Exploring Barrhaven CANADA – is This The Right Place For You?
So you’re thinking of moving to Barrhaven? Well, this suburb of Ottawa has been growing faster than a puppy with a bottomless food bowl. But does it have what it takes to be your new home? First off, Barrhaven is a quiet, family-friendly community, so if your idea of a good time is partying until dawn, you might want to look elsewhere. However, if you enjoy long walks, cozy movie nights, and scenic cycling routes, then you might just fall in love with Barrhaven like a hopeless romantic. With access to shopping, restaurants, and nature trails, Barrhaven has something for everyone. And, if you play your cards right, you might even get to join a game of shinny with the local hockey team.
Are you looking for a peaceful, modern, and grand suburban community to call home in Ottawa? Then Barrhaven is the perfect destination for you. This wonderful neighbourhood offers a unique blend of urban and suburban living, with excellent proximity to the city centre and all its attractions. Before making a huge decision, you need to know if Barrhaven is the right place for you. In this video, we explore the main highlights of this neighbourhood, including transportation, community, cost of living, real estate, recreational facilities, and schools. So without further ado let’s dive into it
Transportation in Barrhaven Ottawa
If you’re a resident of Barrhaven, you’re undoubtedly aware of the abundance of transportation options at your fingertips. Whether you’re heading downtown for work or exploring other neighbourhoods in the city, there are options available. And if your travels take you a bit further afield, the Via Rail station in Fallowfield is an excellent resource. With direct links to major Canadian cities like Montreal and Toronto, you can easily plan a weekend getaway or a business trip without worrying about the logistics of travel.
Community of Barrhaven
Barrhaven is a peaceful and friendly suburban community located in Ottawa, perfect for those seeking a tranquil lifestyle. Families, individuals, and anyone who values a strong sense of community will feel right at home here. The neighbourhood has everything a resident needs, from schools to medical facilities, which makes daily life convenient and hassle-free. With a list of social events and activities available, it is easy to keep the boredom at bay in Barrhaven. Festivals, Canada Day celebrations, and other organized events cater to families seeking fun and engaging activities. The community of Barrhaven is truly one where individuals and families can find a warm welcome and a strong sense of belonging.
Cost of Living in Barrhaven
Barrhaven is a rapidly growing suburban community and the cost of living in Barrhaven is generally more affordable compared to the central areas of the city. While housing prices in Barrhaven have increased in recent years due to high demand, they still remain relatively lower than those in downtown Ottawa, making it an attractive option for families and first-time homebuyers. The unique appeal of Barrhaven lies in its family-friendly atmosphere, with numerous parks, schools, and recreational facilities available to residents. The community also features a variety of shopping centres, restaurants, and local businesses, providing residents with all the amenities they need close to home. As a result, Barrhaven offers a more relaxed and budget-friendly lifestyle compared to the hustle and bustle of Ottawa’s urban core, while still being within easy commuting distance to the city centre.
Real Estate in Barrhaven
Barrhaven is a diverse community that offers a wide range of real estate properties to cater to various lifestyles and budgets. The area features an assortment of housing options, including single-family homes, townhouses, semi-detached homes, and condominiums. Single-family homes in Barrhaven come in various styles and sizes, from charming bungalows to spacious multi-story dwellings, providing ample choice for growing families or those seeking a larger living space. Townhouses and semi-detached homes offer a more affordable alternative for first-time homebuyers or those looking to downsize, while still maintaining a sense of community and access to nearby amenities. Condominiums, on the other hand, provide a low-maintenance lifestyle with added benefits such as shared facilities and services, making them an attractive option for busy professionals or retirees. With its diverse selection of real estate properties, Barrhaven presents an appealing housing market for individuals and families seeking a comfortable and vibrant suburban lifestyle.
The Ottawa real estate market has been experiencing fluctuations recently. According to data, since December 2022 when the real estate market hit a low point, the average home prices have gone up by 13.9%. In April, the average selling price for freehold-class properties was $747,123, which reflects a 10% decrease compared to the previous year; however, it was 5% higher than in March 2023.
The average sale price for condos this year was $435,875. This is a decrease of 8% compared to last year, but an increase of 4% compared to March 2023. So far this year, freeholds have sold for an average of $718,633, while condos have sold for an average of $421,722. Compared to 2022, this is a decrease of 13% for freeholds and a decrease of 10% for condos. Despite its fluctuations, the real estate market is important for the economy and will continue to evolve over time.
Recreational Facilities in Barrhaven
Barrhaven boasts an array of recreational facilities and activities that cater to residents of all ages and interests, fostering a vibrant and active community. The area is home to several parks, sports fields, and green spaces, such as Clarke Fields Park, Ken Ross Park, and Larkin Park, where families can enjoy picnics, playgrounds, and outdoor sports. The Walter Baker Sports Centre serves as a hub for indoor sports and fitness, featuring swimming pools, ice rinks, squash courts, and a fitness centre.
Additionally, the Minto Recreation Complex – Barrhaven offers a variety of amenities, including an aquatic centre, gymnasium, and multi-purpose rooms for various classes and events. Golf enthusiasts can spend a day on the greens at the Stonebridge Golf Club, while those interested in tennis can take advantage of the Barrhaven Tennis Club’s facilities. With numerous recreational options available, Barrhaven residents can easily maintain an active and healthy lifestyle while enjoying the benefits of a close-knit suburban community.
Schools in Barrhaven
Barrhaven is home to a diverse selection of schools, providing families with a range of educational options that cater to different needs and preferences. The area includes schools from various boards, such as the Ottawa-Carleton District School Board (OCDSB), the Ottawa Catholic School Board (OCSB), the Conseil des écoles publiques de l’Est de l’Ontario (CEPEO), and the Conseil des écoles catholiques du Centre-Est (CECCE).
Some notable schools in the community include John McCrae Secondary School, St. Joseph High School, and École élémentaire catholique Pierre-Elliott-Trudeau. These institutions offer a wide array of school activities, enriching the educational experience for students. Extracurricular programs encompass sports teams, clubs, arts and music programs, and various academic competitions. Schools in Barrhaven also emphasize community engagement, with initiatives like volunteer opportunities, charitable fundraisers, and local partnerships. These diverse school activities not only foster personal development and skill-building but also contribute to the strong sense of community that characterizes life in Barrhaven.
So, is Barrhaven the right place for you? Well, my friend, that depends on who you are and what you like. If you’re ready for a change of pace and a warm, welcoming community, then pack your bags and get ready to explore Barrhaven! Barrhaven is an exceptional suburban community with plenty of highlights that make it the perfect neighbourhood to call home. The neighbourhood’s affordability, accessibility, and wide range of recreational, educational, and community facilities make it the ideal destination for families, retirees, and individuals wishing to invest in the city’s exceptional quality of life.
And if you are thinking relocating to Ottawa feel free to reach out to us. Give us a call – shoot us a text – send us an email – or even wrap it in a bow and send it first class because we got your back when moving to Ottawa or anywhere across Canada.
