Posts Tagged ‘Average Ottawa Home Prices’

Ottawa Market Update: Is it Really a Sellers Market?

Park and Ride Options for Military Relocations in Ottawa

Relocating to Ottawa for a military assignment comes with its own set of challenges, one of which is finding convenient and efficient ways to commute to key locations such as the DND Headquarters on Carling Avenue and downtown Ottawa. For those who prefer to avoid the hassle of downtown parking and traffic, Ottawa offers several Park and Ride options that make the daily commute smoother and more efficient. Here’s a look at some of the best Park and Ride options and the transit times to major destinations using OC Transpo services.

	Eagleson Park & Ride To DND Headquarters: Transit Time: Approximately 30-35 minutes. Route: Take Route 63 or 64 directly to Tunney’s Pasture, then transfer to Route 66 or another bus heading towards Carling Avenue. Details: Eagleson Park & Ride, located at Highway 417 and Eagleson Road, offers easy access to Connexion routes and has ample parking space. To Downtown Ottawa (National Defence Headquarters): Transit Time: Approximately 25-30 minutes. Route: Take Route 63 or 64 directly to downtown.
	Blair Park & Ride To DND Headquarters: Transit Time: Approximately 55-60 minutes. Route: Take the O-Train Line 1 to Tunney’s Pasture, then transfer to Route 66 or another bus heading towards Carling Avenue. Details: Situated in the east end, Blair Station is a key transit hub. To Downtown Ottawa (National Defence Headquarters): Transit Time: Approximately 20-25 minutes. Route: Take the O-Train Line 1 directly to downtown.
	Fallowfield Park & Ride To DND Headquarters: Transit Time: Approximately 40-45 minutes. Route: Take Route 95 or 74 to Tunney’s Pasture, then transfer to Route 66 or another bus heading towards Carling Avenue. Details: Located at 100 Via Park Place, Fallowfield Park & Ride offers free parking and is well-connected with Fallowfield Station for transit options. To Downtown Ottawa (National Defence Headquarters): Transit Time: Approximately 35-40 minutes. Route: Take Route 95 or 74 directly to downtown.
	Chapel Hill Park & Ride To DND Headquarters: Transit Time: Approximately 70-75 minutes. Route: Take Route 32 or 33 to Blair Station, then transfer to the O-Train Line 1 to Tunney’s Pasture, followed by Route 66. Details: Located at Brian Coburn Blvd and Navan Rd, it offers free parking and good transit connections. To Downtown Ottawa (National Defence Headquarters): Transit Time: Approximately 35-40 minutes. Route: Take Route 32 or 33 to Blair Station, then transfer to the O-Train Line 1 to downtown.
	Trim Park & Ride To DND Headquarters: Transit Time: Approximately 80-85 minutes. Route: Take Route 39 to Blair Station, then transfer to the O-Train Line 1 to Tunney’s Pasture, followed by Route 66. Details: This location is in the eastern outskirts, with direct transit routes available. To Downtown Ottawa (National Defence Headquarters): Transit Time: Approximately 45-50 minutes. Route: Take Route 39 to Blair Station, then transfer to the O-Train Line 1 to downtown.

Making Your Commute Easier

Using Ottawa’s Park and Ride facilities can significantly reduce the stress and cost associated with daily commutes. The OC Transpo Travel Planner is an excellent tool for planning your route and ensuring you catch the next bus or train on time. By leveraging these Park and Ride options, military personnel can enjoy a more convenient and efficient commute, allowing them to focus on their important work at the DND Headquarters or downtown offices.

SUBURBAN STATISTICS UPDATE JULY 2024

Here’s the newest Suburban Statistics Series update. We’re highlighting stats for the five biggest urban neighbourhoods in Ottawa. Since Ottawa is pretty spread out, it’s interesting to see how things vary in each area. These stats are all based on MLS OREB sales from January 1, 2023, to July 31, 2023, compared to the same period from January 1, 2024, to July 31, 2024.

OTTAWA MARKET UPDATE: July 2024

SUBURBAN STATISTICS UPDATE JUNE 2024

Here’s the newest Suburban Statistics Series update. We’re highlighting stats for the five biggest urban neighbourhoods in Ottawa. Since Ottawa is pretty spread out, it’s interesting to see how things vary in each area. These stats are all based on MLS OREB sales from January 1, 2023, to June 30, 2023, compared to the same period from January 1, 2024, to June 30, 2024.

OTTAWA MARKET UPDATE

OTTAWA MARKET UPDATE: JUNE 2024

Adding a Secondary Dwelling: A Comprehensive Guide for Ottawa Homeowners

Thinking about adding a secondary unit to your existing home? Secondary dwellings, also known as in-law suites or accessory apartments, can offer various benefits such as additional income and increased property value. Here’s a concise guide on what you need to know before embarking on this home improvement journey in Ottawa.

Understanding the Basics

What is a Secondary Dwelling? A secondary dwelling is a self-contained unit with its own kitchen, bathroom, and sleeping area. It can be part of your existing house or a separate structure on your property.

Key Considerations:

• Zoning Requirements: Check if your area allows secondary units using the geoOttawa tool.
• Building Permits: Essential for ensuring safety and compliance with regulations.
• Building Code Compliance: Ensure your construction meets the minimum standards.
• Inspections: The City of Ottawa will inspect your unit during construction.

Ottawa-Specific Rules

Size and Access:

• A secondary unit can occupy up to 40% of your principal dwelling’s floor area. There’s no size limit for basement units.
• The unit must have a separate ground floor entrance and should not add a new doorway on the front wall of your home.

Parking and Location:

• The secondary unit cannot eliminate the required parking for the main dwelling.
• Additional parking is not mandatory, but if added, it cannot be in the front yard.

Dwelling Types Permitted:

• Detached dwellings, linked-detached dwellings, semi-detached dwellings, townhouses, and duplexes (existing as of July 17, 2013).

Financial Benefits and Costs

Adding a secondary dwelling can affect your property taxes and insurance. Here are some costs you might incur:

• Remodeling Costs: Ranges from $30,000 to $100,000, covering elements like firewalls, egress, heating systems, bathrooms, kitchens, and electrical upgrades.
• Permit Fees: Minimum of $100.

Financial Assistance:

• Better Homes Ottawa Loan Program: Offers fixed-rate, low-interest loans for home energy improvements, covering up to 30% of the cost for secondary suites.

Rental Income and Payback

Using the median rental prices from the Ottawa Neighborhood Study, the payback period for your investment can be calculated. For example, with an average cost of $100,000 and a monthly rent of $1,503, the payback period is approximately 5.54 years.

Enhancing Energy Efficiency

When adding a secondary suite, consider improving your home’s energy efficiency:

1. Building Envelope: Upgrade walls, windows, doors, roof, foundation, and insulation.
2. Heating and Cooling: Install efficient systems like cold climate heat pumps.
3. Renewables: Add solar panels, geothermal systems, and battery backups.
4. Smart Technology: Use smart thermostats and LED lights.
5. Resilience Measures: Implement stormwater management and install cool or green roofs.

Adding a secondary dwelling is a substantial investment that can yield significant returns through rental income and increased property value. Ensuring compliance with Ottawa’s specific regulations and enhancing your home’s energy efficiency will maximize the benefits of this project.

For more detailed information, visit the City of Ottawa’s website and the Better Homes Ottawa program

SUBURBAN STATISTICS UPDATE MAY 2024

Here’s the newest Suburban Statistics Series update. We’re highlighting stats for the five biggest urban neighbourhoods in Ottawa. Since Ottawa is pretty spread out, it’s interesting to see how things vary in each area. These stats are all based on MLS OREB sales from January 1, 2023, to May 31, 2023, compared to the same period from January 1, 2024, to May 31, 2024.

OTTAWA MARKET UPDATE: MAY 2024