Straight answers to the questions buyers and sellers across Toronto and the GTA ask most. Don’t see yours here? Reach out directly and I’ll answer it personally.
How much does it cost to sell a home in Toronto?
Selling costs typically include real estate commission (negotiated between you and your brokerage), legal fees for closing, and in some cases minor costs like staging or professional photography. There is no mortgage default insurance or land transfer tax for sellers, since those apply to buyers. I provide every seller with a written breakdown of expected costs before listing, so there are no surprises at closing.
Do I need a lawyer to buy or sell a condo in the GTA?
Yes. In Ontario, a real estate lawyer is required to complete the legal transfer of title, review the agreement of purchase and sale, handle mortgage discharge or registration, and manage closing funds. Your real estate broker and lawyer work as a team: I handle the negotiation and process, and refer clients to experienced real estate lawyers if they don’t already have one.
How long does it take to sell a house in the GTA?
It depends on pricing, condition, location and current market conditions, which shift neighbourhood by neighbourhood across Toronto and the GTA. A well-priced, well-presented home in a sought-after area can receive offers within days; others take longer. During our first conversation, I’ll walk you through recent comparable sales in your specific area so you have a realistic timeline before listing.
What is land transfer tax, and who pays it?
Land transfer tax is a closing cost paid by the buyer, calculated as a percentage of the purchase price. If you’re buying in the City of Toronto specifically, you’ll pay both the Ontario provincial land transfer tax and an additional municipal land transfer tax. First-time buyers may qualify for a rebate on both. I go over the exact numbers for your specific purchase price and location as part of your buyer consultation.
Should I get a mortgage pre-approval before house hunting?
Yes. A pre-approval from a lender or mortgage broker tells you your realistic budget before you fall in love with a home, and it signals to sellers that your offer is serious. I can refer you to trusted mortgage professionals if you don’t already have one, so this step happens before, not during, your search.
What’s the difference between buying a condo and a freehold house in the GTA?
A freehold house means you own the building and the land it sits on outright, with no monthly maintenance fees (though you’re responsible for all upkeep). A condo means you own your individual unit while a condo corporation manages and maintains shared spaces, funded by monthly maintenance fees. Condos often cost less upfront and require less day-to-day upkeep; freehold homes typically offer more space, privacy and long-term land value. Which one fits depends on your budget, lifestyle and plans, which I’m happy to talk through.
Do you work with buyers and sellers outside of Toronto proper?
Yes. In addition to the Downtown Core, North York, Scarborough, Etobicoke and East York, I work across the GTA including Mississauga, Vaughan, Markham, Richmond Hill, Brampton and Oakville, plus Pickering, Ajax, Whitby, Oshawa, Burlington and Milton. See the neighbourhood guides for a closer look at each area.
Can you help with commercial real estate, not just residential?
Yes. Alongside residential buying and selling, I represent buyers, sellers, landlords and tenants on commercial transactions across the GTA, including multifamily buildings, industrial units, retail and office space, development land, and business sales. See the commercial real estate page for details.
How do I get started if I’m just thinking about buying or selling?
There’s no cost or obligation to start the conversation. Call or text 647-342-1355, or send an email, and I’ll walk you through what the process looks like for your specific situation, timeline and goals before you commit to anything.