What you need to know to turn your dreams into reality!
As a PEI REALTOR®, since the pandemic started, I have been receiving more phone calls than ever from potential clients all over the world wishing to move to Prince Edward Island. Particularly, I’ve noticed that my phone is ringing off the hook from people living in Toronto and other parts of Ontario who are looking into making the move to the Island. So as a fellow former resident of Ontario turned-Islander, I thought I’d put together my tips on how to turn your dreams into a reality!
What to know before you get here:
Employment
There are lots of economic and employment opportunities on PEI. Here are a few valuable resources to help you find a new career:
Work PEI
PEI Bioalliance
Government of PEI Careers
The Employment Journey
Island Recruiting
Education
With three children of my own, I have been really impressed with the public school system on Prince Edward Island. There is even a new public lunch program, where schools provide a hot lunch to students every day, on a pay-what-you-can model. The bussing system is also robust and really convenient and reliable.
Community
PEI is such a special place! There is a ton to do. Whether you like to explore nature or love shopping downtown, we really have it all. There are a ton of community sports and recreation organizations to get involved in.
Some of my favourite things to do are:
Watch the Charlottetown Islanders Hockey Team with my family
Visit the Charlottetown’s Farmer’s Market
Hit the Hills at Bonshaw Hills Provincial Park
Islanders are really friendly! We are so lucky to live in a place where everyone smiles and waves at each other on the street…where people help their neighbours in times of need…I am so thankful we made the move!
Finding a Home
Right now, all people who do not live inside Atlantic Canada are required to self-isolate for two weeks when visiting PEI. Luckily, technology is making it easy for REALTORS® to show you properties without actually having to be there! From virtual tours, FaceTime, DocuSign, Zoom and other platforms, we can do everything possible to make sure you’re confident in what you’re buying.
When searching for a home on Prince Edward Island – consider the country! I know from personal experience, when I moved from Ontario to here, I was nervous about the idea of living too far away from the city, however, I quickly learned that it was nothing to worry about. When you live in the country on PEI, you’ll often find that you’re still only a few minutes away from the large centres and all of the amenities you would ever need.
Whether you choose to live in one of our larger communities like Summerside, Charlottetown, Cornwall, or Stratford, or if you choose one of our smaller communities, you’ll be amazed at what you’ll be able to afford compared to the prices you’re used to seeing in places like Hamilton, Mississauga, Markham, London, Kitchener, Richmond Hill, Thornhill, etc. No matter where you choose to move on PEI, there is a great sense of community here – you’ll actually know your neighbours!
What to expect when you get here:
Don’t expect a hydro bill. A lot of homes on PEI are heated with furnace oil, others are heated by electric, propane or wood.
Consider snow removal. Depending on your community and the length of your driveway, you can expect to pay anywhere between $20 to $100 per session. There are many local contractors available.
Expect to pay a bit more for groceries. Having moved from Ontario to PEI myself, I did notice that groceries cost a bit more on the Island. Silver lining? We have so many vegetable stands on the side of the road, local farmer’s markets and other local suppliers, with a little bit of effort, you can eat healthy and delicious on a budget, and support local at the same time.
So… are you ready to say good bye to your long commute and say hello to your friendly new neighbours? Now is the time! Don’t hesitate to call or text me at 902-316-1623 or email me at thamara.paparoni@provincialrealty.ca to get started — Can’t wait to see you on beautiful Prince Edward Island!
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