7 Best Cities Near Toronto For New Immigrants To Move In!

Burlington

Burlington, close to Toronto, is the ideal location for people who desire to live in a big city close to nature and the great outdoors. Many schools, universities, and healthcare services are available to residents, making for a decent quality of life. The average home in Burlington costs approximately $500,000, four and a half times the average income. The city’s diverse economic basis contributes to its economic stability and guarantees that work opportunities are consistently available across many sectors. The commuter train between downtown Burlington and central Burlington makes it simple to reach Toronto from Burlington.

Oakville

Oakville, a charming suburban community in southern Ontario, is particularly proud of its excellent location in the Halton Region on Lake Ontario, which provides residents with simple access to Toronto’s metropolitan center and natural wonders on the one hand. Toronto’s downtown is only 30 minutes away by car from Oakville, and it takes an hour to get to Niagara Falls and the US border. There is no shortage of things to do for those who enjoy the arts, culture, and music. There are many leisure options in the neighborhood. For example, seven golf courses are available for play, including the PGA-recognized Glen Abbey Golf Course, which has frequently hosted the Canadian Open.

Hamilton

With a population of 536,917, Hamilton is Ontario’s fifth most significant city in Ontario. Hamilton is a Steel Capital of Canada because 60% of the country’s steel is produced in the city. No doubt, employment opportunities abound. Hamilton is also an important educational hub, with various higher education institutions within its limits.

Windsor

Windsor is a city in transformation. It is a growing city with a population of over 210,000. Residents of Windsor are known as Windsorites. Windsor Castle is the oldest and largest occupied castle in the world. It is a tourist attraction open to visitors all year round. The Queen spends most of her weekends at the castle. But, if you decide to make Windsor your home, you may catch a glimpse of Her Royal Majesty!

Barrie

Barrie was once known as a bedroom community because it is close enough to Toronto for people who work there to commute. People can live in Barrie and easily go to work in Toronto. Barrie is approximately 10 minutes from Highway 400. With a population of 153,356, Barrie is a small but beautiful city to live happily in. Barrie is known for its annual events like the Barrie Waterfront Festival, the Barrie Film Festival, and the Winterfest.

Guelph

Guelph has a population of about 135,474 people. It is known as the Royal City in honor of the British Royal family. Most people choose to live in this location because it’s affordable and is close to Toronto and Waterloo. It is a clean city with good options for outdoor living. Guelph is known for its limestone architecture, dynamic culture, and high standard of living.

Waterloo

Waterloo has a population of 113,520 and a healthy mix of immigrants. It is close to Toronto but is less crowded than Toronto and Ottawa. People often live in Waterloo because they cannot afford Toronto but love to see the bustle of Toronto. There are beautiful race and golf courses for lovers of the outdoors. All year round, Waterloo hosts various sporting events.

The Ultimate Guide to Buying Your First House in Ontario: 10 Essential Tips for First-Time Buyers

Buying your first house is an exciting milestone, but it can also be a complex and overwhelming process. As a first-time buyer in Ontario, it’s important to have a solid understanding of the local real estate market, financing options, and legal requirements. In this ultimate guide, we will provide you with essential tips and information to help you confidently navigate the journey of purchasing your first home in Ontario.

1. Determine Your Budget:

  • Assess your financial situation and determine how much you can afford to spend on a house.
  • Consider additional costs such as down payment, closing costs, property taxes, and ongoing maintenance expenses.
  • Use online mortgage calculators to estimate monthly mortgage payments based on different interest rates and down payment amounts.

2. Get Pre-Approved for a Mortgage:

  • Before you start house hunting, get pre-approved for a mortgage to understand how much financing you can secure.
  • Contact multiple lenders to compare interest rates, terms, and conditions.
  • A pre-approval letter strengthens your position as a serious buyer and helps you make competitive offers.

3. Research the Housing Market:

  • Familiarize yourself with the real estate market in the specific areas of Ontario where you wish to buy.
  • Research recent sales prices, market trends, and average time properties stay on the market.
  • Consider factors such as neighborhood amenities, transportation options, schools, and proximity to your workplace.

4. Engage a Real Estate Agent:

  • Work with a qualified and experienced real estate agent who specializes in first-time buyers.
  • Agents can provide valuable insights, guide you through the process, and help negotiate the best deal.
  • Ensure the agent is registered with the Real Estate Council of Ontario (RECO).

5. Consider Government Programs:

  • Ontario offers various programs to support first-time homebuyers, such as the First-Time Home Buyer Incentive and the Land Transfer Tax Refund for First-Time Homebuyers.
  • Research and understand the eligibility criteria and benefits of these programs.

6. Conduct Property Inspections:

  • Once you find a potential house, hire a professional inspector to assess its condition.
  • Inspections help identify any structural issues, plumbing or electrical problems, and potential future expenses.
  • Use the inspection report to negotiate repairs or price reductions, if necessary.

7. Seek Legal Advice:

  • Engage a real estate lawyer to review all legal documents and contracts related to the property purchase.
  • A lawyer will ensure a smooth transaction, protect your interests, and address any legal concerns.

8. Make an Offer and Negotiate:

  • Work closely with your real estate agent to determine a competitive offer price based on market analysis.
  • Negotiate with the seller on price, closing date, and any additional terms or conditions.
  • Be prepared for counteroffers and stay within your budget limits.

9. Finalize the Purchase:

  • Once your offer is accepted, finalize the mortgage arrangements with your lender.
  • Complete all necessary paperwork and provide the required documentation to your lawyer.
  • Arrange for a final walkthrough of the property before closing to ensure everything is in order.

10. Closing and Moving In:

  •  On the closing day, your lawyer will handle the transfer of funds and the property registration in your name.
  • Receive the keys to your new home and celebrate your accomplishment!
  • Plan your move-in logistics, such as hiring movers, setting up utilities, and updating your address.

Buying your first house in Ontario can be a fulfilling and rewarding experience with proper planning and guidance. By following the essential tips outlined in this ultimate guide, you can navigate the process with confidence, make informed decisions, and turn your dream of homeownership into a reality. Remember to seek advice from professionals, stay within your budget.

Mississauga Location

268 Derry Rd W Unit 101, Mississauga, ON L5W 0H6