Living amongst natural beauty is no longer just for ascetics in cabins—luxury housing options are popping in nature-adjacent towns all over the country from Northern California to western Colorado to South Carolina.
The increase comes as more Americans seek alternatives to the fast-paced lifestyles of big cities and long for the tranquility of smaller cities and nature.
Whether you’re looking for something in the mountains or on the Atlantic coast, here are some new developments in some of America’s most beautiful retreats to check out.
Summit Blue, located along the Blue River in Silverthorne, Colorado, will offer single-family … [+] residences and townhomes all within walking distance of downtown’s cultural and retail offerings.
Slifer Smith & Frampton Real Estate
Summit Blue in Silverthorne, Colorado
Situated along 350 feet of the Blue River in Silverthorne, Colorado, Summit Blue will offer single-family residences and townhomes all within walking distance of downtown’s cultural and retail offerings.
An hour west of Denver, Silverthorne is a year-round destination for outdoor activities like skiing, snowshoeing and snowboarding in the winter or hiking, biking and rafting in the summer.
A rendering of an open-concept kitchen for the Summit Blue development, which features single-family … [+] and townhouse residences.
Slifer Smith & Frampton Real Estate
Single-family homes will feature three levels with four bedrooms, 3.5 bathrooms and 2,331 square feet. Amenities will include a modern fireplace, walk-in closets and an outdoor deck.
Townhomes are designed with four levels, including a two-car garage on the bottom floor. With three bedrooms and 3.5 bathrooms within a total of 1,809 square feet, these spacious homes also feature a heated rooftop deck with panoramic views of the Gore Range.
All housing options at Summit Blue come with private access to the Blue River, a tranquil river … [+] known for its trout fishing.
Slifer Smith & Frampton Real Estate
All housing options come with private access to the Blue River, a tranquil river known for its trout fishing. Pricing starts at $1.195 million.
Phase One of Summit Blue has already sold out, but opportunities to buy for Phase Two are now available.
Railroad tracks lead west out of the town of Truckee, California
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The Railyard in Truckee, California
After eight years of planning and three years of infrastructure improvements complete, The Railyard in Truckee, California, is set to begin vertical development.
Truckee, a quiet ski-resort town, is located just 20 minutes away from Lake Tahoe.
The Truckee Railyard Project will double the size of the downtown area by adding a combination of workforce housing and commercial, retail and civic spaces, transforming it into a high-density, walkable city center.
An aerial view of the Truckee Railyard project, east of downtown Truckee.
San Francisco Chronicle via Getty Images
Instead of creating more sprawl, the plans utilize a vacant tract of rail yard alongside the downtown, hence the project’s name.
Proposals for the Truckee Railyard Project first began to address the towns growing population—the number of full-time Truckee residents has doubled in the last thirty years and is showing no signs of slowing down.
The development of the Railyard also aims to correct the town’s affordability issues by providing more workforce housing as well as mixed-use “artist lofts.”
Alongside fixing gaps in the region’s marketplace, the addition of commercial and retail opportunities will make this already beloved town an even more desirable location to live or visit.
The Waterfront on Daniel Island has entered Phase 2 of its development, with four more phases to … [+] follow.
After two years of construction, Phase One was completed in March, with 80 of 300 condos and townhouses completed. Development plans for Phase 2 are now in motion, with four more phases to come in the following years.
A rooftop terrace at the Waterfront development in Daniel Island takes in a view of the nearby Wando … [+] River Bridge.
East West Partners
Located along the Wando River, this 22-acre mixed-use community offers amenities like waterfront restaurants, parks and community events, all with an emphasis on the lowcountry lifestyle that makes Charleston such a sought-after destination.
Available condos for sale range from one to three-bedroom floor-plans across three residences—Egret, Osprey and Heron. Two of the 24 residences remain at Egret, and three remain at the Osprey. All of the residences at the Heron have sold.
Two of the 24 residences remain at the Waterfront’s Egret section, and three remain at the Osprey. … [+] All of the residences at the Heron section have sold.
East West Partners
A collection of 13 townhome residences are offered in the Sandpiper and Kingfisher floor plans. Spread across three floors, all townhomes are approximately 3,500 square feet and feature two private terraces, two-car garages and linear pools.
These townhome residences are all sold out as well.
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.
