Which Markham neighbourhoods have homes with large backyards?Larger backyards are more common in Markham’s established neighbourhoods, built mostly from the 1960s to the 1980s: parts of Markham Village, Unionville, Bullock, Raymerville, Sherwood-Amberglen, German Mills and Royal Orchard. Many newer communities have narrower lots and smaller yards, though pie-shaped and premium lots exist almost everywhere. Compare the lot depth and shape on the survey, not only the frontage, and check what the yard backs onto.
For many Markham buyers, the backyard is the reason to choose a detached home: a garden, a place for the kids to play, room for summer dinners outside. Yet two homes with the same frontage can have very different yards.
Michael John Lau, a REALTOR® with the Kaizen Real Estate Team, one of the most active real estate teams in Markham and York Region, helps buyers compare lots on paper and in person, so the yard they picture is the yard they get.
Where larger yards are more common
| Area | What you often find |
|---|---|
| Markham Village, Raymerville, Bullock | Older detached homes, many on deeper lots with mature trees |
| Unionville and Sherwood-Amberglen | Established streets, with a mix of wide and deep lots |
| German Mills and Royal Orchard | Larger lots in mature settings near ravines |
| Newer communities such as Cornell, Wismer, Berczy | Narrower lots, with pie-shaped and premium lots on crescents and courts |
Every street is different, so judge the lot itself rather than the area.
Read the lot, not the listing photo
- Check frontage, depth and shape on the survey or the listing’s lot dimensions.
- A pie-shaped lot widens at the back and often gives a larger yard.
- Look at where the house sits: a deep setback from the street shortens the backyard.
- Check easements that limit what you can build or plant.
Privacy and what the yard backs onto
A large yard backing onto another yard, a park, a school or a major road feels very different. Visit at different times of day, look at sightlines from neighbouring windows and check fence condition. Mature trees add privacy but bring leaf clean-up and, for larger trees, City tree protection rules.
Want a home with room to breathe?
Michael John Lau can short-list Markham homes with deeper and pie-shaped lots.
Book a buyer consultationSearch Markham homesPrefer to talk? Call the Kaizen Real Estate Team at (647) 370-8885.
Gardening, play and entertaining
- Gardening: look for sun exposure and soil drainage.
- Play space: a flat, fenced area matters more than total size.
- Entertaining: a patio or deck near the kitchen gets used more.
- Future plans: some lots have room for a pool or a garden suite. See the related guide on lots for garden suites.
What it means for price and upkeep
Larger yards in established areas often come with older homes that may need updates, so budget for both. Yard upkeep, from mowing to snow clearing on longer driveways, takes time. Ultimately, the decision is yours. The goal is to make sure you have all the information before you choose a lot.
The right yard is the one that fits the way your family lives outside. Call the Kaizen Real Estate Team at (647) 370-8885 or book a consultation.
Frequently asked questions
Which Markham neighbourhoods have the biggest backyards?
Established areas such as Markham Village, Unionville, Bullock, German Mills and Royal Orchard often have deeper lots.
Do newer Markham communities have smaller yards?
Often, yes, though pie-shaped and premium lots exist in many newer subdivisions.
What is a pie-shaped lot?
A lot that is narrower at the street and wider at the back, often giving a larger yard.
How do I check lot size?
Look at the lot dimensions on the listing and the survey, including depth and shape.
Can I build a pool or garden suite on a large lot?
Possibly. Zoning, setbacks, easements and permits decide what is allowed.
Do larger yards cost more to maintain?
Usually, in time and in costs for lawn, trees, fencing and snow clearing.
Michael John Lau and Neeraj Moolchandani are licensed REALTORS® with the Kaizen Real Estate Team, eXp Realty, Brokerage, 9763 Markham Rd, Markham, ON L6E 1A4. Licence #4784577. Call (647) 370-8885. Area descriptions are general and based on typical lot patterns by era. Lot sizes vary street by street. Confirm lot dimensions on the survey and zoning with the City of Markham. This article is general information only and is not financial, legal or tax advice. Not intended to solicit buyers or sellers currently under contract with another brokerage.
