Thinking of buying?

My goal is to ensure that any decision to buy is an informed one. A prepared buyer will have a smoother and ultimately more successful experience.

How can I help you prepare? By helping you gain knowledge and clarity of your numbers, your needs, and listings that align with them. After that, I offer an honest analysis of your choice property, comparables and an appropriate offer and negotiation strategy to ensure you end up a proud owner.

Ready to make a move?

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Frequently Asked Questions

Between applying for mortgages, sorting through listings, preparing finances, arranging inspections, managing emotions and preparing to move, I know that buying a home can feel intimidating.

I’m here to help you navigate the process,
and have a good time doing it.

  • #1. The First-Time Home Buyer Incentive is a government program that offers 5-10% of the purchase price towards the home deposit. It can help lower monthly mortgage payments and has specific requirements for eligibility and repayment. Learn more at placetocallhome.ca.

    #2. Qualifying first-time buyers can receive up to $4,000 in relief on land transfer tax. Your lawyer will handle the refund during the registration process.

    #3. The First-Time Home Buyers Tax Credit (HBTC) is a non-refundable income tax credit of $10,000, providing savings of up to $1,500 in the tax year your home was purchased. Claim it on Line 31270 of your tax filing, with some eligibility conditions.

    #4. The RRSP Home Buyers Plan (HBP) allows first-time buyers to withdraw up to $35,000 per year, per buyer from their pre-tax retirement savings. This allows first-time home buyers save up their deposit more quickly. Eligibility and repayment conditions apply.

    #5. The Tax-Free First Home Savings Account (FHSA) is offered by certain financial institutions. It allows tax-deductible deposits and tax-exempt investment gains, similar to an RRSP and TFSA. There is a maximum contribution of $8,000 per year and $40,000 total. Unlike the HDP above, it doesn't require repayment but expires after 15 years, with options to transfer to an RRSP or withdraw and be taxed.

  • When you work with a real estate agent to buy a home, the commission is typically offered by the listing brokerage, not paid directly by the buyers in Ontario. There are some rare exceptions to this, which will be explained in detail when reviewing the Buyer Representation Agreement.

  • When you enter into a client relationship by signing a Buyer Representation Agreement (BRA), it's crucial to understand that it legally obligates an agent to provide a higher level of care to you compared to the general public. This includes honesty, competency and confidentiality stipulations, among others.

    Ultimately, it ensures your best interests are my first priority and that I am invested in your home search as much as possible, and that my time and energy is protected while I do it.

  • If you're purchasing a property individually and intend to have a non-married partner move in with you, it's crucial to consult with your lawyer to clearly define ownership, establish terms for the non-owner residing there, and outline the course of action in case of a separation. While it may be a difficult conversation initially, addressing these matters can be well worth it in the long run.

    Additionally, you can both sign lease agreement to establish a tenant-landlord relationship. This provides an additional layer of protection and clarity for both parties involved.

  • Normally, a deposit of 5% of the purchase price is expected. It's important to have the entire deposit readily available (as explained in the next question). The deposit serves as a signal to the seller, demonstrating your commitment and seriousness to complete the purchase.

  • The timing of the deposit will vary depending on the situation. It may be required "herewith" when submitting your offer or "upon acceptance" within 24 hours after reaching an agreement.

    It's important to have funds readily available in an account so that you can obtain a bank draft if necessary. Once accepted, your deposit will be included as part of your total down payment.

  • Yes, but my I’m here to ensure such situations are avoided.

    If, in good faith, you are unable to meet a condition (i.e., financing), your deposit will be fully refunded.

    However, if you’ve submitted a firm offer to purchase and are unable to proceed with the closing, there is a risk of forfeiting your deposit and potential legal consequences.

  • Simply, an offer with no conditions. It signifies your firm commitment to purchase the property without any contingencies such as financing or inspections. Once the sellers accept your offer, you are bound to proceed and become the future owner.

    Before considering this approach, I’ll discuss the risks involved, explore alternative options, and assess whether a firm offer is right for you.

  • In a holding offers scenario, a bully offer (also known as a pre-emptive offer) is one that is presented to the seller before the specified offer date, in the hopes of avoiding the ‘bidding war’ scenario.

    What makes a ‘good’ bully offer? Generally speaking, a firm offer at a price compelling enough for the seller to reconsider waiting for the original offer date and potentially altering their plans.