Houses For Sale Orillia
Located just north of Barrie and nestled between Lake Simcoe and Lake Couchiching, Orillia is
a hidden gem between two lakes. With plenty to offer for the outdoor enthusiast, families and
seniors alike, it’s understandable why Orillia is slated to have healthy growth in the next decade.
The amazing access to so much waterfront, providing recreational opportunities throughout all
four seasons, as well as the rich history of Native Americans and settlers make Orillia a unique
community.
Why Orillia?
Orillia has historically been seen as a fairly remote city, often overshadowed by it’s neighbours
to the South. However, with the GTA expanding further into the neighbouring communities,
driving prices up with it, cities like Orillia don’t seem quite so far. Properties in Barrie, Innisfil
and Essa, among others, have shifted so dramatically in the last year that many buyers can’t
purchase the property they want within their price point. While house prices in Orillia are
growing, they haven’t yet reached the same momentum of surrounding areas and the city still
offers incredible value.
The decision to move to Orillia for many goes beyond just affordability. The City of Orillia has
recognized their opportunity for growth and is actively working to meet the needs of a growing
population with the addition of new amenities and by recruiting new businesses, and ultimately
employers, to add to the full list of perks already in place.
New Recreation Facility – Currently under-construction, this centrally located recreation facility
sits on 36 acres of green space in the heart of Orillia. This nearly $54 million project will include
an aquatic centre (lap pool, leisure pool, and therapy pool), gymnasiums, multi-purpose rooms,
a walking/jogging track, preschool room, office space and a fitness centre. Planning of this
facility has been done in such a way as to allow for a possible future expansion and addition of
an arena and field house.
Incentives for Businesses – The City of Orillia has developed a number of incentives for
businesses to encourage growth and ultimately more local jobs. In 2010, a moratorium was
placed on Industrial Development Charges to assist existing manufacturers with facility footprint
expansion and to attract new industry to the area. Following it’s success, the program was
extended from it’s original cut-off of 2013 through 2017.
Additionally, Orillia is aiming to draw more businesses downtown and bring new life to an
historical area through it’s Downtown Tomorrow Community Improvement Program. This
program introduces $185,000 in financial incentives which should produce significant
redevelopments to the downtown core for 2017.
New Employers – As a sign of Orillia’s progress and growth as a community, Costco and Hydro
One have set up shop in the city. Costco is under construction and is expected to open by
August 2017. Similarily, Hydro One has projected development of 36 acres of the 42-acre
Horne Business Park in West Orillia to be used for an Advanced Technology Hub in the City.
These developments are expected to have a significant impact on the economy and eventually
housing prices, with houses for sale in Orillia more in demand. It is anticipated that Costco
alone will provide 250 full and part-time jobs, with Hydro One bringing in a significant number of
highly-skilled, knowledge-based jobs.
Existing Amenities & Resources – While Orillia has brought many new initiatives and benefits
to the community, we can’t overlook those amazing resources and perks already existing in the
city. Casino Rama, Ontario’s only First Nations Commercial Casino, provides unique
entertainment experiences with gaming tables, restaurants, an entertainment venue and more
right in Orillia’s backyard. The thoughtful focus on blending local First Nations culture into the
community is a nod to the rich history of Orillia.
In 2006, Lakehead University opened their Orillia Campus, bringing post-secondary education
to the city. With it came a mindset of progress and a constant influx of young people looking to
call Orillia home. Not only has Lakehead made Orillia an educational destination, it has also
brought a large number of renters and investors alike, all driving the housing market.
While the above list is definitely not an exhaustive one, it does give you a glimpse into the many
reasons to look for houses for sale in Orillia. Add to that the expansive waterfront, the immense
amount of green space & park land and the family-friendly amenities, the city is poised for
immense growth.
What types of houses are for sale in Orillia?
Orillia is mature enough to have a story to tell. With it’s official establishment as a village in
1867 came the building of homes and businesses, making Orillia incredibly dense in historical
properties that boast large lots and oodles of character.
As Orillia developed, so did the need for modern housing, including detached homes, semidetached
homes and townhouses, all clustered in neighbourhoods designed for family
interaction and near schools and common amenities. Condo developments have also sprung
up throughout Orillia, many taking advantage of the waterfront views.
A large portion of the houses for sale in Orillia are perfect for Investment properties, whether for
housing students or those employees hoping to find work with Orillia’s newest employers. While
Barrie has become more and more expensive, Orillia still provides incredible value for investors
looking to rent or committing to a longer-term flip.
While Orillia may not have been top of mind for places to start searching for houses, it definitely
is one to consider. Orillia is poised for a peak just like it’s southern neighbours, both in price
appreciation and amenities. For those buyers willing to grow with their city, we truly believe that
the rewards will follow. Not only will buyers benefit from the beautiful city, the extensive
waterfront and the charm, but with the addition of new jobs, they will also see a steady rise in
home prices. The quick access to skiing and cottage country also increases the desirability.
Orillia truly carries small town charm while being on the doorstep of bigger city’s like Barrie and
all it’s amenities.
Looking to start searching for houses for sale in Orillia? Start your search here or contact us for
more personal service.