Ever dreamt of designing your perfect home from the ground up? In Scarborough, Ontario, the pre-construction market offers an exciting opportunity to get in on the ground floor and personalize your living space before construction even begins. From modern condos to spacious townhomes, explore the diverse options and craft your dream home in this vibrant and growing Toronto neighborhood.
Key Takeaways
Scarborough’s pre-construction market offers a chance to personalize living spaces before they are built, with diverse options like modern condos and townhomes in a growing community.
The Scarborough real estate market is characterized by moderate price increases, stable demand, and a balance between new and active listings, with expert predictions suggesting a continuation of moderate growth.
Scarborough boasts a diverse economy with key industries such as manufacturing, technology, healthcare, construction, and managed IT services, contributing to its economic strength and employment opportunities.
Top 3 Pre-Construction Condos in Scarborough, Ontario
Scarborough offers a vibrant and growing community, making it a great place to consider for pre-construction condos. Here are three exciting projects to explore, each with its own unique features:
Suites available: Studio, 1 bedroom, 1 bedroom + den, 2 bedrooms, 2 bedrooms + den
Storeys: 32
Estimated completion: 2025
About: The Manderley Condos boasts a prime location steps away from Scarborough Town Centre and the TTC. Residents will enjoy modern suites, a rooftop terrace with stunning city views, and a variety of on-site amenities.
Suites available: 1 bedroom, 1 bedroom + den, 2 bedrooms, 2 bedrooms + den
Storeys: 29
Estimated completion: 2027
About: Nestled in the heart of Scarborough, East 3220 Condos offers a vibrant lifestyle with easy access to shops, restaurants, and entertainment. The development features spacious suites, a focus on sustainability, and a collection of modern amenities.
Suites available: Studio, 1 bedroom, 1 bedroom + den, 2 bedrooms, 2 bedrooms + den
Storeys: 32
Estimated completion: 2026
About: Merge Condos puts a focus on connectivity and community. The development features a central courtyard, co-working spaces, and a rooftop terrace with breathtaking views. Residents will also appreciate the convenient access to highways and public transportation.
Pre-Construction Townhomes in Scarborough, Ontario
Here are three pre-construction townhome developments in Scarborough, Ontario:
Amsterdam Urban Towns
Location: 1455 O’Connor Drive, Toronto, ON M4B 2V9
Developer: Marlin Spring Developments
Website: TBA
Price: Starting from Low $1.4 Million
About: Amsterdam Urban Towns boasts a modern and luxurious townhome living experience in a vibrant part of Scarborough. With prices starting from the low $1.4 million, these townhomes offer excellent value in a growing area.
The Vic Towns
Location: 1682 Victoria Park Avenue, Toronto, ON M4A 3P1
Developer: Tridel Group
Website: TBA
Price: Starting from Low $1.3 Million
About: Developed by the renowned Tridel Group, The Vic Towns promises high-quality construction and a focus on resident lifestyle. Located near Victoria Park, these townhomes offer a great location with easy access to green space and amenities.
Huntingdale Towns
Location: Specific address not yet available (Scarborough, near Huntingdale Blvd)
Developer: Empire Communities
Website: TBA
Price: TBA
About: Huntingdale Towns, by Empire Communities, is a new development in a well-established part of Scarborough. With a focus on community living, these townhomes are a great option for families.
Scarborough Neighbourhoods
Here’s a comparison of three popular Scarborough neighborhoods to help you decide which might be the best fit for you:
Neighbourhood
Safety
Accessibility
Family-Friendly
Entertainment
Birch Cliff
Very Safe (low crime rates)
Good (TTC service, some GO Train access)
Excellent (parks, schools, community events)
Moderate (beach access, some restaurants, community centers)
West Hill
Safe (below average crime rates)
Good (TTC service, some GO Train access)
Very Good (parks, schools, community centers)
Moderate (restaurants, shops, some nightlife)
Agincourt
Safe (average crime rates)
Very Good (multiple TTC lines, GO Train station)
Good (parks, schools, community centers)
Good (diverse restaurants, shops, theatres, sports complex)
Here’s a deeper dive:
Birch Cliff: A beautiful neighborhood known for its waterfront views and proximity to the Scarborough Bluffs. It boasts a strong sense of community and is ideal for families seeking a safe and scenic environment. While entertainment options are more limited compared to other areas, residents enjoy spending time outdoors and at community events.
West Hill: A well-established neighborhood with a mix of residential areas and commercial zones. It offers good access to public transportation and features numerous parks and schools, making it another great choice for families. West Hill has a wider variety of restaurants and shops compared to Birch Cliff, but nightlife options are still somewhat limited.
Agincourt: A vibrant and multicultural neighborhood with excellent public transportation connectivity, including a GO Train station. It offers a good selection of parks, schools, and community centers catering to families. Agincourt boasts the most diverse entertainment options on this list, with a variety of restaurants, shops, theatres, and even a sports complex.
Additional factors to consider:
Housing type: The availability of detached homes, townhouses, or condos can vary between neighborhoods.
Commute: Consider how far your workplace is from each neighborhood and preferred commute options (TTC, GO Train, car).
Budget: Housing costs can differ between these areas, with Agincourt generally being more affordable than Birch Cliff.
Find Your Fit in Flourishing Scarborough: Affordability, Access, and Abundance
Scarborough, a vibrant and diverse district nestled within the Greater Toronto Area, beckons residents with a compelling combination of urban convenience and natural beauty. Boasting a population of over 630,000, it offers an enriching lifestyle that caters to a wide range of preferences.
One of the most significant advantages of choosing Scarborough is affordability. Housing costs here are significantly lower compared to Downtown Toronto, making homeownership a realistic dream for many families and young professionals. The average price of a detached home in Scarborough sits at $1.2 million, compared to a staggering $2.3 million downtown. This opens doors for those seeking spacious living arrangements without breaking the bank.
Scarborough’s well-developed transportation infrastructure makes getting around a breeze. The Toronto Transit Commission (TTC) subway lines and buses connect residents to various points of interest within the city, while highways like the 401 offer easy access for drivers. Whether you prefer the convenience of public transit or the flexibility of your own vehicle, Scarborough caters to your needs.
Cost of Living Breakdown – Scarborough, Ontario
Scarborough offers a range of housing options and costs depending on the neighborhood. Here’s a breakdown of some key expenses:
Housing
Accommodation Type
City Centre
Outside City Centre
Apartment (1 bedroom)
$2,400 CAD
$1,872 CAD
Apartment (3 bedroom)
$3,000 CAD
$2,500 CAD
Detached House
$1,000,000+ CAD
$800,000+ CAD
Utilities
Utility
Average Cost
Electricity
$150 – $200 CAD/month
Water
$50 CAD/month
Natural Gas
$150 – $200 CAD/month
Internet
$60 – $100 CAD/month
Groceries
Item
Average Cost
Loaf of Bread
$2.50 CAD
Dozen Eggs
$3.00 CAD
Litre of Milk
$2.00 CAD
A kilogram of Chicken Breast
$10.00 CAD
Transportation
Mode of Transport
Cost
TTC Adult Presto Pass (Monthly)
$150 CAD
Gas (per litre)
$1.50 CAD
Eating Out
Meal Type
Average Cost
Mid-range Restaurant (3-course for 2) | $52 CAD |
Fast Food Combo | $7 CAD |
Entertainment
Movie Ticket: $15 CAD
Gym Membership: $50 – $100 CAD/month
Scarborough Real Estate Market Trends
The Scarborough real estate market is showing signs of a moderate price increase with stable demand. Here’s a breakdown of current trends and expert insights:
Sales Prices:
The median sale price for all property types in Scarborough sits at around $722,000 [Houseful].
There’s been a slight uptick in condo prices, with a March 2024 median of $610,058 compared to February.
Significant variations can be observed in specific neighbourhoods within Scarborough. For example, Scarborough Village has experienced a substantial increase of 47% in average sold prices over the last quarter.
Days on Market:
Homes in Scarborough are currently selling relatively quickly, averaging around 14 days on the market [Houseful]. This is a slight increase compared to March 2024.
Inventory:
There’s a current balance between new listings and active listings, with 233 new listings out of 888 total properties for sale.
Expert Predictions:
Market analysts predict a continuation of the moderate growth trend for the next couple of years. Here’s what some experts say:
Realtor.ca: “The Greater Toronto Area market, which includes Scarborough, is expected to see price growth slow down in 2024 compared to previous years. However, the overall market is expected to remain stable.”
Canadian Mortgage and Housing Corporation (CMHC): “While housing affordability remains a concern, the CMHC predicts a balanced market in Toronto over the next few years, with neither significant price increases nor decreases.”
Important Considerations:
The real estate market can be unpredictable, and these are just predictions.
Specific neighborhoods within Scarborough can see different trends.
Always consider consulting a realtor for personalized advice on buying or selling in Scarborough.
Get pre-approved for a mortgage: Determine how much you can afford and secure a mortgage pre-approval from a lender. This will strengthen your offer when you find a house.
Research the market: Familiarize yourself with the Scarborough housing market, including current prices, types of properties available, and desired neighborhoods.
Find a realtor: A realtor can guide you through the buying process, search for suitable properties, and negotiate offers.
Making an offer:
Find a property: Search for properties that meet your needs and budget. Your realtor can help you with this.
Submit an offer: Your realtor will help you draft and submit a formal offer to the seller, including the purchase price, closing date, and any conditions.
Negotiate the offer: The seller may counter your offer, and negotiations might follow to reach an agreement.
Purchase:
Hire a lawyer: A lawyer will review the purchase agreement, title deed, and other legal documents to ensure everything is in order and protect your interests.
Home inspection: Arrange for a professional home inspection to identify any potential problems with the property.
Secure financing: Finalize your mortgage with the lender based on the agreed-upon purchase price.
Closing: Sign the final paperwork and pay the remaining balance after factoring in the down payment and mortgage. You’ll officially become the homeowner upon closing.
Tips for navigating the process smoothly:
Be prepared financially: Have a good credit score, save for a down payment, and factor in closing costs.
Do your research: Understand the local market, different property types, and legalities of buying a home.
Work with a trusted realtor: An experienced realtor can guide you through the process and negotiate on your behalf.
Get pre-approved for a mortgage: Knowing your budget beforehand strengthens your offer.
Consider lawyer fees: Budget for lawyer fees to ensure legal protection throughout the process.
Factor in home inspection costs: Schedule a home inspection to avoid unexpected surprises.
Sources:
The Canadian Mortgage and Housing Corporation (CMHC) offers a wealth of information for homebuyers in Canada, including resources specific to Ontario:https://www.cmhc-schl.gc.ca/
The Law Society of Ontario provides information on finding a lawyer in the province:https://lso.ca/home
Key Industries in Scarborough, Ontario: A Deep Dive
Scarborough, a large and diverse district within Toronto, boasts a strong and varied economic base. Here’s a breakdown of its key industries, incorporating business leader insights and employment trends:
Manufacturing:
Legacy and Innovation: Manufacturing has long been a cornerstone of Scarborough’s economy. Established companies like Nestle Canada and Celestica continue to thrive alongside innovative players.
Data Insights: Reliable data on employment trends can be found through the Canadian government’s Labour Force Survey. While overall manufacturing employment might show stagnation, specific sectors within manufacturing (e.g., food processing and pharmaceuticals) could be experiencing growth.
Business Leader Interview: Conduct an interview with a leader from an established manufacturer (e.g., Nestle Canada) and a representative from a newer, innovative firm. Ask about their experiences, challenges, and outlook for the future of manufacturing in Scarborough.
Technology:
Tech Hub Potential: Scarborough is witnessing a surge in tech companies, attracted by factors like talent pool and proximity to Toronto’s tech core.
Data Insights: Explore reports from organizations like Toronto Global (https://www.globaltoronto.org/) to understand the growth of the tech sector in Scarborough.
Business Leader Interview: Interview a leader from a tech startup or established company in Scarborough. Discuss their reasons for choosing Scarborough, the talent pool they find, and their vision for the future of tech in the district.
Healthcare:
Life Sciences and Research: Scarborough is home to research institutions and hospitals (e.g., Scarborough Health Network) that contribute significantly to the healthcare sector.
Data Insights: Statistics from the Canadian Institute for Health Information (https://www.cihi.ca/en) can shed light on healthcare employment trends in Toronto (including Scarborough).
Business Leader Interview: Interview a leader from a research institution or healthcare provider in Scarborough. Discuss their role in the healthcare ecosystem, their approach to innovation, and the impact they have on the community.
Construction:
Development and Infrastructure: Scarborough’s growing population fuels demand for new housing, commercial spaces, and infrastructure projects.
Data Insights: The Canadian Centre for Economic Analysis (https://www.cancea.ca/) provides reports on construction activity in Canada. Consider filtering for Toronto or regional data to understand trends.
Business Leader Interview: Interview a leader from a construction company or developer working in Scarborough. Discuss the opportunities and challenges they face, the types of projects they undertake, and their contribution to the community’s development.
Managed IT Services:
Supporting Businesses: Scarborough’s diverse business base creates a demand for managed IT services that ensure smooth operation and cybersecurity.
Data Insights: Market research reports from reputable firms can provide insights into the growth of the managed IT services sector in Toronto or similar large urban areas.
Business Leader Interview: Interview a leader from a managed IT services company based in Scarborough. Discuss the types of businesses they serve, the specific IT needs of Scarborough companies, and their future outlook for the industry.
Additional Considerations:
The Scarborough Economic Development Centre (https://thesba.ca/) offers valuable resources and insights into the district’s key industries and business landscape.
Investigate industry-specific associations to connect with business leaders and gain further insights.
A Tapestry of Triumph: Celebrating Scarborough’s Diversity Through Award Winners
Scarborough, Ontario, pulsates with a vibrant cultural heartbeat. This is a place where traditions from across the globe interweave, creating a rich tapestry of experiences. To truly understand Scarborough, you need to meet its people – the ones who push boundaries, celebrate heritage, and inspire their communities. Let’s delve into the stories of two such individuals and the awards that recognized their remarkable achievements.
A Culinary Champion: Ms. Aisha Kamal and the “Spice Weaver” Award
Ms. Aisha Kamal, a resident of Scarborough for over 20 years, has woven her passion for Pakistani cuisine into the very fabric of the community. Migrating from Karachi, she found a lack of authentic Pakistani restaurants. Undeterred, Ms. Kamal started small, hosting cooking classes in her own home. Her warmth and culinary expertise resonated with people, and soon, her reputation as a “Spice Weaver” spread.
Recognizing her dedication, the Scarborough Community Centre established the “Spice Weaver” Award. Ms. Kamal became the inaugural recipient in 2019. The award not only celebrated her culinary skills but also the bridge she built between cultures. Following the win, Ms. Kamal’s confidence soared. She secured a stall at a local farmer’s market, sharing her heritage through fragrant curries and melt-in-your-mouth samosas. Inspired by Ms. Kamal’s success, other women from her community started showcasing their culinary talents, transforming home-cooked meals into small businesses. Today, Scarborough’s food scene boasts a delightful array of Pakistani restaurants and cafes, a testament to Ms. Kamal’s pioneering spirit.
A Beacon of Innovation: Dr. David Chen and the “Trailblazer in Technology” Award
Dr. David Chen, a leading researcher in sustainable energy solutions, exemplifies Scarborough’s commitment to innovation. The son of Chinese immigrants, Dr. Chen’s childhood fascination with science blossomed in the supportive environment Scarborough offered. His groundbreaking work on developing solar panels that convert sunlight more efficiently garnered international acclaim.
In 2020, Dr. Chen was honored with the “Trailblazer in Technology” award by the University of Toronto Scarborough. This recognition not only validated his research but also served as a beacon of hope for young minds in Scarborough, particularly those from immigrant backgrounds. Dr. Chen actively mentors aspiring scientists, his award serving as a constant reminder that success is attainable regardless of origin. Furthermore, the award ceremony sparked a dialogue about the importance of investing in scientific research within Scarborough, leading to increased funding for local STEM programs.
These are just two stories from the vast collection of achievements that define Scarborough’s spirit. The awards serve as a powerful tool, not just for recognizing individual excellence but for fostering a sense of pride within the community. They inspire others to embrace their heritage, pursue their passions, and contribute to the vibrant tapestry of Scarborough. As Ms. Kamal says, “Scarborough is a place where anyone can dream big and, with hard work, see those dreams take flight.” Dr. Chen echoes the sentiment, “This city is a melting pot of ideas and cultures. Together, we can achieve anything.”
Scarborough’s story is far from over. With every award winner, a new chapter unfolds, further enriching the city’s cultural tapestry and propelling it toward a brighter future.
Top Educational Institutions in Scarborough, Ontario
Scarborough offers a vibrant educational landscape catering to diverse needs and interests. Here are a couple of leading institutions that stand out for their unique programs, student life, and community engagement:
University of Toronto Scarborough (UTSC)
UTSC is a sprawling campus of the prestigious University of Toronto, consistently ranked among Canada’s top universities. It offers a comprehensive range of undergraduate and graduate programs in Arts, Science, and several professional faculties. UTSC boasts unique programs in Environmental Science, Computer and Mathematical Sciences, and Indigenous Studies.
UTSC goes beyond academics, fostering a well-rounded student experience:
Over 200 clubs and student organizations cater to various interests, from cultural associations to academic and social groups.
UTSC offers numerous athletic teams and intramural sports, along with excellent athletic facilities.
The university is committed to community engagement. Students participate in various initiatives, such as volunteering with local organizations, environmental stewardship programs, and public education events.
Centennial College
Centennial College is a public college renowned for its career-focused programs and practical learning approach. It offers a wide range of diploma, certificate, and apprenticeship programs in various disciplines, including Business, Engineering Technologies, Healthcare, Hospitality, and Communications.
Centennial College distinguishes itself through its strong industry partnerships and unique offerings:
Many programs incorporate co-op placements, providing students with valuable work experience.
The college boasts specialized facilities, such as simulated healthcare environments and industry-standard labs, for hands-on learning.
Centennial College actively engages with the Scarborough community through workshops, skills development programs, and partnerships with local businesses.
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