Are you thinking of making Nepean home? Discover what makes this West Ottawa suburb so special in our guide to living in the area…
When it comes to finding the perfect family-friendly community, home hunters in the Ottawa region have it pretty good. From Kanata to Stittsville, there’s no shortage of peaceful yet centrally-located suburbs to choose from. One of our absolute favourites is Nepean. This growing community is known for its great schools and scenic parks, along with the all-around convenient lifestyle it provides. Buyers will also find impressive housing stock here, and a wide variety of beautiful properties to choose from. If you’re considering houses for sale in Nepean, here’s everything you need to know.
Nepean at a Glance
Given its many modern conveniences, you may be surprised to learn that Nepean started out as a township back in 1792. The area was highly attractive to pioneers, who came here to build better lives. That desire is still alive and well in the community’s new residents today. Currently, there are around 120,000 people living throughout the region’s neighbourhoods, which include Barrhaven, Centrepoint, Bells Corners East, and Bells Corners West (among others). While each of these areas has its own distinct character, they all share a strong sense of community—and many other qualities that make suburban life great!
Of course, we couldn’t write about Nepean without mentioning Algonquin College. This local post-secondary school (which has three locations in Ontario) is one of the most well-respected in Ottawa—and it brings a lively student presence to our little corner of the world.
Things to do
If you’re looking for fun and unique activities to enjoy with your family, Nepean is the place to find them. One of the top to-do’s in the community is visiting local green spaces. We’re partial to Dick Bell Park, which offers majestic waterfront views. It’s also home to the Nepean Sailing Club. Of course, not all of us sail—but we can attest that it’s a whole lot of fun to sit on the patio and watch the boats go by!
Nepean families interested in learning about the past should check out the Log Farm. This attraction is a replica of a farm from the 1800s, and (if you’re anything like us) you’ll enjoy exploring it as much as your kids will. We suggest visiting on a Saturday when there’s a fantastic farmers market on-site. Another great way to delve into the past is by visiting the Nepean Museum. Focused on the area and its history, this community museum looks at the neighbourhood’s heritage through a series of changing exhibits.
Amenities
Nepean is just a short drive from Ottawa, but residents don’t have to leave the area to access essential services, shopping centres, or delicious dining options. One of the most convenient things about living here is the sheer number of shopping malls. From medical and dental offices to large retailers and smaller shops, these centres serve the day-to-day need of locals.
Nepean is home to the Bayshore Shopping Centre, one of the largest and most popular retail destinations in Ottawa. The Meadowlands and Merivale malls are also located in the area, as are a number of smaller plazas and boutiques. When it comes to fantastic food, Nepean resident have it made. One of the most beloved local spots to grab a bite is Chances R Restaurant, which serves up all kinds of crowd-pleasing favourites (from Greek salads to Italian pastas to ribs). Baan Thai Restaurant is a local-go to for rich, perfectly-prepared Thai dishes, while La Casa Del Gusto offers a creative fusion of French, Italian, and Canadian cuisine.
Transportation
Getting around Nepean is a breeze using OC Tranpo. A number of bus routes serve the area’s neighbourhoods, and recent changes to these services are making them more convenient than ever. These update will strengthen connections to the O-Train Confederation Line, which is currently being expanded. Once completed, they’ll provide a more straightforward commute to Algonquin College. Of course, Nepean is also ideal for commuters who work in the city’s downtown core. The drive between these destinations is just 20 minutes long.
Real Estate
As a large community comprised of both newer and older neighbourhoods, houses for sale in Nepean have some pretty diverse stock. You’ll find both modern subdivisions and well-established neighbourhoods, along with a variety of single-family houses as well as condos and townhomes. As you might expect, price points vary. But as a general rule, you can expect to find great value in Nepean compared to central Ottawa. Many of the homes here sit on large lots and offer superior access to green space, making them perfect for families and those seeking a little bit more room!
Searching for houses for sale in Nepean? Reach out today to learn more about the community—and what’s available on the market!
