Ask A Realtor: Your Burning Questions, Answered

Whether you’re thinking about buying your first home, preparing to sell, or just curious about the market, you probably have a few questions that Google hasn’t quite answered properly. In this post, I’m breaking down the most common real estate questions I get — and giving you clear, honest answers to help you make confident decisions.

Do I need a mortgage pre-approval before I start looking?

Yes, always! Getting pre-approved helps you understand your true budget before falling in love with homes outside your range. It also shows sellers you’re serious— a pre-approval can make your offer much stronger and more likely to get accepted.

What hidden costs should I budget for?

Beyond your down payment, expect to budget for closing costs, land transfer tax, lawyer fees, and home inspection costs. These typically add up to about 1.5–2% of your purchase price.

What’s the best way to make my offer stand out?

A strong offer isn’t always about price. Sellers often care about things like closing dates, fewer conditions, or a larger deposit. A good realtor will find out what matters most to the seller and help you tailor your offer to match.

Should I get a home inspection?

Absolutely. Skipping an inspection is like buying blind — issues like mold, leaks, or poor drainage aren’t always visible. Knowing what you’re buying allows you to negotiate repairs or walk away if needed.

What’s your favourite part about helping people buy or sell homes?

Honestly, seeing the smiles at the end of the process makes it all worth it. Real estate can be overwhelming, and being the person my clients can rely on for clarity and confidence is the best part of my job.

How is the local market performing compared to last year?

Prices are down roughly 5% from last year, but good homes that are priced and marketed properly are still selling quickly. For buyers, there are some great opportunities — but acting fast is key.

How do I choose the right realtor for me?

Go with someone who makes you feel comfortable and heard. During a consultation, you’ll get a sense of their communication style, approach, and values. Whether you prefer someone hands-on or more direct, the right fit just feels right.

How do realtors get paid?

In most GTA transactions, the seller covers both agents’ commissions. So as a buyer or tenant, you don’t pay your realtor directly — you just get the benefit of their expertise at no extra cost.

What’s the biggest mistake buyers or sellers make?

Hiring the cheapest agent. Discount agents often cut corners on marketing, negotiation, or effort — which usually costs you more in the end. You wouldn’t pick the cheapest dentist or lawyer, right? The same logic applies here.

What’s the difference between a buyer’s agent and a listing agent?

A listing agent represents the seller. A buyer’s agent represents you. Having your own representation ensures your best interests come first — especially when it’s time to negotiate.

What should I do before listing my home?

Start by decluttering and depersonalizing so buyers can picture themselves in the space. I go over a personalized prep plan during our consultation to make sure any effort (and budget) you put in gives a solid return.

When’s the best time to sell my home?

There’s no perfect time— the “right” time is when you’re ready. The market moves in cycles, and what matters most is having a plan that fits your goals. That’s why I always start with a free consultation to help you map it out.

There’s no substitute for good advice and a little local expertise. I hope this post helped clear up some of your biggest real estate questions. If you’re thinking about buying or selling soon, or just want to understand your options, I’d love to chat and help you create a plan that fits your goals.