The Pros and Cons of Buying a Fixer-Upper in Peterborough, Ontario: Is It Worth It?

Friday Jun 13th, 2025

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Buying a fixer-upper in Peterborough, Ontario, can be an exciting opportunity for those looking to invest in real estate. With its charming downtown, beautiful parks, and proximity to the Kawartha Lakes, Peterborough offers an appealing lifestyle for families, retirees, and young professionals alike.

However, before you dive into the world of fixer-upper homes in this unique city, it’s important to weigh the pros and cons. Let’s explore the advantages and challenges of purchasing a fixer-upper in Peterborough and whether it’s the right move for you. 

Pros of Buying a Fixer-Upper in Peterborough, Ontario:

  1. Affordable Initial Cost in a Growing Market: Peterborough is known for being more affordable compared to larger cities like Toronto, making it an attractive option for first-time homebuyers or those looking to downsize. Buying a fixer-upper in Peterborough can help you enter the real estate market at a lower price point, allowing you to enjoy the benefits of homeownership without breaking the bank. In a growing city like Peterborough, where real estate values have been rising steadily, there’s potential for a good return on investment once your renovations are completed.

  2. Opportunity to Personalize Your Home: A fixer-upper in Peterborough gives you the opportunity to make your house your own. Whether you’re looking for a quaint, historic home in the downtown area or a property close to the Trent Severn Waterway, renovating allows you to put your personal stamp on the space. With the city’s mix of heritage homes and modern properties, there are plenty of opportunities to customize a home that suits your unique tastes.

  3. Investment Potential: Renovating a home in Peterborough, particularly one close to popular attractions such as Little Lake or the Peterborough Zoo, can significantly increase the property’s market value. If you’re willing to invest the time and money into renovations, there’s potential to not only enjoy a home tailored to your lifestyle but also to see a solid financial return when you sell the property in the future.

  4. Proximity to Nature and Outdoor Activities: Peterborough is known for its natural beauty and outdoor activities. A fixer-upper in Peterborough gives you access to hiking trails, lakes, and parks, allowing you to enjoy the great outdoors while also working on your home. Imagine renovating a property while being just a short drive away from the stunning scenery of the Kawartha Lakes or the picturesque setting of the Otonabee River.

  5. Support for Local Economy and Trades: Renovating a fixer-upper in Peterborough provides you with the opportunity to hire local contractors and tradespeople. Supporting the local economy can be a great way to give back to the community, and it also means you can build relationships with reliable professionals who are familiar with the area’s homes and building regulations.

Cons of Buying a Fixer-Upper in Peterborough:

  1. Unforeseen Repair Costs: One of the biggest risks of purchasing a fixer-upper in Peterborough is the potential for hidden repair costs. Older homes, especially in heritage areas like downtown Peterborough, may have issues like outdated plumbing, electrical systems, or structural damage. These hidden problems can add up quickly, so it’s important to budget for contingencies and hire a professional inspector to identify potential issues before you purchase. 

  2. Time and Effort of Renovations: Depending on the extent of the renovations required, fixing up a home in Peterborough can be time-consuming and exhausting. If you’re planning on doing some of the work yourself, it can take longer than anticipated, and you may face delays due to weather, especially in the colder months. The city’s winter climate means that certain outdoor projects may need to be postponed until the spring.

  3. Disruption to Your Lifestyle: Renovating a fixer-upper in Peterborough means living in a construction zone for an extended period. This can cause disruptions to your daily life and may be challenging for families or individuals who need to maintain a consistent routine. You’ll need to be prepared for the mess, noise, and inconvenience of ongoing construction.

  4. Higher Overall Renovation Costs: Although you may save money upfront by purchasing a fixer-upper, renovations can quickly become expensive. In Peterborough, the cost of labor and materials for renovations can fluctuate based on demand. While the local market is generally more affordable than larger Ontario cities, it’s still essential to factor in renovation costs to determine if the project is financially viable in the long term.

  5. Resale Value Can Be Uncertain: Renovating a home in Peterborough doesn’t always guarantee a high return on investment. While the city is growing, it’s still smaller than other major Ontario cities, which means the pool of potential buyers may be more limited. You’ll need to consider whether your renovations will appeal to the local market and whether you’ll be able to sell the property for a profit in the future.

Conclusion: Should You Buy a Fixer-Upper in Peterborough, Ontario?

If you’re considering purchasing a fixer-upper in Peterborough, Ontario, the decision ultimately comes down to your financial situation, time commitment, and renovation goals. The city offers affordable homes, a beautiful natural environment, and a thriving community that can make it an attractive place to live. However, the risks of unexpected costs, time-consuming renovations, and the potential for disruption should not be underestimated. 

Before taking the plunge, ensure that you have a clear budget, a reliable team of professionals, and a solid plan in place for the renovations. By carefully evaluating the pros and cons and considering the unique factors of Peterborough's real estate market, you can make an informed decision and determine if buying a fixer-upper is the right choice for you. Whether you're aiming to create your dream home or secure a profitable investment, with the right approach, a fixer-upper in Peterborough could be a rewarding and successful endeavor.