restaurants
Caldense Bakery and Café
This bright neighbourhood café, with its deep blue and yellow walls, is known for its ... (1.15 km away)
Nearby Shopping and Services
Paul Wolf Electric and Lighting Supply
A far cry from Home Hardware, this is definitely not your typical handyman’s emporium. The ... (0.47 km away)
Gotta Dance
Preschoolers in pink leotards tiptoe around the studio in a vague semblance of demi-pointe. Next ... (1.11 km away)
10tation Event Catering
High-profile palates are the name of the game at 10tation, the caterer of choice for ... (1.28 km away)
Caplan's Appliances
If watching the Food Network has left you with a case of appliance envy, follow ... (1.52 km away)
Commuting
- 401 and 400:
- 5.0 km
- Gardiner and 427:
- 8.2 km
- King and Bay:
- 9.5 km
- Subways:
- Old Mill Station 2.9 km
- Jane Station 3.0 km
- Runnymede Station 3.0 km
Commuting and subway distances measured from neighbourhood centre.
