Real Estate News: The Latest, Top Articles in Ontario Canada
Get the most recent real estate news and real estate trends to hit Ontario's housing industry.
Best of Real Estate Articles
Understanding the Role and Requirements of Realtors
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 […]
Realtor Fees and Commissions
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 […]
Relocation Information
Information and Services for Your Move Moving to a new area presents a unique set of opportunities and challenges. You are not just buying a new property; you are choosing a new lifestyle, community, and future. The process requires careful planning and access to the right resources. Expert relocation information and services provide the support […]
Luxury Property Sales and Marketing
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 – Forging a Winning Partnership
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 […]
Navigating Property Matters During a Separation and Divorce
Property Considerations in Separation and Divorce Going through a divorce is a challenging and emotional process, and navigating property matters during a separation and divorce can add another layer of complexity. Divorce real estate agents specialize in working with these sensitive situations, assisting both parties in reaching a fair and equitable resolution. This article will […]
Maximizing Success in Rural Real Estate
Achieving Your Goals in the Country Property Market Many people dream of living in the countryside. They desire more space, a closer connection to nature, and a peaceful environment. Buying or selling property outside the city presents unique opportunities and challenges. Unlike urban transactions, rural real estate involves considerations like land use, private services, and […]
Understanding the Investment Property Market
A Clear Path to Understanding the Investment Property Market Investing in real estate is a powerful method for building long-term wealth. Many people use property to generate passive income and secure their financial future. Success in this area requires knowledge and a clear plan. Understanding the investment property market is the first and most critical […]
Maximizing Your Commercial Real Estate Success
Your Commercial Real Estate Potential Commercial real estate professionals are your dedicated allies, expertly guiding you through every step of buying, selling, and leasing commercial properties. These specialists bring a wealth of skills, deep market knowledge, and invaluable resources to the table, ensuring a smooth and successful navigation of even the most intricate commercial real […]
Helping You Find the Perfect Home for Your Retirement
Find the Perfect Home for Your Golden Years Retirement marks a new chapter in your life. It is a time for new adventures, hobbies, and relaxation. A key part of this transition is deciding where you will live. Your current home may have served your family well for years, but your needs change over time. […]
Estate Sale Experts Can Simplify Your Property Liquidation
Simplify Property Liquidation with Professional Estate Sale Services Clearing a home is a significant undertaking. You may face this task when downsizing, managing an inheritance, or helping a loved one move. The process involves sorting through a lifetime of possessions. Each item holds a memory or a question about its value. This emotional and physical […]
First Time Home Buyer Real Estate Info
Real Estate Information for First-Time Home Buyers Buying your first home is a significant milestone. You likely have many questions about the process. This article provides clear first time home buyer real estate info to help you feel confident. We will break down the home buying journey into simple, manageable stages. From understanding your finances […]
Latest Articles: Everything Real Estate
What is a Capped Rate Mortgage?
Question: What is a Capped Rate Mortgage? Answer: A Capped Rate Mortgage is a loan where the interest rate has an upper limit, offering protection from rising rates while allowing benefits if rates fall. What is a Capped Rate Mortgage? A Flexible Option for Homebuyers In the world of home financing, capped rate mortgages offer […]
Can I use my RRSP for a Down Payment?
Question: Can I use my RRSP for a Down Payment? Answer: Canadian homebuyers can use their RRSP (Registered Retirement Savings Plan) funds under the Home Buyers’ Plan (HBP) to withdraw up to $35,000 tax-free for a down payment on their first home, provided certain conditions are met and the funds are repaid within a specified […]
Can a Seller Back Out of an Accepted Offer in Canada?
Question: Can a Seller Back Out of an Accepted Offer in Canada? Answer: In Canada, once an offer is accepted and a purchase agreement is signed, the seller is generally bound by the terms of the contract. However, certain conditions or contingencies may allow the seller to back out, such as failure to meet financing […]
What is the Difference Between a Cosigner and a Guarantor?
Question: What is the Difference Between a Cosigner and a Guarantor? Answer: The difference between a cosigner and a guarantor is a cosigner is equally responsible for the debt from the start, while a guarantor is responsible only if the primary borrower defaults. What is the Difference Between a Cosigner and a Guarantor? – Their […]
What is the Debt-to-Income Ratio?
Question: What is the Debt to Income Ratio? Answer: The Debt to Income Ratio compares monthly debt payments to gross monthly income, assessing a borrower’s ability to manage and repay debts. What is the Debt-to-Income Ratio? A Financial Health Indicator The debt-to-income ratio (DTI) is an important financial metric. It compares your monthly debt payments […]
What is the Mortgage Stress Test?
Question: What is the Mortgage Stress Test? Answer: The Mortgage Stress Test evaluates if a borrower can afford mortgage payments at a higher rate, ensuring financial stability against interest rate increases. A Quick Homebuyer’s Guide The mortgage stress test is a financial checkup used by lenders. It ensures that borrowers can still afford their mortgage […]
Can You Deduct Mortgage Interest in Canada?
Question: Can You Deduct Mortgage Interest in Canada? Answer: Mortgage interest is deductible only for properties generating rental or business income, not for a principal residence in Canada. Can You Deduct Mortgage Interest in Canada? Understanding Mortgage Interest Deduction In the realm of homeownership, understanding the nuances of mortgage interest deduction is crucial. This concept […]
What Happens If I Do Not Renew My Mortgage in Canada?
Question: What Happens If I Do Not Renew My Mortgage Canada? Answer: If your mortgage is not renewed, you may have to pay the balance in full, face different terms, or risk foreclosure. Discuss options with your lender. What happens if I Do Not Renew my Mortgage in Canada – The Basics of Mortgage Renewal […]
What Financial Requirements Must Be Met to Qualify for a Mortgage?
Question: What Financial Requirements Must Be Met to Qualify for a Mortgage? Answer: To qualify for a mortgage, individuals typically need to meet requirements related to income, credit score, employment history, debt-to-income ratio, and down payment. Lenders assess these factors to determine the borrower’s ability to repay the loan and mitigate lending risk. What Financial […]
What is the Real Estate Absorption Rate?
Question: What is the Real Estate Absorption Rate? Answer: The Real Estate Absorption Rate is a measure used to gauge the rate at which available properties are sold or leased in a specific market over a given period, indicating the pace of market activity and the balance between supply and demand. Understanding Absorption in Real […]
What is a Mortgage Disclosure Statement?
Question: What is a Mortgage Disclosure Statement? Answer: A Mortgage Disclosure Statement is a document provided to borrowers by lenders that outlines key details of a mortgage loan, including loan terms, interest rates, closing costs, prepayment penalties, and other important information required by law to ensure transparency and informed decision-making. What is a Mortgage Disclosure […]
What is Discharge of Mortgage?
Question: What is discharge of mortgage? Answer: A discharge of mortgage is a legal document indicating the mortgage loan is fully paid and the lien on the property is removed. What is Discharge of Mortgage? Key Insights for Homeowners Navigating through the mortgage process involves understanding various terms and procedures, one of the most significant […]
Can You Sell Your House Before Your Mortgage is Up?
Question: Can You Sell Your House Before Your Mortgage is Up? Answer: Yes, you can sell your house before the mortgage is up, using sale proceeds to pay off the remaining mortgage balance. Can You Sell Your House Before Your Mortgage is Up? A Guide to Early Sale The decision to sell your house before […]
What is Legal Land Description?
Question: What is Legal Land Description? Answer: A Legal Land Description precisely delineates land boundaries and location for legal transactions, including lot and block numbers, subdivision name, and measurements. What is Legal Land Description? Your Guide to Property Identification In real estate, grasping the concept of legal land descriptions is important. These unique identifiers do […]
Is the Garage Included in Square Footage?
Question: Is the Garage Included in Square Footage? Answer: Garages are usually not included in the square footage, as it typically only accounts for heated and cooled living spaces. Is the Garage Included in Square Footage? Unpacking the Garage Question In real estate, accurately determining a property’s square footage is important. A frequently asked question […]
Does My Common Law Partner Get Half My House?
Question: Does My Common Law Partner Get Half My House? Answer: In Canada, common-law partners don’t automatically get half unless jointly owned or agreed upon, with variations by province. Property Rights in Common Law Relationships In the intricate world of relationships and property rights, one pressing question often arises: "Does my common law partner get […]
Can You Deduct Real Estate Commissions From Capital Gains?
Question: Can You Deduct Real Estate Commissions From Capital Gains? Answer: Yes, you can deduct real estate commissions from capital gains. While not a standard tax deduction, real estate commissions are a selling expense. You can subtract this cost from the property’s sale price, which directly reduces your total capital gain and the amount of […]
What Are the Tax Implications of Selling a House Below Market Value in Canada?
Question: What Are the Tax Implications of Selling a House Below Market Value in Canada? Answer: Tax implications of selling a house below market value in Canada can be significant. When selling to a non-arm’s length party (like family), the seller is deemed to have sold at Fair Market Value (FMV). Capital gains are calculated […]
Are Realtor Fees Tax Deductible for Rental Property?
Question: Are Realtor Fees Tax Deductible for Rental Property? Answer: Whether or not realtor fees are tax deductible for a rental property depends on several factors. Fees for finding a tenant are deductible as an operating expense. Commissions from buying are added to the property’s cost basis and depreciated. Fees from selling are used to […]
How Do I Avoid Capital Gains Tax on Rental Property in Canada?
Question: How Do I Avoid Capital Gains Tax on Rental Property in Canada? Answer: Complete avoidance of Capital Gains Tax is rare. The main strategy is the Principal Residence Exemption (PRE). If you lived in the property, you can designate it as your principal residence for those years, sheltering a portion of the gain. Otherwise, […]
How Long Do You Have to Live in Your Primary Residence to Avoid Capital Gains in Canada?
Question: How Long Do You Have to Live in Your Primary Residence to Avoid Capital Gains in Canada? Answer: In Canada, there is no specific minimum time requirement to live in your primary residence to avoid capital gains tax. To qualify for the Principal Residence Exemption and avoid capital gains, the property must be “ordinarily […]
What Qualifies as a Farm in Ontario?
Question: What Qualifies as a Farm in Ontario? Answer: A farm qualifies as a farm in Ontario if it generates at least $7,000 in annual gross income from eligible farming activities, like crop production or raising livestock. This is required for the farm property tax class and to register the business. Defining a Farm Property […]
Should I Buy a House Close to a Highway?
Question: Should I Buy a House Close to a Highway? Answer: Buying a house close to a highway is a trade-off. Proximity offers excellent commuter convenience and potential affordability. However, you must weigh the significant drawbacks of constant traffic noise, air quality concerns, and a possible negative impact on the property’s long-term resale value. Deciding […]
Impact of Proximity to Noise Sources on Home Values
How Nearby Noise Affects Your Home’s Value You find a home with the perfect layout, a beautiful kitchen, and a great backyard. The location seems ideal, close to amenities and with an easy commute. Before you make an offer, you must consider an invisible factor that can significantly alter your quality of life and your […]
Does Gentrification Help or Harm Neighbourhoods?
Question: Does Gentrification Help or Harm Neighbourhoods? Answer: Gentrification is complex; it can revitalize a neighbourhood with new investment and increased property values. However, it also drives up rents and property taxes, which can displace long-term, lower-income residents and alter the community’s established character. The Impact of Neighbourhood Change A neighbourhood changes when new, often […]
What Are the Signs of Neighborhood Gentrification?
Question: What Are the Signs of Neighborhood Gentrification? Answer: The signs of neighbourhood gentrification include rapidly rising property values and rents, an increase in home renovations, and new condo developments. You will also notice a shift in local businesses, with trendy cafes and boutiques replacing long-standing shops, reflecting a change in the area’s demographics. Identifying […]
What Are Three Negative Effects of Gentrification?
Question: What Are Three Negative Effects of Gentrification? Answer: Three major negative effects of gentrification are the displacement of long-term, lower-income residents due to rising rents, the loss of a neighbourhood’s unique cultural identity and local businesses, and increased financial strain on remaining community members from a higher cost of living. The Consequences of Urban […]
How Does Gentrification Affect Real Estate?
Question: How Does Gentrification Affect Real Estate? Answer: Gentrification affects real estate by driving up property values and rental rates as investment flows into a neighbourhood. This spurs new development and boosts demand, but can also displace long-term residents due to rising costs, especially as landlords increase rent between tenancies. Gentrification’s Impact on Real Estate […]
