Before you Buy

Buying a home is a huge investment - often the largest one of your lifetime. It is critical to ensure you know what you’re buying. These are some of the steps we take to ensure your next home isn’t just a great place to live - but a sound investment.

Home Inspection
Having your home inspected by a qualified home inspector prior to submitting an offer can protect you from major headaches and expenses. A good home inspector will look at HVAC, electrical, roof, windows, appliances, plumbing, foundation, and evaluate the risk of leaks or floods.

Title Search
Your lawyer will examine the title of the property to ensure it is clear of liens or other encumberances. If there is a lien on the property, your lawyer will work with the sellers to have it cleared before closing. Without this critical step, you would not be able to get a mortgage on the property.

Appliance Rentals
Rented appliances such as hot water tanks and furnaces can add to your monthly costs - your realtor will find out if there are any rented appliances in the home and what they cost each month. 

Status Certificate
If you're buying a condo, it is imperative that your lawyer review the status certificate. This important document contains disclosure from the condo corporation regarding issues that might affect your enjoyment of the home including: pending legal action, reserve funds, planned repairs and maintenance. This is important because as a condo owner, you will be personally liable for your proportionate share of any debts owed by the corporation.

Market Projections
While many buyers focus on the features of the home and property as they stand at the time of purchase, it is wise to consider what the property might be worth in a few years, or even a few decades. While no one has a crystal ball, we use a data-driven approach alongside normative analysis of market trends, policy outlooks, and economic projections to make predictions as to the future value of your new home. Being armed with this data will help to decide whether to buy in one area or another, especially if you plan to move again. Our clients are entitled to lifetime annual market updates should they want them.