Real Estate News: The Latest, Top Articles in Ontario Canada

What a Realtor Does For You Many people use the terms “real estate agent” and “Realtor” interchangeably. While the terms are related, they hold a key distinction. Understanding the Role and Requirements of Realtors helps you choose the right professional for your property journey. Every home buyer and seller should know who they are working […]

Understanding Real Estate Agent Fees and Commissions The complexity of realtor fees and commissions can feel overwhelming for both first-time buyers and seasoned property investors. However, it is an essential part of the real estate process that we cannot ignore. In this article, we will guide you through the intricate web of these fees and […]

Effective Strategies for High-End Property Sales Selling a high-value home requires a distinct and sophisticated approach. The standard methods used for typical properties are often insufficient for the premium market. A successful transaction depends on a deep understanding of the affluent buyer, impeccable presentation, and a precisely executed plan. Effective luxury property sales and marketing […]

Realtor Selection and Relationship – Creating a Successful Partnership Choosing a realtor is more than a simple decision—it is a strategic maneuver in the journey of real estate. An adept realtor holds the power to simplify the process of buying or selling a home, to ensure you get the best deal possible, and to convert […]

Question: What is the Best Age to Buy a House? Answer: The best age to buy a house is less about a number and more about financial readiness. It’s when you have a stable income, a good credit score, and have saved a sufficient down payment. For many, this milestone is reached between their late […]

Question: What is the Best Strategy to Buy a House? Answer: The best strategy to buying a house is securing a mortgage pre-approval to set your budget, partnering with a realtor, and making a conditional offer subject to financing and a home inspection. A real estate lawyer is essential to manage the closing process. Crafting […]

Question: What Happens if I Make a Large Principal Payment on my Mortgage? Answer: If you make a large principal payment on your mortgage, you reduce your principal, pay less interest over time, and shorten your amortization. However, check your agreement as exceeding your annual prepayment privilege on a closed mortgage can trigger a significant […]

Question: What are the Benefits of Making a Large Down Payment? Answer: The benefits of making a large down payment are significant. A large down payment means a smaller loan, lower monthly payments, and less interest paid. Putting down 20% or more also eliminates mandatory mortgage default insurance, potentially securing a better interest rate and […]

Question: What are the Disadvantages of a Small Down Payment? Answer: The disadvantages of a small down payment are significant. A down payment under 20% requires mandatory mortgage default insurance. This premium increases your total loan, resulting in higher monthly payments and more interest paid over time. You also start with less home equity, increasing […]

Question: What are the Disadvantages of a Large Down Payment? Answer: A large down payment can deplete your emergency savings, leaving you financially vulnerable to unexpected costs. It also creates an opportunity cost, as that capital is tied up in your home instead of being invested elsewhere for potentially higher returns. The Drawbacks of a […]

Question: How Can I Prepare for Buying a House? Answer: To prepare for buying a house start by saving for a down payment, utilizing tools like the RRSP Home Buyers’ Plan. Check and improve your credit score, get pre-approved for a mortgage to set your budget, and account for closing costs like the Land Transfer […]

Question: What Are the Stages of Home Construction? Answer: The main stages of home construction include site preparation, foundation, framing, mechanical rough-ins, insulation and drywall, and exterior and interior finishing. The process concludes with a final inspection, such as a Pre-Delivery Inspection (PDI), before you receive the keys to your new home. The Home Building […]

Question: What Is the Difference Between a Custom Home Builder and a Production Home Builder? Answer: A custom builder constructs a unique home on your land with extensive personalization. A production builder develops communities, offering a limited selection of pre-designed models and finishes on land they already own, providing a more streamlined process. Custom Home […]

Question: What Are the Benefits of Custom Home Building? Answer: The benefits of custom home building are total control over design, layout, and finishes to suit your lifestyle. You get a home built to the latest energy efficiency standards, superior quality construction, and the protection of a mandatory new home warranty program. The Advantages of […]

Question: What Is the Most Expensive Part of Building a House? Answer: The most expensive parts of building a house are the frame, including the foundation, lumber, and skilled labour. However, high-end interior finishes for kitchens and bathrooms and the mechanical systems (HVAC, plumbing) can often rival or exceed this expense depending on the project’s […]

Question: How to Budget for a Custom Built Home? Answer: To budget for a custom built home, itemize all costs: land, architectural fees, permits, materials, and labour. Always factor in HST and a contingency fund of at least 15% for unexpected expenses. Obtain detailed quotes from your builder and trades to create a comprehensive and […]

Question: How Long Does It Take to Build a House? Answer: Building a house typically takes 9 to 12 months. The entire process, including design and securing permits, often extends beyond a year, influenced by the home’s complexity, weather, and the availability of materials and skilled labour. The Timeline for Building a New House Many […]

Question: What Are the Best Eco Building Materials? Answer: The best eco building materials are often local and renewable, like sustainably harvested wood (CLT), carbon-sequestering hempcrete, and straw bales. Products with high recycled content, such as cellulose insulation or reclaimed steel, are also excellent choices for sustainable building projects in Ontario. Sustainable Building Materials for […]

Question: Do I Need an Architect to Design My House? Answer: You do not need an architect to design your house. An architect is not legally required for a house under three storeys and 600 m² (approx. 6,458 sq. ft.). A qualified designer holding a BCIN can prepare your permit drawings. An architect is valuable […]

Question: What Is the Most Cost Effective Building Material? Answer: What is the most cost effective building material is a question with no single answer, as it depends on the project. For most residential homes, wood framing is typically the most economical option. However, true cost-effectiveness must also consider labour, energy efficiency, and long-term maintenance. […]

Question: How Much Does an Architect Charge to Draw House Plans? Answer: In Canada, an architect may charge 8-15% of the construction cost, a fixed fee starting around $15,000, or an hourly rate of $150-$300+. The final price depends on the home’s size, complexity, level of detail required, and the scope of services provided for […]

Question: What Should I Look for in a Good Architect? Answer: What Should I Look for in a Good Architect? A licensed Ontario professional with a portfolio that aligns with your vision and budget. Key qualities include strong communication skills, excellent references, and proven expertise in local zoning bylaws and the Ontario Building Code to […]

Question: What Are the Main Components of a Construction Plan? Answer: The main components of a construction plan include architectural, structural, mechanical, and electrical drawings, a site plan, and detailed specifications. These documents outline the project’s scope, ensuring compliance with provincial building codes for permits and guiding the entire building process. The Core Elements of […]

Question: Is it Cheaper to Build a Bungalow or Two Story? Answer: It is cheaper to build a two-story home over a bungalow. A two-story home is cheaper to build per square foot. For the same living space, it has a smaller, less expensive foundation and roof, making it more cost-effective than a sprawling bungalow […]

Question: What Is the Cheapest Type of House to Build in Canada? Answer: The cheapest type of house to build in Canada is typically a small, two-story home with a simple rectangular or square footprint. Opting for a slab-on-grade foundation, a simple roof design, and standard finishes minimizes complexity and material costs, making it the […]

Question: How Do You Plan a House Project? Answer: To plan a house project, start by defining your scope and setting a realistic budget. Next, create detailed plans and secure any necessary municipal permits. Finally, vet and hire insured contractors with a clear, written contract before establishing a project timeline. Your Step-by-Step Method for Planning […]

Question: Is it Cheaper to Build or Buy a House in Canada? Answer: Is it Cheaper to Build or Buy a House in Canada? Buying an existing home is often cheaper and faster upfront. While building avoids bidding wars, the high costs for land, materials, labour, and development charges frequently make it the more expensive […]

Question: What Is the Secondary Suite Loan Program? Answer: The Secondary Suite Loan Program is a financial initiative offering homeowners low-interest, long-term financing to create or upgrade a secondary suite on their property. The program aims to increase the rental housing supply while helping homeowners generate income to offset mortgage costs. Loan Program for Secondary […]

Question: What Are the Rules for Tiny Homes in Ontario? Answer: The rules for tiny homes in Ontario vary by municipality. All tiny homes must adhere to the Ontario Building Code and local zoning by-laws, which determine placement and size. It is essential to consult your local building and planning departments for specific rules. The […]

Question: What Is a Dwelling That Has Two Residential Units? Answer: A dwelling that has two residential units is commonly called a duplex. This single building contains two separate living spaces, which can be side-by-side or stacked, each with its own entrance, kitchen, and bathroom. Homes with Two Separate Living Spaces You may ask, “What […]

Question: What Is an Accessory Dwelling Unit in Ontario? Answer: An accessory dwelling unit in Ontario is a self-contained residential unit on the same property as a primary home. It includes its own kitchen, bathroom, and sleeping area, and can be inside, attached to, or a separate structure like a garden or laneway suite. Defining […]

Question: Can I Build a Second Home on My Property in Ontario? Answer: Yes, recent provincial legislation permits building up to two additional residential units (e.g., garden suites) on most properties. However, you must still comply with local municipal zoning bylaws, building codes, and servicing requirements. Always consult your local municipality for specific rules and […]