elitere | Sep. 16, 2021
As more and more Canadians look to purchase real estate away from urban markets, it can feel overwhelming to purchase a vacation property that feels like a good investment as well. While Ontario’s real estate market continues to hold its value, there are still many untapped areas in the province where cottages and cabins are available.
Here are several hidden gem locations in Ontario that offer water-front properties and potential for a strong real estate investment:
Also known as the gateway to cottage country, Brock Township is about 100km North of Toronto. This beautiful town has three unique urban areas, Sunderland, Beaverton, and Cannington. Trent-Severn Waterway and Lake Simcoe make it perfect for reaching the waterfront vacation properties that you’ve always dreamt of. You’ll also get value for your money due to most homes being bigger with more backyard space.
Although Barry’s Bay remains hidden in a small village in west Ottawa, it offers some real estate options where you can relax away from the everyday hassles. Alternatively, you can select the areas near popular local attractions. You can own property either in the waterfront and the non-waterfront regions.
While it’s quieter than the nearby bustling Muskoka area but with similar Canadian terrain, Parry Sound is a beautiful area to buy a vacation real estate property. You can reach the town of Parry Sound from most of the surrounding lakes, so a trip to town won’t be a long and tedious journey. You will find everything from traditional cottages to mega-mansions and perfect waterfront views.
Haliburton County has become famous due to the vast number of tourists and cottage goers it attracts. You can enjoy a host of activities, including hiking, kayaking, canoeing, and fishing. Local restaurants also offer delicious meals that will leave you craving for more. You will also love the positioning of most cottages, since they provide a beautiful waterfront view and several trees surround your property for extra privacy.
Located in the southwest region of the province and the United States border, Windsor is one of Ontario’s best cities to purchase real estate. Notably, the population has been increasing over the last few years, and there are remarkable improvements in infrastructure. You will also enjoy various festivals, a breathtaking waterfront view, museums, and gardens. With all these factors, Windsor-Essex is a top choice for many investors.
Northwest of Toronto lies Sudbury, Manitoulin, and the French River. The area has hundreds of lakes, with Manitoulin Island having more than 100 of them offering a variety of water activities. You’ll also get various provincial parks. Depending on your preference, you can get either non-waterfront or waterfront properties.
If you’ve always wanted an island real estate property, you can get it in Thousand Islands. The islands are a perfect attraction for those who wish to engage in kayaking, skydiving, and even sky wood adventures in the expansive islands. Thousand Islands is one of the best places to invest in real estate as it offers something special for the whole family, so the demand for waterfront properties will keep increasing.
Kenora’s real estate market has consistently grown over the years, this small city positioned on the shores of Lake of the Woods sits between the Manitoba and Ontario border. There are two distinct markets that you can choose from, residential and waterfront properties. The waterfront properties have continuously increased in value. The growing tourism industry will also bring more amenities and investments in Kenora, so take advantage of these properties quickly.
The Rideau Lakes in Eastern Ontario has lots of hamlets and little villages, and it’s just an hour away from Ottawa. This area has approximately 500 kilometres of shoreline, making it a popular fishing spot. You’ll get lots of waterfront cottages available for sale as this area remains a hidden gem.
Thunder Bay scores highly in the ease of walking, taking transit, biking, access to health care, and its strong sports communities. Like other Canadian housing markets, Thunder Bay has seen an increase in demand for rural properties. Thunder Bay properties are good for those looking for a less dense area with a more spacious house.
If you are looking for a perfect vacation real estate property away from the urban areas, Ontario has several hidden gems. The above areas are some of the best waterfront properties that will give you a bang for your buck and are surrounded by many recreational activities and amenities.
