Who (or what) do you turn to when you have questions about real estate?
If you're like most Canadians, you're probably asking Google or even using AI tools to help you get started. And while the internet is a great place to begin gathering general information, it’s not always easy to separate fact from fiction.
That’s where the pros come in.
Working with a REALTOR® ensures that you're getting accurate, up-to-date, and local insights into the real estate market. But if you're still in the early stages of your buying or selling journey, we asked REALTORS® across Canada to weigh in and answer some of the most commonly Googled real estate questions to help guide you in the right direction.
1. What are the steps to buying a home in Canada as a first-time home buyer?
Buying your first home can feel overwhelming, but having a step-by-step plan helps. Here’s a simplified version:
Get pre-approved for a mortgage.
Hire a REALTOR® to guide you through the process.
Start your home search and attend showings.
Make an offer when you find the right home.
Schedule a home inspection.
Finalize your financing.
Close the deal and get the keys!
Bonus tip: Look into First-Time Home Buyer Incentives and rebates available in your province.
2. Should I buy or rent a home?
It depends on your lifestyle, financial goals, and how long you plan to stay in one place.
Buy if you're looking to build equity, settle down, or take advantage of market appreciation.
Rent if you value flexibility, are saving for a down payment, or plan to move within a few years.
A REALTOR® can help you crunch the numbers and evaluate what makes the most sense for you.
3. What should I expect during the closing period?
The closing period is the time between your offer being accepted and the official transfer of ownership. Expect to:
Sign lots of paperwork
Work with your lender to finalize your mortgage
Coordinate with your lawyer and REALTOR®
Do a final walkthrough
Pay your closing costs (including legal fees, land transfer tax, etc.)
4. Can a REALTOR® help me with rentals?
Absolutely! While not all REALTORS® specialize in rentals, many do. They can help you find reputable listings, negotiate terms, and ensure your lease agreement protects your rights.
5. What are some common home buying mistakes and how do I avoid them?
Top mistakes include:
Skipping mortgage pre-approval
Not budgeting for closing costs
Falling in love with a home outside your budget
Skipping the home inspection
Going it alone without professional guidance
Avoid these by working with a REALTOR®, staying financially prepared, and asking questions every step of the way.
6. How do I handle multiple offers on my property?
Receiving multiple offers is exciting—but also strategic. Your REALTOR® will help you:
Review each offer carefully (it's not just about price!)
Consider conditions and buyer flexibility
Negotiate to get the best possible terms
In some cases, you may hold a "bidding war" or ask for the highest and best offers.
7. Why do I need to work with a REALTOR®?
REALTORS® bring local market knowledge, negotiation expertise, and access to MLS® listings that you won’t find on public sites. They also:
Help you avoid costly mistakes
Act in your best interest
Make the process smoother from start to finish
Think of them as your guide and advocate in a complex transaction.
8. How do I assess the long-term value of a property?
Key factors include:
Location (schools, transit, development plans)
Condition and potential for renovations
Market trends and comparable sales
Future resale value
Your REALTOR® can provide a Comparative Market Analysis (CMA) to help you assess if a home is priced fairly and a good long-term investment.
9. What’s the difference between a pre-inspection and a home inspection?
Pre-inspection: Done before listing a home to spot issues early. It can make a home more attractive to buyers.
Home inspection: Done after an offer is accepted (often by the buyer) to identify any hidden concerns before finalizing the purchase.
Both are important tools in ensuring a smooth transaction.
10. Can I negotiate the asking price of a property—even in a seller’s market?
Yes, but it depends on the specific property and market conditions. In a hot market, homes may sell for over asking. However, your REALTOR® can guide you on:
When to offer below asking
How to craft a competitive offer
What other terms might strengthen your position
11. Should I buy a home with a pool?
A pool can be a great feature—but it’s not for everyone. Consider:
Ongoing maintenance and insurance costs
How often you’ll use it
Impact on resale (pools may not appeal to all buyers)
Talk to your REALTOR® about whether it aligns with your lifestyle and market trends in your area.
12. What’s the difference between being pre-qualified and pre-approved?
Pre-qualified: A basic estimate based on self-reported financials. It’s a good starting point, but not a guarantee.
Pre-approved: A more thorough process that involves verifying your income, credit, and documents. This gives you a much stronger position when making an offer.
Always aim for pre-approval before house hunting!
Final Thoughts
While it’s easy to Google real estate questions, nothing beats the guidance of a trusted REALTOR®. Whether you’re buying your first home, selling your family home, or somewhere in between, having a real expert in your corner makes all the difference.
Need real estate advice tailored to you?
Connect with our team, we ready to help you make your next move with confidence.
