Home Buying Guide
Uniquely tailored to your preferences
Looking to Buy?
If you would like to receive a personalized Home Buyers Guide uniquely tailored to your preferences or if you simply have questions surrounding the buying process, please fill in the form below and we will get in touch as soon as possible!
FAQs
Do Buyer’s Pay Commission?
No! In the majority of real estate transactions, the Seller is responsible for paying both the Listing and Buying side commissions to the respective Brokerages. (There may be unique circumstances where this is not the case).
Conditional vs Firm Offer?
A conditional offer indicates that certain terms like financing, inspection, sale of home or condo status certificate review must be met before the offer becomes valid and firm. While a firm offer is already binding (In a hot market, seller's are only seeking firm offer deals).
Is it Best to Work with the Listing Agent?
The Listing Representative has an inherent duty to work in the best interest of their seller - so avoid being taken advantage of and enlist the expertise of your own buying representative to guide you throughout the process and protect your best interests.
Are there 1st time Buyer Incentives?
First time home buyer's in Ontario are eligible for up to a $4,000 rebate towards their land transfer tax. (Conditions apply - inquire with your lender/lawyer to verify).
Is a Pre-Qualification the same as a Pre-Approval?
Being qualified simply means that your lender has given you an estimate of what you can afford, while a pre-approval ensures that all of your financial information and credit has been officially verified. (Most lenders will lock in your pre-approval interest rate for 120 days).
Do I have to pay CMHC Mortgage Insurance?
If you possess a down payment of 20% or more of the purchase price, this is classified as a conventional mortgage and you will not have to pay CHMC fees. However, less than 20% will constitute a high ratio mortgage, making you responsible for paying mortgage default insurance.
Buyer Testimonials
Trustworthy
“Working with John made the buying process simple and easy. Following his guidance and plan, we were able to navigate the hectic market and purchase the home of our dreams - even in a highly competitive environment! He was positive and encouraging every step of the way and his market knowledge and continuous support gave us confidence in our decision. We would highly recommend John to anyone looking for an agent they can trust and count on to deliver results!”
-Kevin & Natasha
Knowledgeable
“John is extremely good at his job and was the main reason I found a condo in the Kitchener area in this crazy market. I had reached out to him a couple months prior to when I was actually ready to buy and he spent hours with me on market education. At no point did I feel like he was pressuring me and I always felt like he had my best interests at heart. Coupled with the fact that he knows the area very well, I would highly recommend working with him to find the perfect home.”
-Samin & Raisa
Supportive
“In a market like today buying a house is crazy especially when you don’t know the city as it was in our case. I'm not sure where we would be if it wasn't for John. His knowledge of the area, of properties on the market and his attention to detail was fantastic, it made the process less stressful, and with no pressure. We deeply appreciate John's support and guidance through the buying process and would highly recommend to anyone, buying or selling.”
-Scott & Su