NORTH AND EAST
Rideau Heights/Markers Acres
As of last year, Kingston no longer has a neighborhood with an average price under $200,000. This northeasterly corner was the last bastion of true affordability in Kingston. Average sale price in 2012 was $202,000. With $10,000 down, a house like this carries for $900 a month.
The high percentage of rentals on some streets, and the low-income renters attracted to this area, have given the neighborhood some baggage to carry. But the steady appreciation in prices here indicates two things: there is always a pressing demand for affordable homes, and buyers know there are many pleasant streets of well-kept homes in this area.
This neighborhood is also the closest to continuing major commercial/retail development along Division Street immediately south of the 401.
Still, the regular turnover here keeps appreciation buoyant. Appreciation has dependably stayed between 5.5-6.5 per cent over the past three years.
These figures do not include the neighborhoods along Highway 2 east of CFB Kingston. Averages here impart no useful information as the figures are based mostly on the upscale neighborhoods bordering the St. Lawrence, and are easily thrown off by one or more high-priced waterfront sales, or lack thereof.
COPYRIGHT 2015 Kay Langmuir