Buying A Home

 

As a first time buyer, it is a common feeling that making your first real estate purchase is a daunting task. You’ll ask yourself many questions such as: “Where do I start?”, “How much do I need to know before making a purchase?”, or “How do I choose the right REALTOR^® to work with?”. TOPofTO.com is here to provide you with enough information to become comfortable in getting started as quickly and comfortably as possible.

When I decided to make my first purchase, I was faced with many questions similar to what you are asking yourself now. I didn't even know that the services of a real estate agent were often completely free of charge when you are the purchaser! The first and best place to start is right here on the Internet. Information if plentiful and it’s completely free. Royal LePage’s public website also has ample information at your fingertips. Go to the LINKS section here to find more resources.

 

The next step is to choose a REALTOR^® whom you feel is a good match with both your personality and your real estate needs. You'll be spending a lot of time with your agent, so it is important that you can quickly develop a strong, trusting partnership with someone who really understands what you are looking for.

 

Don’t forget that even if you intend on purchasing a new development prior to its completion, it is always to your benefit to use a real estate agent to ensure you are getting the best deal possible. Many people are uncomfortable in negotiating a lower price, so let your REALTOR^® do it for you!

What to Expect From a REALTOR^®?

An Explanation of the Process

A REALTOR^® will not take it for granted that you know all the in’s and out’s of the buying and selling process. Instead, he or she will provide you with a full explanation of what to expect and that’s important so you’re not faced with any surprises along the way.

An Assessment of Your Needs

One of the first questions a REALTOR^® will ask is, “Why are you moving?” A REALTOR^® will also explore any time constraints you might have (perhaps imposed by the need to relocate for employment), your financial situation and any future plans.

A Plan to Find Your Dream Home

A REALTOR^® will help you identify what you want in your new residence. A pool? A garage? An extra room? A particular building design? What about the neighbourhood? Proximity to schools or work? A REALTOR^® will compare your needs, wants and budget with what is available on the market and make recommendations that save you time and effort.

He or she will also accompany you as you view houses and help you assess their suitability and price. As an expert on a property, a REALTOR^® can provide facts on the neighbourhoods, the cost of heating, the condition of the furnace, and so on.

In other words, he or she will work with you to achieve your “dream.”

Access to Properties for Sale

Multiple Listing Service or MLS is an exclusive service accessible only through a REALTOR^® and it can be a valuable tool. Through MLS, the details of a wide variety of listed properties are made available to the REALTOR^® you work with. That can save you a tremendous amount of time and effort in your hunt for the right home.

If you are interested in learning about what is available on the market please check out my Toronto Listings page, which enables you to preview properties for sale.

Knowledge of Financing Options

REALTORs^® have extensive knowledge of the financing choices available to home buyers and there options and obtaining financing at the most attractive prevailing rates and terms. Any good REALTOR^® will have a few reliable partners which can be referred to you in order to help you with your financing needs.

A Skilled Negotiator

REALTORs^® are experienced in arranging fair deals. He or she will assist in negotiating an offer, acting as a mediator to head off potential conflicts between you and the seller, and draw up a legally binding agreement.

Honesty and Integrity

Most real estate professionals in our province are a member of the Ontario Real Estate Association (OREA) and only members of OREA can call themselves REALTORs^®

When you work with a REALTOR^®, you can expect not only strict adherence to provincial laws, but also adherence to a Code of Ethics. And that code is very important to you because it assures you will receive the highest level of service, honesty and integrity.

Highest Professional Standards

Before receiving a real estate license, candidates must successfully complete an extensive course of study developed by OREA on behalf of the Real Estate Council Ontario.That is only the beginning: in the first two years of practice, licensees are required to successfully complete three additional courses as part of their articling with an experienced broker. In addition, all licensees must continue to attend courses throughout their careers in order to maintain their licence and stay on top of what's new in the profession.

Interested in Buying a Home?

If you are interested in buying a home please feel free to fill out the form below or call me at 416-737-5612 and I would be more then happy to answer any questions you might have.