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Online platform looks to entice people, businesses to head north

'Simcoe and Muskoka regions are one of the most beloved places in Canada,' says official, noting site is meant to 'convince others' to move here

A new online platform is hoping to encourage more people to move to Simcoe and Muskoka.

Your North Life, created by the Barrie & District Association of Realtors, is a new online site dedicated to all things real estate, lifestyle, and relocation in the region and hopes to inspire businesses and individuals to move north, embrace local, and engage in their communities.

The goal of the site, note BDAR officials in a press release, is not only about finding your dream home but also where to spend time with family and friends, where to shop and eat locally, and how to experience everything the region has to offer.

Created to improve the home buying and selling experience, it highlights the lifestyle, people, culture, and environment that is distinctly “North Life.”

The website features neighbourhood profiles, real estate listings, local stories, and a shop-local businesses directory in which each listing also provides information on schools, parks and recreation centre, and transit options available in that neighbourhood.

Local realtor Ken Pooles says the site is great for people who live outside of the area but want to know more than just the fact that “our homes cost less here.”

“Adding details about the region could help attract people that will actually be active participants within the activities and opportunities that our area has to offer, rather than just purchase a home here because it is cheaper,'” he said.

“It is also going to enlighten many folks to what we have to offer in the first place. For instance, I've spoken to people from the GTA that didn't even know that Barrie is on a lake."

The name and brand were created to represent the harmonized blend of urban, rural, waterfront and seasonal properties, along with the exclusive lifestyle that the region has to offer. 

“Simcoe and Muskoka regions are one of the most beloved places in Canada," said Chad Ballantyne, creative director of Barrie-based design studio Rhubarb Media.

"Those of us that live here know the amazing treasure we have here... But how can we convince others who have not experienced the area to move here?" he asked.

"I think once they embrace the story, seeing themselves as part of a combined narrative they are more attracted to the possibility of making the move. They are inspired to move,” said Ballantyne.


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About the Author: Nikki Cole

Nikki Cole has been a community issues reporter for BarrieToday since February, 2021
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