Whether this is your first or fifth real estate venture, here's a few FAQ's the help guide your decision.
For First Time Home Buyers
Q: I just bought a home and now the seller wants to change the closing date – can they do that?
A: Once an Agreement of Purchase and Sale (APS) is firm, neither party can unilaterally change the closing date. Any changes must be done through a mutual amendment, signed by both buyer and seller.
If one party refuses to sign, the original closing date remains legally binding.
Q: What if I’ve recently immigrated to Canada?
A: Canada continues to offer strong support for newcomers purchasing homes, and many lenders in Ontario have dedicated “New to Canada” mortgage programs.
Most programs allow eligibility if you’ve been in Canada less than 5 years and can provide:
Permanent resident or valid work permit status
Proof of income
Limited credit history (alternative credit may be accepted)
Major lenders such as Scotiabank, RBC, and HSBC offer newcomer-focused mortgage options.
Q: How do I go about getting a mortgage as a first-time home buyer?
A: In today’s market, getting mortgage pre-approval is more important than ever due to higher qualification standards. Here’s the recommended process:
- Start with your primary bank — they already know your history.
- Compare offers with other lenders or mortgage brokers (rates, terms, prepayment options).
- Secure a rate hold (usually 90–120 days) to protect you from fluctuations.
- Ensure you understand your stress test qualification, which impacts your approved amount.
Pre-approval gives you clarity on your budget and strengthens your offer in competitive situations.
Don’t see an answer? Get in touch, I’d be happy to answer all your real estate questions.
For Home Owners Looking To Sell
Q: When is the best time to sell a home?
A: In Ontario, the strongest listing periods are historically spring (April–June) and early fall (September–October).
However, 2025–2026 market trends show:
More buyers acting year-round
Lower competition during winter months
Market activity heavily influenced by interest rates and local inventory levels
The best timing still depends on your specific neighbourhood and property type.
Q: What’s the difference between a list price and a sale price?
A:
List Price: The price your home is advertised at.
Sale Price: The final price a buyer pays for the home.
In today’s market, pricing strategy is critical — homes priced correctly are selling faster and closer to their final sale price. Overpricing leads to fewer showings and longer days on market.
Q: Why aren’t as many people looking at my home?
A: The most common reasons include:
Pricing above market value
Low-quality photography or presentation
Competing listings in the area
Seasonal slowdowns
Limited marketing exposure
Correct pricing and strong digital marketing are key in today’s data-driven real estate landscape.
Q: What are common bank requirements for selling a home?
A: When buyers use mortgage financing, lenders typically order an appraisal. Appraisers look for issues affecting safety or structural integrity.
Common lender-required fixes include:
Missing or loose handrails
Broken windows
Peeling paint (especially on older homes)
Missing outlet covers
Roofing issues
These repairs may need to be completed before closing or negotiated as part of the offer.
Don’t see an answer? Get in touch, I’d be happy to answer all your real estate questions.
Guelph Real Estate Market Insights
Q: Why buy a home in Guelph specifically?
A: Guelph remains one of Ontario’s most desirable mid-sized cities. Key advantages include:
Consistently ranked among Canada’s safest cities
Strong employment market with major employers such as Co-operators, Linamar Corporation, and Canadian Solar
Excellent schools, green spaces, and a thriving local business scene
Historically stable real estate appreciation
A balanced mix of urban convenience and small-city community feel
Guelph continues to attract families, professionals, and investors looking for long-term value.
Q: Is it a good time to buy a home in Guelph?
Guelph’s market, like much of Ontario, shifts based on interest rates, supply levels, and local economic trends.
In 2026, buyers are benefiting from:
More negotiation power
Less competition than peak pandemic years
A stabilizing market with moderate inventory
For tailored, up-to-date insights, it’s best to book a consultation so we can review current market data, neighbourhood trends, and your personal buying goals.
