If you’ve ever walked through the fancier parts of Niagara-on-the-Lake or the West Vancouver district, you’re likely well aware of just how extravagant homes in Canada can be. From mega-mansions built into the sides of mountains to sprawling winery estates that exude a ‘Godfather’ aesthetic on steroids.
For this article, we’ve decided to explore some of the most expensive homes for sale in Canada. Why? Certainly not because they’re within most people’s price range. But sometimes, it’s nice to daydream about owning a house that looks like it’s straight out of an Avengers movie.
Plus, you never know. You could win the lottery jackpot twice in a row, making owning one of these opulent billionaire estates a real possibility. Sure, you’d still be house-poor, but who’s thinking about that when you’re enjoying the panoramic views these estates have to offer?
Here’s a look at some of the most expensive homes for sale in Canada right now.
Description: Let’s get to gawking at this “modern architectural masterpiece.”
1071 Groveland Road was crafted by Mcleod Bovell Modern Houses, which unless you buy a lot of luxury properties, probably means nothing to you.
Perched on a ‘gently sloped’ lot (which is estate-speak for a hill), this concrete behemoth offers sweeping views of Downtown Vancouver and the Ocean. Perfect for those moments when you can’t decide if you’re more of a city or a sea person.
Love massive aluminum glass pivot doors? Who doesn’t? Push them open and boom! You’re in an outdoor space that’s so decked out, Mothat ther Nature herself will be sliding into your DMs.
It’s also got a 25-foot roof overhang, BBQ area, multiple fire pits, and, you guessed it, an infinity pool. It’s like they tried to cram every Pinterest dream into one backyard, and we’re not hating it.
If you’ve got a few million lying around and fancy living in a place where you need GPS to find your bedroom, 1071 Groveland Rd. is calling you, friend.
Address: The St. David’s Bench of Niagara on the Lake
Description: Yeah, so, as you can see, this estate is beyond stunning. Built in 2008, this 31,000-square-foot marvel is basically a slice of Italian paradise nestled in Niagara.
The vineyard? Oh, it’s just meticulously maintained to perfection and probably has its own personal trainer or something.
The winery itself is dripping in Romanesque vibes, giving off those ‘old world’ feelings that most of us only experience through a history book.
The view? A panoramic masterpiece from the top of the St. David’s Bench appellation. It’s like watching HD TV but in real life. And the wines? From Vidal to Syrah, and even a Sparkling wine that’s probably fancier than any champagne you’ve ever had.
Now, here’s the kicker: This house is being sold with a stash of unlabeled wine. No branding, no logos. As if this place already wasn’t enough of a wine lover’s paradise.
As for the rest of us? We’ll just be over here, daydreaming about sipping vino in that vineyard and pretending we didn’t max out our credit card last weekend.
Description: Ever felt cold? Well, this home’s 17 fireplaces will warm you up — forever. Seriously though, you could have a different fireside chat every night for over two weeks. Now, that’s wealth.
If King Louis the 14th of France were alive today, he’d probably vacation in a spot like this, which was made with stones from Lake Champlain. Why? Because regular stones just aren’t enough when aiming for a $20 million price tag.
Every bedroom has lake views, every single one. So, you have something to look at while you’re waiting for your pizza delivery.
Speaking of which, the home actually has a Loggia Pizza kitchen. So, really you should be making your own artisanal, wood-fired pizza at home.
Despite all its bells and whistles, this home, which used to be owned by NHL legend Mario Lemieux, has been on the market for a hot minute. Since 2018 in fact. Worse yet, it’s actually gone up in price. It used to be $22 million.
Description: Located in the “I-can’t-believe-it’s-this-pretty” Foothills County of Alberta, this place is about as Yellowstone of an aesthetic as one can obtain without morphing spontaneously into Kevin Costner.
What happens when you mix European high tea with a Wild West rodeo? This home. Seriously, the 480-acre ranch is like if James Bond traded in his tux for cowboy boots.
Got a big family? And a long list of moochers, who can’t take a hint? No worries this place has a total of 23 bedrooms and 43 bathrooms. So you could always stuff them into one of yours every weekend.
It’s got a very low-key equestrian arena, and by that we mean full-size and indoors. Why let Canadian weather mess with your gallop game, right?
All that pales in comparison to the property’s 11-acre lake and replica western town, which will make you feel like you’ve died and gone to a spaghetti western heaven.
Description High above Alta Lake is where you’ll find 5462 Stonebridge Dr. Uh, you’ll know it when you see it.
Set on a vast 7.625-acre lot, this architectural masterpiece melds seamlessly with its surroundings, echoing the mountains in its design. If Iron Man wasn’t as dead as a doorknob in the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU), he’d probably live here.
Inside, the home’s spiral layout offers glimpses of a futuristic inner courtyard. That’s an Avengers-level flex right there.
The views are pretty chill, with breathtaking vistas of the lake and the iconic Whistler and Blackcomb slopes, yada-yada.
Let’s get back to the courtyard. It’s got three illuminating light cannons. What the hell are those? Well, they’re not just art; they actually light up the home’s wine room and spa because, you know, it has both of those.
The living room, with its majestic forty-foot granite fireplace, is quite a sight to behold. But, it’s the home’s 82′ infinity pool that merges with the mountains that does it for us.
MONTREAL – Two Quebec real estate brokers are facing fines and years-long suspensions for submitting bogus offers on homes to drive up prices during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Christine Girouard has been suspended for 14 years and her business partner, Jonathan Dauphinais-Fortin, has been suspended for nine years after Quebec’s authority of real estate brokerage found they used fake bids to get buyers to raise their offers.
Girouard is a well-known broker who previously starred on a Quebec reality show that follows top real estate agents in the province.
She is facing a fine of $50,000, while Dauphinais-Fortin has been fined $10,000.
The two brokers were suspended in May 2023 after La Presse published an article about their practices.
One buyer ended up paying $40,000 more than his initial offer in 2022 after Girouard and Dauphinais-Fortin concocted a second bid on the house he wanted to buy.
This report by The Canadian Press was first published Sept. 11, 2024.
MONTREAL – The Quebec Professional Association of Real Estate Brokers says Montreal-area home sales rose 9.3 per cent in August compared with the same month last year, with levels slightly higher than the historical average for this time of year.
The association says home sales in the region totalled 2,991 for the month, up from 2,737 in August 2023.
The median price for all housing types was up year-over-year, led by a six per cent increase for the price of a plex at $763,000 last month.
The median price for a single-family home rose 5.2 per cent to $590,000 and the median price for a condominium rose 4.4 per cent to $407,100.
QPAREB market analysis director Charles Brant says the strength of the Montreal resale market contrasts with declines in many other Canadian cities struggling with higher levels of household debt, lower savings and diminishing purchasing power.
Active listings for August jumped 18 per cent compared with a year earlier to 17,200, while new listings rose 1.7 per cent to 4,840.
This report by The Canadian Press was first published Sept. 6, 2024.
In the quest to find cities where renters can enjoy the best of all worlds, a recent study analyzed 24 metrics across three key categories—Housing & Economy, Quality of Life, and Community. The study ranked the 100 largest cities in Canada to determine which ones offer the most to their renters.
Here are the top 10 cities that emerged as the best for renters in 2024:
St. John’s, NL
St. John’s, Newfoundland and Labrador, stand out as the top city for renters in Canada for 2024. Known for its vibrant cultural scene, stunning natural beauty, and welcoming community, St. John’s offers an exceptional quality of life. The city boasts affordable housing, a robust economy, and low unemployment rates, making it an attractive option for those seeking a balanced and enriching living experience. Its rich history, picturesque harbour, and dynamic arts scene further enhance its appeal, ensuring that renters can enjoy both comfort and excitement in this charming coastal city.
Sherbrooke, QC
Sherbrooke, Quebec, emerges as a leading city for renters in Canada for 2024, offering a blend of affordability and quality of life. Nestled in the heart of the Eastern Townships, Sherbrooke is known for its picturesque landscapes, vibrant cultural scene, and strong community spirit. The city provides affordable rental options, low living costs, and a thriving local economy, making it an ideal destination for those seeking both comfort and economic stability. With its rich history, numerous parks, and dynamic arts and education sectors, Sherbrooke presents an inviting environment for renters looking for a well-rounded lifestyle.
Québec City, QC
Québec City, the capital of Quebec, stands out as a premier destination for renters in Canada for 2024. Known for its rich history, stunning architecture, and vibrant cultural heritage, this city offers an exceptional quality of life. Renters benefit from affordable housing, excellent public services, and a robust economy. The city’s charming streets, historic sites, and diverse culinary scene provide a unique living experience. With top-notch education institutions, numerous parks, and a strong sense of community, Québec City is an ideal choice for those seeking a dynamic and fulfilling lifestyle.
Trois-Rivières, QC
Trois-Rivières, nestled between Montreal and Quebec City, emerges as a top choice for renters in Canada. This historic city, known for its picturesque riverside views and rich cultural scene, offers an appealing blend of affordability and quality of life. Renters in Trois-Rivières enjoy reasonable housing costs, a low unemployment rate, and a vibrant community atmosphere. The city’s well-preserved historic sites, bustling arts community, and excellent educational institutions make it an attractive destination for those seeking a balanced and enriching lifestyle.
Saguenay, QC
Saguenay, located in the stunning Saguenay–Lac-Saint-Jean region of Quebec, is a prime destination for renters seeking affordable living amidst breathtaking natural beauty. Known for its picturesque fjords and vibrant cultural scene, Saguenay offers residents a high quality of life with lower housing costs compared to major urban centers. The city boasts a strong sense of community, excellent recreational opportunities, and a growing economy. For those looking to combine affordability with a rich cultural and natural environment, Saguenay stands out as an ideal choice.
Granby, QC
Granby, nestled in the heart of Quebec’s Eastern Townships, offers renters a delightful blend of small-town charm and ample opportunities. Known for its beautiful parks, vibrant cultural scene, and family-friendly environment, Granby provides an exceptional quality of life. The city’s affordable housing market and strong sense of community make it an attractive option for those seeking a peaceful yet dynamic place to live. With its renowned zoo, bustling downtown, and numerous outdoor activities, Granby is a hidden gem that caters to a diverse range of lifestyles.
Fredericton, NB
Fredericton, the capital city of New Brunswick, offers renters a harmonious blend of historical charm and modern amenities. Known for its vibrant arts scene, beautiful riverfront, and welcoming community, Fredericton provides an excellent quality of life. The city boasts affordable housing options, scenic parks, and a strong educational presence with institutions like the University of New Brunswick. Its rich cultural heritage, coupled with a thriving local economy, makes Fredericton an attractive destination for those seeking a balanced and fulfilling lifestyle.
Saint John, NB
Saint John, New Brunswick’s largest city, is a coastal gem known for its stunning waterfront and rich heritage. Nestled on the Bay of Fundy, it offers renters an affordable cost of living with a unique blend of historic architecture and modern conveniences. The city’s vibrant uptown area is bustling with shops, restaurants, and cultural attractions, while its scenic parks and outdoor spaces provide ample opportunities for recreation. Saint John’s strong sense of community and economic growth make it an inviting place for those looking to enjoy both urban and natural beauty.
Saint-Hyacinthe, QC
Saint-Hyacinthe, located in the Montérégie region of Quebec, is a vibrant city known for its strong agricultural roots and innovative spirit. Often referred to as the “Agricultural Technopolis,” it is home to numerous research centers and educational institutions. Renters in Saint-Hyacinthe benefit from a high quality of life with access to excellent local amenities, including parks, cultural events, and a thriving local food scene. The city’s affordable housing and close-knit community atmosphere make it an attractive option for those seeking a balanced and enriching lifestyle.
Lévis, QC
Lévis, located on the southern shore of the St. Lawrence River across from Quebec City, offers a unique blend of historical charm and modern conveniences. Known for its picturesque views and well-preserved heritage sites, Lévis is a city where history meets contemporary living. Residents enjoy a high quality of life with excellent public services, green spaces, and cultural activities. The city’s affordable housing options and strong sense of community make it a desirable place for renters looking for both tranquility and easy access to urban amenities.
This category looked at factors such as average rent, housing costs, rental availability, and unemployment rates. Québec stood out with 10 cities ranking at the top, demonstrating strong economic stability and affordable housing options, which are critical for renters looking for cost-effective living conditions.
Québec again led the pack in this category, with five cities in the top 10. Ontario followed closely with three cities. British Columbia excelled in walkability, with four cities achieving the highest walk scores, while Caledon topped the list for its extensive green spaces. These factors contribute significantly to the overall quality of life, making these cities attractive for renters.
Victoria, BC, emerged as the leader in this category due to its rich array of restaurants, museums, and educational institutions, offering a vibrant community life. St. John’s, NL, and Vancouver, BC, also ranked highly. Québec City, QC, and Lévis, QC, scored the highest in life satisfaction, reflecting a strong sense of community and well-being. Additionally, Saskatoon, SK, and Oshawa, ON, were noted for having residents with lower stress levels.
For a comprehensive view of the rankings and detailed interactive visuals, you can visit the full study by Point2Homes.
While no city can provide a perfect living experience for every renter, the cities highlighted in this study come remarkably close by excelling in key areas such as housing affordability, quality of life, and community engagement. These findings offer valuable insights for renters seeking the best places to live in Canada in 2024.
