The Impact of Remote Work on Homeownership: Should You Buy in a Suburb or Stay in the City?

In recent years, the work-from-home (WFH) trend has completely reshaped the way Canadians live, work, and make decisions about where to buy their homes. What was once a temporary shift is now a permanent fixture for many professionals across various industries. With fewer people commuting to offices, the traditional decision-making process around buying a home has also changed.

For many, this shift brings up an important question: Should you buy a home in the city or look for a property in the suburbs (or even further afield)? Whether you're a first-time homebuyer or looking to upgrade, this question is more relevant than ever.

At Rowe Mortgage Solutions, we understand that deciding between city living and suburban life is a big choice, and it’s one that can have long-term financial implications. Let’s take a look at how remote work is impacting homeownership and what factors you should consider when making your decision.

The Changing Landscape of Work: Why Location Is No Longer the Top Priority

Before the remote work revolution, many homebuyers were bound by the proximity of their jobs. Commuting time, access to public transportation, and being close to major urban centers were critical factors in deciding where to buy a home. Now, with more employers offering permanent remote work options, this is no longer the case for many Canadians.

Here’s how remote work is reshaping homeownership decisions:

1. Fewer Commutes, More Flexibility: As long as you have a solid internet connection, you’re no longer tied to living within a 30-minute commute to your office. Remote work allows you to live anywhere, whether it’s a bustling city or a quiet suburban area. This newfound flexibility means more options for homebuyers.

2. Suburban Homes Offer More Space: Many remote workers are trading city apartments for homes with larger yards and more space. Suburban and rural properties offer a better price-to-square-foot ratio compared to city properties, allowing for more room to grow—perfect for families or those who want a home office that doesn’t double as their kitchen table.

3. Cost of Living Differences: Property prices in the suburbs and rural areas are typically lower than those in cities. If you’re no longer commuting to work every day, living farther from city centers could significantly lower your cost of living, freeing up funds for savings, investing, or other lifestyle choices.

Key Factors to Consider: Should You Stay in the City or Move to the Suburbs?

With so many choices available, how do you decide where to buy? There are several factors to consider when weighing the pros and cons of city living versus suburban or rural areas:

1. Access to Amenities: City life often offers easy access to cultural attractions, restaurants, entertainment, and social opportunities. If you enjoy being close to urban amenities or need to be close to industry hubs for networking, staying in the city may be the right choice.

2. Space and Privacy: Suburbs typically offer larger homes, bigger yards, and more privacy compared to urban areas. If you’re working from home full-time or part-time, having dedicated office space and a peaceful environment can greatly impact your productivity and mental well-being.

3. Commuting and Transportation: Even though remote work is a reality for many, you might still need to commute into the office on occasion. If that’s the case, staying within a reasonable distance from the city or an office hub could save you time and money in the long run. On the other hand, if you’re fully remote, long-distance commuting is no longer a concern.

4. Future Property Value: While suburban areas may offer lower property prices now, it’s important to consider the potential for long-term value appreciation. City properties may have higher short-term costs but could experience faster growth in value, especially if you’re in a desirable location. Research the local real estate market to determine what areas offer the best potential for future growth.

5. Lifestyle Preferences: City living offers a vibrant, fast-paced lifestyle with everything at your fingertips, while suburban living often provides a slower pace with more nature and quieter surroundings. Think about what lifestyle suits you best and how your remote work setup fits into that environment.

Remote Work and Its Impact on Real Estate Trends in 2025

As we move into 2025, remote work is continuing to impact the real estate market in new ways. The increasing acceptance of hybrid and remote work arrangements is leading to a few key trends in the housing market:

1. Rise in Demand for Larger Homes: With more people working from home, the demand for homes with dedicated office spaces, extra bedrooms, and larger living areas is on the rise. Suburban homes are in high demand as more Canadians look for properties that can accommodate both their personal and professional lives.

2. Shift in Housing Prices: In some regions, we’ve seen a shift in the pricing dynamics between cities and suburbs. In previously lower-priced suburban areas, home values have been increasing as more remote workers seek affordable space. This shift is also impacting rural areas, where buyers are seeking more privacy and a slower pace of life without the need to commute.

3. Increased Interest in Vacation Homes: The line between work and vacation is blurring. Many remote workers are buying vacation homes or properties in areas with more natural beauty, allowing them to work from locations they previously wouldn’t have considered. If you’re a remote worker looking for a secondary property, now may be a great time to explore options outside major cities.

How Can Cody Rowe - Mortgage Specialist Help You Make the Right Choice?

Whether you decide to buy in the city or venture out to the suburbs, Rowe Mortgage Solutions can guide you through the process. We understand the unique challenges that come with remote work and can help you assess your financial situation, explore mortgage options, and find the best solution for your home-buying needs.

Book a consultation with Cody Rowe to discuss how remote work is impacting your home-buying decision and to explore your mortgage options in the current market.

Ready to make your move? Contact us today to discuss how remote work is influencing the housing market and how we can help you secure the right mortgage for your new home. Reach out to Cody directly at codyrowe@dominionlending.ca for any questions or to schedule a consultation.