The Valley is made up of multiple smaller communities. The main parts, starting from the southern edge of town are: Ships Point, Union Bay, Courtenay, Crown Isle, Courtenay East, Comox, Comox Peninsula, Merville and Black Creek. Each area differs from the next, and since location is the most important thing when it comes to Real Estate, here is a brief description of each:
Ships Point:
Located half way between Qualicum and the city of Courtenay, Ships Point is a quiet oasis surrounded by water. It is 20 minutes south of the city, which makes it a nice relaxing, slow paced area where properties typically cost a little less because it is a ways out of town. Ships Point has plenty of ocean front property, as well as ocean views. All properties get their water from a well and are on septic tanks. Property types are single family, mobiles and acreages.
Union Bay/Royston:
This area is about 10-20 minutes south of Courtenay, mostly bordering the ocean, so properties will have an ocean view with a few being waterfront. There are some little grocery stores, pubs, and gas stations, but very few retail outlets. Property types are single family, mobiles and acreages.
Courtenay:
Courtenay city is made up of all types of properties, with the exception of large acreages in the city. There are plenty of stores and schools in this area. Population is 22,533 (2006). There is a wide range of people that live here, from young people, to families, right through to retirees. There is something for everyone.
Crown Isle:
A small community built around a very nice golf course. There are condo's and single family homes here. Some of the condo's are quarter ownership for vacation purposes. A very nice quiet place to live.
Courtenay East:
A residential area with plenty of schools within walking distance of houses. There are all types of properties, but it is mostly made up of family homes. Lots of view properties as this area is built on a hill.
Comox:
The town of Comox is quite small, with a population of 13,008 (2006). It is a quiet area, with lots of properties within walking distance to all amenities. There is something for everyone here as well. It is a beautiful place with plenty of nice views. A lot of retired people prefer this area of the Comox Valley! There is an abundance of Patio homes here, as well as all other types of properties (not much acreage in town).
Comox Peninsula:
This is the area that borders the town of Comox and wraps around the points (ocean). It includes Point Holmes, Kye Bay, Kin Beach, Little River, Seal Bay, and Kitty Coleman among other areas. All of these places are beautiful natural settings. There is water front, water view, beautiful homes as well as some mobiles, and acreages/hobby farms.
Merville/Black Creek:
Plenty of acreages and rural settings north of town. Located 5-20 minutes outside of Courtenay, there are a lot of horse properties and hobby farms, as well as single family homes and some mobiles.