There’s no getting around it. Summer is over, and winter will be here before we know it. Luckily, autumn has a lot to offer in our corner of the world. We can’t get enough of the changing landscapes, cozy sweaters, and warming beverages—and it doesn’t end there. This season, there are all kinds of planned activities to enjoy in our area.

Here are seven fun things to do in Milton and Burlington this fall…

1) See the autumn colours

There are few things as beautiful as seeing the leaves change before winter. Fortunately for those of us in Milton and Burlington, there’s an abundance of places to view all those fiery reds, rich oranges, and vibrant yellows.

One of our favourites is Kelso Conservation Area, where a magnificent escarpment comes alive with autumn hues. To get the best possible view, consider going when there are chairlift rides available—on October 13th and 14th. Bronte Creek Provincial Park is just as stunning, with its maple, oak, and butternut trees (an endangered species).

The best part? Both everyday getaways are less than a half-hour drive from Milton and Burlington!

Looking for more places to see fall colours? Read our post, Burlington Parks: 5 Places to Watch the Leaves Change right here.

2) Go apple picking

 If you have fond memories of picking your own apples, you’re not alone. Why not revive them with the family this fall? Chudleigh’s Entertainment Farm, which is just a few minutes’ drive from Milton, is the perfect place to enjoy the harvest. It’s been a fun destination for families for over 50 years—and it’s home to over 22 varieties of apples.

Less than 20 minutes from Burlington, Applevale Orchards is another farm that’s well worth a visit. Here you’ll find delicious apples and pears, along with plenty of rustic country scenery.

Are you thinking of moving to Milton? If so, you’ll want to learn a little more about the town—and our local resources are a great place to start!

• Thinking of Moving to Milton? Check Out These Area FAQs.
• Your Quick Guide to Milton Real Estate
• Your Quick Guide to Living in Milton

3) Get Spooked on Halloween

Looking for some Halloween family fun? Start with Pumpkins After Dark in Milton at Country Heritage Park. This 2.5-kilometre drive-through event features thousands of pumpkins—and it’s a sight to behold. There are also jack-o-lantern carving demonstrations, which are equally fun to watch. 

If you have little ones and you live in Milton, you’ll also want to check out Tiny Tots Trick or Treat. The section of Main Street East between Brown and James Streets will be closed to traffic, allowing families to collect candy safely from participating businesses. There will also be a scavenger hunt, among other activities! It all takes place on October 30th, from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m.

4) Dive into some art

While there’s plenty to do outdoors in the fall, it’s also a time to get creative inside. Every Saturday until October 23rd, the Art Gallery of Burlington will be hosting Family Open Studio. During this weekly event, you can check out the exhibition How to Read a Vessel—and discover how pots, bowls, jars, and more connect to our everyday lives.

If you’re a lover of the arts, you should also check out Culture Days. This national program is offered in Milton through the FirstOntario Arts Centre. This year, you’ll find everything from a bench-painting party featuring local artists to performances by musicians, dancers, actors, and more. It all takes place until October 24th.

Considering a move to Burlington? The first step is getting more familiar with the area. Explore some of our local resources below.

• Your Quick Guide to Real Estate in Burlington
• Living in Burlington: Your Guide to the City

5) Enjoy fall at the farm

Enjoy the autumn harvest at a local working farm. In Milton, Springridge Farms is a must-visit. Pick up some fresh produce or a perfectly-baked pie, or bring the kids for a play session. From the giant sandbox and tube slides to the farm animals and wagon rides, there’s no shortage of things to do! 

Closer to Burlington, Hutchinson Farm is the ideal place to buy some pumpkins. If jack-o-lanterns are part of your family’s Halloween tradition, head over to the patch, which is currently open every day of the week.

Fall is a special time of year, especially in picturesque places like Milton and Burlington. So grab a light jacket, head out, and enjoy all that our area has to offer! 

Are you ready to look for your perfect place in Milton or Burlington? Check out our listings to start your search, or learn more about how we help sellers here!

April 2021 – GTA Housing Market News

What is going on with the real estate market?

Here are the April stats:
– Number of sales is down 12.7% in April over March
– But, number of sales are up 36.6% compared to the 10 yr average
– New listings are down 8.4% month over month

Milton Real Estate Market

The average price in Milton is $1,061,348

Burlington Real Estate Market

The average price in Burlington is $1,055,023

Oakville Real Estate Market

The average price in Oakville is $1,458,793

Previous Reports on GTA Housing Market News – March, February, January

It may be no surprise to hear that March 2021 was yet another record-breaking month in real estate. Home sales are reportedly largely driven by low interest rates and consumer confidence remains high, even though we’re stepping into more COVID related restrictions right now. While inventory and sales are way up again in March they have yet to catch up to the backlog of buyers so we’re still in a seller’s market.

March 2021 – GTA Housing Market News

Milton Real Estate Market

The average price in Milton is $1,037,207.

Burlington Real Estate Market

The average price in Burlington is $1,099,362.

Oakville Real Estate Market

The average price in Oakville is $1,526,414.

Previous Reports on GTA Housing Market News – February, January, December,

Every year, home buyers who swore they’d never leave Toronto are moving to greener pastures. Without a doubt, Burlington is one of their top choices. From its beautiful lakefront views to the all-around high quality of life it provides, this thriving city has never been more popular. That said, many enthusiastic buyers aren’t quite sure where to begin. Sound familiar?

If this city is relatively new territory for you, start by getting the lowdown on local neighbourhoods, homes, and prices. You can find out more here in our Burlington real estate guide…

Your Price Range

Home buyers have been flocking to Burlington in recent years, and for good reason. The fantastic quality of life in this little corner of Ontario is no longer a secret. In fact, the city has earned the impressive titles of “Best Community in Canada” and “Best Place to Raise a Family” by Maclean’s Magazine.

Home prices have grown with Burlington’s popularity, but there’s still a fairly wide range available. You can find starter condos for as little as $500k, or spacious waterfront houses that sit near the $6 million mark. It all depends on what you’re looking for—and whatever it is, you’ll probably find it here.

Neighbourhoods To Meet Your Needs

In Burlington, you’ll find a wide variety of homes to meet nearly every set of buying needs and preferences. Here are just a few fantastic local options.

Ideal For Families

The Orchard

Situated in Northeast Burlington, the Orchard is a relatively new neighbourhood (think 1990s). The area is known for its beautiful suburban houses and reputable local schools. Proximity to the majestic Bronte Creek Provincial Park—along with plenty of outdoor trails and playgrounds—make the area ideal for parents with little ones. with Appleby Plaza nearby, you’ll also find no shortage of retail and dining options.

Tyandaga

With its attractive trails and scenic waterfront views, Tyandaga is a favourite among families. This community to the northwest features public tennis and golf clubs, which means there’s never any shortage of fun things to do. You’ll also find some beautiful homes, including many in the Georgian, Colonial, and Tudor styles. Some of these houses are on the slightly more affordable side—at least by Burlington standards.

Plains

If you’re looking for a well-established neighbourhood near the city’s core, consider Plains. The area is more affordable than many, with a mix of well-maintained older and newer homes. Thanks to nearby GO transit and the Fairview Mall, it provides a low-hassle lifestyle for families. Plains is also close to the Royal Botanical Gardens—a lovely spot for weekend picnics with the kids!

Historical Gems

Downtown

If you’re looking for a bonafide heritage home (we’re talking about century-old houses with pretty period details), look no further than the downtown core. Along with these historic jewels, the area contains charming townhouses, luxury condos, and everything in between. Of course, the local homes aren’t the only thing to love about living in the city centre. From beautiful Spencer Smith Park and the urban waterfront to a plethora of retail and dining hotspots, Downtown Burlington has it all.

Roseland

Whether Roseland residences count as “historic” depends on your definition. Sure, the older homes here fall shy of the 100-year mark—and there are plenty of newer, custom-built affairs. That said, you’ll find an abundance of half-century-old houses here that are nothing short of stunning. Mature trees and lakefront views only add to the splendour—while proximity to the QEW and Burlington Mall make day-to-day life ultra convenient. Needless to say, home prices tend to be on the steep side.

Shoreacres

In the south end, you’ll find a prestigious neighbourhood with an abundance of charm. Like Roseland, Shoreacres is made up of majestic streets lined with beautiful homes that are around 50 years old. There are also plenty of green spaces (including Paletta Lakefront, Henderson, and Strathcona Parks). Nearby Appleby Mall puts all the conveniences residents need at their fingertips, while the presence of John T. Tuck Public School (which gets top-notch marks from the Fraser Institute) makes the area an ideal one for families.

Newer Homes

Alton Village

If only a brand new home will do, you may want to consider Alton Village. Situated in North Burlington, this lovely suburban community is home to some truly beautiful houses (including many from heavy-hitter developers like Mattamy and Fernbrook Homes). It’s also the site of Norton Community Park (with its play structure, fields, and off-leash park, among other features). Lastly, the area is a commuter’s paradise, providing easy access to the 407, QEW, and the nearby Appleby GO Station.

What to Know About Burlington Real Estate…

Trying to decide whether Burlington is right for you? There are a few major benefits that may tip the scales in the city’s favour. For one, your home-buying dollars will go further here than they would in a place like Toronto. While it’s true that prices have risen in recent years, the value for money in Burlington is well worth considering. In other words: if you’re looking for more space to spread out, this a great place to find it.

In particular, many of the city’s neighbourhoods feature an abundance of bungalows. These layouts have been making a major comeback, thanks to their practicality—and how flexible they are. Whether you’re looking for a place that could accommodate a home office, an extra bedroom, or whatever future renovations you desire, a bungalow with good bones could be ideal.

The truth is, Burlington has a lot more to offer—in terms of communities and housing stock. By speaking with an agent who knows the city intimately, you can find a place that fits your budget and checks off all your boxes!

Are you starting the search for your perfect home and have questions about the Burlington real estate market? Reach out today!

December’s market update is here!

Before sharing December’s market stats, we first want to recap 2020 and then finish this off by touching on 2021 predictions.

2020 RECAP

Despite the year we had with COVID, economic uncertainty & lockdowns, it was a record breaking year in Real Estate. The average sale price across the GTA reached a new record of almost $930,000. That is up 13% year over year. We saw a lot of competition for single family homes last year, which resulted in them experiencing the strongest price growth in the suburbs.

DECEMBER’S MARKET STATS

Let’s look at the December stats for Milton, Burlington and Oakville.

PREDICTIONS

Now let’s talk about 2021 predictions. The real estate market was extremely competitive in 2020 and we are expecting 2021 to be no different.

There are 4 main factors that will impact the real estate market this year.

⁠1. Immigration – In 2020 immigration dropped although Canada is planning on welcoming 1.2 million people between 2021 & 2023. ⁠⠀

⁠2. Interest rates – Interest rates have been at an all time low and are expected to stay low throughout 2021.

⁠3. Housing supply – We have been in a sellers market for months now and with people continuing to make significant lifestyle changes we don’t anticipate this changing. Currently supply is extremely low, so if you have been thinking about selling now is a great time.

⁠4. COVID 19 – The pandemic has caused buyer preferences to change. 2020 had many of us reconsider what is important to us, especially when it comes to our home. We anticipate home-buyer trends to continue to shift in 2021. ⁠⠀

RE/MAX Canada is currently anticipating that Ontario will experience 7-12% price growth in 2021.

A look at the GTA Real Estate market reviewing November Market Statistics.

The Holiday season is here, which means the return of Christmas trees and Christmas light displays. Checkout our guide below to the Places to See Enchanting Christmas Lights in Halton.

 Light Up the Hills Festival of Halton

Now until January 14: Everyday from 5:00 pm – 11:00 pm

This holiday season, experience a world of lights and the wonders of the season and join us at the Light Up the Hills Festival of Halton in Georgetown.   Join us for an unforgettable walk through captivating displays  as we illuminate the hills with our festival of lights. Our annual event celebrates the magic of the season, where there is something for everyone to experience and enjoy. Whether you’re seeking a family outing, a romantic date night, or simply a moment of wonder and awe, Light Up the Hills delivers an unforgettable experience that will leave you with wonderful memories of the season.  Embark on this extraordinary adventure and discover why our festival has become a cherished tradition in Halton.

This year the lights will be lit for everyone to enjoy at Dominion Gardens Park in Georgetown, Shelagh Law Parkette in Glen Williams and Acton Sports Park in Acton. As always, there is no charge to visit any of the parks and you do not need to make a reservation.

Click here for more info

Burlington Festival of Lights

Spencer Smith Park: 1400 Lakeshore Rd, Burlington

Now – January 8th – 4:00pm – Midnight daily

Winter Wonders

Now to January 7 (Thursdays to Sundays)*
Hendrie Park – 680 Plains Road West, Burlington, ON

Winter Wonders, a unique outdoor evening experience, guides visitors along Hendrie Park’s picturesque pathways adorned with charming festive lights, interactive installations and magical displays that tell the stories of unique winter wonders. Stroll through our breathtaking garden to the rhythm of festive music while indulging in the warm tastes and fragrances of the holiday season.  

After your walk, cozy up indoors and explore the Botanical Train installation and the warmly lit Mediterranean Garden, and pick up unique gifts from Shop at the Gardens. Timed tickets are required and space is limited.  

Timed-tickets required; get yours now!

Winter Festival of Lights

The most enchanting of Niagara Falls attractions, the annual Winter Festival of Lights is Canada’s largest FREE outdoor light festival. Experience the spectacular displays with millions of lights and larger than life displays across the tourism districts.

“Sparkling Winter Lights” Falls Illumination

To celebrate the beauty and majesty of the winter season and the annual Niagara Falls Winter Festival of Lights, an illumination light show “Sparkling Winter Lights” has been produced for Niagara Falls Tourism by the Niagara Falls Illumination Board. The display features the subtle and sometimes harsh movements inspired by winter in the north. From gentle snowfalls to the aurora borealis gliding over snowy tundra, to blizzards and the frosted falls; winter’s spectacle is exciting and magical.

The mighty American and Canadian Horseshoe Falls will come to life every evening with this tribute to the natural beauty all around us. The display is part of the regular nightly illumination of the Falls, with the five-minute lighting display playing through on the hour, at 6:00 pm, 7:00 pm and 8:00 pm each evening between November 18, 2023 and January 7, 2024.

The Niagara Falls Winter Festival of Lights Hot Chocolate Trail

Warm up this winter season with a hot beverage while exploring the Niagara Falls Winter Festival of Lights. This new self-guided trail will lead you to delicious stops of chocolatey concoctions created by chocolatiers, chefs and mixologists at some of the area’s excellent restaurants and bake shops across Niagara Falls. From classic combinations with mint, orange and s’mores to inventive cocktails like a Dulce De Leche or Naughty But Nice Hot Chocolate featuring unique homemade ingredients like flavoured marshmallows and even eyeball gummies, this new trail has 17 stops with 23 unique and delicious flavours to sip and savour (both non-alcoholic and alcoholic options).

Click here for more info

Looking for a safe way to see twinkling Christmas light displays this holiday season?

The coronavirus pandemic will make it harder to celebrate the holidays this year. We’ve compiled a list of some dazzling holiday lights displays, several are drive-thru, while others are on foot with face masks and social distancing required. Keep in mind online reservations may need to be made in advance.

Country Heritage Park

Country Heritage Park is excited to announce its first ever Country Christmas Drive-Thru! Drive a 2 kilometre loop at scenic Country Heritage Park in Milton.

We know times have been challenging this year. That’s why this event follows the rules and regulations of COVID-19 in the Halton Region so you can enjoy this Christmas time knowing you are safe in the comfort of your own vehicle!

Tickets will be available for purchase online Click here to reserve your tickets

 

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Burlington Festival of Lights

Winter Wonders

Wednesdays to Sundays, Nov 18 to Dec 23
Additional Dates: Dec 27-30, Jan 2, 35 to 10 p.m.; Hendrie Park

A brand new RBG experience! Follow incredible festive lights through picture-perfect Hendrie Park and discover something new at every turn.

Experience the magic of the holiday season under the stars as historic Hendrie Park transforms into a winter wonderland of nature and light. This unique outdoor experience guides visitors along Hendrie Park’s picturesque pathways adorned with charming festive Christmas lights, including 7 magical displays that tell the stories of unique winter wonders! Discover the origins of popular holiday traditions while strolling through our breathtaking garden to the rhythm of festive music and indulging in the warm tastes and fragrances of the holiday season.

 

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Winter Festival of Lights in Niagara Falls.

The annual lights festival is an eight-kilometre route that transforms Niagara Parks, Dufferin Islands, and the surrounding area into an Instagram-worthy palette of colours and sparkling lights. All while social distancing, you can take in the over 3 million lights from your car or you can bundle up and walk the wide-open park spaces. Displays at the festival include 15 Canadian wildlife illuminations, the Sylma, and over 50 trees wrapped in lights in Dufferin Islands.Besides this, there will also be a light show on the Toronto Power Generation Station and the Zimmerman Fountain, three-dimensional angels at the Niagara Parks Police building, and the ever-popular Noah’s Ark.

Click here for more info

 

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Do you have questions about the GTA real estate market? Reach out to learn more about your local market—and how we can help!

Picturesque parks are a big part of what makes Burlington so special. While local green spaces are perfect for whiling away the summer, they’re just as beautiful when the leaves turn to yellow, red, and gold. Simply put, when it’s autumn hues you’re seeking, there’s no shortage of places to find them.

Here are five parks in Burlington that are ideal for watching the leaves change this fall…

1) Bronte Creek Provincial Park

Bronte Creek Park is a wonderful place for a hike, stroll, or bike ride. Within this 6.4-kilometre space, you’ll find five forested nature paths that take on fiery colours when the temperature drops. The most popular options are Maiden’s Blush and Trillium Trails, both of which are surrounded by mature woodlands. There’s also a campground on-site, which is perfect for those planning a weekend in the great outdoors.

2) Kencliff Park

Kerncliff Park is a former quarry, which helps explain its unique appearance. Its stony topography and pristine wetlands are worth the trip—and so is its foliage. Every fall, the back walnut trees turn a vibrant yellow tinged with rust—a must-see. This natural rehab area spans a spacious 40 acres, and you could easily spend a whole day exploring. Don’t forget to check out the wooden bridge to enjoy the perfect view!

3) Lowville Park

This peaceful park sits just north of Burlington, in the tiny town of Lowville. Like the other outdoor spaces on our list, it features stunning trails that are one of its biggest highlights. You’ll also find scenic views of the Bronte Creek—and the leafy trees that hang over it. These 28 hectares are dazzling in autumn, so be sure to visit them this season. Don’t forget to check out the suspension bridge (and playground, if you have little ones) while you’re there!

4) Spencer Smith Park

It’s Burlington’s best-known green space. This urban park, situated right downtown along the water, is a favourite among locals and tourists alike. It’s known for its Japanese gardens, the Brant Street Pier, Rotary Cenntenial Pond (great for skating in the winter), and its beautiful landscape. Several mature weeping willows had to be removed from the park in 2016, but there are still plenty of leafy trees to admire in every season. When fall rolls around, the new hues come out—and they’re truly a sight to behold!

5) Hidden Valley Park

With its playground, picnic areas, baseball diamonds, and well-treed paths, this Aldershot gem is ideal for active families—and nature lovers. Its trails, which run alongside the creek, are impossibly green in the summer. Come September, all that vegetation makes for a lively mix of colours! This little oasis is a prime example of the natural beauty that can be found in Burlington. If you’re ready to explore the great outdoors this autumn, there are plenty of places to do so right in your own backyard!

Is it time to find your ideal home in Burlington? Reach out to learn more about the local market—and how we can help!

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