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Is the idea of looking at dozens of homes in order to find your perfect home daunting? With Canada’s major real estate markets moving fast, we provide  some tips for conducting your home search— with the support of a real estate professional that can make the process faster and easier.

Sotheby’s International Realty Canada offers essential tips, checklists and information to help families and individuals find their perfect home. No matter where you’re located or what your budget is, our specialized expertise can help you get started on your next real estate endeavour.

If you would like to receive a comprehensive guide on buying a home, download our complimentary Home Buyers’ Guide.

Once you have selected your real estate agent and they have a full understanding of your budget and property requirements, you can expect them to provide you with:

Automatic Property Updates

As soon as a property that meets your desirable home criteria is posted on the Multiple Listing Service (MLS), your real estate associate should send you an email alert directing you to that listing. 

Advance Access to Exclusive Properties

In some neighbourhoods, homes are sold within days, or even within hours, of being listed on MLS. Others are marketed and sold within a real estate company’s network without ever being made available to the public. In some cases, your real estate associate may be able to arrange for advance access to properties that are represented within their professional and company network.

Property Tours

Your real estate agent can schedule walk-throughs of properties matching your preferences and needs. You may also review properties on MLS or by visiting open houses, then contact your realtor® to schedule a private tour, should there be one that matches your needs.

Evaluation of Options

It can be challenging to determine the fair market value of a home and to assess whether it is “good value” for its listed price or for your budget. Variables that impact the value of a home or property include its location, neighbourhood, community plan, proximity to amenities, lot attributes, views, property size, interior and structural condition, construction type, age, unique features, and the state of the local real estate market. Your real estate associate should assist you in assessing the pros and cons of the homes you are interested in, and provide insight on recent comparable property sales so you have the information you need to place an offer and negotiate effectively.


This article was originally published on July 11, 2013 and has been updated on April 6, 2022. 

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