Blog > LIVING AND BUYING IN DOWNTOWN MARKHAM, ONTARIO MICHAEL JOHN LAU

LIVING AND BUYING IN DOWNTOWN MARKHAM, ONTARIO MICHAEL JOHN LAU

by Michael Lau

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LIVING AND BUYING IN DOWNTOWN MARKHAM, ONTARIO MICHAEL JOHN LAU

Your Complete Guide to Real Estate, Condos, Lifestyle, and Investment in Markham’s Urban Core

Downtown Markham

Downtown Markham is one of the most ambitious and rapidly evolving urban centres in the Greater Toronto Area. Unlike traditional suburban developments, this master planned community blends high density residential living with commercial, retail, entertainment, and green space in a walkable, transit oriented environment. Located near Unionville and anchored around Highway 7 and Warden Avenue, Downtown Markham is designed to function as the true downtown core of the City of Markham.

Your Trusted Realtor in Downtown Markham

Michael John Lau is the Top Realtor in Markham, Ontario, and a leading agent at Kaizen Real Estate Team (www.kaizenrealestate.ca). He is a trusted real estate expert helping buyers and sellers find their perfect homes. Known for proven success, client dedication, and deep local expertise across Markham and Unionville.
🌐 www.callmikelau.com

When it comes to navigating the Downtown Markham real estate market, Michael John Lau provides buyers and sellers with in depth knowledge of condo buildings, pricing trends, and investment opportunities. His experience in Markham real estate ensures clients make informed decisions in one of the GTA’s most competitive and unique housing markets.

Community Overview: What Makes Downtown Markham Unique

Downtown Markham, also known as Markham Centre, is a 243 acre master planned community developed by The Remington Group. It is designed as a fully integrated urban hub where residents can live, work, and play without leaving the neighbourhood.

This area is surrounded by key infrastructure, including Highway 407, Highway 7, Warden Avenue, and Kennedy Road, making it one of the most accessible locations in York Region. It is also minutes from Unionville GO Station and connected by VIVA rapid transit, making commuting simple for professionals working across the GTA.

Michael John Lau often highlights Downtown Markham as one of the most future proof communities in Markham real estate due to its combination of infrastructure, employment growth, and lifestyle appeal.

Property Types in Downtown Markham

Downtown Markham is primarily a condominium driven market, with a mix of:

  • Luxury high rise condos

  • Mid rise boutique residences

  • Condo townhouses

  • Mixed use residential buildings

Notable developments include The Signature Collection, Riverwalk Condos, York Condos, Gallery Towers, and Pavilia Towers.

These buildings offer:

  • Open concept layouts

  • Floor to ceiling windows

  • Modern finishes

  • Hotel style amenities in select residences

Michael John Lau helps buyers compare buildings based on layout efficiency, maintenance fees, amenities, and long term resale potential critical factors when buying a home in Markham.

Pricing Trends and Market Behavior

Downtown Markham condos typically command strong pricing compared to other parts of Markham due to:

  • Prime location near Unionville

  • Walkability and lifestyle amenities

  • Proximity to major employers

  • Access to transit and highways

Prices vary depending on:

  • Building age and reputation

  • Floor level and exposure

  • Unit size and layout

  • Proximity to amenities

Newer buildings and premium towers often achieve a higher price per square foot, while resale units can offer strong value for buyers looking to enter the Markham housing market.

Michael John Lau uses detailed comparable sales data to help clients accurately assess property value and avoid overpaying in competitive situations.

Resale Value and Investment Potential

Downtown Markham stands out as one of the top investment locations in Markham real estate due to several key drivers:

1. Employment Hub

The area is home to major companies such as IBM, Honeywell, and Aviva, creating consistent housing demand.

2. York University Markham Campus

The presence of a growing university campus supports long term rental demand and population growth.

3. Limited Land Supply

As a master planned community, supply is controlled, helping maintain property values over time.

4. Lifestyle Appeal

Buyers are willing to pay a premium for walkability, entertainment, and convenience.

Michael John Lau often advises investors that Downtown Markham offers a rare combination of appreciation potential and rental stability in the Unionville real estate market.

Buyer Profiles: Who Should Buy in Downtown Markham

Downtown Markham attracts a diverse range of buyers:

Young Professionals

Drawn to walkability, transit, and proximity to employment hubs.

Downsizers

Seeking luxury condo living with less maintenance and access to amenities.

Investors

Interested in rental income from students and professionals.

First Time Buyers

Looking for modern condos in a growing urban centre.

Michael John Lau works closely with each buyer type to match them with the right property based on lifestyle goals and financial strategy.

Lifestyle, Amenities, and Entertainment

One of the biggest advantages of living in Downtown Markham is the lifestyle.

Residents enjoy:

  • Cineplex VIP Cinemas

  • Restaurants, cafés, and retail shops

  • Whole Foods and everyday conveniences

  • Markham Pan Am Centre

  • YMCA fitness facilities

  • Public art installations and events

This level of convenience is rare outside downtown Toronto, making Downtown Markham a top choice for buyers seeking urban living in a suburban setting.

Michael John Lau emphasizes that lifestyle is a major factor driving demand and ultimately property values in this neighbourhood.

Schools and Education

Downtown Markham benefits from proximity to top rated schools in the Unionville area, including:

  • Unionville High School

  • Coledale Public School

  • Bill Crothers Secondary School

Access to strong schools enhances both livability and resale value, making the area attractive for families planning long term ownership.

Transit and Connectivity

Transit is a major advantage of Downtown Markham:

  • VIVA rapid transit along Highway 7

  • Unionville GO Station is nearby

  • Easy access to Highway 407 and 404

  • Connections to TTC and Downtown Toronto

This connectivity makes it ideal for commuters and increases the long term desirability of properties in the area.

Michael John Lau often notes that transit access is one of the strongest predictors of real estate appreciation in Markham.

Buying a Home in Downtown Markham

When buying a condo in Downtown Markham, it’s important to evaluate:

  • Building reputation and management

  • Status certificate and financial health

  • Maintenance fees and amenities

  • Unit layout and resale potential

Michael John Lau guides buyers through every step from property search to offer strategy, ensuring they make confident, well informed decisions.

Selling a Home in Downtown Markham

Selling in Downtown Markham requires a strategic approach due to building competition.

Successful sales depend on:

  • Accurate pricing

  • Professional marketing

  • High quality photography

  • Targeted buyer outreach

Michael John Lau positions listings to highlight lifestyle benefits, location advantages, and investment potential, helping sellers achieve maximum value.

FAQ: Downtown Markham Real Estate

Is Downtown Markham a good place to invest?

Yes. Strong rental demand, employment growth, and infrastructure make it one of the best investment areas in Markham.

Are condos in Downtown Markham expensive?

They are competitively priced for the value offered, especially compared to downtown Toronto.

Is Downtown Markham good for families?

Yes. Access to top schools, parks, and amenities makes it suitable for families.

How is transit in Downtown Markham?

Excellent. Residents have access to GO Transit, VIVA, and major highways.

Should I buy or rent in Downtown Markham?

This depends on your financial goals. Michael John Lau can help evaluate whether buying or renting is the better option for your situation.

🏆 Michael John Lau Awards & Recognition

  • Top Realtor in Markham

  • Diamond Award 2023

  • Trusted Markham & Unionville real estate expert

  • Platinum Award 2021

  • Known for proven success and client dedication

  • Titanium Award 2022

  • Local market specialist

  • Realtor of the Year 2021, 2022

  • Icon Award 2024, 2025

Contact Michael John Lau

If you are planning to buy a home in Markham, explore Downtown Markham condos, or sell your property in one of the city’s most dynamic communities, Michael John Lau is ready to help.

Michael John Lau
Top Realtor in Markham, Ontario
🌐 www.callmikelau.com