Is it a good idea to buy a Markham home near Highway 404 or 407?Homes near Highways 404 and 407 offer quick access to jobs across the GTA, but bring traffic noise and, for homes very close, a smaller pool of buyers at resale. Highway 407 is a toll road, so daily commuting costs matter. Visit at rush hour, check for noise walls or berms, and compare prices with similar homes a few streets in before you offer.
For many Markham commuters, a short drive to the 404 or 407 is a big part of a home’s appeal. For others, the hum of traffic is a deal breaker.
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 weigh commute time against noise for the streets they like.
The trade-off
| Benefit | Trade-off |
|---|---|
| Fast access to jobs and shopping | Traffic noise, especially at rush hour |
| Often lower prices near the highway | Smaller pool of buyers at resale |
| Quick trips across the GTA | 407 tolls add to commuting costs |
Noise checks
- Visit during morning and evening rush hours.
- Stand in the backyard and in bedrooms with windows open.
- Look for noise walls, berms and tree buffers.
- Ask about window upgrades, such as triple-pane glass.
Commute costs
Highway 407 is a privately operated toll road, so regular use adds up. Compare the time saved with the monthly toll cost, and consider transit options such as GO trains and Viva for some trips.
Need a short commute?
Michael John Lau can short-list homes that balance highway access with quieter streets.
Book a buyer consultationSearch Markham homesPrefer to talk? Call the Kaizen Real Estate Team at (647) 370-8885.
Value and resale
Homes backing directly onto a highway often sell for less than similar homes a few streets in. That can be a fair trade if the commute matters to you, as long as the price reflects it.
Choosing the street
One or two blocks can change the experience a lot. Ultimately, the decision is yours. The goal is to make sure you have all the information before you offer.
The right home near a highway is the one where the commute is worth it. Call the Kaizen Real Estate Team at (647) 370-8885 or book a consultation.
Frequently asked questions
Is it bad to live near Highway 407?
Not necessarily. It depends on noise, buffers and how much you value the commute.
Do homes near highways cost less?
Often, especially those backing directly onto the highway.
Is Highway 407 a toll road?
Yes, it is a privately operated toll highway.
How can I check highway noise?
Visit at rush hour and listen in the yard and bedrooms.
Do noise walls help?
They can reduce noise, especially for homes right behind them.
Is resale harder near a highway?
It can take longer, since some buyers avoid highway-backing homes.
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. This is a general buyer guide. Toll rates and noise conditions vary; check 407 ETR for current tolls and visit each property. 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.
