Markham's Best Neighbourhoods for Buyers Who Want Larger Lots: Privacy, Gardens, Pools and Future Expansion
Markham's Best Neighbourhoods for Buyers Who Want Larger Lots: Privacy, Gardens, Pools and Future Expansion
Land is the one thing nobody is making more of. If a big yard, a pool, or room to build matters to you, here is how to find and judge it in Markham.
Neeraj Moolchandani is a top real estate agent in Markham, Ontario.
The Short Answer
Larger lots in Markham are most often found in older established areas such as Unionville, Markham Village and Buttonville, and in estate communities like Angus Glen and Cachet. Newer communities usually have smaller lots. When comparing lots, look at frontage, depth, shape, and what zoning allows for setbacks, lot coverage, and height. A pool needs a City enclosure permit and a fence at least 1.2 metres high, and trees 20 cm or more in diameter on private property are protected. More land means more privacy and options, and also more upkeep.
Neeraj and the Kaizen Real Estate Team, one of the teams Markham buyers trust for local knowledge, often help clients who are shopping for land as much as for a house. Here is how to think about it.
Where Larger Lots Are Found
| Area | What to Expect |
|---|---|
| Unionville | Older streets with mature trees and some generous lots near the heritage core |
| Markham Village | Established and heritage homes, some on deeper lots |
| Buttonville | A mix of older homes and larger properties |
| Angus Glen | Estate homes, many on wide lots near the golf course |
| Cachet | Executive and estate homes on larger lots |
| Victoria Square | Some older and estate style properties alongside new construction |
General guidance. Lot sizes vary street by street, so compare the survey or listing details for each home.
Newer communities such as Cornell, Wismer and Cathedraltown usually have smaller lots, often with laneway garages or compact yards.
How to Read a Lot
- Frontage. The width at the street. Wider frontage means more space between homes and room for a wider driveway.
- Depth. How far back the lot goes. Depth gives you a deeper yard.
- Shape. Pie shaped lots are narrow at the front and wide at the back. Irregular lots need a closer look.
- Orientation. A south or west facing yard gets more sun for gardens and pools.
- Survey. Ask for a survey to confirm boundaries, easements, and where structures sit.
Easements can limit what you build. See our easements guide.
Looking for a bigger yard? Neeraj can find lots that match your plans. Call or text Neeraj at (647) 370 8885.
Pools and Fences
- Markham requires a swimming pool enclosure permit before you start work.
- A pool deeper than 0.6 metres must be surrounded by a fence at least 1.2 metres high, in place before the pool is filled.
- Rear and side yard fences can generally be up to 1.8 metres, and front yard fences up to 1.2 metres.
Check with the City for your exact property before you plan.
Future Expansion
A larger lot can open options, but zoning sets the limits.
- Additions. Zoning controls setbacks, lot coverage, and height. A minor variance from the Committee of Adjustment may be needed for anything beyond the rules.
- Additional units. Ontario law allows up to three residential units on most lots zoned for detached, semi detached and townhouse homes, which may include a separate building on the lot. Building code, servicing, and parking rules still apply.
- Trees. Trees 20 cm or more in diameter on private property are protected, and removing one usually needs a permit.
- Conservation areas. Lots near ravines may need extra permits. See our ravine and road lot guide.
Thinking of a pool or addition? Let us check what the lot allows before you offer. Call or text Neeraj at (647) 370 8885.
The Upkeep Trade Off
- More lawn, garden, and snow to care for, or more to pay someone else
- Higher costs for fencing, landscaping, and pool upkeep
- Often higher property tax, since land adds to assessed value. See our property tax guide.
For empty nesters weighing space against upkeep, our empty nester guide may help.
The right lot gives you room to grow. Start with a quick call. Call or text Neeraj at (647) 370 8885.
Larger Lot Questions, Answered
Where can I find larger lots in Markham?
Larger lots are most often found in older areas like Unionville, Markham Village and Buttonville, and in estate communities such as Angus Glen and Cachet. Newer communities usually have smaller lots.
Do I need a permit for a pool in Markham?
Yes. Markham requires a swimming pool enclosure permit before work starts, and a pool deeper than 0.6 metres needs a fence at least 1.2 metres high in place before it is filled.
How high can my backyard fence be in Markham?
Rear and side yard fences can generally be up to 1.8 metres, and front yard fences up to 1.2 metres. Corner lots have extra limits, so confirm with the City.
Can I build a garden suite on a large Markham lot?
Ontario law allows up to three residential units on most lots zoned for detached, semi detached and townhouse homes, which may include a separate building. Zoning, building code, servicing and parking rules apply.
Does a bigger lot mean higher property taxes?
Often yes, because land adds to a property's assessed value. Taxes depend on the assessment and the City's tax rate.
Room to Breathe. Room to Grow.
Neeraj will help you find a lot that fits your plans, and check what it allows before you commit.
Call or text (647) 370 8885 · info@kaizenrealestate.ca
Kaizen Real Estate Team, eXp Realty, Brokerage · 9763 Markham Rd, Markham, ON L6E 1A4
Pool and fence rules: City of Markham. Tree protection: City of Markham Tree Preservation Bylaw. Unit permissions: Ontario Planning Act. Confirm rules for any specific property. This article is general information, not legal, tax, mortgage, or financial advice. Market commentary describes current conditions and is not a promise of future prices. Information is believed accurate but should be independently verified. Not intended to solicit properties currently under contract.
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