Frequently Asked Questions

Start by speaking with a Realtor like me. Realtors come with their team of 3rd party professionals to make truly make it a one shop stop experience. Next would be to speak to your mortgage professional (and if you dont have one, your Realtor will recommend a few option to you) to determine your budget and get pre-approved for financing. Then, we can discuss your needs, preferred locations, and must-have features so we can begin your home search with a clear plan.

The timeline varies depending on the market and your needs. Some buyers find a home within days; others may take a few months. Once you’ve made an offer, the closing process typically takes 30–60 days.

In most cases, the seller covers the buyer’s agent commission, so you can benefit from professional guidance at no direct cost to you.

Your Realtors will discuss all commission related aspect with you in advance, whether you are a buyer or a seller. 

We perform a Comparative Market Analysis (CMA) to assess recent sales, current competition, and market trends. This helps us set a competitive price that maximizes your return while attracting serious buyers.

In 2026, with the way the market is, I look at the most recent sales figures in the neighborhood, the neighborhood market trend, the listings in the area etc. to make a detailed CMA for you. We would then discuss this in detail and come up with a bidding and /or listing strategy depending on whether we are buying or selling.  

This depends on market conditions, location, pricing, and presentation. On average, homes can sell in days to weeks in a strong market, but slower conditions (like in 2026) may take longer. Our goal is always to sell as quickly as possible for the best price.

GTA home buyers should budget between 1.5% and 4% of the purchase price for closing costs. The largest portion is the Land Transfer Tax (LTT). In Toronto, you pay both Provincial and Municipal LTT, whereas, in regions like Peel or Durham, you only pay Provincial. Other costs include legal fees ($1,500–$2,500), Title Insurance, and statement of adjustments (pre-paid taxes/utilities).

For sellers, the primary closing costs are real estate commissions, legal fees, and mortgage discharge fees. Commission is typically the largest expense, followed by legal fees (approx. $1,000–$1,800). Sellers must also account for any outstanding property taxes or utility bills which are settled on the closing date via the "Statement of Adjustments."

In 2026, FTHBs can access the Land Transfer Tax (LTT) refund and the expanded FHSA (First Home Savings Account) limits. Eligible buyers can receive a refund of up to $4,000 on the Ontario Provincial LTT and up to $4,475 on the Toronto Municipal LTT. Additionally, the Home Buyers' Plan (HBP) now allows for increased tax-free withdrawals from RRSPs to assist with rising down payment requirements in the GTA.

Title Insurance protects you against losses related to property ownership disputes, mortgage fraud, and existing work orders or zoning violations. In 2026, with the rise of digital real estate fraud, Title Insurance is a non-negotiable safeguard that ensures your "Realty Success" is legally protected against "hidden" defects in the property's title.

CMHC insurance is mandatory in Canada if your down payment is less than 20% of the purchase price. The premium is a percentage of the mortgage amount (ranging from 0.60% to 4.50%) and is typically added to your mortgage balance. Note: In 2026, properties with a purchase price over $1 million are generally ineligible for CMHC insurance, requiring a full 20% down payment.

A professional home inspection is your #1 tool for risk mitigation, identifying structural, electrical, and mechanical issues before they become your financial burden. Even in a competitive market, an inspection clause allows you to negotiate repairs or price credits. Your Realty Success Is My Business, and I always recommend an inspection to protect your investment.

Yes, under 2026 Ontario housing initiatives, many builders are now offering "Capped Development Levies" to protect buyers from surprise costs at closing. Development levies (charges for schools, roads, etc.) can be volatile; always ensure your purchase agreement includes a "Cap" clause. I also track new government incentives that reduce these levies for "Transit-Oriented" developments near the GO or Metrolinx lines.