Barrie Real Estate News

Barrie Real Estate Profile

Jan. 24, 2005: Barrie real estate profile: Barrie is considered a friendly, safe and dynamic city renowned for its high standard of living. With a population of 125,000 and growing annually by 6 percent, it has a lot to offer its residents. All the shops and services one finds in a big city are available. On the other hand, it's close to nature, which is hard to find in a big city. Only 90 km north of Toronto, located on Kempenfelt Bay of Lake Simcoe, Barrie boasts unpolluted waters for swimmers in the summer and ski hills in the winter. There are over 90 parks within the city.

It is estimated that over the next 10 years the city will grow by between 40 and 60 percent. In October 2003 it was picked by Canadian Business Magazine as Southern Ontario's lowest cost business location. It is home to Georgian College, one of Ontario's top community colleges as well as a leading post-secondary establishment in the automotive sector. Located just off of Highway 400, Barrie has great access to both the Canadian and American markets. The 400 also connects Barrie to Highways 401 and 407. Highways 90, 27 and 11 are alternate routes to the rest of Ontario.

There are many attractions and events in Barrie. The Molson Centre, home of the Ontario Hockey League's Barrie Colts, is Central Ontario's main sports and entertainment centre. Concerts, trade and consumer shows, conventions and other sporting events make this a popular venue. Gryphon Theatre hosts live theatre, music and dance. Barrie Boat Cruises offer tours on Lake Simcoe on a 260- passenger licensed boat. Burl's Creek Family Event Park is host to many events and festivals during the spring, summer and fall. Elmvale Jungle Zoo has wildlife from around the world on 20 acres of natural surroundings. Reptile and bird presentations are shown daily. Georgian Downs offers harness horse racing. In February Barrie holds its Winterfest and the Festival of Ice.

Three bedroom houses in Barrie cost between $129,000 and $750,000. Condominiums range from $99,000 to $495,000.