In Toronto, $2.6 million will get you a renovated three or four-bedroom home in one of the city’s more desired neighbourhoods. Or, for the same price, you could buy a brand-new, larger property on one of Muskoka’s most beautiful lakes – and one that’s pretty much a perfect family paradise.

Yes; it's possible to get your hands on a large and stunning Muskoka property for less than $3-million.


Once you consider the trade-offs, it may make more sense than ever to invest in a spectacular cottage for your family to create memories in, and live in a smaller space within Toronto’s concrete. The idea isn’t new; the trend has gained traction in recent years among city dwellers looking to secure a place of refuge from the grind. In COVID-19 times, however, it may be more attractive than ever.

Specs:

A look inside this recently sold, fully furnished Lake of Bays property – which was just purchased for $2.6 million – likely makes this option an alluring one for cooped-up urban families, especially after months of quarantine within the city limits. ‘Seabreeze’ is a gorgeous, custom-built 4400-sq-ft cottage that’s as stylish as it is charming and family-friendly.

Set on 1.24 acres of pristine land, the five-bedroom, four-bathroom post & beam home boasts 100-feet of west-facing shore line, making for beautiful lake views throughout the breezy property, as well as picture-perfect sunsets (and subsequent family photo ops). The spacious and open cottage features cathedral ceilings, reclaimed hemlock floors, and elegant furnishings.

READ: Everything Muskoka is Doing to Protect People From COVID-19

A designer kitchen is complete with long lake views to enjoy while cooking and entertaining, reducing the stress factor associated with both. A dining area, and cozy yet spacious Great Room also overlook the lake. The star of the show in the latter is a stone fireplace (something that contributes to the cozy factor and distinct cottage-like vibe). A deck off the main floor offers a perfect spot to leisurely grill dinner, then enjoy the fruits of your labour with the family.

The master bedroom is one the main floor and features a walk-in closet and five-piece spa-style ensuite with a soaker tub. The lower level houses a secondary master and ensuite, plus two additional bedrooms that share a four-piece bathroom. Perfect for entertaining friends and extended family (those within your ‘bubble,’ that is), the lower level also features an open concept family room and wet bar. The property accommodates six parking spaces.

The property’s lower level features a walkout to the professionally landscaped property. A level yard is perfect for kicking around the soccer ball with the kids. A Muskoka stone patio and granite steps open to a walking promenade with sandy shoreline (perfect for young families) and a newly built 100-foot dock. All that's missing in this turn-key property is the boat.

EXTERIOR

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KITCHEN

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GREAT ROOM

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BEDROOMS

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BATHROOMS

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LOWER LEVEL

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Muskoka