Buy – Duke Real Estate

Buyer Guide

Your Reliable Real Estate Partner

Ontario offers a wide range of incredible homes for sale. If you’re searching for your dream home, this guide will help make the process easier! Navigating the real estate market can be challenging, so we’ve compiled tips to simplify buying in Ontario, from setting your budget to finding the right mortgage lender. You’ll also find links for browsing listings and further reading.

Homes in Ontario sell quickly, often attracting multiple offers before they’re even listed. To secure the perfect home within your budget, it’s essential to be prepared. Start by getting pre-approved for a mortgage—this helps you focus on homes you can afford and strengthens your position as a buyer.

process of buying a home

1- Start With a Good Agent

The first step in buying a home is finding the right agent to guide you through budgeting, lenders, and the home search—making the process smoother and less frustrating.

2- Mortgage Pre-Approval

Pre-approval may seem daunting, but it’s simple: provide your income and asset details for lender review. Approval shows sellers you’re serious, giving you an edge in securing your desired home.

3- Exploring Property Types

When house hunting, you likely know what type of property you want. Here’s a quick guide to property types and what to expect with each.

Types Of Property

Explore various property types to find the perfect home for your needs. Learn about the features and benefits of each property option.

1- Detached Home

A detached home is a standalone house, often in the suburbs, with features like a garage, driveway, backyard, multiple bedrooms and bathrooms, and sometimes a basement—finished or unfinished. Expect higher costs for the added space and privacy.

2- Semi-Detached Home

With a semi-detached home, you can expect to get everything you would with a detached home. The main difference is that you'll most likely be sharing the building with a neighbour. Semi-detached homes are usually a larger building split into two households.

3- Townhouse

A townhouse is a unit in a building that will usually have about six units. Many townhomes still have driveways and backyards. You can expect to have your unit in the middle of the row or at the end of the row. Townhouses are typically built in a community with other townhouses.

4- Condo

Condos are apartment units you can own instead of renting. They're typically smaller and will have either one or two bedrooms at most. Condominiums are great for small families or singles. They usually require a maintenance fee to keep the property in good condition.

Buying Pre-Construction Homes

If you have time and want to save money, pre-construction homes are a great option. Builders often sell them below their future market value. However, due to high demand, securing one requires good timing and some luck. Working with a trusted real estate agent increases your chances of successfully purchasing a pre-construction property.

Buying A New Home

Wherever you choose to buy, we’re here to help. With expert knowledge of local markets and a focus on your real estate goals, we’re ready to assist. Share your plans with us, and let’s make them happen.

Mississauga, ON

Milton, ON

You deserve an agent who gives 110% every step of the way. We provide full-service support, from negotiating offers to closing, so you can focus on what matters most—living your best life in Milton, ON. Whether buying or selling, we’re here to make the process smooth and stress-free, so you can focus on family and work.

Toronto, ON

Owning a home in Toronto is a dream for many, with a booming real estate market and endless opportunities. From condos to detached homes, the city's diverse neighborhoods offer something for everyone. With the right agent and timing, you can make your dream a reality in Toronto.

Home Inspections

A home inspection is always recommended to check for issues like water damage, termites, mold, and other maintenance needs before finalizing your purchase. Skipping the inspection may lead to costly surprises later. While some buyers skip inspections in competitive markets, it’s important to weigh the risks and ensure you’re fully aware of the home’s condition.

After Your Purchase

You will be asked to sign a lot of paperwork. Make sure that you read everything carefully and include any special requests or stipulations your lawyer has made for this document. It is also important to keep the title of your new home in Ontario safe during this time as well.

Lawyers are necessary to change titles for property and get the land transferred to your name. The lawyer will set up a meeting with you and all of the other people who are involved in the purchase or sale, like title holders, mortgage companies and banks. After this meeting has taken place, lawyers can finalize everything for you so that it is done properly on these records.