Although it’s located just outside of the Greater Toronto Area, Durham Region, along with next door Kawartha Lakes and Northumberland County is not your typical suburban area. More than 2,500 square kilometres in size, Durham Region is a (really) big place. Along with a whole lot of nature and wide open space, it’s home to a wide blend of communities and property types – including rural homes. However, in a real estate landscape as vast and diverse as Durham Region, Kawartha Lakes, and Northumberland County, what do rural house hunters need to know before they head to the market?
Here’s the thing, everyone has their own definition of rural. For some, rural could mean a quaint small town with a rustic feel. For others, it could mean something completely secluded on a multi-acre lot.
In this blog, we’ll highlight some of the area’s smaller communities (think less than 1000 or so residents) and pockets across the region where you can find homes that are tucked away even from their closest neighbours.
Durham, Kawartha, & Northumberland’s Rural Lifestyle
Before touching on where you can find rural homes in Durham Region, Kawartha Lakes, or Northumberland County, it’s important to note that not all country homes are the same. Yes, this region is home to plenty of farms and agricultural properties, but that’s far from the only type of property to be found out here. For instance, thanks to the area’s unique geography, there are lots of amazing waterfront homes in Durham Region, Kawartha Lakes, and Northumberland County – many of which have charming, lakehouse-inspired ambience. You’ll also find cabin-style homes sitting on densely forested lots.
On the hunt for insights on Durham Region real estate? Have a look at these related blogs for more information.
- How High is the Demand For Rental Properties in Durham Region?
- Is Now the Right Time to Buy a Home in Durham & Kawartha Lakes?
- Everything to Know About Downsizing in Durham Region & Kawartha Lakes
Blackstock
Located on the east side of Lake Scugog, Blackstock is a small, laidback community that’s just shy of 800 residents. With a friendly atmosphere and a strong sense of identity, Blackstock draws a healthy mix of residents including young families, farmers, and even some retirees too. While many residents commute to Port Perry or Peterborough for work, community pride is big here. Local events like The Blackstock Fair and Demolition Derby are must-attends.
Greenbank & Seagrave
On the other side of the Scugog Basin just north of Port Perry, Greenbank and Seagrave are two relatively small hamlets with a similar atmosphere. Perfect for anyone looking to escape the bustle of city life while still having a few local amenities at their doorstep, Greenbank and Seagrave offer a balanced rural lifestyle. While these two communities certainly have a small-town feel, the larger country-sized lots and abundance of tall, mature trees add an extra degree of privacy and seclusion.
Northumberland County
On the east end of Durham Region along the shores of Lake Ontario is Northumberland County. While this area is perhaps most known for its incredible scenery and outdoor recreation (Northumberland County has over 350 lakes and rivers!), it’s also a wonderful place to call home. Communities like Cobourg, Brighton, and Campbellford are charming and rustic – offering a little bit of walkability and convenience to the rural atmosphere. Of course, you’ll also find plenty of secluded farm lots, waterfront cottages, and other country properties here too.
Little Britain
Heading a little further north, Little Britain is a laid-back country community located roughly halfway between Port Perry and Lindsay. A few kilometres removed from the shores of the Scugog Basin, Little Britain is known more for its charming rustic ambience than being a waterfront hotspot.
If you’re just driving through, Little Britain might seem like a mostly agricultural community at first glance, however, there’s a wide variety of people who call the area home. Yes, there are working farms, but most residents are families, early retirees, and first-time home buyers attracted to the community’s country energy and pastoral vibe. Thanks to its unique location, Little Britain is also fairly commuter-friendly.
Thinking about buying a rural home in Durham Region, Kawartha Lakes, or Northumberland County? You may find these other blog posts from our team helpful.
- 5 Things to Love About Waterfront Living
- How to Maximize Your First Home By Moving Away From Toronto
- 5 Tips For Transitioning to Life in a Small Town
Ready to Find the Perfect Rural Home?
A naturally beautiful, down-to-earth part of Ontario, there are few places like Durham Region, Kawartha Lakes, or Northumberland County to call home – whatever that may look like to you. With a wide range of communities, friendly residents and of course, great (and affordable) homes, the local quality of life is second to none.
That said, if you’re not super familiar with the area, finding the right home for you can be a challenge. Luckily, we’re here to help!
With more than 175 years of combined experience in our local market, we know everything there is to know about Durham Region real estate. Whatever you’re looking for in a rural home, be it a working farm, waterfront cottage, or simply a charming place to raise a family, we can help you find it.
Searching for the perfect place to call home? We can help. Call 905-985-7300 to reach our team or click here to send us an email.
Stay Connected
With local real estate when you sign up for our newsletter. Join our mailing list here to get updates on the latest listings and expert insights.
