The dream of owning a second home is becoming a reality for more Canadians — young professionals, growing families and retirees alike. It’s a dream that promises a tranquil escape, outdoor adventures and, perhaps, even a lifestyle upgrade. But for first-time seekers of that perfect second property, the process requires research and advice from experts. Whether the end goal is a sleek chalet in Collingwood, a cozy lakeside retreat in the Eastern Townships or a modern cabin nestled in the Rockies, Canada’s markets for most-sought-after secondary homes are an ideal way to ease into the R&R dream house.

28 Rue St. Andrew, Lac-Brome, QC

EASTERN TOWNSHIPS, QUEBEC

Located less than an hour from Montreal and the U.S. border, the Eastern Townships in Quebec are a haven for active urbanites looking for a slice of the country just outside the city. Lac-Brome and Bromont are especially popular for second-home buyers, with luxury lakefront properties hovering between $2 million and $7 million. “I think the younger generation wants to have more of a balance in their lives,” says Marie-Piers Barsalou, a Certified Real Estate Broker with Sotheby’s International Realty Québec. “They want a very nice environment and a nice home, whether it’s on the lake or in the mountains or in a village.” For young families looking for a second home that suits their active lifestyles but keeps their commute to under an hour should consider Knowlton, a picturesque lakeside village with nearby golf and skiing.

101 Sladden Court, Thornbury, ON

SOUTHERN GEORGIAN BAY, ONTARIO

Mountainside and lakeside adventures are on offer just two hours northwest of Toronto, in the Southern Georgian Bay region. Active retirees come in the summertime to fish and kayak along the Beaver and Nottawasaga rivers, or to hike and bike on Collingwood’s robust trail network. And in wintertime, those trails are perfect for cross-country skiing and snowshoeing. Collingwood is also home to the Blue Mountain ski resort and a high concentration of private ski clubs, including Devil’s Glen, Craigleith and Osler Bluff. According to Kevin Gilchrist, a Senior Vice-President of Sales at Sotheby’s International Realty Canada who serves the area, condos are great entry-level options for those looking for a ski property. “They’re basically maintenance-free. That’s all looked after within the investment.” Despite a downturn in the secondary market in early 2022, lower interest rates have sparked renewed interest. For example, a two-bedroom condo recently lowered its price from $1.45 million to $1.15 million. Growing families are spoiled for choice in the market for larger accommodations, from townhouse-style condos to detached single-family homes and luxury chalets for between $3 million and $4 million. “They’re right on the hill so you can ski right down into your property,” says Gilchrist.

CANMORE, ALBERTA

In Canmore, lifestyle is the top consideration for those looking for a second home. The region is known for its long ski season, proximity to provincial parks and the wide range of outdoor activities, from hiking to fly fishing. According to Christopher Vincent, Sales Associate and Senior Vice President of Sales in the region, Alberta-based buyers from mid-sized cities like Calgary want to live in desirable neighbourhoods in the valley bottom — like Spring Creek, South Canmore and Lion’s Park — which are near mountain biking trails, the Nordic Centre and the Horseshoe Loop. “They still want the hustle and bustle of smalltown living — restaurants, shops, access to the trail system, grocery stores,” says Vincent. Buyers that come to Canmore from major eastern cities tend to buy larger estate homes in quiet, scenic golf course communities, such as Silvertip Resort. They’re after more space, no neighbours and total tranquillity in the Rockies.

OKANAGAN VALLEY, BRITISH COLUMBIA
With it’s sweeping vistas, tight-knit communities and convenient, wide-ranging outdoor offerings, the Okanagan Valley has become a hot spot for second-home buyers. It’s dotted with world-class ski resorts (Revelstoke, SilverStar), championship golf courses (Predator Ridge) and pristine lakefronts, making it a popular destination for year-round leisure activities. Popular resort communities, such as the Outback, Spirit Ridge and Predator Ridge, cater to diverse lifestyles and budgets, from affordable opportunities like fractional ownership to million-dollar lakeside homes. The biggest perk? “We’re still skiing in April!” says Marnie Perrier, a Sotheby’s International Realty Canada Real Estate Advisor serving the area. “You can ski, bike and water-ski, all in one day.”
When looking for that second home, pin down your priorities. Are you after value, ample space, leisure options or scenery? There is sure to be a recreational community to suit your needs.

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By Josh Greenblatt — *This article originally appeared in Insight: The Art Of Living Magazine – The Connection Issue.