Buyer guide
Moving to Markham in 2026
Kirby Chan, Broker, explains what to know before moving to Markham, from neighbourhood differences and home prices to schools, commute times and daily life.
Key takeaways
- Different parts of Markham suit different buyers
- Unionville, Cornell, Berczy Village and Downtown Markham each offer a different lifestyle and price point
- Schools and commute times are part of the decision
About this video
Kirby Chan, Broker, of Kirby Chan & Co. Real Estate Team covers what buyers actually need to know before moving to Markham. The video looks at neighbourhood differences, home prices, schools, commute times and what daily life feels like across the city.
Areas like Unionville, Cornell, Berczy Village and Downtown Markham each offer a different lifestyle, price point and long-term value. Kirby explains how comparing them can lead to a more informed decision.
The two deadlines that matter on arrival
Health coverage has none. Ontario states plainly that there is no longer a waiting period for OHIP, so you can apply as soon as you arrive rather than waiting three months. Bring three original documents: one proving citizenship or OHIP-eligible immigration status, one proving Ontario residency and one proving identity.
Your driving licence effectively expires after 60 days. You may drive on a valid licence from another province, state or country for 60 days after moving. After that you need an Ontario one. The part that catches people is the evidence: alongside the licence itself you need original documents proving your driving experience in English or French. Those are far easier to obtain before you leave than afterwards.
What to know before you buy here
Markham is in York Region, so a purchase carries Ontario land transfer tax only. The same purchase inside the City of Toronto attracts a second municipal tax of comparable size, which on a median priced home runs to thousands of dollars.
Schools are assigned by home address, so the address decides the school rather than the other way around. Confirm the boundary with the school board for the specific address before committing, because boundaries change and a listing is not a reliable source.
Our guide to relocating to Markham covers the first year in order, including the case for renting before you buy and our neighbourhood guides describe all twelve areas.
Not advice. This video and these notes are general information only. Nothing here is legal, tax, mortgage or investment advice.
Market data. Any figures mentioned reflect the period stated at the time of recording and may be out of date. Always confirm current figures before acting.
