Turnkey Favored Over a Fixer-Upper in Peterborough, Ontario
The real estate market in Peterborough, Ontario, mirrors a national trend where homebuyers increasingly favor turnkey properties over fixer-uppers. A growing number of Canadians—64%—prefer renovated, move-in-ready homes, with older buyers (55+) especially drawn to these hassle-free options. This preference has become prominent in Peterborough, where buyers are looking for convenience and modern amenities.
In this article, we’ll explore the rising popularity of turnkey homes, why fixer-uppers are less appealing to today’s buyers, and how this trend is shaping the local real estate market. We’ll also provide insights from Frank Rosso, a seasoned Peterborough real estate agent, to help buyers and sellers make informed decisions in a competitive environment.
What Is a Turnkey Home?
A turnkey home is a property that’s fully updated and ready for immediate occupancy, requiring no major repairs or renovations. Buyers can move in without the stress of dealing with contractors or budgeting for additional work. These homes typically feature modern finishes, updated appliances, and a fresh aesthetic that appeals to the modern buyer.
On the other hand, a fixer-upper is a property that needs varying levels of work. From simple cosmetic updates like new paint or flooring to more substantial renovations such as plumbing, electrical, or structural improvements, fixer-uppers offer customization potential but also demand significant time and financial commitment.
The Popularity of Turnkey Homes in Peterborough
In Peterborough, the preference for turnkey homes is particularly strong, reflecting broader national trends. With busier lifestyles and rising renovation costs, more homebuyers want properties that are ready to move into without the need for major updates. This trend is especially prevalent among older buyers who are looking to avoid the hassle of home improvements.
Contact Frank Rosso, a real estate agent based in Peterborough, to see how turnkey properties can meet your needs. “More buyers are telling me they don’t want to deal with renovations. They prefer homes that are move-in ready, especially older clients who are downsizing or retiring. They want something simple and worry-free,” Frank explains.
Turnkey homes offer peace of mind, as everything from the plumbing to the kitchen is already up to date. The predictable cost of a turnkey property is another advantage, especially in today’s real estate market, where the price of construction materials and labor continues to rise.
Learn more about the cost of renovations in Ontario to understand why turnkey homes are often more attractive to buyers.
Fixer-Uppers: A Niche Market
While turnkey homes dominate buyer preferences, there remains a niche market for fixer-uppers. About 23% of Canadians would still consider buying a home that requires some level of renovation, motivated by the potential for customization and value-add projects. However, only a small percentage of buyers (2%) would take on a complete tear-down.
Fixer-uppers can offer good opportunities for buyers who are willing to invest time and effort into transforming a home. In Peterborough, younger buyers and investors occasionally seek out fixer-uppers as a way to enter the housing market at a lower price point, but it’s not the most common scenario.
Find Peterborough real estate with ease by working with local experts like Frank Rosso. He notes, “While there are definitely some buyers looking for fixer-uppers, the majority of people I work with prefer turnkey properties. Even younger buyers, who might be more open to renovations, are increasingly drawn to homes that don’t require a lot of work.”
The financial appeal of a fixer-upper, once a selling point, has diminished with the increasing costs of renovations. Materials, labor, and even the complexity of getting permits can make a fixer-upper less of a bargain than it once was. This has shifted buyer preferences even more toward turnkey homes.
Demographic Preferences: Turnkey vs. Fixer-Upper
Different buyer groups have distinct preferences when it comes to the condition of their future homes. Older buyers (55+) overwhelmingly prefer turnkey homes, as they often look for properties that require minimal maintenance and offer a smooth transition into a new phase of life, such as retirement or downsizing. Turnkey homes allow them to avoid the stress and unpredictability of home renovations, while also offering modern amenities that suit their lifestyle.
For younger buyers, there has historically been a stronger interest in fixer-uppers, largely driven by the desire to enter the market at a lower price point or create a custom home. However, even among younger buyers, the trend is shifting toward turnkey homes. With demanding careers and busy family lives, many younger buyers simply don’t have the time or resources to undertake major home renovations.
In Peterborough, these trends play out across the market. The city’s reputation for affordability and quality of life continues to attract buyers from all walks of life, but the preference for move-in-ready homes remains strong across age groups.
Why Turnkey Homes Are in Demand in Peterborough
Several factors are driving the demand for turnkey homes in Peterborough. One of the main reasons is convenience. Buyers want a home that they can move into without delay or unexpected costs. Renovations not only require time but can often lead to unforeseen expenses. Many buyers simply don’t want to take on that risk in a market where home prices are already a significant investment.
Peterborough’s growing popularity as a place to live—thanks to its proximity to nature, urban amenities, and strong community atmosphere—also plays a role. As more people move to the area from larger cities like Toronto, they often look for homes that meet their needs right away, which typically means a turnkey property.
Additionally, the cost of renovations has skyrocketed in recent years. With labor shortages and rising material costs, renovating a home is more expensive than ever. This report highlights how these trends have affected renovation costs in Ontario. This financial burden is pushing buyers to seek out homes that already have modern kitchens, updated bathrooms, and other desirable features, as the costs of updating an older home can quickly add up.
The Role of Real Estate Agents in Finding Your Ideal Home
Navigating the choice between a turnkey property and a fixer-upper can be challenging, but working with an experienced real estate agent can make the process much smoother. A knowledgeable agent, like Frank Rosso, can guide you through the pros and cons of each option based on your personal preferences, budget, and long-term goals.
For sellers, understanding buyer preferences is key to positioning your home effectively on the market. If you’re selling a turnkey home, highlighting its modern features and move-in readiness can help attract the right buyers. If you’re selling a fixer-upper, it’s important to showcase its potential and offer competitive pricing that reflects the work required.
Frank Rosso, a seasoned real estate agent in Peterborough, has extensive experience helping clients navigate these decisions. His insights into local market trends, combined with his expertise in communication and negotiation, make him an invaluable resource for buyers and sellers alike. Whether you’re looking for a turnkey home or a property with renovation potential, Frank can help you find the perfect fit.
Read more about homebuying tips to ensure you make an informed decision about whether to buy a turnkey or fixer-upper property.
The Future of Peterborough’s Real Estate Market
As the demand for turnkey homes continues to grow, Peterborough’s real estate market is evolving. The preference for modern, move-in-ready properties is likely to remain strong, especially among older buyers and those relocating from larger urban centers. This trend is expected to drive up the value of turnkey properties, making them a solid investment for buyers.
However, there will always be a market for fixer-uppers, particularly among buyers who are willing to put in the effort to create a custom home. Investors, in particular, may still find value in properties that require some renovation, as they offer the potential for a higher return on investment once the work is complete.
Regardless of your preference, working with a skilled real estate agent like Frank Rosso can help you navigate the complexities of the Peterborough market. Whether you’re buying or selling, his knowledge and expertise can ensure a smooth and successful transaction.
Conclusion
In Peterborough, the demand for turnkey homes is stronger than ever, as buyers seek the convenience and peace of mind that comes with a move-in-ready property. Whether you’re looking to purchase a new home or sell your current property, understanding these market trends is essential.
For expert guidance and personalized service, contact Frank Rosso, a trusted real estate agent in Peterborough, Ontario. With his deep knowledge of the local market and commitment to his clients, Frank can help you make the best decisions for your real estate journey.
- RE/MAX Canada – A trusted real estate brand in Canada offering insights and services for buyers and sellers.
- CMHC - Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation – A reliable source for housing market data, trends, and tips on buying or selling a home.
Need help navigating the market? Contact Frank Rosso today for a personalized consultation.
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Frank Rosso Peterborough, Ontario Realtor®
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RE/MAX Hallmark Eastern Realty
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