I have been involved with marketing PEI real estate for the last six months and it’s provided some eye opening insight into a place I really treasure. Those who love PEI know the special reasons why they love it. We really have the warmest waters north of the Carolinas (at least on the Northumberland Strait side thanks to its shallow depth, so it just warms up quickly and feels like bath water) and the beaches are magical. The pace of living is slower and things don’t change too quickly- if at all- which is refreshing to newcomers until it becomes slightly frustrating at times, but that may be the cost of living in paradise. And paradise is the only way to describe it. It’s exciting, ripe with musical and theatrical talent capable of gracing any stage- anywhere. The golf courses attract VIP’s and the Hollywood elite like Sean Connery and Harrison Ford to play away their days- And the seafood and Culinary offerings are top notch. The Island is home to Celeb Chef Michael Smith after all, which doesn’t hurt.

It’s no surprise that my work in real estate marketing on PEI is more about marketing the Island Itself- promoting the ‘PEI Dream’- rather than actually pitching real estate. Selling old farm houses, luxury waterfront properties, PEI cottages, and investment opportunities is simply the result of someone’s desire to share in the dream. People from all over the country, the US, Europe, and increasingly, Asia, are in touch with me on a daily basis to ask about the Island and one thing is always clear in the voice on the other end of the phone- excitement. People want to learn more about this Island; young and old. It seems to be well regarded as an ideal safe-haven to raise a young family and offers an affordable way of life in one of North America’s most brilliant seaside escapes. The winters may act as a deterrent for some, but only January and February hold occasional challenges. Fleeing south for a break is always an option in a snowy year, but there’s something very inviting and restorative about curling up for a couple of months with good books and a roaring fire. 

Prince Edward Island, PEI, Canada’s Island Paradise…whatever you want to call it….is an amazing place that will likely add years to your life. And as amazing as it is, it’s not perfect. Nothing…not even paradise- is perfect- But the Birthplace of Confederation comes close.

Hamish Redpath is a PEI based writer and marketing consultant.