Most of us have heard the Mark Twain quote "Buy land, they've stopped making it", there's no doubt that investing in real estate is a great way to build equity. As prices in the urban centres creep up, more Ottawa buyers are purchasing condos as a way to get into real estate investment. We saw a condo boom in 2017 and the trend is continuing into 2018. While this is a great option, if the condo lifestyle doesn't appeal to you, you might consider bucking the trend of urbanisation, and choose to put down rural roots. Not convinced? If you love the thought of being able to enjoy amazing restaurants, culture and grab a great latte, buying a home in Almonte is something you might want to consider.
Found along the banks of Canada’s Mississippi River, in the Ottawa Valley, the quaint town of Almonte, Ontario has continued to thrive for decades. Known for attracting millers and other industrialists alike in the early 19th century with its famous waterfalls and powerful rapids as well as being home to the creator of basketball, Dr. James Naismith, Almonte is a true part of our Canadian heritage.
So, what is Almonte like today?
A scenic mill town. An escape from the busy city. And most importantly, a place to call home. Many sections of the town remain unchanged, which allows its history to live on. In fact, you’ll find a variety of homes along the streets of Almonte. There are new builds, Victorian and heritage homes as well as the usual mix of properties built over the last few decades, some renovated, some perfect for those looking for a renovation project. Though the majority of homes are single family homes, Almonte is building its way into the hearts of those who are in the market for condos that are far from “cookie cutter”… including a growing “boutique” condo market. That said, there certainly isn’t a shortage of choice in Almonte real estate – there’s something for everyone (at every price point too)!
Considered to be one of the most cultured towns in the Ottawa Valley, Almonte is certainly a sort of “arts hub”, appealing to millennials, families and retirees alike. If you’re one for the arts, pick up a copy of the The Humm; an arts and entertainment guide for the Valley that features monthly artists, local food, music festivals and what’s playing at the community theatre (to name a few).
Almonte is arguably one of the best towns to retire in. In part, because the cost of living is relatively low in comparison to Ottawa, downsizing is quite common and easy to accomplish. Further to this, Almonte has a ton of great food, beautiful parklands and is also “grandchildren-friendly”.
But you don’t need to be retired to enjoy the Almonte life! The strong local arts and crafts community makes it a desirable choice for millennials, singles and families who are looking to create a life away from the hustle and bustle of the city. Unlike Carleton Place, which is a quick drive from Almonte about 13kms away, you won’t find big box stores here. This adds to its historical charm and may be part of the reason why Almonte is home to many successful local businesses.
With the demographic of Almonte being so vast, the mill town has its many amenities, offering first-class restaurants, shopping districts, historic museums and community events. In fact, a lot of the original limestone buildings have been re-purposed over the many years to serve as galleries, condos, eateries, and office spaces for residents and guests to relish and enjoy:
Only 20 minutes from Kanata, and 45 minutes from downtown Ottawa, Almonte is an area that is commutable for those who work in the city. And if you don’t want to drive into the city for work that’s no problem! There’s a private bus service that will take you to and from Ottawa from Monday to Friday.
The quaint town of Almonte, Ontario is not to be missed. This mill town is a great place to visit, a strong contender for real estate investment, and a significant piece of our Canadian heritage. And with such neighbouring communities as Mississippi Mills, Carleton Place, and Ashton Station (to name a few), you’ll never find a shortage of things to do or adventures to be had!
Interested in the Almonte life? Contact us anytime, we’d love to help you make your next big real estate dream a reality.
“Urban meets rural in lifestyle. Contemporary meets historic in design.”
-Almonte Condos