Markham draws families and professionals from across Canada and around the world. It offers a mix of heritage streets, newer master-planned communities and a steady job base, all within reach of Toronto.
Moving here from far away means making big decisions with less local knowledge. The Kaizen Real Estate Team, which helps relocating clients settle in Markham every year, put together this checklist to make the process clearer.
Step 1: Know Your Buying Status
Citizens and permanent residents can buy freely. Others should check two rules first:
- The federal ban on non-Canadian purchases has been extended to January 1, 2027, with exceptions for some work-permit holders and others.
- Ontario's Non-Resident Speculation Tax may apply to some buyers who are not citizens or permanent residents.
Confirm your situation with a real estate lawyer before making an offer.
Step 2: Shortlist Neighbourhoods
Start with your daily life, not the house. Where is work? How will you commute? Which schools do you want to be near? What do you want to walk to?
| If you value | Start by exploring |
|---|---|
| Heritage character and a village main street | Unionville |
| Golf, larger lots and luxury homes | Angus Glen |
| Newer planned community, walkable design | Cornell |
| Family-oriented, established streets | Berczy Village, Wismer |
| GO train access and newer homes | Greensborough |
The Markham transit guide helps compare commutes.
PARTNER PERSPECTIVE
What Relocating Families Ask First
Neeraj Moolchandani finds that relocating families usually ask about commute and schools before anything else. Once those two answers are clear, the list of neighbourhoods gets short quickly.
Neeraj Moolchandani also suggests visiting the area on a weekday evening and a weekend morning. Traffic, parks and local shops feel different at different times, and it helps you picture everyday life.
Step 3: Line Up Financing
Get pre-approved early. Newcomers may need extra documents such as employment letters, proof of funds and credit history from another country. Budget for Ontario land transfer tax, legal fees and moving costs. See closing costs in Markham and the mortgage calculator.
Step 4: Rent First or Buy Now?
Renting for a few months lets you test commutes and neighbourhoods. Buying right away can make sense when your job and school plans are firm. The team helps with both. See renting and leasing in Markham.
Step 5: Buying from a Distance
- Live video tours and 3D walkthroughs.
- Digital signing for offers and documents.
- An inspection condition so the home is checked before your offer is firm.
- A local lawyer to handle closing.
Step 6: Settle In
After closing, set up utilities, register for property tax payments and school enrolment, and get to know your new area. The Markham property tax guide explains what to expect.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Markham a good place to live for families?
Can a work-permit holder buy a home in Markham?
How far is Markham from downtown Toronto?
Michael John Lau and Neeraj Moolchandani are REALTORS® with the Kaizen Real Estate Team, eXp Realty, Brokerage, 9763 Markham Rd, Markham, ON L6E 1A4. This article is general information, not legal, tax or financial advice. Rules and market conditions change; confirm details with the appropriate professional before acting.