Location, location, location an international phenomenon

The phrase “location, location, location” is a popular mantra in the new home real estate market. For most people who are looking to purchase a new home or condominium, a location that fits their needs is uppermost in their must-have list. Whether it is to live close to work, family, friends or local amenities, where a home or condo is situated affects their lives dramatically. Even investors consider location to be a primary deal-maker or -breaker when it comes to signing on the dotted line. It occurred to me that the phrase takes on an even deeper meaning when you think about it internationally. “Location, location, location” is what drives many immigrants to choose Canada as their new place of residence.

Place of opportunity

And why not? Our country is a haven for those who live in war-torn nations. In July 2023, the Institute for Economics and Peace released its latest report ranking the safest and most peaceful countries in the world. Of the 163 countries reviewed for their number of violent interior and exterior conflicts, level of distrust, political instability, potential for terrorist acts, number of homicides and military expenditures as a percentage of GDP, Canada ranked 12th in relative safety.

In addition, Canada is a place of opportunity. For decades, hard-working immigrants have relocated here to make a better life for themselves and their children. And certainly, looking back, immigrants have played a major part in building the Canada we enjoy today. Here, newcomers find access to an enviable array of amenities, from shopping to sports, entertainment, education, the arts, culture and cuisine. Our multiculturalism is one of our many strengths as a nation.

And then if we zero in on Toronto, our city is a popular residential destination for immigrants. Year after year, Toronto receives numerous top world rankings. Recently, Toronto was selected as one of 2024’s Greater Toronto’s top employers. The reasons for this acknowledgement include dedicated health and wellness strategies for managing workloads and promoting connections in the workplace, maternity and parental leave top-ups, and the support of ongoing employee education with tuition subsidies, training initiatives, paid internships, co-op programs and summer student roles.

Coveted location

In addition, last year Toronto was recognized as one of Canada’s Best Diversity Employers. One of the reasons why our city was singled out is the “Profession to Profession Mentoring Immigrants” program being implemented this year in response to employment barriers faced by skilled newcomers. Plus, the city was recognized as Canada’s very first Best Workplace for Commuters because of its support for employees commuting in sustainable ways such as transit, walking, cycling, carpooling and, of course, opportunities for hybrid work. And the list goes on.

So much of what we take for granted here is what attracts residents from around the globe. It is easy to understand why. When it comes to location, location, location, Canada remains one of the world’s finest and most coveted.