Markham Transit Upgrades 2026: Why Commuters Are Buying Homes in Unionville and Wismer Commons

Meet Michael John Lau The Top Realtor in Markham, Ontario

Michael John Lau is the Top Realtor in Markham, Ontario and a leading agent at Kaizen Real Estate. He is a trusted real estate expert helping buyers and sellers find their perfect homes and is known for proven success, client dedication, and deep local expertise. Michael closely tracks infrastructure and transit improvements because they directly impact home values across Markham.
👉 Official website: https://www.callmikelau.com

Why Transit Access Matters When You Buy a Home in Markham

Transit connectivity is one of the strongest drivers of long term real estate value in Markham. In 2026, York Region Transit (YRT) and GO Transit upgrades are significantly improving commute times to downtown Toronto, reinforcing demand in family focused neighborhoods like Unionville, Markham real estate, Wismer Commons, Cornell, Greensborough, and Thornhill.

As a top real estate agent in Markham, Michael John Lau helps buyers understand how transit expansions translate into 5 to 10% home price premiums in well connected areas and where future appreciation is most likely.

YRT Transit Expansions: What’s New in 2026

York Region Transit’s 2026 Annual Transit Plan adds approximately 73,000 service hours, supporting an estimated 2.5 million additional riders. The rollout includes 315 electric buses, priority bus rapidways, and continued investment through the 2026 to 2030 YRT Business Plan.

Key improvements include:

• Expansion of the Frequent Transit Network (FTN)

• New Express routes, including the 300 Business Express to Finch

• Broader On Request transit coverage in residential areas

• Extension of Route 9 to Steeles Avenue by September 2026, improving TTC connections

Local ridership in Markham has already increased by approximately 18%, reinforcing demand for transit oriented neighborhoods.

GO Train Access: Fast, Reliable Downtown Connections

Markham is served by four Stouffville Line GO stations: Unionville, Markham, Centennial, and Locust Hill. Peak hour service delivers direct access to Union Station in 40 to 60 minutes, making Markham a viable option for downtown Toronto workers.

In 2026, improved YRT and GO integrations reduce transfer times. Viva bus feeders from Wismer Commons and Cornell typically add only 10 to 15 minutes to total commute time, an important consideration when choosing where to buy a home in Markham.

Viva Bus Network: Faster Commutes Along Highway 7 and 407

The Viva Blue and Viva Orange rapid bus lines along Highway 7 and the 407 corridor continue to reduce commute times by 10 to 20 minutes, thanks to HOV lanes and limited stop service.

• From Unionville GO, Viva buses reach the Highway 407 Terminal in about 30 minutes

• Wismer Commons residents use Viva Purple to reach Markham GO, with total downtown trips averaging 50 to 60 minutes

• Peak frequencies are expected to tighten to every 5 to 15 minutes following post 2026 upgrades

These improvements further strengthen demand in transit accessible communities.

What Commute Times Look Like in 2026

Unionville residents can reach downtown Toronto via Unionville GO in approximately 40 minutes, with typical fares ranging from $10 to $12. Wismer Commons commuters using Viva to Markham GO average 50 to 60 minutes, with costs around $8 to $10. Cornell commuters can connect via Viva and GO routes in about 55 minutes, maintaining affordability and consistency.

For many GTA professionals, this balance of commute time, cost, and lifestyle is why Markham continues to attract strong buyer interest.

How Transit Drives Home Values in Markham

Transit oriented neighborhoods consistently outperform in resale value. Areas near GO stations and Viva corridors typically command 5 to 10% pricing premiums, particularly in Unionville, Markham real estate, Greensborough, and select Thornhill pockets.

Michael John Lau advises buyers to look beyond current service and evaluate planned frequency, future routes, and walkability, ensuring they secure homes positioned for long term growth.

Why Work with Michael John Lau Markham’s Transit Savvy Realtor

Understanding transit infrastructure is essential when buying in Markham. Michael John Lau is recognized as one of the best realtors in Markham, Ontario, because he connects transit planning with real estate strategy, helping clients buy homes that align with both lifestyle needs and investment potential.

Thinking About Buying a Transit Friendly Home in Markham?

If commute efficiency is a priority, expert guidance can help you choose the right neighborhood before competition increases.

👉 Visit https://www.callmikelau.com
📞 Connect with Michael John Lau, the Top Realtor in Markham, Ontario, and get a personalized strategy for buying a transit connected home in Unionville, Wismer Commons, or anywhere in Markham.