$1,125,000 - 68 Royal Oak Drive, Barrie
Land for Sale in Barrie
Popular ListingNeighbourhood: South Shore
- MLS Number
- S13492636
- Property Type
- Land
- Status
- active
- Days on Site
- 9
- Bedrooms
- 0
- Bathrooms
- 0
- Square Feet
- N/A sqft
- Neighbourhood
- Barrie
- Lot Size
- 1 sqft
- Listing Brokerage
- KELLER WILLIAMS EXPERIENCE REALTY
A truly remarkable property in one of the area's most unique waterfront-adjacent settings. Originally severed from the neighbouring marina, this property was home to the area's only residence when first built in 1974 and now offers endless possibilities for redevelopment, expansion, or creating a custom dream home. Surrounded by nature, the property boasts over 400 feet of ravine frontage alongside the marina, while the rear of the lot overlooks Lovers Creek and a lush, environmentally protected landscape. Enjoy incredible privacy with stunning natural views, abundant wildlife, soaring birds of prey, and visiting cranes throughout the summer. The expansive lot provides ample space for virtually any outdoor amenity imaginable, including extensive gardens, a swimming pool, ponds, or even a private tennis or pickleball court. From a future second-storey design, rooftop patio, or elevated viewing area, you'll enjoy panoramic forest views stretching beyond the treetops. Adding to its appeal is a grandfathered oversized detached garage and an existing residence that presents a significant development advantage. Whether you choose to renovate, build on the existing foundation, or construct a new custom home, the presence of the current dwelling may help reduce development costs and provide the opportunity for conventional mortgage financing. Additional features include a double-lined well approved by the municipality, currently not in use, offering potential access to a valuable secondary water source for irrigation, pools, or water features. The sandy hillside setting provides excellent natural drainage, and the property has never experienced water in the basement. Mature landscaping further enhances the beauty and character of this remarkable parcel. Located just steps from a waterfront park, this is a special property where location, privacy, and future value come together to create an exceptional investment opportunity.
Estimate your monthly payments for this property
Estimated Payment
$4,976.25/mo
5-yr fixed avg.
Rates shown are estimates based on typical Ontario 5-year fixed rates. Canadian mortgages use semi-annual compounding as required by law. CMHC insurance applies to purchases under $1.5M with less than 20% down. Estimated property tax uses an approximate 0.85% rate. Contact us for current rate options and pre-approval.
Discover South Shore
South Shore is a vibrant community in the Greater Toronto Area, offering excellent amenities, schools, and transportation options. This area is popular with families and professionals seeking a balanced lifestyle with access to urban conveniences and natural spaces.
Why Live in South Shore
- •Convenient location in Barrie
- •Access to local shops and dining
- •Good public transit connections
- •Community parks and green spaces
- •Well-maintained neighbourhoods
Nearby Schools
Transit & Commuting
- •MiWay bus routes throughout the area
- •GO Transit stations within driving distance
- •Easy highway access to 401/403/QEW
- •Walking distance to local amenities
Parks & Amenities
- •Local parks and recreational facilities
- •Community centres
- •Shopping plazas nearby
- •Restaurants and cafes
Lifestyle & Community
South Shore offers a wonderful quality of life with a mix of residential charm and urban convenience. Residents enjoy easy access to schools, parks, and shopping, making it an ideal location for families and professionals alike.
68 Royal Oak Drive, Barrie
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Key factors for evaluating this land parcel
Land Due Diligence Checklist
· Confirm zoning designation and all permitted uses
· Verify servicing (water, sewer, hydro) at lot line
· Order a Phase 1 Environmental Site Assessment
· Obtain an up-to-date survey (boundaries, easements)
· Review development charges and levies with the municipality
· Consult a land use planner on development feasibility
Commercial Financing Note
Land financing typically requires 35–50% down with specialized lenders. Carrying costs (taxes, interest) accumulate during any approval or development process — factor these into your feasibility.
Commercial and land transactions are significantly more complex than residential. Joe recommends assembling a team — commercial real estate lawyer, accountant, and (for land) a land use planner — before making an offer.
Joe's Thoughts
Honest perspective from 30+ years of GTA real estate experience
Zoning & Permitted Use
Before anything else, I'd confirm the current zoning designation and what's permitted on this land. Zoning dictates everything: residential subdivision, commercial development, agricultural use, or mixed. The Barrie planning department can also tell you what, if any, Official Plan amendments are in progress that could affect the permitted uses.
Land Market Timeline
Vacant land typically takes longer to sell than residential homes — 60 to 180+ days is common. Commercial and development-oriented buyers need time to conduct feasibility studies, consult planners, and arrange specialized financing. Don't read anything into the days-on-market figure without comparing to similar parcels in Barrie.
Servicing & Infrastructure
A key question for any land purchase: is it serviced (municipal water, sewer, gas, hydro at the lot line) or unserviced? Bringing services to an unserviced parcel can cost $50,000–$500,000+ depending on proximity and Barrie's development charges. This can make or break a project's feasibility.
Environmental & Survey
I always recommend a Phase 1 Environmental Site Assessment for land purchases — it checks for historical contamination from prior uses. If the Phase 1 flags anything, a Phase 2 (soil sampling) follows. Also budget for an up-to-date survey, which confirms boundaries, easements, and encroachments.
Development Approval Timeline
If you're buying with development in mind, factor in the approval timeline. Minor variance: 3–6 months. Site plan approval: 6–18 months. Official Plan amendment or rezoning: 1–3+ years. These timelines directly affect your carrying costs — property taxes and financing accumulate the entire time. Having an experienced planner and real estate lawyer on your team from day one matters.
Let's Walk Through It Together
Evaluating land requires a different lens than buying a home. I'll walk the site with you, help you ask the right questions of the listing agent, and connect you with the right professionals — planners, environmental consultants, commercial lawyers — to make sure you know exactly what you're buying before you commit.