Commuter Community Finding its Own Identity

Cities and municipalities in the Greater Toronto Area continue to expand in size and population as southern Ontario continues to grow. These suburban municipalities are home to many who commute into larger cities such as Toronto and Hamilton, sometimes being called "bedroom” communities. Property values and demand have increased over time and as a result, the creation of local jobs and culture has given these municipalities their own identity. The small town feeling of a "commuter” city is growing in appeal for many families who want to leave the larger municipalities, but still want to be in close proximity to the action.
Burlington: A Place to Call Home
Burlington, located to the east of Hamilton and within 45 kilometres of Toronto, is one such community. Located in Halton Region, the city has a population of 160,000 people. On the shores of Lake Ontario, Burlington sits to the west of the Greater Toronto Area and has a picturesque landscape along the Niagara Escarpment.
Burlington offers many amenities for those looking to settle and call the city home. There are more than 30 elementary and secondary schools that serve the community and McMaster University is a stone's throw away in neighbouring Hamilton. There are many highways that are easily accessible, giving Burlington access to major city centres. There is also the commuter rail line of GO Transit that provides direct service to Toronto, which is an invaluable amenity for thousands of workers who commute to and from the city daily.
There are also many attractions offered by the city of Burlington that attract visitors year round. Local art galleries and museums hold annual festivals along the city's waterfront, featuring local talent. Local road races attract runners and walkers from all over to compete, while providing funding to local charities in need of support. Burlington is home to the Royal Botanical Gardens and the Bruce Trail winds its way through the beautiful Niagara Escarpment, which is popular among local and visiting hikers and nature lovers.
Matching Character and Setting
Finding the right property in a city like Burlington requires the support of an experienced real estate agent or Realtor who understands the community. It is important that the agent has experience living and working in the city and can assist newcomers in settling into their new home. Buying a home is the most important decision a person or family can make. Before considering price, style or how many bedrooms a family will need, the first decision should be to settle on a community. It is important to align with a real estate agent who understands the community and can match a suitable neighbourhood to the needs and wants of the clients.
Choosing between suburban-living versus urban-living depends on the specific needs and wants of the homeowner. Living in an urban community can provide a higher number of employment opportunities however, a suburban city like Burlington is within 50 kilometres of Canada's largest city, Toronto. This allows Burlington property owners to reap the advantages of urban living within a suburban community.