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What is a Fair Commission for a Real Estate Agent?

Canadian homeowners today aren’t just asking what commission rates are — they're asking what’s fair. The commission rates and models discussed in this article focus on the portion paid to the seller's representative, the Listing Agent (or Seller's Agent), as this is the fee that is typically reduced in alternative brokerage models.While there are no restrictions on negotiating a buyer's agent...

Condo Freehold vs Leasehold: What’s the Real Difference?

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 in...

Real Estate Commissions in Toronto

TL;DR: Don't feel like reading? Listen to our 2-Minute Audio Insight on Toronto Real Estate Commissions. ThePlus Audio When the topic of Toronto real estate comes up, few line items spark as much debate as commissions. In a city where the average home often crosses the million-dollar threshold, the percentage fee attached to a transaction can translate into tens of thousands of dollars. With...

Pros and Cons of Buying a Condo

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 looking for a real...

Deposit vs Down Payment on a House

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...

Is it Easy to Sell Townhomes?

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 residential dwellings, making them highly sought-after, especially in urban centers where single-detached home prices continue to rise.According to data, townhome development in Canada grew by 9.9% between 2016 and 2021, reflecting...

Mortgage vs Rent

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...

Rent vs. Buy Calculator

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:...

Types of Houses in Canada

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...

What Do Real Estate Agents Do?

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 or between landlord and tenants.In this guide we will look into the full scope of what real estate agents do and how their services can make your...