Markham has emerged as one of Ontario’s most dynamic and distinctive renovation markets. Here’s the deep dive for 2026.
What makes Markham unique:
The city’s East and South Asian communities — predominantly Chinese Canadian, South Asian, and Korean Canadian — bring a specific renovation culture: strong emphasis on kitchen quality (high-BTU wok ranges, commercial ventilation, stone surfaces), multi-generational home configurations, and premium finish expectations throughout.
Neighbourhood breakdown:
Unionville: The heritage core. Pre-confederation-era commercial district with mid-century residential surrounding it. Heritage overlay applies to some properties — verify before any exterior changes. Premium market with strong character.
Cornell: New Urbanist planned community (2000s). Dense, walkable. Townhouses and detached homes. Renovation focus on kitchen and bath quality upgrades.
Berczy Village: Newer development (2010s). Builder-grade finish upgrades. Family-oriented market.
Milliken: Older stock (1980s–1990s). Dense. Practical renovation focus — income suites, kitchen updates.
Cost benchmarks (Markham, 2026):
- Full kitchen renovation: $40,000–$110,000 (high end driven by premium appliance and cabinet specifications)
- Master bathroom: $25,000–$55,000
- Basement legal suite: $50,000–$80,000
- Main floor open-plan conversion: $25,000–$55,000
Permit notes: City of Markham Building Standards Department. Strong permit compliance culture in the city. 10–20 business days for residential.
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