Short answer?  Yes—and they’re among the most beloved and architecturally rich homes you’ll find in the city. From the grand Victorian houses of Parkdale to the Arts & Crafts semis in Roncesvalles, century homes are scattered throughout West Toronto’s most sought-after neighbourhoods.

These homes offer more than just four walls and a roof—they tell a story, echoing the craftsmanship, design, and character of another era. So, if you’ve ever found yourself enchanted by an intricate gable or a stained-glass transom window while walking the west-end streets, there’s a good chance you were admiring a century home. 

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What is a Century Home?

What exactly is a century home? As the name suggests, it’s a home that’s at least 100 years old. While that number might sound intimidating at first, century homes are known for their charm, solid construction, and enduring style. In the real estate world, we often use the term “century home” to describe houses built before the 1920s—even if they’ve seen renovations over the years. In West Toronto, these homes often fall into Victorian, Edwardian, or early 20th-century Craftsman styles, each with its own defining features. 

You’ll recognize a century home in West Toronto by its distinct exterior character—think detailed brickwork, wide front porches, original wood trim, and the occasional stained-glass window catching the afternoon light. Gabled roofs, decorative cornices, and charming dormers are common touches that add architectural interest and curb appeal. While many interiors have since been extensively renovated to suit contemporary living, it’s these exterior features that preserve the home’s historic charm and continue to draw buyers who value both beauty and authenticity. 

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Where Can I Find Century Homes?

West Toronto is particularly rich in century homes. In Roncesvalles, you’ll find rows of early-1900s Edwardian homes, many with wide front porches and charming façades that create a consistent, village-like streetscape. These homes are highly sought after, not just for their beauty, but for their proximity to Sorauren Park, High Park and the local farmers’ market, and some of the best coffee and brunch spots west of downtown. 

Bloor West Village is also full of century homes. These homes often sit on wider lots and have retained original features like pocket doors, wainscoting, and even original fireplaces. What makes this area particularly appealing is its balance—family-friendly streets, walkable shopping, and easy access to High Park and the subway. However, many homes in this pocket have been extensively renovated, blending the old and new seamlessly.  

In The Junction, the vibe is a little more industrial-turned-creative. Many of the homes here were built in the early 1900s for workers of nearby factories and rail yards. Today, those same homes are hot commodities for young families and professionals looking for character-filled spaces with urban edge. Think exposed brick, quirky layouts, and laneway access perfect for future garden suites. 

Then there’s Parkdale, where you’ll find some of the most dramatic and historic century homes in the city. Many of these are true Victorian-era houses with towers, turrets, and intricate woodwork—some lovingly maintained, others waiting for the right buyer to restore them. The scale of these homes is often larger, with multiple levels, high ceilings, and architectural details that feel more European. 

Swansea, meanwhile, offers a quieter, more residential spin on the century-home experience. Here, tucked into leafy streets near the Humber River and Grenadier Pond, you’ll find homes that blend traditional charm with a cottage-like setting. These homes often feature original stone foundations, steeply pitched roofs, and sprawling gardens—ideal for buyers looking for heritage without giving up serenity. 

Sometimes owning a century home comes with responsibilities. From a buyer’s perspective, it’s essential to go in with eyes wide open. Older homes often come with older systems: knob-and-tube wiring, galvanized or lead plumbing, and minimal insulation are common. A thorough inspection—and sometimes a second opinion from a contractor experienced in heritage properties—can be the difference between a dreamy renovation and a financial headache. 

Curious about living in West Toronto? You’ll find lots of insights in these blog posts!

• Why Are the Best Neighbourhoods in Toronto in the West End? 
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Toronto’s Heritage Register

Although this is not very common in the west end pockets we love, you should be aware of whether the home is designated or listed on Toronto’s Heritage Register. A listed home might come with limitations on what can be changed on the exterior, and designated homes typically require approval for any significant alterations. That doesn’t mean you can’t modernize—it just means there’s a process, and it’s designed to protect the character that makes these homes special in the first place. 

Thoughtful renovations are one of the most valuable investments you can make in a century home—especially when it comes to the interior. Buyers today are looking for the convenience of open layouts, updated kitchens, spa-like bathrooms, and energy-efficient systems.

These upgrades don’t just increase comfort—they significantly boost resale value. But while the inside should feel fresh and functional, the exterior still matters. Preserving or enhancing details like original brickwork, classic porches, or period-style accents can help maintain the character buyers love. The most successful updates strike a balance: modern living on the inside, with just enough heritage charm on the outside to set the home apart. 

Start Your Home Search

So yes, century homes are alive and well in West Toronto—and they’re some of the most interesting, soul-filled properties on the market. Whether you’re enchanted by an ornate Victorian in Parkdale or the quiet dignity of an Edwardian semi in Roncesvalles, these homes offer something no new build can: a sense of place, a piece of history, and a charm that only time can create.  

For buyers, it’s about finding the right mix of history and modern comfort. For sellers, it’s about celebrating what makes your home stand out. And for all of us? It’s about appreciating the architectural legacy that continues to shape Toronto’s west end—one century at a time. 

Ready to start house hunting in the west end? We’re happy to help! Get in touch today by filling out the form on this page, calling us at 416-909-1602, or emailing us at hello@getnested.ca.

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