When you arrive at that point of deciding to buy a cottage, it is both difficult and exciting. For those fortunate enough to have these conversations, many variables need consideration.
If it is a family decision, does everyone agree on the definition of a cottage? Will this be a year-round home, or is it a glorified shed? Do you prefer to swim in salt or fresh water? Or do you want water at all? What distance is ideal to “get away”? Is internet and cell phone reception important? How important is ample room for guests? And how about camaraderie in the form of neighbours? So many things to consider, not just answering the question ‘do you want to buy a cottage?’.
Further, a cottage comes with a whole new set of responsibilities concerning maintenance. The water needs testing for quality, the pumps require maintenance, along with priming. You are buying a second yard to maintain along with a new roof to worry about. And are you going to rent it? You can answer this question, though the market will dictate the demand as it is subject to the inputs surrounding a cottage and property.
Below you’ll find three up-and-coming cottage regions in Nova Scotia. Along with a breakdown of the zones, listings of active and sold properties, days on the market, and list and sale price info are included.
Chéticamp, Nova Scotia
Cabot Trail, just north of Chéticamp
Chéticamp is a remote community on the western shore of Cape Breton Island. The exposed landscape draws cottage owners to the exposed landscape which includes rugged coast, striking mountains, and rolling fields. Cheticamp has long been a favourite destination for both Canadians and international visitors due to its location at the entrance of The Cape Breton Highlands National Park.
The Island’s remote location and diverse topography lend itself to outdoor activities, which include fishing, hunting, and skiing. It’s becoming renown for its links-style golf courses, which include the acclaimed Cabot Links in Inverness and Highlands Links in Ingonish. Due to its relative proximity to Halifax and private landing strip in nearby Margaree, the area is becoming a cottage destination for Upper Canadians and Americans alike.
Queens County, Nova Scotia
Can you imagine building on Ponhook Lake in Queens County?
Situated on the doorstep of Kejimkujik National Park, Queens County is in untouched Nova Scotia wilderness. Aptly named ’Cottage Country’, it’s Nova Scotia’s offering of Muskoka. The area throughout Molega Lake, Ponhook Lake, and Annis Lake provides some of the best lakefront property in Nova Scotia that no one has ever heard of.
Queen’s County lies between two international airports, allowing for increased accessibility from Central and Western Canada as well as the United States. This region that was once a hidden gem for locals to a quickly growing into a high-demand cottage region.
North Shore, Nova Scotia
This could be your backyard if you build a cottage on the North Shore of Nova Scotia
Comprised of parts of 4 counties, the North Shore runs from the Strait of Canso to the border of New Brunswick and sits on the Northumberland Strait. The region features the warmest waters north of the Carolina’s and fire-red sand. In the recent years, it has been a hotbed for libations; including Jost Vineyards, Tatamagouche Brewing Company, and Caldera Distilling.
The crown jewel of the region is the property dreamed up by Canadian billionaire Ron Joyce. Fox Harb’r Resort consistently ranks as a top resort in Canada and is one of a five rated as five stars. Along with a world-class golf course, there’s a luxury spa, clay shooting range, and a private airstrip.
Whether it’s sailing, skim boarding, building sandcastles, and throwing the football, the North Shore caters to it all. If the tide is low, walk on the ocean floor. When you’re hungry, buy lobster from a fisherman’s wharf. But whatever you do, take in the immense beauty of the exposed natural beauty around you.
Check The Listings Here
Chéticamp – Click Here to View Listings
North Shore – Click Here to View Listings
Queen’s County – Click Here to View Listings
| List Price | |||||
| High | Average | Low | |||
| Chéticamp | $789,000 | $295,660 | $59,900 | ||
| North Shore | $599,000 | $188,202 | $29,500 | ||
| Queen’s County | $698,000 | $195,200 | $32,500 | ||
| Selling Price | |||||
| High | Average | Low | |||
| Chéticamp | $440,000 | $195,656 | $90,000 | ||
| North Shore | $300,000 | $157,863 | $18,000 | ||
| Queen’s County | $143,000 | $104,667 | $83,000 | ||
| Days on Market | |||||
| High | Average | Low | |||
| Chéticamp | 532 days | 134 days | 7 days | ||
| North Shore | 232 days | 65 days | 3 day | ||
| Queen’s County | 202 days | 61 days | 1 day |