About Empress Plaza
Empress Plaza is a 23-storey high-rise condominium in Willowdale East built in 1995 by Menkes, containing 224 units. The building offers a range of residential options in a well-established neighbourhood just north of the 401. With units currently available for both purchase and rent, it's a stable part of Toronto's mid-rise rental and ownership market.
Located in Willowdale East near Yonge Street, the building is close to transit, shopping, and dining options. The neighbourhood is family-friendly with good access to schools and parks. Renters and buyers here appreciate proximity to Yonge-Dundas and major employment corridors, making it practical for commuters.
Frequently asked questions
What type of building is Empress Plaza?
Empress Plaza is a 23-storey high-rise residential condominium built in 1995 by Menkes. The building contains 224 units across a range of layouts, from bachelor to larger family units. As a mid-1990s construction, the building reflects that era's design and infrastructure standards. Menkes was a well-established developer at the time, known for multi-unit residential projects across the Greater Toronto Area. The building is professionally managed by Dash Property Management, which oversees maintenance, security, and day-to-day operations. High-rise condos of this era in Toronto typically offer a mix of one, two, and three-bedroom units suited to different household types.
What's the neighbourhood like, and how accessible is the location?
Empress Plaza sits in Willowdale East, a mature residential neighbourhood centred around Yonge Street. The area has strong transit connectivity, with TTC bus routes providing local access and the Yonge line reachable nearby for commutes downtown. Shopping and services cluster along Yonge, and the neighbourhood includes family amenities like parks and schools within walking distance. The building's proximity to the 401 makes it convenient for those driving to employment areas across the GTA. Willowdale East attracts a mix of families, young professionals, and downsizers who value neighbourhood stability and walkable streetscapes. The area has evolved over decades and offers good value compared to more central Toronto locations.
What should buyers and renters know about living at Empress Plaza?
Empress Plaza units typically range from bachelor to two or three-bedroom layouts, with average units around 1,000 square feet. Current listings show both ownership and rental options available, so the building serves both markets actively. When considering a purchase or lease, ask the property manager about maintenance fee structures, utility costs, and any recent building improvements or capital projects. Review the condo documents and reserve fund study if buying, as these detail the building's financial health and upcoming expenses. Pet policies vary, so confirm any restrictions with Dash Property Management before committing. The building's age means some units may have undergone updates while others retain original finishes, so inspect individual suites carefully. Renters should compare monthly costs against utilities and what's included in the rent.