In the middle of Toronto’s fast-changing housing market, one type of home quietly holds its ground and is making a comeback in the news cycle – wartime homes.
These modest houses might not catch your eye right away, but they have a unique charm, a rich backstory, and surprising value.
Whether you’re a first-time buyer, an investor, or someone looking for a property with character, wartime homes offer something truly special. Let’s dive into the rich history of these homes scattered throughout the Greater Toronto Area and learn more about them.
Let’s get started!
From Military Need to Residential Neighbourhoods
During and after World War II, Canada faced a massive housing crisis. Soldiers were returning, families were growing, and industrial workforces were booming. The federal government responded by creating Wartime Housing Limited, a federal crown corporation, to build affordable homes quickly. These homes were meant to serve low-income families, returning veterans, and war workers across the country.
Fast forward to today, many of these same homes are still standing in Toronto neighbourhoods, quietly woven into the fabric of the city. As a real estate broker working with buyers, sellers, and investors, I’ve helped many people see the true value of these homes. These homes can be part of a smart, long-term real estate plan.
What Makes Wartime Homes Unique?
Wartime housing was designed to be simple, affordable, and fast to build.
Most were detached bungalows, with one or one-and-a-half storeys, small sash windows, and simplified Cape Cod architectural style. Common features included clapboard siding, main floor living, and small metal chimney stacks. These homes were often built on large lots, leaving room for future additions or full rebuilds. Large lots is key for today’s homeowners and builders when looking at building homes.
Although modest in size, many wartime houses have strong bones. Builders hired by the federal government stuck to pre-approved designs that focused on quality and efficiency. That means even decades later, these homes remain livable, with plenty of renovation potential.
Top 5 Toronto Neighbourhoods with Wartime Homes
Now that we know a little bit more about these homes, let’s explore five Toronto neighbourhoods where wartime housing still exists today. We will also explore why each offers something unique for home buyers and investors.
1. Winston Park (North York)
Located near Eglinton Avenue East and Warden Avenue, Winston Park is one of the best-known wartime housing neighbourhoods in the city. These homes were built on federal land as part of a large post-war program. Originally intended as emergency housing for returning veterans, they now sit in a prime urban location, close to transit, schools, and shopping.
What makes Winston Park attractive is the large portion of homes still standing on generous lots. Many buyers have renovated or rebuilt these properties entirely, turning modest houses into custom family homes.
2. Etobicoke (Islington–City Centre West)
In Etobicoke, especially around the Six Points area and west of Kipling, you’ll find clusters of wartime homes with a distinctive character. Built for war workers at General Engineering Company, these homes were part of a broader push to provide housing during wartime shortages.
Etobicoke’s wartime houses often come with wide frontages and deep backyards, making them attractive to those seeking outdoor space, rental units, or future development potential.
3. Scarborough Junction (Warden & St. Clair)
Scarborough Junction features many wartime houses built under the War Measures Act and later supported through programs like the Veterans Land Act. The homes here were built to accommodate both working-class families and returning soldiers who needed affordable, low rental housing.
This area has seen a lot of recent development, yet many original homes remain. This makes it a great opportunity for buyers who want to renovate or rebuild in an up-and-coming community.
4. East York (Woodbine & O’Connor)
East York has a large number of wartime homes built between 1940 and 1950.
These homes were designed with local architects under the supervision of the Canadian government. What stands out here is the walkable, community-focused atmosphere, tree-lined streets, nearby parks, and a true neighbourhood feel.
Buyers love East York for its family-friendly vibe and its potential for upward mobility. Many wartime homes here have already been expanded, showing just how versatile these properties can be.
5. Leaside (South of Eglinton East)
Although Leaside is now considered a higher-end neighbourhood, it still has a legacy of wartime housing in its southern pocket. These homes were part of the housing policy efforts that came after the Second World War, when the federal government initiated long-range planning to accommodate rapid population growth.
Leaside’s wartime homes sit in a community that’s known for good schools, parks, and a strong sense of community. These houses are perfect for families looking to establish long-term roots in the city.
Why Are Wartime Homes Back in the Spotlight?
Today’s housing challenges aren’t that different from what Canada faced in the 1940s.
With rising prices and a shortage of affordable homes, many are rethinking traditional approaches to homebuilding. In fact, the Canadian government is now revisiting wartime housing concepts as a potential solution to today’s housing crisis.
Housing Minister Sean Fraser and the Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation have referenced the success of the wartime housing program as inspiration for new low-income housing and home ownership initiatives. There’s even talk about using pre-approved designs and public land to help speed up construction again, just like during the Second World War.
From a market-oriented perspective, this revival shows the lasting impact of policies that balance public need with private sector innovation.
Renovation and Investment Potential
One of the biggest advantages of buying a wartime house today is the flexibility. These homes were built with simplicity in mind, which makes them easier to renovate. Whether you want to add a second floor, finish a basement, or build a laneway suite, the original structure makes it all possible.
Investors also see the value in these properties. With Toronto’s housing needs continuing to evolve, wartime homes offer a rare mix of affordability, location, and potential. Whether you’re adding rental units or planning a full redevelopment, these properties give you room to grow.
Final Thoughts: Wartime Homes Are More Than Just History
Wartime homes may have started as a quick solution during one of Canada’s most challenging eras, but they’ve stood the test of time. Today, they represent affordability, opportunity, and a unique piece of our national story. In a city like Toronto, where real estate often feels out of reach, wartime houses can offer an entry point into strong communities with long-term upside.
If you’re thinking about buying, selling, or investing in a wartime home, or any property in Toronto, I’d love to help you navigate the market. With years of experience and a passion for finding homes that match your lifestyle and goals, I’ll work with you every step of the way.
Contact me, Marco Pedri, and let’s talk about your next real estate move.
