Real estate in Toronto is famously competitive. As housing costs continue to rise, many buyers – especially those who are trying to get into the market for the first time, are looking outside city limits for opportunities. 

One hot spot that’s been picking up steam with these kinds of relocators is Durham Region and the Kawartha Lakes. Out here, not only is homeownership totally possible, but many buyers are actually able to meet or even exceed their expectations. 

If you’re looking to maximize your first home without going over budget, here’s what you need to know about buying in our neck of the woods. 

Thinking about selling your home in Durham Region or the Kawartha Lakes? Click here to read how incoming buyers from the GTA are adding life to our local market

The Scoop on Durham Region & the Kawartha Lakes

Nestled just east of the Greater Toronto Area, Durham Region and the Kawartha Lakes make up a picturesque collection of municipalities. Ranging from towns and villages to small hamlets and even cottage communities, there’s a little bit of everything out here. Once a hidden gem among relocators looking for more space, the secret’s been slowly getting out in recent years.

As real estate in Ontario’s urban hubs has become more competitive, this part of the province has welcomed a steadily growing wave of relocators. While yes, many homes and properties here are more affordable than in Toronto, that’s by no means the only attraction. 


Thinking about buying your first home? Start with these pages from our site. 


Meet Your Needs & More

With more affordable costs of living in Durham Region and the Kawartha Lakes, you’ll have a greater chance of landing everything on your home wishlist – and then some.

That said, one thing that makes our real estate market unique is diversity. While housing in Toronto can be dynamic, buyers are often surprised by the sheer variety of inventory they have to pick from out here. From traditional detached homes to hobby farms, charming cottage-style bungalows and everything in between, you’ll have the opportunity to be more selective in where you lay your roots. 

Have Room to Breathe 

Of course, no blog post about life in Durham Region and the Kawartha Lakes would be complete without mentioning the incredible local beauty and wide open space. Compared to the city, you’ll have a lot more room to breathe.

You can wave goodbye to the prospect of pacing around a cramped condo. Not only can your existing budget help you land more square footage than you might in Toronto, but there’s a good chance you’ll be able to have a front or backyard as well. 

Maximize Without Sacrifice

Relocating beyond the GTA doesn’t have to mean losing connection with the city – both from a lifestyle and accessibility perspective.

Durham Region & the Kawartha Lakes have a handful of vibrant communities that feature upbeat and charming downtown regions complete with fun nightlife and an amazing range of cultural amenities. In local hubs like Port Perry, Uxbridge, and Lindsay, you’ll find galleries, studios, theatres, and other live entertainment venues. 

When you do need to head into the city, you’ll have plenty of options for getting there. If you don’t feel like driving, GO Transit and VIA Rail provide regular connections to downtown Toronto and beyond. Or if you’re looking to get around locally, Durham Region Transit provides reliable bus services to other communities in the area. 


Want to get to know some of the amazing enclaves in Durham Region & the Kawartha Lakes? Check out these community guides from our site. 


Buying With Local Experts

If you’re looking to get more bang for your buck on your first home, Durham Region and the Kawartha Lakes are great places to buy. Not only is real estate more reasonably priced compared to the big city but with our scenic, exciting communities and endlessly fantastic homes, the lifestyle is simply second to none. 

If you’re not familiar with our particular stomping grounds, knowing where to look for your future home can be difficult. That’s why you’ll want to work with local experts – like us! 

Around here, there’s a perfect home for everyone and we’d be honoured to help you find yours. Whenever you’re ready to get started on your new chapter, we’re here to help. 

Ready to discover your future in Durham Region & the Kawartha Lakes? We’ll help you find your dream home. Call 905-985-7300 or send an email to hello@liveplayinvest.com

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