Over the past decade, a growing number of buyers have flocked to Belleville in search of larger, more affordable properties and a break from the fast-paced life of Ontario’s larger cities. 

While there are countless reasons why you should move to the Bay of Quinte region, there are a few things to consider before you take the leap. Here are 5 things to know before moving to Belleville. 

1. Size & Population

Before you decide whether or not to call Belleville home, you’ll want to factor in the city’s size and profile. If you are relatively unfamiliar with the Bay of Quinte region, Belleville may be smaller or larger than you expected. Today Belleville is home to just over 50,000 residents. However, when factoring in surrounding towns and communities, the regional population rounds out to approximately 200,000. 

All things considered, Belleville is a small city. While locals do have a strong sense of community and identity, it’s certainly far from being a village. Belleville’s cultural and retail amenities create a distinct sense of urbanity in the city’s historic downtown centre. Although there’s absolutely less hustle and bustle compared to Ontario’s larger urban cores, Belleville still offers a handful of big city perks. 

As proud Belleville locals, our city means a lot to us. Learn about some of the vital community initiatives and organizations we support here. 

2. Getting Around

Most residents in the Bay of Quinte region drive rather than rely on public transit. If you’re accustomed to using the expansive public transit network of a larger city, you may need to tailor your expectations when you relocate. While Belleville does offer public transit, service is less frequent compared to major hubs. That being said, you may still be able to live car-free depending on the location of your home and other lifestyle factors. 

Belleville does offer residents high-quality transit services to other towns and cities. For connections across Ontario and Quebec, Belleville is well served by VIA Rail, with multiple trains stopping through each day. For frequent flyers, there’s a direct shuttle bus service from Belleville to Toronto Pearson International Airport. 

3. Schools & Education

Whether you currently have children or are looking to grow your family in the future, it’s important to familiarize yourself with the landscape of Belleville’s school system before you decide to buy. Belleville is home to several elementary and high schools, with most belonging to the Hastings Prince Edward District Board or the Algonquin & Lakeshore Catholic District School Board. There are also multiple private schools for parents looking to provide an exclusive learning experience for their children. Canada’s oldest private co-ed school, Albert College, is located right in the heart of the city and caters to students from pre-kindergarten to grade 12. 

Want to learn more about new condos and custom homes in Belleville? Check out these blog posts. 

• Should You Use a Realtor When Buying a Pre-Construction Home?
• Is a Custom Home Right For You?
• New Condo Developments in the Bay of Quinte Region

4. Real Estate is Shifting 

Real estate in Belleville is unique. As a steadily growing city, the local housing landscape has evolved over the past few years. Once a hot seller’s market (like other parts of Ontario), conditions are slowly beginning to balance out. 

Today, there are still plenty of properties entering the market, both new developments and existing homes. While housing prices are up compared to a few years ago, homes are generally still more affordable in Bellville than in most other cities in Ontario. 

5. You’ll Want to Work With a Local Agent

Buying a new home is no small process. This is especially true if you’re relocating. Even if you have some familiarity with Belleville, it’s important to work with a real estate agent who truly knows the city like the back of their hand. 

Not only can a local agent help you find a great home, but their distinct expertise can help you determine which part of the city will be best for you to settle in based on your unique needs and circumstances. Plus, in a quickly evolving housing market like Belleville, a local agent who deeply understands past and present trends can ensure you pay the right price for your home.

Thinking about moving to Belleville? As local real estate experts, we can help. Contact us.