The Willowdale neighbourhood of North York has become the darling of the Toronto real estate market in recent years with a huge influx of foreign investors and flippers cashing in on the tear-down and build up movement.

Much of Willowdale’s older stock of bungalows and modest two-storey homes is long gone thanks to a building blast that started in the 90s but has reached fever-pitch in recent years. The term “monster home” was coined in reference to Willowdale’s gigantic new builds that seem to burst at the seams of their lots despite large property expanses.

There are also still some original condition, older houses for sale in Willowdale to be found. Score one of these older properties, whether to renovate or for land value alone, and you’re sure to have a great investment on your hands.

There are also a number of townhomes and condos in Willowdale - both older developments along with new builds - providing more affordable entry prices for buyers set on this highly coveted area. These are largely clustered around Yonge.

Affluent families looking for luxury, new build houses for sale in North York and a top-rated arts education for their kids.

Willowdale is arguably the most polished urban centre within North York. It’s filled with high-end, new build Willowdale homes for sale, shiny office towers and slick condos and top-quality shopping, dining and services. Residents find everything they need within this well-appointed community yet they’re just a short drive to both midtown and downtown.

This popular neighbourhood also boasts a wonderful arts scene with the Toronto Centre for the Arts as its main attraction. For those interested in an arts-based education for their kids, there’s the highly-acclaimed Claude Watson arts program at the local Earl Haig Public School and the Cardinal Carter Academy for the Arts – a hybrid school serving students from grades 7 through 12.

Willowdale runs roughly from Sheppard north to Finch between Bayview and Bathurst.