Lincoln Heights

Built upon a prominent elevation in east Waterloo, Lincoln Heights is an established, mature neighbourhood bounded by Weber, University, Erb and the Conestoga Parkway. This community offers superior access to the highway, with a trip to the 401 usually taking 20 minutes. The somewhat central location has good public transit, and walking to the uptown isn’t that far. There’s plenty to see and do in and around the area, such as Waterloo and Bechtel Parks, and Moses Springer Community Centre. The area effortlessly blends quiet residential streets with proximity to Waterloo’s urban scene.

What to Expect From Homes in This Neighbourhood

Lincoln Heights is a classic suburban neighbourhood defined by winding streets, mature tree cover and spacious lots. Housing was built from the mid 1950s into the 1970s, showcasing the solid construction and generous yard sizes typical of the era. While most of the homes are single family detached, there are semis, townhouses, and condos available as well. Rental properties in Lincoln Heights are situated mostly along Weber Street, preserving a peaceful, low-traffic feel through the rest of the suburb.

Property Styles & Layouts

The suburb offers a pretty good selection of styles, sizes and price points. For detached, the newer areas have two storeys, raised and regular bungalows, side splits and back splits available. Older solid 1950s one and a half storeys are a great choice as well. In the more affordable portions you’ve got a good range of semis, townhouses and condo towers too. Floor plans have bedrooms that tend to be smaller than new suburbia, with more in the way of traditional dining rooms and separate kitchens. Ensuites off the master will be rare and bathroom counts tend to be lower as well. Conversely, lots are generous and fully grown in, with homes built on them that are much more unique and definitely not cookie cutter like brand new suburbia. Basements are almost always finished, which is just a factor of time more than anything.

Construction & Mechanical Specs

Homes here, and in all of Waterloo Region are timber framed. They are usually clad in brick, siding or a combination of these. Other less common finishes are stucco and stone facades. Foundations are commonly poured concrete, without sump pumps. The earlier homes will use rock lath with a plaster finish coat. Anything into the early 70s generally uses drywall. Some of the oldest homes in the area would have had oil heat, but almost everyone has long ago converted to forced air gas. Cooling is either AC or sump pump. Obviously, replacement is on a case by case basis unlike a 15 year old suburb, where the relatively new age of the houses locks in equipment ages. Heating and cooling in the condos is likely electric. Speaking of electricity, service is usually 100 amp with breaker panel. You may find copper wiring here or aluminum, as Lincoln Heights has the highest prevalence of this wiring in Waterloo. It’s not a deal breaker but it does need to be remediated with pig tailing by a professional. For sewers, the earliest homes will have a cast iron stack, with later homes into the 70s possibly having a full copper waste line system instead. Mid 70s and newer use contemporary ABS. In all ages here, water supply is copper.

What I Like About Lincoln Heights

Lincoln Heights delivers a perfect combination of mid century charm, rolling hills and everyday convenience. The terrain gives the neighbourhood a distinct flavour, while instant access to the expressway makes commutes stress free. An outdoor pool and ice rink inside the neighbourhood is a nice touch for active families. It’s a rare location where you can easily walk for groceries or take a casual stroll right uptown, all while enjoying the peace of quiet suburbia.

Who Is Lincoln Heights For?

First-time home buyers and growing families looking for an affordable detached, semi, or townhouse in an established community will not be disappointed. Buyers who appreciate the architecture, larger lot dimensions, and solid structural craftsmanship of this era will love the properties here. Commuters wanting fast convenient highway access will find the area perfect, as will people who don’t drive. Groceries at Zehrs or Sobeys are easily walkable and the area has good public transportation for longer trips

Also Nearby

The Moses Springer Community Centre is located in the west end of the neighbourhood, perfect for summer swims and skating in the winter. Uptown Waterloo is a 15 or 20 minute walk away, giving residents access to shopping, fine dining and nightlife. Bechtel Park is just across the expressway. Daily Grocery runs are easy with a Sobeys at one end and a Zehrs at the other. RIM Park and the Farmers’ Market are just a five minute drive away.