You’ve planned and saved, and now it’s finally time to start your home search in earnest. Not so fast. Before you take the next step, you’ll want to ensure you have helpful expertise on your side.

The truth is, the right real estate guidance could mean a smoother, more enjoyable buying experience—and a better purchase price. If you’re ready to buy, read our top tips on how to hire the best local professional for you!

Conducting Interviews

Contrary to popular belief, not all buyer’s agents are the same. By speaking with a few different professionals, you can get a sense of what’s out there—and help ensure that you find someone who’s well-equipped to serve your unique buying needs.

Before interviewing prospective agents, jot down a few important questions. Some that you may want to touch on include:

• How well do you know my neighbourhoods of interest?
• Can you walk me through the buying process?
• Can you tell me a bit about your negotiation style?
• If I find myself in a multiple-offer scenario, how will you help me win?
• What’s the best way to contact you?

In addition to providing you with insight into the interviewee’s approach, sitting across from someone can help you get a sense of what they’re really like. If you feel at ease, it’s likely a good sign!

The Right Experience

It goes without saying that you want to work with someone who has a very solid grasp of the buying process. From obtaining pre-approval to making an attractive offer to wrapping up closing details, they should understand the common challenges associated with every step—and how to overcome them.

Next up, consider community expertise. If an agent has been working in your area of interest for years, they’re probably a great resource. If they can tell you about recent price shifts, local school districts, and the places that serve up the best coffee, it’s another potential sign that you’re in good hands!

You’ll probably also want to get a sense of whether they’re familiar with all property types. For example, you want to work with someone who has a reasonable amount of condo expertise if you’re buying a unit. Likewise, it may be helpful to know whether they’re used to working with buyers like you. In some ways, your needs will be different depending on whether you’re a first-time buyer or a downsizer.

Ask About Connections

These days, the best real estate agents offer full-service experiences. That means more than hands-on attention, ongoing expertise, and a willingness to help at any time. It’s also about having an available network of trusted professionals to assist you with anything that falls outside of their scope of expertise.

Trust us when we say, finding an agent with a reliable list of industry contacts is worthwhile. From mortgage brokers to real estate lawyers to professional movers, having insider connections who represent the best in the business can make the buying process much lower-stress.

Speak to References

Last but not least, don’t be afraid to ask for references. Some buyers are hesitant to take this step, but agents are used to it. Perusing reviews and testimonials can give you a good idea of the level of service (and results) a professional provides, but it won’t tell you the whole story. Nothing beats being able to ask questions firsthand!

There’s no doubt that finding the right agent takes a little more work than picking the first professional you come across, but it’s worthwhile. By doing your homework, you can help ensure a better buying experience—and a result you’ll be more than happy with!

Are you ready to buy a home? Before you jump into the Milton real estate market, you should make sure you know what you want. From price points to property types to local schools and green spaces, there’s no shortage of things to keep in mind. Fortunately, getting to know the town—and taking a bit of time to set your home-buying criteria—can help ensure that you find the picture-perfect place to live.

Learn how to find the right home here in our Milton real estate guide…

Your Price Range

Wondering how much your dream home will set you back in Milton? If you’re in the market for a house, you can likely expect to pay somewhere between $850,000 and $1.5 million. If you’re more interested in a condo, prices will probably be in the $450,000 to $600,000 range (with two-bedroom units typically on the higher end).

Affordability is one of the most important things to consider as you embark on the home hunt. When you start budgeting, be aware that experts recommend spending no more than 30 per cent of your monthly income on household expenses—including mortgage payments.

Neighbourhoods To Meet Your Needs

No matter what you’re looking for in a home, you’ll likely find it in one of Milton’s wonderful communities. Here are just a few of our favourite options.

Ideal For Families

Beaty

If you’re looking for the ideal family-friendly community, you can’t go wrong with Beaty. This idyllic area contains twelve parks, a wonderful library, and two of the best places for kids to get an education in Milton (Hawthorne Village Public School and Guardian Angels Catholic School).

When it comes to real estate, you’ll find a mix of single-family homes, townhouses, and semi-detached options. Brick facades and front porches give these properties a comfy, traditional feel.

Dorset Park

It’s one of the oldest neighbourhoods in Milton. Leafy greenery, convenient amenities, and easy access to GO Transit make Dorset Park perfect for families. While this picturesque community is located near the core, it feels like a hidden gem.

There’s plenty of wonderful housing stock here, including beautiful Neo-Colonial and Tudor options, bungalows, and even some townhouses. Spacious lots and mature trees only add to the appeal of this charming neighbourhood.

Timberlea

In the heart of Milton, you’ll find Timberlea. Its tree-lined streets and central location make it a favourite among home buyers. Close proximity to great schools and fantastic shopping (including Milton Mall and the retail along Nipissing Road) only make it a more in-demand place to live.

Most Timberlea houses are a few decades old, and they tend to be on the larger size—as do the lots they’re built on. The area is home to an abundance of split levels, many of which feature garages and plenty of storage space. Needless to say, this community is one of the most attractive in town for growing families!

Historical Gems

Old Milton

Looking for a gorgeous historical home? In Old Milton, you’ll find an array of spacious older houses—many of which have been here for over a hundred years. The lots are generous too! If you’re searching for something a little more economical, check out the local selection of post-war bungalows.

Old Milton is also home to some of the prettiest parks in town Rotary Park is ideal for tennis enthusiasts, while Mill Pond features a picturesque gazebo and waterfront). Quaint local businesses, which include buzz-worthy eateries and boutiques, keep things lively.

Newer Homes

For some buyers, there’s nothing quite like a brand new living space. Here are a couple of communities where the homes are pristine.

Ford

Ford is one of the newest neighbourhoods in Milton—and one of the most family-oriented. With its great schools (including several Catholic options), ample green space, and access to grocery stores and other amenities, this pretty community is the perfect place to raise kids.

Here you’ll find spacious new-build homes situated on wide lots. Typical features include garages, front porches, and big windows that look out onto the street. The area is also highly walkable, and there are plenty of bike lanes for local cyclists.

Willmott

Willmott is a perfectly-planned community that was developed in the mid-2000s. Its key attractions include Milton Community Park (a 7.2 hectare green space) and Milton Sports Centre (with fitness, aquatic, and sports facilities).

Large single-family homes, townhouses, and semi-detached options are plentiful here. These recently-built living spaces are in great condition—and the red-brick exteriors that many of them boast lend the area a certain charm.

Scott

If it’s gorgeous green space you’re after, you’ll find it in Scott. Parkland and protected natural areas surround the community, providing plenty of natural beauty. For those who want to give their kids a faith-based education, nearby Queen of Heaven Catholic Elementary is highly reputable.

Homes here tend to be on the pricier side, but they’re worth it. We’re talking about plenty of square footage, immaculate interiors, and yards that serve as private oases. Another housing highlight is the Green Life condo building, which offers low maintenance fees and incredible energy-efficiency!

Advice For Buyers

If you’re preparing to buy the ideal piece of Milton real estate, there’s one thing to keep in mind. The town is growing incredibly quickly. In particular, detached homes are in high demand—so make sure you’re ready for the competition.

One of the best ways to appeal to sellers is by making a firm offer. That means no conditions. To take this step safely, you’ll want to have your financing in place—and be comfortable accepting the results of a pre-listing inspection.

You should also ensure that your deposit funds are easily accessible, since you may have to act fast when you find the right property!

Are you starting the search for your perfect home and have questions about the Milton real estate market? Reach out today!

 

Take the Tour

In recent years, there’s been a very public conversation about the buying and selling of real estate. The subject is open bidding, an offer process that proponents say leads to greater transparency and fairness. Some even believe it’s good for the market (since it can, in theory, prevent excessive price escalation). Having said that, there are also skeptics—on both the buyer’s and seller’s side. Do you know where you stand on this important real estate issue?

When it comes to open bidding in home transactions, here’s what you should know…

What is open bidding

Let’s start by delving into how things work now. As it stands, any buyer who makes an offer on a home is notified when a competing bid is made. However, they aren’t made privy to the details. From the dollar amount to the closing date, elements of the new offer are kept under wraps. This puts buyers who wish to stay in the running in an uncertain position. When they think about how to amend their bid, they’re essentially in the dark.

In October of 2018, the Ontario Real Estate Association (OREA) made some recommendations to the province. The organization suggested that all elements of offers made on a home be disclosed, so long as everyone involved in the transaction agrees. If this process became commonplace, here’s what the implications might be.

What it would mean for buyers

For buyers, an open-bidding process can lead to more informed decisions. With all the details on the table, purchasers can choose to up their bids or bow out—and do so based on more than speculation. Since they’ll know which number they have to beat, they can also avoid vastly overpaying when they’re eager to win their dream home.

A more transparent process could also be more pleasant for buyers. As anyone who’s been in a bidding war will tell you, it can be stressful at times. When you’re not approaching the situation blind, you’ll have fewer headaches to contend with (and a less time-consuming back and forth).

While the benefits of open bidding are clear to most buyers, there are those who have raised privacy concerns. Fortunately, since all parties would have to agree, these potential issues could be avoided.

What it would mean for sellers

On the other side of the transaction, some sellers feel that agreeing to an open-bidding process means giving up leverage. They reason that when buyers don’t know the contents of other offers, they’re more likely to put forth their highest bids. That may be true in some cases, but it’s not always.

An auction-style offer process, whereby buyers bid against one another openly, has the potential to lead to intense competition. That could work out in a seller’s favour. It could also attract buyers who tend to shy away from traditional bidding wars, which often leave them wondering if they ever stood a chance. The result? More offers on the table for sellers—a clear advantage.

The bottom line

The conversation surrounding open bidding has yet to be resolved. It’s true that it may not be the ideal solution for every buyer and seller, but it’s another potential option—one that’s attractive to many. Chances are that this issue will pick up steam in the years ahead, so make sure you stay in the know!

Are ready to start the search for your first home? Reach out today to get started!

Are you looking for the ideal place to settle down? If so, you might want to consider living in Burlington. Just 40 minutes from Toronto, this charming city on the lake is much more than a bedroom community. In fact, it’s been called the best place to live in the country by Maclean’s magazine.

Find out what makes living in Burlington so special here in our guide to the city…

Burlington at a Glance

With its quiet residential neighbourhoods and pretty parks, Burlington is the epitome of family-friendly. Here you’ll also find a wide variety of places to give your kids a high-quality education. John T. Tuck and Charles R. Beaudoin Public Schools are just two local institutions that receive impressive rankings from the Fraser Institute.

Burlington also hosts a wide variety of annual events that add to its sense of fun and community. Canada’s Largest Ribfest, the Christmas Festival of Lights, and the Children’s Festival are just a few examples.

City Amenities

It’s true that Burlington isn’t one of Canada’s biggest cities. But if you choose to live here, you’ll enjoy plenty of unique dining and shopping options in your own backyard.

To start with, the city’s food scene is very much alive and well. Among the local favourites is the Martini House. This fine-dining hotspot serves up inventive, European and Asian-inspired fare. Think pitch-perfect clam fettuccini and fresh sesame-crusted tuna. Paradiso, which is known for its incredible seafood dishes, is another must-visit.

Local shoppers favour Mapleview Centre and Burlington Mall, both of which are home to some of the most popular retailers out there. To soak up the local charm while you shop, head downtown. Here you’ll find a mix of fashionable boutiques, antique stores, giftware shops, and more.

Outdoor Spaces

One of the best things about living in Burlington is the city’s gorgeous outdoor spaces. Take Canada’s largest botanical gardens. Spread out over 1,100 hectares, the RBG contains 300 acres of cultivated gardens and 27 kilometres of nature trails.

Spencer Smith Park is another one of Burlington’s biggest draws. Situated on the waterfront in the city’s downtown, it boasts a kids’ playground, a Japanese garden, the scenic Brant Street Pier, Rotary Centennial Pond (which becomes a popular skating rink in the winter), and much more.

There’s a wide variety of other green spaces throughout the city, including Leighland, Lowville, and LaSalle Parks.

Getting Around

Commuting out of Burlington is easy, thanks to local access to highways 403, 407, and the Queen Elizabeth Way (QEW). For those who don’t drive, the city’s bus service is a convenient way to get around. Don’t forget about commuter trains! The Appleby, Burlington, and Aldershot GO Stations make areas like Halton Region, Hamilton, and the GTA easy to get to.

Burlington Real Estate

Burlington has an ideal neighbourhood—and a perfect home—for every buyer. From brand-new builds to mid-century bungalows to beautiful historic houses, the city’s options are seemingly endless.

One of the main reasons families make the move to this little corner of the world is for more square footage. Of course, all that space can come at a cost. It’s not unusual to see single-family properties listed at around $1 million. While home prices in the city are catching up to those in Toronto, it’s important to remember that you’ll get more for your money in Burlington!

Explore Burlington Neighbourhoods

Common Mistakes Made By First-Time Buyers

There’s nothing quite like buying a home for the first time. It’s an almost indescribable excitement, joy, and pride that you’ll feel when you set foot in a place that’s truly your own. Of course, there are a few steps you’ll have to take before you can get there—and on the journey, there are plenty of opportunities to make mistakes. Fortunately, knowing what not to do can help ensure that the process is smooth and successful.

If you’re purchasing a home for the first time, here are five mistakes you should avoid…

1) Forgoing pre-approval

One of the biggest missteps many home buyers make is forgoing pre-approval. Taking this first step towards securing a mortgage is simple—and the benefits it can provide are well worth the effort.

During the process, a lender will look closely at your finances to determine how much they’ll likely offer you. While pre-approval isn’t an absolute guarantee that you’ll be fully approved, it is enough to show most sellers you’re a credible buyer who’s ready to make a home purchase!

2) Being unrealistic

You deserve to find your dream home. We’re talking about a place where you can imagine spending some of the happiest moments of your life. A living space like that should just feel right—but it won’t be absolutely perfect.

The truth is, flawless homes don’t exist. Unfortunately, some buyers don’t know that until it’s too late. They pass over beautiful properties capable of meeting their needs because they’re waiting for absolute perfection. Your best bet is to look for a place that checks all of your most important boxes, while giving you that “at home” feeling.

3) Overlooking serious flaws

Some features are easy to fall in love with, like an incredible layout or beautiful architectural details. While it makes sense to factor these “pros” into your purchase decision, it’s not a good idea to ignore any major issues a home might have because of them.

From mould growth to a shoddy foundation, some potential problems deserve your attention. No matter how much you adore a home, make sure you investigate any suspected red flags.

4) Not protecting yourself

Purchasing a home isn’t something you do every day, which is why most buyers don’t know what their due diligence should entail. In most circumstances, it will include a thorough inspection—and possibly the right set of conditions added to your purchase agreement.

In the simplest terms, a home-buying condition is a requirement that must be fulfilled for your purchase to be finalized. For example, a financing condition states that you don’t have to complete your transaction if your mortgage falls through. Your agent can help you take steps like this to reduce the potential risk associated with your purchase.

5) Underestimating costs

A home is the biggest investment most buyers will ever make. Given the price tag involved, it’s not surprising that many forget to factor in (comparatively) smaller expenses. The problem is, they have a way of adding up.

To pave the way for a smooth purchase, leave plenty of room in your budget for ongoing homeownership expenses. You should also make sure you understand the closing costs involved—such as legal fees and land transfer tax.

Buying a home for the first time may seem daunting, and it’s natural to worry about making mistakes. The good news is, an experienced agent can provide the guidance you need to make a smooth, low-stress, and all-around successful purchase.

Are ready to start the search for your first home? Reach out today to get started!