Homes Under $700K in Simcoe County

Written by Peggy Hill

Are you ready to buy a home and want to get the absolute best value for your money while living in a city and neighbourhood you love? You can’t go wrong by looking at Simcoe County!

Although home prices seem higher than ever all over the province, our region still has affordable options. The prospect of becoming a homeowner at last seems more attainable once you look outside the Greater Toronto Area.

Whether you’re looking for a walkable lakeside town or a quiet family-friendly neighbourhood, there’s something here for nearly every buyer. In this guide, we’ll highlight some of the best and most affordable Simcoe County communities to buy your first (or next) home.

Midland

Midland is a hidden gem for anyone seeking a new home, but especially for first-time buyers! Here, you can look forward to natural beauty, not to mention a laid-back lifestyle on Georgian Bay. As you get closer to the downtown core, there are also plenty of shops and cafes to fill your time.

All this, with real estate affordability as part of the mix! No wonder Midland is such a strong contender in the region.

Charming townhomes in Midland's downtown core, close to shops and cafes.

Most Affordable Midland Neighbourhoods for First-Time Buyers

Midland Point

Nestled along the shores of Georgian Bay, Midland Point provides a tranquil setting with access to waterfront trails and parks. The area features a mix of cottages and year-round homes at outstanding values in a natural and picturesque setting.

Downtown

Midland’s downtown area boasts historic charm with a variety of affordable housing options, including bungalows and townhouses. Residents enjoy walkable access to shops, cafes, and cultural attractions, making it ideal for those seeking a vibrant community atmosphere.

Midland Lifestyle Highlights

Midland offers picturesque views of Georgian Bay, with opportunities for boating, fishing, and exploring lush, waterfront trails. If the shore doesn’t draw you in, you can also take in local history at Sainte-Marie among the Hurons and participate in community events at the Midland Cultural Centre.

The town hosts various festivals, events and markets that we look forward to all year. We just love the sense of community and excitement as hundreds (or thousands) of people come together to celebrate.

Understanding the market is an essential first step for a new home buyer, and the posts below can help!

Orillia

Lakeside living is a bit of a theme in this post. Next on our list is Orillia, which is located just off Lake Ontario. Despite its enviable proximity to the water, you can still find attractive houses here that fall under the $700K price point.

With an average home price much less than you get in Toronto, Orillia is an excellent option for first-time buyers. A waterfront location with superb value and convenient amenities? What more could a young homeowner ask for?

Waterfront location in Orillia with walkable access to local amenities

Most Affordable Orillia Neighbourhoods for First-Time Buyers

Westridge

A newer, family-oriented area near shopping centers and Lakehead University. Westridge features townhomes and detached homes at accessible price points, ideal for young buyers looking for move-in-ready properties.

Downtown Orillia

If you’re seeking a walkable lifestyle and love historic charm, downtown Orillia has renovated older homes that fit under the $700K mark. It’s close to restaurants, boutiques, and the waterfront.

Orillia Lifestyle Highlights

Orillia sits between Lake Couchiching and Lake Simcoe, offering beaches, boating, and year-round lakeside events. As a vibrant city, there’s also an undeniable sense of culture, with events like the Mariposa Folk Festival and local farmers’ markets.

We love the fact that you can enjoy a quieter pace of life without sacrificing access to shopping, healthcare, and entertainment.

Barrie

For first-time buyers who don’t want to give up their city lifestyle but also don’t want to pay Toronto home prices, there’s Barrie. Plenty of housing options exist, including detached family homes with backyards and driveways, multiple bedrooms and bathrooms.

Can you believe many of them are under that $700K price point and in neighbourhoods ideal for young families and commuters? Once again, there’s a beautiful waterfront to admire, thanks to Barrie’s location on Kempenfelt Bay.

Interested in houses for sale in Barrie under $600,000? Or even houses for sale in Barrie under $500,000? You just never know what you might find when browsing our featured listings!

Allandale neighborhood in Barrie, highlighting proximity to the waterfront and GO Station.

Most Affordable Barrie Neighbourhoods for First-Time Buyers

Letitia Heights

Located in Barrie’s northwest, Letitia Heights offers a mix of detached homes and townhouses. The area is known for its mature trees, family-friendly parks, and proximity to schools, making it an attractive option for young families.

Allandale

Situated near the city’s south end, Allandale is a historic neighbourhood with a variety of housing options. Its close proximity to the Allandale Waterfront GO Station provides convenient commuting options. The neighbourhood also boasts recreational facilities and schools, enhancing its appeal to first-time buyers.

Barrie Lifestyle Highlights

Barrie’s location on the shores of Lake Simcoe offers residents beautiful waterfront parks and recreational activities. The city’s GO Transit stations, including the Allandale Waterfront GO Station, provide easy access to Toronto, making it suitable for commuters.

Barrie boasts a vibrant downtown with shops, restaurants, and cultural events, contributing to a lively community atmosphere. You can enjoy those big-city conveniences and excitement while enjoying an affordable lifestyle.

There’s a lot to love about living in Barrie! The posts below are just the beginning:

Angus

Angus remains a strong contender for first-time buyers exploring homes under $700K in Simcoe County. Many townhomes, semis, and smaller detached properties are still listed well below that number, including in family-friendly subdivisions.

Affordable Angus Neighbourhoods for First-Time Buyers

Pine River

The Pine River neighbourhood offers a mix of detached homes, townhouses, and newer developments, often with more spacious lots than what you’d find closer to the city. Pine River is ideal for families looking for a quieter pace and more outdoor space—without leaving the conveniences of Angus.

5th Line Area

This pocket of Angus is popular with both military families and first-time buyers. Homes here are close to major roads and amenities, and it’s a great spot for commuters working in Barrie or at CFB Borden.

Angus Lifestyle Highlights

Angus is conveniently close to Base Borden and Barrie.
Quiet streets, local parks, and easy access to shopping are among the benefits of living in the area.

It’s an ideal place to put down roots for those who seek a great balance of small-town living with urban convenience nearby.

Innisfil

Innisfil continues to attract buyers looking for space, amenities, and proximity to the lake. Average home prices tend to be a little above the $700,000 mark, but don’t be discouraged.

There are still many opportunities for first-time buyers within select Innisfil neighbourhoods. The trick is to work with a local real estate expert who can keep a watchful eye out on your behalf.

Affordable Innisfil Neighbourhoods for First-Time Buyers

Alcona

Alcona is Innisfil’s largest and most developed neighbourhood, offering a wide variety of housing options—from entry-level townhomes to executive homes near the lake. While some properties exceed the average, many two- or three-bedroom homes, particularly those a few streets off the lake, are priced under $700K. The area is also home to new commercial growth, making it increasingly self-sufficient.

Innisfil Beach Road Corridor

This area is seeing steady development and offers a mix of older detached homes and newer builds. First-time buyers can often find properties just under the $700K range here, especially if they’re open to minor renovations or smaller footprints.

Innisfil Lifestyle Highlights

Our description of Innisfil can be summed up by its Lake Simcoe access and plenty of shoreline trails. There is also expanding infrastructure with a planned GO Station on the way.

A mix of established neighbourhoods and new communities are on the rise in this quaint waterfront town.

Looking for more advice for getting into your first home or helping a family member? Start by reading the posts below:

Tips for First-Time Buyers Shopping in a Competitive Market

Buying your first home can be both exciting and overwhelming—especially in a competitive market like Simcoe County. These practical tips will help you navigate the process confidently and avoid common pitfalls.

1. Get Pre-Approved Early

Before you start touring homes, meet with a mortgage broker or lender to get pre-approved. This helps you understand your budget and strengthens your offer when you find the right property.

2. Act Quickly—but Don’t Skip Due Diligence

Affordable homes under $700K in desirable neighbourhoods often sell fast. Be ready to move when the right home comes up, but still ensure you schedule inspections and review all conditions.

3. Work with a Local Agent

An experienced Simcoe County real estate agent can guide you toward hidden gems, explain neighbourhood pros and cons, and help you avoid overpaying.

4. Consider Resale Potential

Look for properties near schools, transit, and amenities—even if you don’t need them yet. These factors can boost long-term resale value and rental potential.

5. Budget for More Than the Sale Price

Keep room in your budget for closing costs, home inspections, land transfer tax, and any immediate upgrades or furniture needs after you move in.

Moving on to Your Next Steps

Finding homes under $700K in Simcoe County is still achievable, especially if you know where to look. From the vibrant waterfront lifestyle in Barrie and Orillia, to the small-town charm of Midland and Angus, and the fast-growing appeal of Innisfil, each area offers unique advantages for first-time buyers.

Whether you’re prioritizing affordability, lake access, or future growth potential, Simcoe County has a wide range of communities that deliver real value without compromising on lifestyle.

Ready to begin your search? The Peggy Hill Team specializes in helping first-time buyers find the perfect fit—without the stress. Contact us at (705)-739-4455 or email info@peggyhill.com. We are happy to help you get started!

Post written by Peggy Hill

CEO of The Peggy Hill Team, Broker, Author

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