Are you ready to seek out your perfect waterfront property? The West GTA is full of opportunity. On the shores of Lake Ontario, places like Oakville, Burlington, and Hamilton have incredible options for your dream home on the lake. When searching for a home on the water, there are a few extra considerations to keep in mind. These ten tips will help you on your hunt for your dream home.

1. Prioritize the property

It can be easy to get swept away with the beauty of a well-built home, only to discover the swimming is muddy, the view is obstructed, or it’s not very private. You can renovate and rebuild, but you can’t change your location. Focusing more on the property itself rather than the home will play out in the long run.

2. Keep your lifestyle in mind

What is most important to you and your family? Do you want to be able to walk out on a sandy beach for a swim, go fishing, or store your boat? How you plan on using the property plays a significant role in your search area. Keep your favourite activities in mind when creating your list of needs and wants, and ask if there are any limitations or rules about what activities are allowed. ON smaller lakes, there may be rules around boats and other watercraft.

3. Choose a solid structure

A home on the waterfront faces a lot of abuse from the elements. You want to take extra precautions with lake winds, storms, and an increased chance of flooding. Also, ask about whether the property has flooded in the past. This can give an idea of potential problems in the future.

4. Ask about limitations on renovations

There can be strict rules around changing certain aspects of a waterfront property. If you plan to add a dock or amend the property in some way, ask before you purchase to know what you are getting into.

5. Look into utilities

If you are purchasing in a rural area, ask what is available regarding electricity, septic system, cable and internet. If they are unavailable, bringing the services into remote areas can be expensive.

6. Talk to neighbours

No one knows the area like the people already living there! Try to speak with neighbours about what to expect in the neighbourhood. It’s a great way to find out firsthand if there are any waterfront-related problems.

7. Ask about waterfront responsibilities

You may be part of a homeowner’s association with specific responsibilities. Find out what kind of upkeep and maintenance will be required and if there are any limitations or restrictions. Often, a homeowner’s association will have rules that everyone in the area must follow.

8. What will happen come winter?

As Canadians, we’re no strangers to cold winters and icy lakes. If ice fishing, snowmobiling and snowshoeing appeal to you, that’s just one more plus for a waterfront property. Whether you plan to use your home on the lake as a year-round residence or summer home should be one of the first questions you answer. Some remote areas may have limited winter access.

9. What are the waterfront boundaries?

Under Canadian law, your boundary depends on your property’s location. The foreshore (the land beneath the water) belongs to the government. Because water levels change throughout the year, boundaries can be defined by either low-water or high-water mark. Ask about your limits beforehand to know how far your property extends. 

10. What is the water quality like?

A big part of the allure of a waterfront property is access to clean, clear water for fishing, swimming and boating. Pollutants, invasive plant species and other factors play a role in water cleanliness. Government agencies will test the water regularly, and the information is public to homebuyers.

Waterfront Neighbourhoods in Oakville and Burlington

Morrison

Morrison is a luxurious and coveted Oakville neighbourhood with sprawling mansions and gated communities along the shores of Lake Ontario. With the average price over the $4M mark, this neighbourhood is perfect for those seeking a luxury waterfront property.

Old Oakville

Part of the downtown core, Old Oakville is known for its heritage homes and beautiful architecture. The waterfront properties in Old Oakville are close to high-end stores, cafes and restaurants in the beautiful downtown.

Shore Acres

The waterfront homes along Lakeshore Road are some of the most affluent in the area. This stunning neighbourhood has tree-lined streets and beautiful views, perfect for biking and walking.

Roseland

Developed in 1925, the waterfront properties in Roseland are stunning, historic buildings. You are close to downtown Burlington with locally owned shops, cafes and restaurants and surrounded by beautiful trees and parks.

Aldershot Southeast

Aldershot Southeast is located along the shorelines of Lake Ontario in the west end of Burlington. Close to Waterdown and Hamilton, every amenity is close at hand in this beautiful neighbourhood. The waterfront properties in Aldershot can also easily access the La Salle Marina.

If you are searching for a waterfront property, both Oakville and Burlington offer spectacular choices. A home on the lake comes with additional responsibility and considerations before choosing the perfect property for you and your family. If you are looking for a waterfront property in Oakville or Burlington, the David Bradica team is here to help!