For Al Figueiredo, the scenic drive down highway 116 to Crystal Beach was enough to convince him to leave Toronto.
The school teacher who splits his time between remote work and working in the city, decided to leave Toronto’s Trinity Bellwoods neighbourhood in late June for Fort Erie, Ont.
Figueiredo says the extra space, newer home and slower pace of life were worth the punishing one-and-a-half to two-hour drive to Toronto. Even if Zoom classes end and Figueiredo is expected to return to the classroom full-time, he says he prefers the company of his commuting radio station CHFI to cheerless interactions with neighbours in the city.
As prices rise in the suburbs of major Canadian cities, telecommuting workers like Figueiredo are looking further afield than what would be typically considered a “comfortable” commute.
Before the pandemic began, a survey by staffing firm Robert Half suggested that about 36 per cent of commuters felt their commute was too long, with respondents’ commutes averaging 53 minutes each day — far less than the three to four hours of Figueiredo’s round trip.
Telecommuting — normalized by lockdowns during the COVID-19 pandemic — helps. But the rising cost of buying a home in the suburbs also plays a role.
Brenda and Jeff Suggett prepared earlier this year to move from St. Catharines to Burlington, Ont., to be closer to Suggett’s job. The pandemic meant that more Toronto dwellers were looking to buy in St. Catharines, boding well for the sale of their house. But purchasing in Burlington was another story — the closer to Toronto, the higher the prices, Brenda Suggett said. Instead, they also moved to Fort Erie — thanks to Jeff’s job going to a mostly remote model.
There is some data to suggest that as downtown dwellers look for more spacious abodes in the suburbs, suburbanites, in turn, are seeing home prices rise in their neighbourhoods.
4:11 Getting buyers’ attention on the housing market
Getting buyers’ attention on the housing market
Brokerage Zoocasa estimates that the areas in greater Toronto that set new records in home prices in August were farthest from the city centre: Ajax, Burlington, Brampton, Clarington, Essa, Halton Hills, Innisfil, Mississauga, New Tecumseth, Oshawa and Scugog and Whitby.
Other major cities are also seeing the affordability gap widening in the suburbs.
Median prices of single-family homes were up 27 per cent year-over-year in August in the North Shore suburb of Montreal, and 38 per cent in Saint-Jean-sur-Richelieu, according to the Quebec Professional Association of Real Estate Brokers.
Montreal suburbs can offer newer builds than homes closer to the city, while chalets are also in demand if they have waterfront access, says Audrey Tam, residential real estate broker at Re/Max Crystal in Saint-Eustache, Que.
In B.C., the areas of Sunshine Coast, Bowen Island, and Burnaby East all saw one-year price surges in August on par with North and East Vancouver. The Fraser Valley Real Estate Board had its best sales numbers in 15 years in August.
Real Estate Board of Greater Vancouver chairwoman Colette Gerber says she doesn’t see evidence of a mass exodus from Vancouver, since so many city-centre neighbourhoods are hot. She says that most buyers report wanting to move within their own neighbourhoods.
But Kristy Mattiazzo, an agent at Sutton-Centre Realty in the Vancouver area, notes that’s not always possible.
“With the pricing high as it is, and continuing to rise, people go wherever their money will allow. One municipality will be, ideally, wanting to move to the next, adjacent municipality. Money will dictate that and sometimes it will not work that way, with low inventory and prices continuing to rise,” says Mattiazzo.
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4:32 What houses are millennials in the market for?
What houses are millennials in the market for?
With future rail expansions and condo buildings a while away, and telecommuting becoming the norm, Mattiazzo says she does not see the “waves” of people moving farther from the cities as a temporary trend.
“Where are people going to go, with prices on the rise? Why would you sell your house to pay equal or more?”
Back in Al Figueiredo’s new hometown of Fort Erie, average prices are up 28 per cent from last year, owing in part to new developments, says Deanna Gunter, broker and manager at Royal LePage NRC Realty, Brokerage in Niagara-on-the-Lake and Niagara Falls.
“We are seeing competing offers on properties in every municipality across the region. Some of the higher-end are people moving out of Toronto,” says Gunter.
“First-time buyers, a lot of times, are more local people getting into the market. Because the prices are up this year and in the past four or five years, it’s very difficult for young people and first time buyers to get into the market.”
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.
