How buying a home works

The six steps

1. Talk it throughWe listen to what you need, your timing and your budget, and explain how buying works.
2. Plan your financingSpeak with your lender about what you can borrow, and about the down payment and closing costs you will need. We help you plan around the numbers.
3. Sign a buyer representation agreementOntario requires this to be in writing. We go through every term with you before you sign.
4. Search and tour homesWe set up alerts, short-list homes, arrange showings and tell you what we see, including what to check on the property.
5. Make an offerWe look at recent local sales with you, prepare the offer and negotiate on your behalf.
6. Conditions, closing and keysWe keep track of every deadline through inspections, financing and your lawyer's work, until you get the keys.

The buyer agreement, explained

Before we show you homes or help you make an offer, we explain how buying works in plain language and ask you to sign a written buyer representation agreement. Ontario's real estate regulator, RECO, says this agreement must be in writing and presented to you as soon as possible.

It sets out the services we provide, how long the agreement lasts, how and when we are paid, and how either side can end it. The fee is negotiable, and we go through it with you before you sign. Please ask us anything you are unsure about, and take the time you need.

Once you are our client, we search for homes that fit, arrange showings, help you understand the area and the home's history, prepare and negotiate your offer, and stay with you through conditions and closing.

Keep reading

• Get new-listing alerts
• Get the buyer guide
• Choose an area

Frequently asked questions