When looking at a house for sale in Mississauga versus one in Sherbrooke, there are of course going to be some differences. In many communities in Quebec the first language used is French, instead of the rest of the country's English. The larger city centers are also structured in different ways. But the truth is there are as many similarities between homes in Quebec and Ontario as there are differences. This guide to Central Canada real estate will hopefully help you choose which province is right for you.

Let's look at the large cities first. It's true that there are common single-family style homes to Quebec City or Toronto waterfront condos, but the cities look and feel very different. Some people see Quebec's larger cities, meaning Montreal and Quebec City, as little pieces of Europe on North American soil. This is because much of the architecture and city planning is still in tact from the cities' early days. Quebec City's Old Town district is even still complete with narrow stone streets lined with small shops and cafes like one might see in Paris.

A city like Toronto or with homes for sale in London Ontario, there are more districts representing the new rather than the old. It's true that these cities just don't have the length of history that Quebec City does, which was populated by French settlers as early as 1604. Toronto has its little pockets of historic homes, like you'll see with some of Corktown and the Annex, but on the whole the city is a place of new development. Ottawa is a combination of the old and the new but doesn't have the extended charm of Montreal.

When moving to the suburbs of these cities, things become a little more uniform. Homes outside of Quebec City in places like Laurentian are similar to homes you will see with Markham Ontario real estate north of Toronto. These are newer planned developments that go for anywhere from the high $100,000s to well into the millions. They are meant as bedroom communities with nice, family focused neighborhoods.

Moving to the country, Quebec and Ontario are both known for their scenery in different regards. Quebec is full of rich farmland and the older style farm homes. You can also get lake properties for as low as $160,000 and there are the ever-popular chalet homes at the bottom of some of the country's finer ski resorts. Ontario seems to have a never-ending sea of cottage countries. From the Muskokas to Port Perry real estate to the Thousand Islands, there is a wealth of opportunity for those looking for a weekend or retirement home.

The truth is, those looking for the home of their dreams will find many options in both Ontario and Quebec. The landscape is similar and the people are friendly. It just depends on the details you're wishing for.