The heat of summer is finally upon us. While some people can’t wait for the return of the cold weather, many are ready to embrace the summer and the fun activities around the Milton and Burlington areas. 

The list of things to do is endless, from free music festivals and exciting sports events to relaxing afternoons at the beach. You don’t have to drive for hours to get to a faraway cottage to make the most of the summer holidays. 

There are many places to spend the afternoon or even a weekend right around the corner. 

Is there a change coming up in the near future for your family? Here are some other posts to help guide you:

• How Will Rising Interest Rates Affect Buyers?
• Buying First Vs Selling First in Today’s Market
• Our Top Milton Condos for First Time Buyers

Here is a shortlist of our favourite activities to enjoy as the weather heats up.

Summer Camps

Imagine never hearing the words “I’m bored” all summer. It may sound like an impossible goal if you’re working full time and trying to find ways to keep your children engaged and occupied. 

• An endless variety of summer camps might be the perfect solution. They provide fantastic opportunities to make friends and enjoy new experiences. You’ll find events dedicated to almost every theme imaginable. 
• Stem Summer Camp engages children with technology and science while using fun themes like Star Wars, Avengers and even the Minions. 
• Want to promote physical activity and get children away from electronics? Try Pedalheads, which offers cycling programs and classes for children between 2 and 12 years old. Are you looking for a one-stop shop to keep your youngsters busy and entertained all summer long? The Way of the Woods Summer Camp offers various nature and athletic programs for children aged 4 to 15. 

Summer Festivals

Almost nothing says summertime like joining in the fun at a festival, where you can enjoy games, bouncy castles and more, all to the background of talented musical acts. 

In Burlington and Milton, our festivals are a way of life. What’s on the calendar? 

• The world-famous Sound of Music Festival kicks off on June 12 at Spencer Smith Park in Burlington. This year, the lineup includes well-known bands like the Tea Party, Bif Naked, Finger Eleven and Skid Row. Admission is free, but VIP tickets are available for front-row experiences! 
• Don’t overexert yourself, however, because more fun is on the way.
• The Downtown Milton Street SummerFest starts on June 18 and will showcase local businesses and offer a variety of fun activities for your whole family to enjoy. Live music, patios, buskers and bouncy castles will keep you entertained all weekend!
• Get ready to indulge your sweet tooth near the end of June with the 40th Annual Strawbery Festival at the Milton Fairgrounds. What could be better than cakes, slushies and a strawberry pancake breakfast as you enjoy live entertainment? You’ll also be helping a worthy cause. Proceeds from the festival go to support the Milton District Hospital.

Everyday Fun in the Sun

With so many beautiful parks, trails and other amenities available, you don’t have to wait for a specific event to enjoy this summer. 

Explore the beauty of the Niagara escarpment at Rattlesnake Point. There is something for everyone, and no need to worry about actual rattlesnakes. The park gets its name from the winding paths forged by glaciers along the escarpment. Hikers of all levels can spend hours on the trails. Feel free to take it slow and enjoy the panoramic views from the lookout points. Adventurous hikers can climb to soaring new heights over the magnificent cliffs.

A visit to the Royal Botanical Gardens is a must over the summer! You could visit every week and never see the same garden as different plants are in bloom all season long. The Rock Gardens are breathtaking any time of the year, and the Arboretum offers some of the best hiking in the city. The marsh walk is a popular destination, and you may even spot an eagle if you’re lucky!

It’s not summertime until you’ve visited the Waterfront Park, where you can walk or cycle for hours along the shore of Lake Ontario. If you need refreshments, you’ll find dozens of ice cream shops, cafes and patios to visit and recharge.  

Looking for even more fun things to do nearby? There’s too much to list in a single post! Here are some other ideas to try:

• Our Complete Milton Patio Guide
• 5 Fun Fall Ideas in Milton and Burlington
• 5 Milton Parks to Visit During the Spring

Rainy Day Fun

There’s no need for a little rain to ruin the fun. In fact, with a 16,000-square-foot indoor play area like Lil’ Monkeys, the children might start searching for dark clouds! The facility features a bungee trampoline, soccer floor, a 6-level jungle gym and a new virtual reality arcade to keep kids six and over entertained for hours. There’s even a lounge area and healthy cafe where you can sit and relax and catch up with friends as the children play.

The Burlington Art Gallery and countless museums are another way to get out and enjoy the summer on a rainy afternoon – or any day for that matter!

Milton also has no shortage of fun things to enjoy when the clouds roll in. Enjoy an arcade game or a friendly round of bowling at Champs Family Entertainment Centre. The venue also features a private billiards lounge and a Mission Impossible Escape Room where you can choose your own difficulty.

The Mattamy National Cycling Centre even offers drop-in programs where you can ride your bike indoors no matter what the weather brings.

Do you think Milton or Burlington might be your next place to call home? We can help! You can ask us anything about buying or selling real estate right here.

Rising housing prices and inflation are causing financial challenges for many Canadians. Very few people are feeling the sting more than those aspiring to buy their first house. Lately, it seems that only those who enjoy very high incomes or have help from relatives can afford a place of their own. 

In light of the many challenges first-time buyers face, the Federal government introduced a piece of legislation called the “First Home Buyer Incentive.”

This program took effect in September 2019 as the average cost of housing prices began their steady, upward climb. On paper, the incentive might look like a dream come true for those struggling to buy a house, but there are some downsides to be aware of. 

Buying a home can be intimating, especially if it’s your first time. Here are some other resources that can help:

• What You Need to Know About Buying a Home in 2022
• The Best Burlington Condos For First Time Buyers
• Is it Better to Buy or Rent in Canada in 2022

Here’s everything you need to know:

The First Time Home Buyer Incentive – How it Works

If you qualify, the government puts up to 5% of the down payment on a resale house or 10% on a newly constructed project. This incentive is designed to help in two ways:

1. It makes it easier to afford the downpayment
2. With a larger down payment, your monthly mortgage payments are more affordable

Can the First Time Home Buyer Incentive help someone who couldn’t otherwise afford a home? In some cases, yes. However, it’s important to know that this isn’t free money. The program is similar to a second mortgage, except no monthly payments are due. 

What Are the Downsides to the Program?

You Will Have to Repay – and Then Some…

When you sign up for the program, the government basically becomes a co-owner of your property. Any funds received through the program must be repaid either when you sell the property or within 25 years. What does that mean when buying and selling?

Let’s imagine you bought a condo for $480,000 in 2019. It was a new build, so the government gave you 10%, or $48,0000 upfront, for your down payment. Now, in 2022, you want to sell the condo, which has risen in value to $900,000. Upon closing, it’s time to pay back the incentive. However, it’s not a standard loan where you pay back the principle plus interest. The government has a stake in your property for 10% of the resale price. In this case, because the value has risen to $900,000, you’re on the hook for $90,000!

It’s Too Little, Too Late…

In 2019, the incentive may have helped some first-time buyers. Now, housing prices have soared, and it’s almost impossible to qualify. To be considered, you must:

• Be a first-time buyer
• Have a combined household income of less than $120,000

Even if you meet these requirements, the mortgage is capped at a maximum of four times your annual household income. If you earn $100,000, your mortgage must be $400,000 or less to qualify for the program. 

 In 2022, the average house price in Burlington or Milton stands at around $1.3 million. Unless you have a massive downpayment available, a mortgage capped at $400,000 isn’t helpful for most people.

Is the First Time Buyer Incentive even worth it? Only you can decide. However, there are other programs designed to help you that don’t give the government such a significant stake in your property.

Want more help getting into the market as a first-time buyer? Our comprehensive Buyer’s Guide can help. You can download it for free here.

The Canada Home Buyer’s Plan

This program allows you to withdraw up to $35,000 from an RRSP without tax penalty as a down payment toward your first house. Here’s what you need to qualify:

• You must be a first-time buyer or buying on behalf of someone with a disability
• You must be a resident of Canada
• You must use the funds to buy property
• Within one year of buying or building the home, it must be your primary residence

First Time Home Buyer Tax Credit

As a first-time buyer, you can claim up to $5000 on your tax return, which results in a $750 reduction in taxes. It may not seem like a lot of money, but it can go a long way toward your moving costs, legal fees or utility hookups.

Land Transfer Rebate

Whenever you buy property, the land transfer tax is one of the closing costs you must factor in. It can amount to several thousands of dollars which can not be rolled into your mortgage.

However, in Ontario, you can apply for a rebate of the provincial portion, resulting in a savings of up to $4,000.

To buy your first home, you’ll need some creativity and perseverance. Knowledge of how government incentive programs work can go a long way. 

Did you know that we offer a monthly webinar dedicated to helping first-time buyers? You can sign up for free right here.

Two years ago, the Canadian government reduced interest rates to the lowest they’ve been in decades. No one could have predicted the drastic impact these ultra-low rates would have on the housing market. The country braced itself for a real estate crash, but the opposite happened. The low cost of borrowing triggered a record-breaking surge as buyers snapped up available properties, sometimes even before they were listed. 

This buying frenzy has caused housing prices to soar since there are simply not enough listings for buyers to choose from. The supply of houses for sale has dwindled so much that hopeful buyers often leave letters throughout the neighbourhood pleading with the current owners to sell.

How Interest Rates Can Affect Housing Prices

Now, the inevitable has happened. Two weeks ago, the Bank of Canada announced the first of several hikes to the target rate, and the prime rate quickly followed. While this first interest rate increase was slight, it has made it more expensive to borrow and more difficult for a potential buyer to qualify for a mortgage. In addition, this is just the first of a series of hikes we can expect over the next twelve months. What will all of this mean for current homeowners and those looking to get into the market?

First, let’s talk about the types of interest rates a buyer has to choose from:

Fixed-Rate: A fixed term is locked in until the mortgage is due for refinancing. Though it’s typically higher than a variable rate, the buyer has peace of mind knowing that their monthly payment can’t increase before the term expires. 

Variable-rate: Although variable-rates are usually lower than fixed-rates, the term is not locked in. Payments will fluctuate as the Bank of Canada changes the rate. It’s a riskier option, but many buyers have gone this route to lower their cost of borrowing. 

Now that the Bank of Canada has started raising interest, they are about to see an increase in their monthly carrying costs. How much? Each hike represents an additional $12 to $13 per $100,000 remaining on their mortgage. A series of three increases mean an additional $36 to $39 per $100,000. 

Want to know more about what’s happening in the current market? Here are some updates to check out:

• How Will Rising Interest Rates Affect Buyers
• Everything You Need To Know About Buying A House In Milton
• Your Guide To Basement Apartments And Secondary Suites

Small hikes can get expensive very quickly

The news isn’t all bad. A few years ago, the government introduced the new stress test laws to ensure a potential homeowner had enough income to withstand increasing rates.

Curious about changes to the stress test? You can read our article about it here.

The question is, will owning their home still be worth it? Rising costs and inflation mean that many homeowners have a decision to make: Stay or sell? Of course, many residents will want to stay in their homes and are willing to weather the extra expense. Others may decide to sell and downsize into a smaller house or move to a less expensive area. 

Where Do Investors Stand?

Low-interest rates combined with soaring property prices have made real estate one of the safest and most profitable investment tools available. Low borrowing costs meant it was relatively easy to cover the mortgage through the rental income. Plus, your wealth and equity grow as the value of the property appreciates. In the last few years, more investors have jumped into the market than ever before. In fact, a study by the Bank of Canada estimates that one in five home purchases are by investors, not residents. 

As interest rates continue to increase, it will become harder to enter the market as an investor. And if the housing prices begin to cool, real estate may not be quite as profitable as it once was.

What Will Happen to Housing Prices?

No one can predict the future, but most analysts don’t expect a significant drop in prices, at least not yet. The market is still competitive and will likely continue to favour sellers for the foreseeable future. However, a series of interest hikes could signal the end of the record-breaking growth in prices. The increased cost of borrowing will force some hopeful buyers out of the market. Fewer qualified buyers mean less competition, and fierce bidding wars will happen far less often. 

Is the Time Right to Sell?

As an investor, only you can decide if the time is right to sell. Do you enjoy the rewards and responsibilities of being a landlord, and can you weather a few bumps in the road as the market balances? If you’re in it for the long haul, holding on to your property might be the right choice. However, if you want to cash out of your investment, the timing couldn’t be better. Right now, prices are at an all-time high. 

As early as 2019, the average house in Burlington sold for $669,611. Fast forward to February 2022, and the price has shot up to $1,137,000. After only three years, you’d have a gross profit of $467,389. 

If you were fortunate enough to land the property ten years ago, you could earn over $700,000 by selling it now.

In Milton, the average selling price of a house ten years ago was $287,875. As of February 2022, that same house now goes for an average of $1,142,001, which would give you a profit of $854,126. This means you stand to earn a very good return on your investment if you decide to cash out.

These proceeds could give a healthy boost to your retirement plans, fund your children’s education or even go towards your ultimate dream home.

If you decide to sell a property that has tenants, there are a few things you should know about. These resources will help you enjoy a smooth transaction and maximize your return on your investment: 

• Five Tips to Make Your Home Stand Out for the Spring Market
• How to Set the Right Home Price the First Time
• Selling a Tenanted Property: What You Should Know
  

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Are you getting ready to buy your first home? If so, you’re probably on a fact-finding mission to help you make the best investment possible. Your first purchase is an exciting time, but there’s so much to do and find out. What kind of home do you want to live in? What neighbourhood? For many people, Burlington has everything you could ever need or want for your first home.

Why Burlington? For starters, it’s frequently rated as one of the best cities in Canada to live in. Burlington is safe, scenic and close to the waterfront. The fabulous annual festivals, events and plethora of dining, shopping and entertainment options give Toronto a run for its money. 

One of the strongest appeals of Burlington is its affordability. Even in this ultra-competitive real estate market, you can often find a starter condo for $500,000 or less. (Although, high-end luxury units are also available, including some beautiful properties right along the waterfront.)

Contrast these prices with Toronto’s average condo unit of $740,000, and it’s easy to see why many new homeowners get their start in Burlington.

To help you on your mission, here is the rundown on some of the top buildings for first-time buyers.

Paradigm Condos

Our very own Maggie Renaud got her start in Paradigm Condos, and she loved every minute of her time there. It is one of the newest facilities in the city, completed in 2018. The building features a beautiful indoor swimming pool, a basketball court and a fitness center. The piece de resistance, however, is the stunning rooftop sky garden and patio. Sit by the fire table, relax and enjoy the spectacular view of the city.

Although Paradigm Condos provides so many amenities that you will rarely have to leave, it is a dream location for anyone who commutes. Go Transit is located just steps away, and there is a path that leads right into the station. Plus, you’ll find many restaurants, coffee shops, and plazas nearby, including Mapleview Mall and Village Square.

Looking for more ideas to help you get into your first home? Here are some ideas to consider:

• Everything You Need To Know About Buying A House In Milton
• Your Guide To The First Time Buyers Incentive: Is It Worth It?

Maples Condominiums 

“The Maples” is a 13 storey building located right in downtown Burlington. It has spacious two-bedroom units ranging from 1420 to 1750 square feet. The larger than average size living space and spectacular rooftop patio come at a surprisingly affordable price, which puts units in this building in very high demand. It is a ten-minute walk from the waterfront, including the gorgeous Spencer Smith Park, where you can spend many hours walking the trails and attending the festivals. 

Pinedale Estates

Constructed in 1989, Pinedale Estates is located just east of Appleby Line on Pinedale Avenue. It consists of three buildings with one and two-bedroom units from 700 to 1298 square feet. The building features an indoor pool, a fitness room, a tennis court and a practice driving range, making it a dream home for anyone who loves to stay active. You’re also close to walking trails and parks, including the Burloak Waterfront Park. The Appleby Village Mall is a quick walk away and will take care of all of your shopping needs.

Balmoral Condos

Balmoral has units ranging from 764 square feet to a massive 2200 square feet of luxurious, open concept living. The building offers a party area, fitness centre and hobby room. Located in North Burlington, many of the units offer a beautiful view of the escarpment off of the balcony. Step outside, and you’ll discover many ways to get close to nature, including multiple hiking trails and parks.

It is close to many restaurants and shopping areas and is only a 15-minute drive to the waterfront.

Upper Middle Place

Built in 1978, Upper Middle Place is one of Burlington’s most affordable buildings. The condos are larger than average and range from 980 to 1247 square feet. Many units have been thoroughly upgraded and renovated and offer magnificent views of the escarpment. 

The building may be older, but it is very appealing to many young buyers, and not just because of its affordability. The party room, sauna, tennis courts, and outdoor swimming pool make it easy to stay active. There are pubs, restaurants and coffee shops just steps away, and Go Transit is only a 10-minute drive.

Pre-Construction Condos Coming Soon

If your purchase is a couple of years down the road, Burlington has many new condos in the works. Some of these have already started to sell. Here are a couple of the developments that have us really excited!

Martha James Condominiums 

Located on James Street in Burlington, units will start from $500,000. Martha James Condos will be close to the waterfront, and all the amenities you could ever need are within easy walking distance. You can visit Spencer Smith Park and many unique shops and cafes within a few blocks of each other. 

Once completed, the building will have a fitness centre, a lounge, a bbq area, a rooftop patio and a concierge available in the front lobby.

BeauSoleil Condos

Despite its enviable location right on Lakeshore Road, BeauSoleil Condos will have units starting for less than $500,000. The building will feature an outdoor pool and a beautiful rooftop lounge and dining area, with many amenities a few minutes’ walk away. Step outside, and the beautiful waterfront of Lake Ontario awaits you. 

Want to know more about what Burlington has to offer? Here are some more interesting facts to read up on:

• Your Guide to Real Estate in Burlington
• Living in Burlington: Your Guide to the City
• Burlington Parks: Five Places to Watch the Leaves Change

There’s no getting around it. Summer is over, and winter will be here before we know it. Luckily, autumn has a lot to offer in our corner of the world. We can’t get enough of the changing landscapes, cozy sweaters, and warming beverages—and it doesn’t end there. This season, there are all kinds of planned activities to enjoy in our area.

Here are seven fun things to do in Milton and Burlington this fall…

1) See the autumn colours

There are few things as beautiful as seeing the leaves change before winter. Fortunately for those of us in Milton and Burlington, there’s an abundance of places to view all those fiery reds, rich oranges, and vibrant yellows.

One of our favourites is Kelso Conservation Area, where a magnificent escarpment comes alive with autumn hues. To get the best possible view, consider going when there are chairlift rides available—on October 13th and 14th. Bronte Creek Provincial Park is just as stunning, with its maple, oak, and butternut trees (an endangered species).

The best part? Both everyday getaways are less than a half-hour drive from Milton and Burlington!

Looking for more places to see fall colours? Read our post, Burlington Parks: 5 Places to Watch the Leaves Change right here.

2) Go apple picking

 If you have fond memories of picking your own apples, you’re not alone. Why not revive them with the family this fall? Chudleigh’s Entertainment Farm, which is just a few minutes’ drive from Milton, is the perfect place to enjoy the harvest. It’s been a fun destination for families for over 50 years—and it’s home to over 22 varieties of apples.

Less than 20 minutes from Burlington, Applevale Orchards is another farm that’s well worth a visit. Here you’ll find delicious apples and pears, along with plenty of rustic country scenery.

Are you thinking of moving to Milton? If so, you’ll want to learn a little more about the town—and our local resources are a great place to start!

• Thinking of Moving to Milton? Check Out These Area FAQs.
• Your Quick Guide to Milton Real Estate
• Your Quick Guide to Living in Milton

3) Get Spooked on Halloween

Looking for some Halloween family fun? Start with Pumpkins After Dark in Milton at Country Heritage Park. This 2.5-kilometre drive-through event features thousands of pumpkins—and it’s a sight to behold. There are also jack-o-lantern carving demonstrations, which are equally fun to watch. 

If you have little ones and you live in Milton, you’ll also want to check out Tiny Tots Trick or Treat. The section of Main Street East between Brown and James Streets will be closed to traffic, allowing families to collect candy safely from participating businesses. There will also be a scavenger hunt, among other activities! It all takes place on October 30th, from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m.

4) Dive into some art

While there’s plenty to do outdoors in the fall, it’s also a time to get creative inside. Every Saturday until October 23rd, the Art Gallery of Burlington will be hosting Family Open Studio. During this weekly event, you can check out the exhibition How to Read a Vessel—and discover how pots, bowls, jars, and more connect to our everyday lives.

If you’re a lover of the arts, you should also check out Culture Days. This national program is offered in Milton through the FirstOntario Arts Centre. This year, you’ll find everything from a bench-painting party featuring local artists to performances by musicians, dancers, actors, and more. It all takes place until October 24th.

Considering a move to Burlington? The first step is getting more familiar with the area. Explore some of our local resources below.

• Your Quick Guide to Real Estate in Burlington
• Living in Burlington: Your Guide to the City

5) Enjoy fall at the farm

Enjoy the autumn harvest at a local working farm. In Milton, Springridge Farms is a must-visit. Pick up some fresh produce or a perfectly-baked pie, or bring the kids for a play session. From the giant sandbox and tube slides to the farm animals and wagon rides, there’s no shortage of things to do! 

Closer to Burlington, Hutchinson Farm is the ideal place to buy some pumpkins. If jack-o-lanterns are part of your family’s Halloween tradition, head over to the patch, which is currently open every day of the week.

Fall is a special time of year, especially in picturesque places like Milton and Burlington. So grab a light jacket, head out, and enjoy all that our area has to offer! 

Are you ready to look for your perfect place in Milton or Burlington? Check out our listings to start your search, or learn more about how we help sellers here!

April 2021 – GTA Housing Market News

What is going on with the real estate market?

Here are the April stats:
– Number of sales is down 12.7% in April over March
– But, number of sales are up 36.6% compared to the 10 yr average
– New listings are down 8.4% month over month

Milton Real Estate Market

The average price in Milton is $1,061,348

Burlington Real Estate Market

The average price in Burlington is $1,055,023

Oakville Real Estate Market

The average price in Oakville is $1,458,793

Previous Reports on GTA Housing Market News – March, February, January

It may be no surprise to hear that March 2021 was yet another record-breaking month in real estate. Home sales are reportedly largely driven by low interest rates and consumer confidence remains high, even though we’re stepping into more COVID related restrictions right now. While inventory and sales are way up again in March they have yet to catch up to the backlog of buyers so we’re still in a seller’s market.

March 2021 – GTA Housing Market News

Milton Real Estate Market

The average price in Milton is $1,037,207.

Burlington Real Estate Market

The average price in Burlington is $1,099,362.

Oakville Real Estate Market

The average price in Oakville is $1,526,414.

Previous Reports on GTA Housing Market News – February, January, December,

Every year, home buyers who swore they’d never leave Toronto are moving to greener pastures. Without a doubt, Burlington is one of their top choices. From its beautiful lakefront views to the all-around high quality of life it provides, this thriving city has never been more popular. That said, many enthusiastic buyers aren’t quite sure where to begin. Sound familiar?

If this city is relatively new territory for you, start by getting the lowdown on local neighbourhoods, homes, and prices. You can find out more here in our Burlington real estate guide…

Your Price Range

Home buyers have been flocking to Burlington in recent years, and for good reason. The fantastic quality of life in this little corner of Ontario is no longer a secret. In fact, the city has earned the impressive titles of “Best Community in Canada” and “Best Place to Raise a Family” by Maclean’s Magazine.

Home prices have grown with Burlington’s popularity, but there’s still a fairly wide range available. You can find starter condos for as little as $500k, or spacious waterfront houses that sit near the $6 million mark. It all depends on what you’re looking for—and whatever it is, you’ll probably find it here.

Neighbourhoods To Meet Your Needs

In Burlington, you’ll find a wide variety of homes to meet nearly every set of buying needs and preferences. Here are just a few fantastic local options.

Ideal For Families

The Orchard

Situated in Northeast Burlington, the Orchard is a relatively new neighbourhood (think 1990s). The area is known for its beautiful suburban houses and reputable local schools. Proximity to the majestic Bronte Creek Provincial Park—along with plenty of outdoor trails and playgrounds—make the area ideal for parents with little ones. with Appleby Plaza nearby, you’ll also find no shortage of retail and dining options.

Tyandaga

With its attractive trails and scenic waterfront views, Tyandaga is a favourite among families. This community to the northwest features public tennis and golf clubs, which means there’s never any shortage of fun things to do. You’ll also find some beautiful homes, including many in the Georgian, Colonial, and Tudor styles. Some of these houses are on the slightly more affordable side—at least by Burlington standards.

Plains

If you’re looking for a well-established neighbourhood near the city’s core, consider Plains. The area is more affordable than many, with a mix of well-maintained older and newer homes. Thanks to nearby GO transit and the Fairview Mall, it provides a low-hassle lifestyle for families. Plains is also close to the Royal Botanical Gardens—a lovely spot for weekend picnics with the kids!

Historical Gems

Downtown

If you’re looking for a bonafide heritage home (we’re talking about century-old houses with pretty period details), look no further than the downtown core. Along with these historic jewels, the area contains charming townhouses, luxury condos, and everything in between. Of course, the local homes aren’t the only thing to love about living in the city centre. From beautiful Spencer Smith Park and the urban waterfront to a plethora of retail and dining hotspots, Downtown Burlington has it all.

Roseland

Whether Roseland residences count as “historic” depends on your definition. Sure, the older homes here fall shy of the 100-year mark—and there are plenty of newer, custom-built affairs. That said, you’ll find an abundance of half-century-old houses here that are nothing short of stunning. Mature trees and lakefront views only add to the splendour—while proximity to the QEW and Burlington Mall make day-to-day life ultra convenient. Needless to say, home prices tend to be on the steep side.

Shoreacres

In the south end, you’ll find a prestigious neighbourhood with an abundance of charm. Like Roseland, Shoreacres is made up of majestic streets lined with beautiful homes that are around 50 years old. There are also plenty of green spaces (including Paletta Lakefront, Henderson, and Strathcona Parks). Nearby Appleby Mall puts all the conveniences residents need at their fingertips, while the presence of John T. Tuck Public School (which gets top-notch marks from the Fraser Institute) makes the area an ideal one for families.

Newer Homes

Alton Village

If only a brand new home will do, you may want to consider Alton Village. Situated in North Burlington, this lovely suburban community is home to some truly beautiful houses (including many from heavy-hitter developers like Mattamy and Fernbrook Homes). It’s also the site of Norton Community Park (with its play structure, fields, and off-leash park, among other features). Lastly, the area is a commuter’s paradise, providing easy access to the 407, QEW, and the nearby Appleby GO Station.

What to Know About Burlington Real Estate…

Trying to decide whether Burlington is right for you? There are a few major benefits that may tip the scales in the city’s favour. For one, your home-buying dollars will go further here than they would in a place like Toronto. While it’s true that prices have risen in recent years, the value for money in Burlington is well worth considering. In other words: if you’re looking for more space to spread out, this a great place to find it.

In particular, many of the city’s neighbourhoods feature an abundance of bungalows. These layouts have been making a major comeback, thanks to their practicality—and how flexible they are. Whether you’re looking for a place that could accommodate a home office, an extra bedroom, or whatever future renovations you desire, a bungalow with good bones could be ideal.

The truth is, Burlington has a lot more to offer—in terms of communities and housing stock. By speaking with an agent who knows the city intimately, you can find a place that fits your budget and checks off all your boxes!

Are you starting the search for your perfect home and have questions about the Burlington real estate market? Reach out today!

December’s market update is here!

Before sharing December’s market stats, we first want to recap 2020 and then finish this off by touching on 2021 predictions.

2020 RECAP

Despite the year we had with COVID, economic uncertainty & lockdowns, it was a record breaking year in Real Estate. The average sale price across the GTA reached a new record of almost $930,000. That is up 13% year over year. We saw a lot of competition for single family homes last year, which resulted in them experiencing the strongest price growth in the suburbs.

DECEMBER’S MARKET STATS

Let’s look at the December stats for Milton, Burlington and Oakville.

PREDICTIONS

Now let’s talk about 2021 predictions. The real estate market was extremely competitive in 2020 and we are expecting 2021 to be no different.

There are 4 main factors that will impact the real estate market this year.

⁠1. Immigration – In 2020 immigration dropped although Canada is planning on welcoming 1.2 million people between 2021 & 2023. ⁠⠀

⁠2. Interest rates – Interest rates have been at an all time low and are expected to stay low throughout 2021.

⁠3. Housing supply – We have been in a sellers market for months now and with people continuing to make significant lifestyle changes we don’t anticipate this changing. Currently supply is extremely low, so if you have been thinking about selling now is a great time.

⁠4. COVID 19 – The pandemic has caused buyer preferences to change. 2020 had many of us reconsider what is important to us, especially when it comes to our home. We anticipate home-buyer trends to continue to shift in 2021. ⁠⠀

RE/MAX Canada is currently anticipating that Ontario will experience 7-12% price growth in 2021.