It's all about lifestyle, Head north to find exactly what you're looking for

Today, more than ever, people are prioritizing their quality of life, and builders are responding with thoughtfully designed, master-planned, lifestyle communities. This growth, is the direct result of an aging population, who is looking for developments that offer amenities and conveniences in a maintenance-free setting.

AN IMPROVED MODUS VIVENDI

In Active Life, alone, developers are promoting wonderful opportunities for enhanced lifestyles, often in quieter environs.Situated on approximately 240 acres, The Seasons on Little Lake in Midland is drawing serious interest. Many purchasers are finding that they are being priced out of the market in, and around, the GTA. Prices here start at $399,900, which is far less than a condo in Toronto or a home in nearby Barrie. With this type of value, it's easy to see why downsizing baby boomers, young professionals and families, are seeking more bang for their buck.As the search for that perfect new home community extends further north, Alliston, Barrie and Midland are experiencing a population boom. Even if commuting, you can get to any of these locations, from Toronto, within 90 minutes.

MIDLAND'S FRINGE BENEFITS

For Hanson Development Group, the opportunity to bring the best of a master-planned community to a small town, which is in transition, was irresistible. Unlike Collingwood, the Blue Mountains, or nearby Wasaga Beach, Midland has yet to gain the same recognition of its pricier sister communities. But, it won't be long before that changes.Midland sits on Georgian Bay in Simcoe County. It's the main town of the southern Georgian Bay area. In the summer, the population more than quadruples. The town's rich history, as well as an abundance of natural attractions, makes it an appealing destination. As a result, its reputation as a year-round, lifestyle location, is also growing.A charming main street, with boutique shops and an excellent selection of restaurants, is augmented by big box stores, services and a wide selection of amenities. In addition to attractive prices, the real benefit of Midland, and of living in a masterplanned community, is the deep connection to the natural setting.

FULFILLING THE WISH LIST

At the Seasons, all residents will have access to Little Lake to enjoy canoeing, kayaking and paddle boarding. The site also includes 13 kilometres of recreational trails, which attract walkers, bikers and joggers, as well as cross-country skiers in the winter.At the Seasons, Hanson is reducing their economic, and environmental, impact compared to similar masterplanned communities. This 1,200- home development will feature a 10,000-square-foot members' club, where homeowners have access to a gym, indoor and outdoor pools, as well as party rooms and a nearby outdoor amphitheatre for special events. All of this is what defines a well-deserved lifestyle.When projecting future growth, it's easy to see why Midland, and other cities outside the GTA, are becoming sought-after locations for those who are looking to downsize, and enhance their way of life.Christine Brennan is the senior vice president & private office advisor at Engel & Völkers Collingwood/Muskoka.Photo, courtesy of North Simcoe Tourism