Real estate has always been expensive, and buying a home is the most significant investment most people will ever make in their lifetime. As prices have risen over the years, it has become more difficult for many younger people to get a foot into the market. And the sharp increases over the last two years have made homeownership seem virtually impossible. To buy a house today, you may need a much higher than average income or help from a relative. What if you don’t have either of those things? Should you resign yourself to renting for the rest of your life? Not necessarily. In fact, a little out-of-the-box thinking could take you from renting to investing in a very short time.

Can A Secondary Suite Be Your Ticket To Homeownership?

Secondary suites can make buying a home more affordable in more ways than you might realize. The extra rental income can cover a significant portion of the mortgage. In addition, many lenders allow you to add the projected rent to your income and give you access to more financing. 

Most people buy or build a secondary suite with the intention of living in the main unit. However, if your lifestyle allows, you could live in the smaller space and rent out the main house. If you do, you might even see a positive cash flow from your property. 

A house with a legal secondary suite offers more resale value, meaning your equity will grow faster than a single-family home. And just like that, you’re no longer stuck in the rental market. Now, you’re a bonafide real estate investor!

Are you thinking about buying your first home? You may be interested to know that we offer a webinar for first time buyers to answer all of your questions.

Types Of Secondary Suites

Basement Apartments

When you think of renting space in your house, a basement apartment probably pops into your mind. They are the most common of all secondary suites because they are the easiest to build if one doesn’t already exist. If you buy a house with a finished basement, you’ll likely have to invest time and money to bring it up to code. However, the resale value of the home alone makes it worth it. 

Unfortunately, basement apartments do have some drawbacks. Noise complaints are common. Depending on the level of soundproofing, the basement tenant can hear everything going on upstairs, right down to your footsteps. If children are yelling or romping around upstairs, the relationship can get tense very quickly. 

Soundproofing can help, but it isn’t inexpensive. However, if it ensures a peaceful coexistence between you and your tenant, it can be worth every penny.

The other problem with basement apartments is that they are notoriously dark, which is a turn-off to some potential tenants. The windows are generally smaller, and even white paint and an open concept design will not flood the apartment with natural light. 

What makes a basement apartment legal in Milton? We have a post dedicated to the topic right here.

Attic Suite

Basement apartments are everywhere, but what about building a suite above you instead? It’s a far less common option, and you’re less likely to find a home with one already installed. 

If you want an attic suite, you’ll probably have to build it, but there are many advantages to make it worthwhile.

An upper-level suite is more desirable to tenants because, unlike basement apartments, they are full of natural light, offer more fresh air and a better view. You can likely charge more for an upper unit, which can help offset the investment needed to build it. 

What about the downfalls?

You may worry less about your tenant complaining about the noise. However, you might be the one to have to get used to the stomping footsteps and clamour from above.

Your pool of potential tenants may be slightly more limited. The unit is ideal for young professionals or couples but less likely to appeal to older people with mobility issues. 

Have you been bitten by the real estate investment bug? Then you’ll love some of these other posts!

• 4 Ways To Earn Money With Real Estate
• Your Quick Guide To Milton Real Estate
• 8 Steps To Finding The Right Real Estate Agent

Ground Level Suite

If you don’t like the idea of a basement apartment or an attic suite, why not consider building an addition? This can solve the noise and lighting issues and is an excellent option if your lot is large enough for an addition to the side or back of the house. It’s still a separate suite, but it allows easier access between the units. 

As the population ages, ground-level suites will become more popular for elderly tenants or family members with mobility issues. A house with a main-level apartment will have excellent resale value as demand increases.

Garden Suites

When you walk through your neighbourhood, you may spot some houses with converted garages or fancy sheds with extra large windows. But these curious-looking buildings are probably not what you think. Chances are, they’re secondary suites that are built on the same lot as the main house. They’re called garden suites, and they have exploded in popularity since the provincial government legalized them to address the housing shortage.

Garden suites are small but highly functional, often with open concept floor plans and modern appliances. Depending on the design, they can be breathtakingly beautiful.

A garden suite offers you and your tenant complete privacy and eliminates most or all noise complaints. They’re a fantastic way to generate income from your property or keep your loved ones close by.

A garden suite will require a significant upfront investment, but will quickly grow your equity as the house rises in value.

What’s Your Next Step?

If you decide that a secondary suite is right for you, there are two options:

1.) Buy a house with an existing suite.

This is by far the most straightforward option. Even though you may require some updates to bring the unit up to code, you won’t have to live in a construction zone. Plus, you can secure a tenant sooner and start generating rental income to help with your mortgage payments.

However, one thing to be aware of is that not all basement apartments are legal. If anything is missing, you may find it difficult to get insurance for the unit. You may also find yourself in a legal bind if someone decides to report you. To prevent these hassles, work with an experienced real estate agent with experience in investment properties.

2.) Build a secondary suite.

Building a secondary suite is ideal if you have the budget and time to wait before you can start generating income. You can decide whether you want a basement apartment, attic suite, ground level unit or garden suite. Once again, if you choose to build, work with an experienced professional to ensure you follow the code.

The nice thing about building a secondary suite is that you get a say in everything from start to finish. You can take your sensitivities and need for privacy into account.

Your options are only limited by your imagination!

Do you want to talk more about your options for investing in real estate? We work with buyers and investors at every level and are happy to point you in the right direction!

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.

For many Canadians, homeownership is one of those life goals that you work hard to achieve. And once you’ve arrived, there’s nothing that feels better. However, today, buying your first home can present a challenge. 

One of the best strategies for first-time buyers to get their foot in the door is by purchasing a condo. Condos are a great investment and since they are typically less expensive than single-family detached homes, it’s more affordable for first-timers to save a downpayment and finance the purchase. 

Additionally, condos are typically located in accessible areas close to amenities such as dining, retail, transit, and more. Condos also minimize the maintenance for the homeowner, since much of the building upkeep is covered by condo association fees. 

When you consider the trifecta of affordability, location, and convenience, it becomes totally clear that condos are an excellent investment for those entering the market for the first time. 

If you’re looking for a great condo opportunity, you can start with our top 6 Milton condo buildings for first-time buyers here: 

1. GreenLife Downtown 

Situated at 383 Main Street East in Milton, GreenLife Downtown is a fantastic opportunity for environmentally-conscious buyers. This six-storey condo building features fantastic high-efficiency and environmentally friendly tech such as solar panels and geothermal heating. 

With its prime location in the heart of Old Milton, GreenLife Downtown offers fantastic views of the Niagara Escarpment while remaining close to urban conveniences. 

Built in 2012, the building features various unit sizes and floor plans running from 685-1,375 square feet. One of the main selling points of GreenLife Downtown is the affordable condo fees, ranging from $78-$160 per month, it’s a great value when you consider the building amenities such as the environmentally friendly development, party room, and fitness room. 

Want to learn more about living in Milton? Check out some of our other Milton-centric blogs right here:

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

2. GreenLife Westside

If downtown doesn’t appeal to you, consider the GreenLife Westside building. Built in 2014, this six-storey energy-efficient building is located at 33 Whitmer Street in Milton. Although public transit in this area is not as accessible as downtown, GreenLife Westside has ample parking for residents and visitors who drive. 

The building is close to urban amenities such as the local Shoppers Drug Mart, Starbucks, and Ajs The Grocery found only a 10-minute walk away. Nature lovers can also enjoy the convenience of having several fantastic parks and walking trails nearby including Centennial Park, Rattlesnake Point, and Kelso Conservation Area. 

Like its downtown partner, GreenLife Westside has a variety of floorplans and unit sizes ranging from 647 square feet to 1470 square feet. The building also includes a party room, meeting room, recreation room, security system, and barbecues permitted. 

3. Ambassador Condominiums

The Ambassador Condominiums consist of two six-storey buildings located at 1419 and 1421 Costigan Road in Milton. Build by Valery Homes in 2014, The Ambassador includes 150 units of varying sizes from 602 square feet all the way up to 1,354 square feet. 

Surrounded by green space and featuring beautiful building amenities such as a designer lobby and a sunroom lounge overlooking the yard, this condo was built to impress. The building amenities include a party room and exercise room.

Situated in a quiet residential neighbourhood, The Ambassador is close to the Milton GO Station as well as the 401 for easy commutes and transit access. The area also features abundant parks, walking trails, dining, shopping, and other conveniences. 

4. Viva and Viva2 Condominiums

Built in 2016 and 2017 respectively, Milton’s Viva and Viva2 Condominiums are situated in the residential neighbourhood of Clarke. These four-storey buildings are located at 1360 and 1370 Costigan Road. 

Close to outdoor recreation such as parks, walking and bicycle paths, and more, these condos are perfect for first-time buyers who want to capture the beauty, convenience, and comfort of living in south Milton–an area that is quickly on the rise! 

With one and two-bedroom options and floorplans ranging from 585-1,040 square feet, Viva and Viva2’s open-concept, contemporary design provides opportunities for first-time buyers, investors, and downsizers alike. 

The buildings feature a party room and proximity to transit like the 401 and Milton GO Station. 

Buying your first home can be complicated, but it doesn’t have to be! Read some of our first-time homebuyer blogs right here:

• 5 Questions You’ve Always Wanted to Ask a Mortgage Broker
• Our Top 8 First-Time Homebuyer FAQs
• Multiple Offer Scenarios: Tips for Homebuyers

5. Parkside Residences 

Located at 1379 Costigan Road, Parkside Residences is a six-storey condominium complex built in 2010. As part of the Milton neighbourhood of Clarke, this condo is situated close to many local amenities such as shopping, dining, conveniences, and recreation. 

With units ranging from 619-1,056 square feet, and being an older building, Parkside Residences is perfect for buyers entering the market for the first time. Building amenities include a party room, barbecues permitted, visitor parking, and more. 

One thing to note about Parkside Residences is a pet restriction, so if you have pets, this building might not be for you. 

You can also download our Buyer’s Guide to learn everything you need to know about buying a home with the Katherine Barnett Team. Download the guide for free here. 

6. Art on Main

As the newest condo on our list, Art on Main is an incredibly stylish, luxurious, all-encompassing condo experience. Built by Fernbrook Homes, Art on Main is located at 1050 Main Street East in Milton. 

Featuring 2-bedroom and 2-bedroom + den floorplans, Art on Main is redefining the local condo experience. With exceptional finishings and absolutely astonishing building amenities, Art on Main is sure to attract buyers looking for an elevated experience in one of Milton’s most exciting neighbourhoods. 

Close to incredible neighbourhood amenities and featuring ground-level retail in the building, Art on Main has everything you need. Building amenities include a state-of-the-art fitness centre, pool, party room, billiards room, rooftop terrace, barbecue stations, pet spa, and 24-hour concierge service. 

When you are considering taking your first step into the real estate market, a Milton condo is an excellent investment to start with. Whether you crave the condo lifestyle or you see owning a condo as a great way to build equity before upsizing into a detached home, Milton condos are always in demand for buyers, investors, and renters alike. 

During the restrictive lockdowns of 2020, most Realtors® across the GTA and Ontario recognized that they needed to pivot their business to help cater to an increasingly online demographic. Although real estate is considered an essential service and home showings were permitted during the lockdown, many agents decided to take a more digital approach to showcase properties. This meant investing more in high-end photography, video, and virtual tours.

As COVID cases in Ontario decline, many buyers and sellers are feeling more comfortable with the idea of entering a stranger’s home for a showing or an open house. In fact, the province also recently announced that open houses are now permissible under new guidelines, although, our team still prefers to avoid them for now. However, things are not completely back to normal in our area. There are many things we need to do to ensure our clients are safe, comfortable, and confident during showings.

Here are a few of the things we’re doing to make sure your next in-person home showing in Milton is a smooth, enjoyable experience — whether you’re a buyer or a seller.

At the Barnett Real Estate Team, we’ve been following the latest COVID-19 safety protocols since the start of the pandemic. To learn more, read about What We Are Doing To Keep Our Clients Safe here.

We Typically Start Online

For our buyer clients, we suggest starting off your home showing process virtually. We call this stage our Market Education stage, and it takes place after our initial consultation. Once we’ve established a solid understanding of the types of properties you’re interested in, we present the listings we believe you’ll feel excited about via our virtual Market Education stage.

Here, we’ll detail all of the important features of each listing we’ve identified for you during an in-depth digital presentation and discussion. We’ll sort out what you like about the properties, what you dislike about the properties, and further inform you about the current state of the listings market to help you gain a better understanding of what you’re most likely to find available.

Once we’ve found a listing of interest that you want to view in more detail, we’ll book an in-person showing with the selling party. This way, we not only save on time by not having to physically visit each listing, but things are also much safer for everyone involved.

If you’re thinking about buying a home, you deserve to feel confident that your Realtor® is always looking out for your best interests. Learn more about How We Help Buyers here.

Showing Time Slots

No matter if you’re a buyer viewing a home in person or a seller navigating through the home showings process, every in-person home showing must follow a pre-established time slot guideline.

While this is no new invention in the world of real estate, gone are the days of mass open houses (for our team, anyway) and loosely scheduled showing periods. Today, we need to respect rigid rules need for the benefit of everyone’s health and safety.

The new guidelines are simple — there can only be one showing at a time with solely the potential buyers and their real estate representative present. Additionally, the showings must respect a 30-minute time block, with no overlap between showings.

Are you planning on selling your home for the first time? You’ve probably got a lot of questions. Read through Our Top 7 First Time Seller FAQs here, or Contact Us here to ask us anything more specific.

How to Prepare for a Showing for Sellers

When acting as listing agents, our team also insists on conducting a stringent set of COVID safety measures during each in-person home showing. No matter who they are, each person who enters a listing we’re showcasing must follow our precautionary measures.

For starters, face masks are mandatory for anyone on the premises. Additionally, we also place hand sanitizer dispensers at the primary entryway of the home and in other high-traffic areas as well.

Should there be any specific items or areas within a home the seller doesn’t want visiting potential buyers to touch, we place clear “No Touching” signs near or on them.

Selling a home is no easy task, even if it isn’t your first time around. To see how we help make the entire home selling process easier for our clients, learn more about how we help sellers from the link below or via our Seller’s Guide.

• How We Help Sellers
• Get Our Seller’s Guide

Your Home Away From Home

In order to mitigate the number of people present during a home showing, we always require our selling clients to leave their homes while potential buyers are viewing the property in person. Sometimes it’s just for a few hours, or occasionally it can be for the better part of a day or two.

However, in some instances, when our selling clients have an extensive amount of home showings scheduled over the course of a short period of time we’ll extend our services to find more comfortable accommodations for them that better suit the time period which they’ll be away from home for.

For example, should a selling client need to vacate their homes for a weekend, we would explore the option of putting them up in a hotel room nearby for the duration of their showings. We find this not only alleviates stress levels for our sellers but also allows us to not have to worry as much about timing issues from visiting buyers.

From a health and safety standpoint, knowing our selling clients are far away from any potential exposure to COVID during their home showings also offers us a lot of peace of mind. And from our client’s perspective, they’re able to enjoy the convenience of staying in one stable location during the showing process, which is especially meaningful to them if they have kids, pets, or work from home.

At the end of the day, it’s our goal to ensure all of our clients feel as safe, satisfied, and happy when working with us a possible.

Whether you want to buy or sell a home, the job of a professional Realtor ® is to make your entire experience as easy and enjoyable as possible. Learn more about Why You Should Work With a Realtor® here.

Summer is coming! The winter of 2022 seemed to last forever for some people. However, the last few weeks have shown us an inkling of what’s to come. 

Warm, sunny days will soon be here again, and with it brings time to celebrate and laugh with your family and friends. And what better way to enjoy the company of your favourite people than sitting on a patio, wiling away the hours as you munch on delectable meals. 

As long-time Milton residents, our team is well acquainted with many of the area’s best patios. And as a team of trusted local real estate agents, we’re also asked quite a bit about where our favourite spots in town are.

Great food is one of the best parts about living in Milton, but there are many things that make this city one of the best places to live:

• Thinking About Moving to Milton? Check Out These Area FAQs
• 5 Milton Parks to Visit This Spring
• 5 Fun Fall Activities in Milton and Burlington

When it comes to great places to eat, there are so many fantastic restaurants in Milton that it’s hard to narrow it down. However, here are a few of our top contenders:

Pasqualino

One of Milton’s most cherished fine dining Italian restaurants, Pasqualino has been serving up Milton locals their favourite classic Italian dishes since 2002.

Pasqualino’s elevated Italian cuisine is elegantly plated to picture-worthy perfection (with a show-stopping wine list to complement it.) Everything is made from scratch, and the bread is fresh-baked daily. You’ll find whatever you crave on the menu, from the antipasti to the wood fire pizzas. Do you prefer vegetarian or gluten-free options? Just ask, and the friendly staff will be happy to accommodate you.  

The food is spectacular and the vibe at Pasqualino is anything but stuffy. In true Italian style, Pasqualino matches high-brow food with a fun, laid-back atmosphere.

Pretty Rad 

Even more Milton patio fun is just a few doors down from Pasqualino at Pretty Rad Bar, a Tapas-inspired bar and restaurant located at 243 Main Street East.

This chilled-out Milton fan-favourite at the corner of Main and Martin is a fun time waiting to be had. If you enjoy casual Spanish-style cuisine and an extensive drinks selection, and Live music the Pretty Rad patio is right up your alley.

Head over this weekend for Milton’s best Tapas-inspired plates like Tempura Shrimp Tacos, Crispy Cauli Bites, and Sticky Mushroom Crostinis. Or try their creative cocktail selection, including Smoked Mezcal Negroni, Pisco Sour, Cotton Candy, Gold Rush and Spicy Rita.

Sushi-ya Japan

You won’t have to travel far from Pretty Rad to find the next stop on our Milton patio tour. Located at 8 Martin Street, Sushi-ya Japan is right around the corner. However, you might want to make a reservation because the word is out about one of the top Japanese and Korean restaurants in town.

The menu of this modest Milton sushi restaurant packs a real punch. The authentic dishes that fly out of the kitchen are as creative and colourful as they are delicious. Whether you’re in the mood for some Maki, craving some sashimi, or need a fix of your favourite rolls, the menu at Sushi-ya Japan has you covered.

Hang out with us at Sushi-ya’s quaint and cozy front patio and come try out our top-choice spot for sushi in Milton this summer. 

Troy’s Diner

Take a trip back in time to Milton’s most beloved retro-themed restaurant, Troy’s Diner. The patio is already open and no reservations are required. Featuring mid-century decor all the way down to the red and white checkered table cloths, you can rely on Troy’s for those fun vintage vibes every visit.

Situated back on Main Street East at number 295, there’s no missing this standout patio when you’re on Milton’s main strip.

A warm summer’s day on the Troy’s Diner patio wouldn’t be complete without indulging in a little Milkshake Mania. Troy’s takes classic ‘shakes to a whole new level with flavours like The Butter Tart Shake, The Donut Shake, and The Chocolate Chip Cookie Shake — just a few variations of his madly delicious dessert on the menu.

The Grand Chalet & Tony Spiducci’s Ristorante

One part event venue (The Grand Chalet), one part restaurant (Tony Spiducci’s Ristorante), this Milton establishment serves as a one-stop-shop destination for many of Milton’s biggest events. However, you don’t need to be celebrating a big occasion to stop by Tony Spiducci’s sunny patio.

This old-world-Italian-inspired trattoria offers traditional Italian-American food and refreshments to its many loyal Milton patrons. The warm and welcoming atmosphere of Tony Spiducci’s Ristorante alongside their reliably appetizing menu means they’re a perennial favourite among Milton locals.

EddieO’s Pourhouse & Kitchen

In the mood for some classic pub food? Say no more and make your next dinner reservation at EddieO’s Pourhouse & Kitchen at 370 Main Street East, Unit 1. Their generous outdoor patio space stretches the length of the EddieOs building and has ample room for all of your pub food favourites.

With a menu including up-scale takes on pub classics like the Brie L.T., BBQ Pulled Pork Sandwich, and Fish & Chips, there are lots of good times to be had on this Milton patio.

Are you ready to join in on all the fun we’re having in Milton? Our knowledge and expertise within the local real estate market can help you find the perfect home for you ahead of your Milton adventure. All you need to do is contact us here to let us know we can start looking.

The weather is warming up, which means it’s time to get outside and enjoy the great outdoors! Fortunately, Milton is home to some truly stunning parks, trails, and green spaces. There’s no better time to explore them than now—especially if you’ve been feeling a little cooped up as of late.

Here are five beautiful parks to visit in Milton when you could use some fresh air…

1) Kelso Conservation Area

At an incredible 981 acres, Kelso Conservation Area is a true refuge in the Milton area. Along with a lake, boardwalk, and sandy beach (complete with concessions), you’ll find no shortage of cycling and hiking trails. Kelso is known as a favourite destination for Ontario mountain bikers, while those who prefer to get their exercise on foot appreciate the fact that the Escarpment and Lime Kiln Trails are bike-free. When the fall rolls around, the leaves change spectacularly—and in the colder months, check out the ski hill!

Want to know some other exciting things you can do in Milton? Here are some ideas for you to try:

• Best Places Near Milton To Cool Off This Summer
• Fun Things To Do In Milton And Surrounding Area This Summer
• Our Complete Milton Patio Guide

2) Centennial Park

You don’t have to leave Milton to enjoy the great outdoors. In the heart of downtown, you’ll find Centennial Park. This beautiful urban green space features pretty Mill Pond, a sparkling reservoir that can be viewed from an iconic gazebo that’s positioned above the water. Ducks, geese, and other birds abound, making the area ideal for nature lovers. When you’re ready for a stroll, you can take a walk along the Jaycee Trail, which is both wide and scenic. Lastly, this a great place to go fishing—so grab your rods and your little ones!

3) Crawford Lake Conservation Area

It’s one of the crowned jewels of Milton and the surrounding area. Crawford Lake Conservation Area contains 232 pristine acres full of well-treed paths and stunning lookouts. If you’re interested in some historical fun, you can also check out the onsite longhouse village, which provides insight into 15th century Iroquoian culture. One of the best things about Crawford Lake is the fact it can be enjoyed in every season—so be sure to return for a visit in winter, when you can go for a snowshoe jaunt or cross-country ski.

4) Hilton Falls Conservation Area

Looking to enjoy the natural world close to home? Hilton Falls Conservation Area is just off the 401, making it a convenient place for some Saturday afternoon exploration. This pretty outdoor paradise is well known for its 10-metre waterfall, which features a convenient viewing station. A stunning 30 kilometres of trail are also well worth exploring, whether you’re on a bike or on foot.

5) Rattlesnake Point

If you’ve never been to Rattlesnake Point before, now is the time to check it out. This outdoor oasis, which features a handful of beautiful trails, offers incredible views of the Niagara Escarpment. Whether you visit with friends, family, or on your own, be sure to take in the majestic, thousand-year-old trees. The area is also known for its turkey vultures, which can be seen soaring across the sky in the warmer months!

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

Are you looking for the perfect place to settle down? If you’re seeking small-town charm not far from the big city, Milton may be your best bet. From its incredible mix of homes to its overall high quality of life, this quaint community is one of the best places to live in Ontario.

If you’re considering moving to Milton, here’s what you should know…

General Milton FAQs

Not very familiar with Milton yet? Start getting to know the town by delving into the basics.

Where is Milton?

Milton is located in Ontario’s golden horseshoe, and it’s part of the GTA. The town sits about 56 kilometres from Toronto, making it a 40-minute drive via Highway 401. Needless to say, it’s highly convenient for those who want (or need) to be in Canada’s largest city on a semi-regular basis.

What region is Milton a part of?

Milton belongs to the Regional Municipality of Halton, along with the City of Burlington and the Towns of Oakville and Halton Hills. The area is nestled in between Toronto, Hamilton, and Lake Ontario—though it has a charm all its own.

What is the population of Milton?

Currently, there are over 110,000 people who call Milton home. The town is one of Canada’s fastest-growing communities, and there are plenty of new and exciting developments popping up to meet the needs of aspiring home buyers.

Who lives in Milton?

While Milton is home to residents from all walks of life, it’s especially popular with growing families. According to the most recent census, the average age here is 33.5—making for a relatively young population.

Milton Lifestyle Basics

Wondering what living in Milton is like? Here’s what to know about the quality of life available in town.

Schools in Milton

Part of Milton’s family-friendly appeal lies in its reputable local schools. Popular options include E.W. Foster School (which boasts top-notch EQAO scores) and Chris Hadfield Public School (which receives an impressive 7.3 from the Fraser Institute). Put simply, if ensuring that your kids get a great education is a major priority, living in Milton is worth considering.

What to do in Milton, Ontario

One of the best things about living in Milton is the access it provides to pretty parks and picturesque green spaces. Highlights include 323-acre Crawford Conservation Area (where you’ll find pristine forests and Niagara Escarpment views) and Kelso Conservation Area (with its gorgeous hiking and cycling trails). The town also contains a local section of the stunning Bruce Trail!

Where to eat in Milton

Few things bring people together like incredible food. Fortunately, Milton residents aren’t wanting for impressive dining options. Try La Toscana for pitch-perfect Italian, Marquee Steak House for hearty and flavourful fare, and Goodfellas for wood-fired pizzas that are a cut above your favourite chain.

Looking for the best of Milton? Read some of these articles to see what we’re currently loving:

• 5 Fun Fall Activities in Milton and Burlington
• Everything You Need to Know About Buying a House in Milton
• Our Complete Milton Patio Guide

Where to Live in Milton

If you decide to put down roots in Milton, choosing the right neighbourhood is going to be key. Home types, local schools, and the overall feel of a community—it’s important to think through it all when you’re finding the area that’s perfect for you.

Neighbourhoods to call home

From family-friendly Beaty to historical Old Milton to perfectly-planned Willmott, there’s something in Milton for everyone. You can learn all about the communities, homes, and price points that make this place so special right here in our real estate guide!

When you’re ready to learn more about living in one of Canada’s most sought-after towns, we’d love to be your local guides. Talking to local experts is the first step!

Ready to buy your ideal home in Milton? Get in touch to start taking advantage of our local expertise today!