We love to call Toronto a city of neighbourhoods, but we sure pay a lot more attention to a few over many, many others that we seldom consider. Our lack of attention is often mirrored in lower land prices, and an astute developer who is looking for undervalued properties can make a difference, not only by bringing remarkably affordable residential units to the market, but by catalyzing change in the neighbourhood.

Finding those properties and passing the value on to condominium purchasers is VHL Developments' specialty. They did it at Markham and Sheppard, they are doing at Birchmount and Lawrence, and they are about to do it at Cliffside Village in Scarborough.

Haven on the Bluffs, rising over Scarborough's famous feature, image courtesy of VHL Developments

Here on Kingston Road the company will replace an aging motel and a showroom with a 11-storey, two-towered, terraced condominium complex called Haven on the Bluffs. Designed to make the most of the views from its site near Scarborough's famous lakeside bluffs, the development offers suites with 9 foot ceilings that will forever catch the sunrise over Lake Ontario.

Lake views from the terrace at Haven on the Bluffs, image courtesy of VHL Developments

Suites here are designed to take advantage of the setting, with larger than normal balconies, terraces facing the water, or garden suites with private outdoor green space. Inside, marble backsplashes and kitchen counters set the tone: luxurious finishes aren't just for downtown. Airy suites are all roomier than you'll find downtown too.

Amenities in the building also make the best of the setting, with a large comfortably appointed landscaped terrace between the two towers with a great view of the lake, and barbecues ready to cook dinner on. Guest suites, a party room, and a fitness centre are all there when you need them.

Haven on the Bluffs with Lake Ontario in the distance, image courtesy of VHL Developments

Beyond the building, Cliffside Village presents lots of retailers and restaurants within walking distance. It's not far to the Beaches either, nor Bluffers Park, both great weekend afternoon destinations. A bus outside the door will take you either place, or beyond to the subway and across the city. Driving from here is easy too, with a parking space included in the price of every suite. Bike storage space is another feature you won't go without here either.

Cliffside Village location of Haven on the Bluffs, image from Apple Maps

Developers can only do all of this for a good price when they are building in a neighbourhood that isn't on the radar yet. Haven on the Bluffs represents a chance for purchasers to be in 'on the ground floor' before other developers arrive nearby to drive prices up. Here you get to be an urbanizing pioneer, and to reap the benefits in coming years.

Want to know more about Haven on the Bluffs? UrbanToronto's dataBase file for the project, linked below, has more renderings and all the info you need to connect. Want to talk about the project? Choose one of the associated Forum thread links, or leave a comment in the space provided on this page.