Short answer: the two most active new construction pockets near Lake Simcoe right now are Lakehaven in Innisfil, with Mattamy bungalow townhomes from the low 500,000s, and South Barrie, with freehold townhomes and detached homes close to the 400 and Barrie South GO. Both sell in phases, which means pricing and availability change month to month.
Lakehaven, Innisfil
Brand new bungalow townhomes in a lakeside setting, each with its own driveway, garage, covered porch and backyard. Single level living is the draw and it is pulling a buyer who genuinely could not find that product in Innisfil before: downsizers who do not want stairs but do want a yard. Models and current pricing are on our Innisfil new construction page.
South Barrie
Freehold townhomes and detached homes with premium finishes and Energy Star certification, positioned for the commuter. Closest of the two to the 400 and to GO service. Details on our New Homes in South Barrie page.
Five things to check before you sign a builder agreement
Closing cost adjustments. Builder agreements routinely pass through development charges, levies, utility hookups and Tarion enrolment. These can run five figures and they are usually capped only if you negotiate a cap. Ask for the cap in writing.
Occupancy versus closing. On some builds you take occupancy before title transfers and pay occupancy fees in the interim. That money does not go toward your mortgage. Understand which structure you are in.
The deposit schedule. New construction deposits are staged and far larger than resale. Map them against when your money is actually available.
Your mortgage rate hold. A rate held today may not survive to a closing eighteen months out. Talk to your lender about extended holds before you commit, not after.
What is standard and what is an upgrade. The model home is not the base package. Get the standard finish schedule and price the difference honestly before you fall for the kitchen.
Should you buy new or resale near Lake Simcoe?
New gives you a warranty, current building code and nothing to fix for a while. Resale gives you a mature lot, established trees, a known neighbourhood and usually more square footage per dollar. If more land for the money is what you are after, our guide to Innisfil neighbourhoods covers where to look, and our guide to Barrie neighbourhoods does the same on that side.
We handle new construction in both communities and we will tell you plainly if resale suits you better. Call The Lawrence Group at 416-930-5506.