Our Luxury Market Update

It is (almost) Spring again! Each year I review the luxury market in our area. Luxury properties have always been available in The Highlands (Minden and Haliburton), but it is still a fairly new and fresh section of our market. For many years Purchaser with $1,000,000 or more went straight to Muskoka, and The Highlands was not really on their radar. Each year more and more high-end Purchasers are discovering what The Highlands has to offer - beautiful lakes, exquisite scenery, loads of activities/events and attractions, and more bang for your buck!

When I started in real estate there were never more than 1 or 2 million-dollar listings on the market at a time, and they could take quite some time to sell. That has certainly changed. The area boasts over 600 lakes and the luxury market offers everything from quiet, remote private lakes to big boating, and everything inbetween!
I quick look back into recent history reveals that in 2012 there were 6 properties that sold for price tags over $1,000,000. They were located on Drag Lake, Kennisis (2), Kashagawigamog, Boshkung and Redstone Lakes.  In 2013 there were 5 sales, located on Drag Lake, Redstone, Kashagawigamog, and 2 on Kennisis. In 2014 we jumped to 8 sales. These may be small numbers - but that is an increase of 60%. 2014's sales were on Growler Lake, Soyers, Canning, Kashagawigamog (2), Spruce, Redstone and Kennisis.
You will notice some repeats in lake names, and yes, these are the more common lakes for the luxury market....but you can definitely find your next gem just about anywhere in the County, on any size of lake.
What will 2015 bring? As of today, March 13, there are 12 properties listed at over $1,000,000. Keep in mind these are their list prices, not sale - but it is only March! This tourist region has so much to offer! Privacy, beautiful boating, stunning views, skiing, outdoor adventures, festivals.....and lower property taxes than our neighbours : )
Do I love the Highlands? I could write a book!!