Canadian homeowners today aren’t just asking what commission rates are—they're asking what’s fair.With options ranging from full-service brokerages charging 4–5% to newer discount and flat-fee models starting around 1%, the landscape has shifted.As someone who’s worked with clients across all three models, I’ve seen firsthand the pros and cons.Below is a quick, honest breakdown of what each...
FTHB
by Faiza Ahmed (Broker) 
When it comes to buying a condo, most people focus on location, square footage, or amenities but there’s another crucial detail that often gets overlooked: Is the condo freehold or leasehold? This small line in a listing can have a big impact on what you actually own, how long you own it, and what it might cost you over time. Let’s break down the core differences between freehold and leasehold condos...
Quick Facts About Toronto Real Estate CommissionsTypical commission: Approximately 5% total (2.5% each for buyer and seller agents).Who pays it: Usually, the seller covers this fee.Negotiable? Yes—commissions can often be negotiated based on property, market conditions, and agent competition.Alternative Options: Models offering lower commissions, such as 1%, are increasingly...
Thinking about buying a condo? You're not alone. Across Canada’s biggest cities, condo living is on the rise — but is it the right fit for you? A Condo Might Be a Good Choice If You: ✔️ Prefer a lower upfront cost compared to a house✔️ Want availability of amenities without worrying about maintenance✔️ Like the idea of living in a secure, well-located building✔️ Are...
The deposit is what you pay when your offer is accepted, showing the seller you're serious. The down payment, on the other hand, is the portion of the home's price that you cover upfront, with the rest being financed through a mortgage.Whether you're purchasing an existing home or a pre-construction property, understanding the role of these payments can help you plan your finances more effectively.In this...
Selling a townhome in Canada is generally easier compared to selling a detached or semi-detached home. Townhomes, also known as row houses, are typically more affordable single family homes, making them highly sought-after, especially in urban centers where single-family home prices continue to rise. According to data, townhome development in Canada grew by 9.9% between 2016 and 2021, reflecting increasing...
Deciding whether to rent or buy a home involves weighing multiple factors—each with its own benefits and challenges. If you’re curious about how the costs compare, a rent vs buy calculator can help break down the numbers based on your situation.Well lets have a closer look at the key considerations:Upfront Costs Buying Down Payment: Typically 5% to 20% (or more) of the...
Welcome to the Canada Rent vs. Buy Calculator! This powerful tool is designed to help you navigate one of the biggest financial decisions of your life—whether to rent or buy a home in Canada.If you want to know how we calculate, scroll below to see more details on this calculator. :root { --primary: #2563eb; --danger: #ef4444; --success: #10b981; --text:...
Canada's housing landscape is as diverse as its geography, offering a wide range of home styles to suit different lifestyles, budgets, and regional climates.Whether you're a first-time homebuyer, an investor, or simply exploring your options, understanding the different types of houses available in Canada can help you make informed decisions. But before you go any further, we have put together...
When you are buying, selling, or renting a property - real estate agents play an important role in the housing market because their primary role is facilitating transactions, and their expertise extends far beyond simple matchmaking between buyers and sellers.This guide dives into the full scope of what real estate agents do and how their services can make your real estate journey smoother and more...