Do you have your eye on Kingston, Ontario, aka the Limestone City, aka one of the most charming and family-friendly environments you’ll find anywhere? If so, we are excited to welcome you.
As longtime Kingston Realtors®, we are certain you will fall head over heels in love with all this beautiful city offers! First, let’s get you acquainted with what you might expect as you begin your house hunt. Here is your quick guide to real estate in Kingston, Ontario.
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The Kingston Real Estate Market: What’s Happening?
Like anywhere in Canada, Kingston, Ontario real estate is in constant motion. Rise and fall due to supply and demand – this is a given anywhere. Nevertheless, Kingston has a unique market with its own character and trends.
There are similarities to the GTA:
- In general, when Toronto is in a seller’s market, Kingston likely is as well.
- If housing sales in Toronto slow down, that trend will often head our way, at least to some degree.
However, there are also some significant differences between the GTA and Kingston. To start with, we have far less volatility due to a stable economy provided by Queen’s, Royal Military College, St Lawrence College, two hospitals, a military base, federal prisons, and the province as dominant employers in the city.
In addition, consider how much more affordable the cost of living is here. Every so often, this triggers a migration of people from Toronto to Kingston, which leads to less downward pressure on housing prices here. That can be bad news for Toronto’s real estate market, but it’s great for us!
Over time, Kingston real estate tends to rise in value due to high demand. This long-term outlook makes buying a home here an outstanding investment, both from a financial perspective and the quality of life. When you’re ready to begin your search, a Kingston Realtor® will be happy to guide you!
Kingston Houses for Sale: What to Expect
Kingston area real estate consists of a wide mix of options to suit nearly every home-buying budget. An abundance of detached homes at attractive price points makes it a highly sought-after destination for families. These range from post-war bungalows and cottage styles to historic Victorian and Edwardian masterpieces and modern custom builds.
Kingston’s Glorious Architecture: A Tribute to History
Older housing stock tends to be concentrated in and near the downtown core. Since that’s where Kingston’s story first begins, it makes sense that this area is filled with character homes.
Sydenham Ward, Williamsville, Portsmouth Village, and Barriefield are where you’ll encounter some of Kingston’s most beautiful architecture, including many buildings and residences made from limestone, hence our nickname, the “Limestone City!”
These communities are also premium neighbourhoods for gorgeous century homes, many of which have been carefully maintained and upgraded with modern conveniences. Just imagine enjoying a vibrant, modern lifestyle — all while being connected to Kingston’s long and fascinating history.
Do you want more guidance when buying your next house in Kingston, Ontario? You’ll find plenty of insight in the posts below:
- The Hidden Costs of Buying a Home
- Buying a Home: Separating Myths from Facts
- 5 Questions to Ask Before Hiring a REALTOR®
A Modern Lifestyle
As you branch out to the West and East ends, you’ll find more modern developments. The west boasts the greatest volume of new construction, with a selection of detached, semi-detached homes and executive townhouses. For commuters or anyone working at CFB Kingston, the east provides beautiful modern homes with easy access to Highway 15, as well as some of Kingston’s breathtaking trails.
Dreaming of a brand-new condo that has never been lived in? Developers are busy at work in Kingston! As a result, new builds are often available, opening up the possibility of gorgeous open-concept designs combined with sustainable living.
Is your dream home waiting for you right here in Kingston? Find out by browsing some of our featured listings.
Outstanding Opportunities for First-Time Home Buyers
As both a well-established and up-and-coming city, Kingston offers something for everyone. Thanks to its relatively accessible price points, it is also a haven for many first-time buyers who are shut out of other markets.
If you’re a home buyer with a family in mind, you will have more opportunities here than you could ever dream of in the GTA. Plus, Kingston’s thriving arts and entertainment scene makes it a hot spot for many people in the younger generations (and for the young at heart, of course).
Wondering if that beautiful dream home is actually in the budget? Our Buyer’s Calculator can help you decide.
Living Your Retirement Years to the Fullest
Speaking of the young at heart, many retirees and downsizers are also drawn to Kingston. Imagine working your whole life and building substantial equity in cities like Toronto, Mississauga, or even Ottawa. If you were to then sell that property, you could potentially earn a very satisfactory return.
By moving to a city like Kingston, where the cost of living is lower, each dollar goes further. This could translate into a world of new experiences, new hobbies, or travelling to new destinations.
The condo market in Kingston is also popular with older buyers, thanks to the carefree, low-maintenance lifestyle they provide. With no snow to shovel, no grass to cut, and no garden to attend to, you have more free time to spend as you choose. With the many amenities condo buildings tend to offer, you won’t even miss the outdoor space. Shared patios are common, where you can host family gatherings or simply relax in the sunshine.
Do you want a glimpse as to what it’s like to live in Kingston? Read Is Kingston, Ontario a Good Place to Live next!
Luxury Real Estate in Kingston
For the luxury buyer with a more generous budget, Kingston boasts a distinct market with stunning homes for sale right on the waterfront. Yes, our favourite city is the perfect place to enjoy all of the finer things life has to offer!
No matter what type of home and lifestyle you seek, you will almost certainly find it right here in Kingston, Ontario.
Are you gearing up to buy or sell a house? Our Kingston real estate agents are happy to help and guide you through each step. Reach out to us at caldwellco@royallepage.ca or call 613.449.6588 today.
Meet Your Market Guides
Caldwell & co. is your all-in-one resource for everything real estate related in Kingston, from community highlights to market-shifting trends and hands-on transaction guidance.
