Buyer & Seller Guides

Get pre-approved for a mortgage (not just pre-qualified)

Pre-approval locks in a rate for 90–120 days and shows sellers you can actually close.

Budget for closing costs on top of your down payment

In the GTA, expect 1.5–4% of purchase price: legal fees, land transfer tax, title insurance, adjustments.

Confirm your down payment is in your account and accessible

Lenders will ask for a 90-day history. Moving money around last minute raises flags.

Review your credit report and fix any errors

Pull from both Equifax and TransUnion, errors on one won't show on the other.

Calculate your land transfer tax (Ontario + Toronto if applicable)

Toronto buyers pay double land transfer tax. On a $900K home that's roughly $30K combined.

Budget for home inspection, legal fees, and moving costs

Inspection: $400–700. Legal: $1,500–2,500. Moving: $800–2,500 depending on distance and size.