Facebook
X
Pinterest
Copy Link
10 Incredible Ways to Upgrade Your Curb Appeal and Boost Property Value
When it comes to selling a house or simply enhancing its overall appeal, the importance of curb appeal cannot be overstated. The exterior of your property is the first impression potential buyers or visitors will have, so making it captivating and inviting is crucial. Fortunately, there are numerous upgrades you can make to your home’s exterior that will significantly enhance its curb appeal. In this blog post, we will explore ten ways to upgrade your curb appeal and elevate the value of your property.
- Spruce up the Landscaping
A well-maintained and visually appealing landscape instantly adds charm to your property. Start by trimming overgrown bushes and trees, mowing the lawn regularly, and planting colourful flowers or shrubs. Consider adding mulch or rocks to garden beds to create a polished and tidy appearance.Create a Welcoming Entryway: - Create a Welcoming Entryway
The entryway is the focal point of your home’s exterior. Make it more inviting by painting the front door with a bold colour that complements the overall colour scheme of the exterior. Add decorative elements such as potted plants, a new doormat, and stylish house numbers to enhance the charm. - Upgrade the Lighting
Properly placed outdoor lighting not only enhances the safety of your home but also adds a touch of elegance. Install well-designed light fixtures along the pathway, highlighting landscaping features and the entrance. Choose warm lighting to create a cozy ambiance during the evenings. - Freshen Up the Exterior
A fresh coat of paint can work wonders for the exterior of your home. Opt for neutral or trendy colours that harmonize with the surroundings. Repair any damaged sidings, replace missing roof shingles, and clean the windows to make the exterior shine. - Install Window Boxes or Planters
Window boxes and planters bursting with vibrant flowers can add a pop of colour and character to your property. Choose plants that are suitable for your climate and coordinate with the overall style of your home. Remember to water and maintain them regularly for a lasting impression. - Upgrade the Garage Door
The garage door is a significant part of the exterior and should not be overlooked. If your budget permits, consider replacing an outdated garage door with a modern and visually appealing one. Alternatively, you can repaint the existing one to give it a fresh look. - Enhance the Driveway and Walkways
Repair cracks and uneven surfaces on your driveway and walkways. Consider adding decorative elements such as cobblestones, pavers, or stamped concrete to create an eye-catching pathway. Keep them clean and well-maintained for a polished look. - Add Outdoor Living Spaces
Create cozy outdoor living spaces to showcase the potential of your property. Install a small seating area, add a pergola or patio, and incorporate stylish outdoor furniture. This will not only boost curb appeal but also create additional functional space for relaxation and entertainment. - Consider Roof Upgrades
While often overlooked, the condition of the roof plays a significant role in the overall appearance of your home. If your roof is outdated or in poor condition, consider investing in repairs or replacements. A well-maintained roof adds value and reassures potential buyers about the condition of the property. - Maintain a Clean and Tidy Exterior
Last but not least, keep your property clean and well-maintained throughout the year. Regularly clean the exterior, remove debris from gutters, and power wash the siding and walkways. A neat and tidy appearance demonstrates pride of ownership and instantly elevates your curb appeal.
Enhancing your home’s curb appeal not only impresses potential buyers but also adds value to your property. By following these ten tips, you can transform your home’s exterior into a captivating and welcoming space.
The Importance of Home Inspections
Buying or selling a home is a significant milestone in anyone’s life. It’s an exciting and often complex process that involves various factors to consider. One crucial step that should never be overlooked is a thorough home inspection. Whether you’re a buyer or a seller, investing in a professional home inspection can provide invaluable insights and peace of mind. In this blog post, we’ll delve into the purpose of home inspections, why they’re crucial when buying or selling a home, the scope of their coverage, and the certifications held by qualified inspectors.
Why Get a Home Inspection Before Buying:
Purchasing a home is a substantial investment, and it’s crucial to have a clear understanding of its condition before finalizing the deal. Here are some compelling reasons to obtain a home inspection before buying:
- Uncover Potential Issues: A home inspection conducted by a qualified professional can identify both visible and hidden problems in a property. From structural issues to electrical, plumbing, or roofing concerns, an inspector can give you an accurate assessment of the home’s condition.
- Negotiating Power: Armed with the knowledge gained from a home inspection report, buyers can negotiate repairs or pricing with the seller. This ensures that any necessary repairs or maintenance are factored into the final agreement, potentially saving you money in the long run.
- Future Planning: Knowing the condition of a property can help buyers plan for future maintenance or renovations. By understanding the potential costs and required upkeep, you can make informed decisions about the property’s suitability for your long-term goals.
Why Get a Home Inspection Before Selling:
While it may seem counterintuitive for sellers to request a home inspection, there are distinct advantages to doing so:
- Preemptive Problem Solving: By conducting a pre-listing inspection, sellers can identify and address potential issues before putting their home on the market. This proactive approach enables sellers to make necessary repairs or disclose any known issues, ensuring transparency and avoiding last-minute surprises that could derail a sale.
- Accurate Pricing: With a thorough understanding of the property’s condition, sellers can set a fair asking price based on the market value and any repairs needed. This approach attracts serious buyers and reduces the likelihood of a delayed or unsuccessful sale.
- Faster Transactions: By providing a home inspection report upfront, sellers can instill confidence in potential buyers and streamline the transaction process. This upfront disclosure minimizes the need for multiple inspections and helps build trust, expediting the sale.
What’s Covered in a Home Inspection:
During a home inspection, qualified inspectors assess various aspects of a property. The scope of a typical home inspection generally covers the following areas:
- Structural Components: This includes the foundation, walls, roof, and overall structural integrity of the home.
- Exterior Features: Inspectors evaluate the siding, windows, doors, drainage systems, and any visible defects on the exterior of the property.
- Roofing: Inspections involve assessing the condition of the roof, and identifying any leaks, damage, or potential areas of concern.
- Plumbing Systems: Inspectors examine the plumbing infrastructure, including pipes, fixtures, water heaters, and drainage systems.
- Electrical Systems: This component covers the inspection of electrical panels, wiring, outlets, switches, and the general safety of the electrical system.
- HVAC Systems: Inspectors evaluate heating, ventilation, and air conditioning systems, ensuring they are in proper working condition.
- Interior Features: Inspections cover the condition of walls, ceilings, floors, doors, windows, and any visible signs of water damage or other issues.
- Insulation and Ventilation: Inspectors check the insulation levels, attic ventilation, and the overall energy efficiency of the home.
Certifications and Qualifications of Home Inspectors in Canada:
In Canada, home inspectors undergo training and certification to ensure they possess the necessary knowledge and expertise to conduct thorough inspections. While requirements may vary by province, the following certifications are widely recognized in the Canadian home inspection industry:
- Canadian Association of Home and Property Inspectors (CAHPI): CAHPI is a national organization that offers certification through its provincial/regional divisions. The main divisions include CAHPI Alberta, CAHPI British Columbia, CAHPI Atlantic, and CAHPI Ontario. Inspectors certified by CAHPI are known as Registered Home Inspectors (RHI) or Certified Master Inspectors (CMI), depending on their experience level and qualifications.
- National Home Inspector Certification Council (NHICC): NHICC provides national certification for home inspectors in Canada. Their certification program, the National Certification Program for Canadian Home and Property Inspectors, ensures that inspectors meet specific educational and experience requirements.
- Canadian National Association of Certified Home Inspectors (CanNACHI): CanNACHI is an association that offers certification to home inspectors across Canada. Their Certified Home Inspector (CHI) designation signifies that an inspector has met the organization’s standards and completed the required training and examinations.
- Applied Science Technologists and Technicians of British Columbia (ASTTBC): ASTTBC offers the Registered Home Inspector (RHI) certification, specifically recognized in British Columbia. Inspectors with this certification have met the organization’s criteria, including education, experience, and adherence to a code of ethics.
When choosing a home inspector in Canada, it’s crucial to ensure they hold one or more of these recognized certifications. Additionally, verify their experience, reputation, and any additional qualifications or memberships in professional associations related to the home inspection industry. Your REALTOR is also an excellent resource for sourcing a home inspector. They will have contacts for multiple inspectors that they have worked it. You can rely on their experience when choosing a certified and professional home inspector.
Ultimately, a professional home inspection is an investment that promotes transparency, minimizes surprises and ensures a smoother real estate experience for all parties involved.
6 Easy and Thoughtful Mother’s Day Crafts to Make at Home
Mother’s Day is this Sunday, and what better way to show appreciation for all the hard work the mom in your life does than by having the kids make her a thoughtful gift? Crafting is an excellent way to create a one-of-a-kind gift that she is sure to love. In this blog post, we’ll share some fun and easy Mother’s Day crafts that you can make at home.
- Homemade Cards
A handmade card is a classic Mother’s Day gift that will never go out of style. Get creative with the design and use colourful paper, stickers, glitter, or anything else that inspires you. Help your kids write a heartfelt message inside the card, telling her how much you love and appreciate her.
- Flower Bouquet
Surprise her with a beautiful bouquet of flowers made from tissue paper or construction paper. Cut out flower shapes and arrange them into a bouquet. Use a green pipe cleaner for the stem and add a ribbon to make it more festive.
- Photo Frame
Personalize a plain wooden photo frame by painting it in her favourite colour. Add some glitter or other embellishments to make it extra special. Insert a favourite photo of mom and the kids and wrap it up with a ribbon.
- Homemade Candle
Making a candle is a great craft project for older kids. You can use soy wax, essential oils, and dried flowers to create a unique scent and look. Pour the melted wax into a jar, add a wick, and let it set. Tie a ribbon around the jar to complete the gift.
- Handprint Art
Younger children will enjoy making handprint art for mom. Dip their hands in paint and press them onto paper or canvas. Add some details like flowers or hearts, and write a sweet message for mom to cherish.
- Personalized Mug
Transform a plain white mug into a personalized gift by painting it with your mom’s favourite colours and designs. Use acrylic paint and let it dry overnight before baking it in the oven to make it permanent. Add some hot cocoa mix and marshmallows to the mug for a cozy gift.
No matter the gift, your mom will surely cherish the effort put into making a thoughtful gift. Get creative and have fun crafting! Pair it with breakfast in bed and a chance for her to rest, and you’ll have the perfect day for the mom in your life! Happy Mother’s Day!
Real Estate Market Analysis: April 2023
As we enter the second quarter of 2023, it’s a good time to take a closer look at the state of the real estate market. According to recent statistics, the average number of sales in April 2023 was 87, with an average price of $698,191. This represents a significant decrease in sales compared to the same month in the previous year, with a year-over-year average sale price drop of 3.8%. In addition, the number of active listings in April 2023 increased by 36.9% compared to the same month in the previous year.
One factor that could be contributing to the decrease in sales and average price is changes in interest rates. As interest rates rise, buyers may be less likely to take on a mortgage and purchase a property, which could lead to a decrease in demand and prices.
For sellers, it may be important to consider factors such as effective marketing strategies and competitive pricing to stand out in a crowded market. For buyers, the increase in inventory could mean more choices and more negotiating power when it comes to making an offer.
Highlighted below are some of the major areas covered by our stats:
As always, it’s important to stay informed and seek the advice of experienced real estate professionals when making decisions in the current market. Need help to decide your next move? Don’t know what these numbers mean for you? We always have an agent on duty to help you. Call our office at 705-743-4444 and we will be happy to direct you to a REALTOR® to answer your questions.
*All data from ITSO. InfoSparks®© 2023 ShowingTime MLS® Resale Residential. Information deemed reliable but is not guaranteed.
Key Considerations When Buying a House | Tips for Homebuyers
Buying a house is an exciting and important decision that requires careful consideration of various factors. Whether you’re a first-time homebuyer or an experienced real estate investor, it’s important to know what to look for when searching for your dream home. In this blog post, we’ll discuss some key things to consider when looking to buy a house.
- Location, Location, Location
The location of a property is arguably the most important factor to consider when buying a house. It affects your quality of life, the value of the property, and your daily commute. You should consider the neighbourhood, proximity to schools, shopping centers, healthcare facilities, and your place of work. If you have children, you may want to consider proximity to parks and playgrounds.
- Affordability
Before making an offer on a property, you need to determine whether it fits within your budget. You should consider other expenses such as property taxes, insurance, and maintenance costs. A good rule of thumb is that your monthly housing expenses should not exceed 30% of your monthly income. It’s important to get pre-approved for a mortgage to know how much you can afford to spend. Your REALTOR® should be able to recommend a good mortgage broker (we at C21 United know just who to call!)
- Size and Layout
The size and layout of a property are also important considerations. You should consider the number of rooms, the size of the rooms, and whether the layout of the house meets your needs. If you work from home, you may want a home office. If you enjoy entertaining guests, you may want an open-concept layout.
- Condition
The condition of a property is important, both inside and outside. You should check for any signs of damage or wear and tear, such as cracks in the walls, leaks, or pest infestations. You should also consider the age of the property and whether any renovations are needed.
- Resale Value
It’s important to consider the resale value of the property, especially if you plan to sell it in the future. Factors that can affect the resale value include location, condition, and the local real estate market. Your REALTOR® can provide stats on the local real estate market to determine if it’s a buyer’s or seller’s market.
- Inspection
It’s important to have the property inspected by a professional before buying it. An inspection can reveal any issues with the property that you may not have noticed, and can help you make an informed decision. The inspector can identify any potential problems, such as mould, foundation issues, or water damage.
- Financing
You should consider your financing options, such as whether you want to take out a mortgage, and if so, what type of mortgage you want. The mortgage industry is a highly competitive field and it is important to understand that interest rates can change at any time. Partnering with a mortgage advisor to help you find the right mortgage product at the best rate is key to your home-buying process.
By considering these factors, you can make an informed decision when buying a house that meets your needs and fits within your budget. Remember to work with a qualified REALTOR® who can guide you through the buying process and help you find your dream home. Don’t have an agent lined up already? Give us a call at 705-743-4444. We’re open 7 days a week and always have an agent on duty!
Choosing a REALTOR® to List Your Home for Sale: Essential Factors to Consider
When deciding to sell their home, most homeowners choose to use a real estate agent. You certainly don’t have to, but there are good reasons why most people still do:
- Pricing is an art,
- Negotiating is hard,
- Marketing a listing is more than just putting it on the MLS, and
- Handling showings and paperwork can be a pain.
An agent takes away the burden of all these things and works to get your home sold for the best price in the fastest time. After all – you’ve got a life to live!
You might have a dedicated REALTOR® lined up already — a referral from a past home purchase or sale, or maybe a friend of the family. But if you plan on interviewing a few agents before choosing one to hire, you should be prepared with a list of questions to ensure you get the right fit. After all, there’s much more to consider than just commission rates and sale price. Each REALTOR® will have their own approach to the job, so make sure you pick the one that fits your vision for your home selling journey.
For this blog post have compiled a list of questions that you might want to have on hand for that first meeting.
- What is your experience selling homes in my area?
Experience matters. You want a REALTOR® who has experience selling homes in your neighbourhood or area. They will have a better understanding of the local market and be better equipped to advise you on pricing strategies. Using an out-of-town REALTOR® may not be the best decision for your bottom line, even if they’re your mom’s best friend’s cousin! They may not know the area, may not correctly price your home, and they may not have access to your local real estate board. This last point is an especially important consideration since you want to ensure your home gets in front of as many eyes as possible — especially local REALTORS® with buyer clients of their own that could be looking for just what you’re selling. - What is your marketing strategy for my home?
Ask the REALTOR® about their marketing plan for your home. What platforms will they use? How will they showcase your property’s unique features? What is their approach to attracting potential buyers? Will they use a professional photographer when listing your home? Will they do a video tour, include floor plans, and use feature sheets for showings? While print advertising is an old standard in real estate, in this digital age make sure your agent will market you online as well — including popular social media platforms. They don’t need to be a social media guru of course, but the better exposure you have online the more eyes you will have on your home! - Can you provide me with references from past clients?
A good REALTOR® will have happy clients who are willing to speak about their experience working with them. Ask for references and follow up with them to see what they have to say about the agent’s communication, marketing, and negotiation skills. - How will you keep me informed throughout the selling process?
Communication is essential when selling your home. You want to know that your REALTOR® will keep you informed every step of the way. Ask them how often you can expect to hear from them and what type of communication they prefer (phone, email, in-person). Regular feedback from your showings is vital to make sure your staging and pricing are on point. - How long do homes in my area typically take to sell?
Knowing how long homes in your area typically take to sell can help you set realistic expectations for the selling process. Ask the REALTOR® for their experience with homes in your area and what they believe the timeframe for selling your home will be. When meeting with your REALTOR® for a Comparative Market Analysis (a “CMA”) they should bring with them examples of what has sold in your neighbourhood in the recent past, as well as an analysis of how these houses compare to your home. This will factor into the sale price that your agent suggests. - How will you help me prepare my home for sale?
Preparing your home for sale can be a daunting task. Ask the REALTOR® how they will help you get your home ready for showings, including suggestions for cleaning, staging, repairs, or renovations that may be necessary. Remember, everything you remove from the house, clean or repair, puts money in your pocket. You’re getting paid to do it!
Choosing the right REALTOR® to sell your home is an important decision that can greatly impact the success of your sale and your return on investment (ROI). Don’t be afraid to ask for references and follow up with past clients to ensure you’re making the right decision. By doing your research and choosing a REALTOR® who meets your needs, you’ll be well on your way to a successful home sale.
Want more information on how to maximize your ROI? Check out our past blog post: Best Home Renos to give you the highest Return on Investment
Don’t have a REALTOR® lined up yet? Reach out to CENTURY 21 United Realty at 705-743-4444. We always have an agent on duty to answer your questions about buying, selling or investing.
Featured Property – 159 Bowen Drive, Peterborough
Looking for the perfect blend of maintenance-free living and the benefits of a fully detached home? Look no further than 159 Bowen Drive, which offers hardwood and ceramic throughout, as well as a fantastic open-concept kitchen, dining room, and living room that is perfect for entertaining and spending quality time together.
The kitchen is equipped with modern stainless steel appliances, plenty of storage and counter space, as well as a breakfast bar. Whether you’re whipping up a quick breakfast or cooking a gourmet meal for friends and family, you’ll love the convenience and functionality of this space.
The main floor of this property also features a 4 piece bathroom, complete with shiplap finishing, as well as a bright and airy freshly painted primary bedroom with plenty of closet space. With large south-facing windows and sliding glass doors that lead to the covered patio, private backyard, and two-car garage, plant lovers will appreciate the abundance of natural light and the opportunity for indoor greenery.
But the perks don’t stop there! The lower level of this home boasts 8-foot ceilings and above-grade windows, bringing in even more light and adding to the spaciousness of the property. With another full bathroom, bedroom, and cozy rec room that can easily be converted into a third bedroom, you’ll have plenty of space for guests, a home office, or a home gym.
And with the added bonus of being within walking distance from local trails, green space, playgrounds, schools, shopping, and more, you’ll love the convenience and accessibility of this location. Plus, with the pre-inspected status of this home, you can rest assured that you’re making a sound investment in a property that has been thoroughly assessed and evaluated for quality and safety.
Experience the best of both worlds with this incredible property, offering the perfect balance of low-maintenance living and detached home benefits. With a spacious and modern interior, private backyard, and unbeatable location, you’ll love calling this property home. Schedule a showing today and see for yourself why this property is the perfect place for you!
Visit 159bowen.com for full details, photos, floor plans and 3D walk-through.
This property is listed with Team vanRahan of CENTURY 21 United Realty Inc Brokerage. Reach out to Catherine Hanrahan, REALTOR at 705-933-6218 or catherine@teamvanrahan.com for more information or book a private showing.
-
- Front Elevation
-
- Front porch
-
- Foyer
-
- Open concept
-
- Living Room
-
- Kitchen
-
- Dining Area
-
- Primary Bedroom
-
- Primary Bathroom
-
- Rec Room
-
- Bedroom
-
- Bathroom
-
- Rear Elevation & Deck
-
- Rear Yard & Garage
What to do when your basement floods
Peterborough is no stranger to flooding and with all the rain coming up in this weekend’s forecast you’re sure to be on alert for water damage to your home and yard!
Dealing with a flooded basement can be a stressful and overwhelming experience. Not only can it damage your personal property, but it can also pose a serious risk to your health and safety. In this blog post, we’ll review some essential steps you should take when your basement floods.
- Turn off the Power: The first and most important step when dealing with a flooded basement is to turn off the power to the affected area. Water and electricity are a dangerous combination, and turning off the power will help prevent any potential electrocution. If you’re not sure how to turn off your power, contact a licensed electrician to do it for you.
- Assess the Damage: Once you’ve ensured that the power is off, you’ll need to assess the extent of the damage. This will help you determine how much work needs to be done to get your basement back to its pre-flood state. Take pictures of any damage to your property, as they may be needed for insurance claims.
- Pump out the Water: The next step is to remove the water from your basement. You can do this by using a submersible pump, which can be rented from a hardware store. Be sure to wear rubber boots and gloves when handling the pump, as the water may contain harmful bacteria.
- Dry Out the Area: After you’ve removed the water, you’ll need to dry out the affected area to prevent mould and mildew growth. Open windows and doors to increase airflow, and use fans and dehumidifiers to help dry out the space. You may also need to remove any wet carpeting or flooring to help dry out the area.
- Sanitize the Area: Once the area is dry, you’ll need to sanitize it to prevent any harmful bacteria from growing. You can do this by using a mixture of bleach and water, or by using a commercial disinfectant. Be sure to wear gloves and a mask when handling any cleaning products.
- Prevent Future Flooding: To prevent future flooding, you’ll need to identify the cause of the flood and take steps to fix it. This may involve sealing cracks in your foundation or installing a sump pump to prevent water from entering your basement.
Dealing with a flooded basement can be daunting, but following these steps can help make the process a little easier. Remember to always prioritize your safety, and don’t hesitate to seek professional help if needed.
How to choose the right Brokerage as a new REALTOR®
This is the second blog post in our New REALTOR series. To read the first post, “How to get your Real Estate License in Ontario” go here.
As a real estate agent, choosing the right brokerage to work with is crucial to your success in the industry. With so many options available, it can be overwhelming to narrow down the choices and make a decision. While it may be tempting to focus on what your commission splits will be and what fees you’ll be paying, don’t let that dictate your end decision.
To help you navigate this process, here are some important questions to ask potential brokerages when choosing where to “hang your sign”.
-
- Does your management team sell?
While a management team with a background in real estate sales can offer valuable insights and guidance to their agents, you take into account whether or not the brokerage’s managers still actively sell real estate as well. If yes, they may not always be available to you to answer questions or provide help. There may also occasionally be conflicts of interest to be aware of. - Do you have in-house marketing?
A brokerage with an in-house marketing department can provide valuable resources and support to their agents. This can include professional photography, graphic design, and social media marketing. - Do you offer in-house coaching?
A brokerage that offers in-house coaching can help new and experienced agents develop their skills and achieve their goals. Look for a brokerage that provides regular coaching sessions and support so you can grow your skills and your business. - Do you have a new agent training program?
If you’re a new agent, it’s important to choose a brokerage that offers a comprehensive training program. Starting into this business can be daunting and hard to know where to start. A new agent training program can include training on industry regulations, marketing, and sales techniques. - Do you have multiple meeting spaces that make clients feel welcome?
Meeting spaces that are inviting and professional can help you impress clients and close deals. Look for a brokerage that offers multiple meeting spaces and amenities such as refreshments and technology. - Do you hold regular sales meetings with usable content and timely updates?
Regular sales meetings can help you stay up-to-date on industry trends and changes. Look for a brokerage that offers frequent meetings with useful content and timely updates. - Do you give back to the local community?
A brokerage that is involved in the local community can help you build your network and reputation. Look for a brokerage that sponsors community events and charities. - Do you have an experienced and dedicated commercial team that can support me?
If you’re interested in commercial real estate, it’s important to choose a brokerage that has experienced and dedicated commercial support. Look for a brokerage that can offer you the support and resources you need to succeed in this niche. - Do you have admin available to place my listings on the MLS or to help with my listing paperwork?
Admin support can be invaluable to a busy agent. Look for a brokerage that has a dedicated administrative team that can help you with your paperwork and listings so you can concentrate less on paperwork and more on selling. - How long has your brokerage been operating in the market?
A brokerage with a long history in the market can offer valuable insights and connections. Look for a brokerage with a proven track record of success and deep roots in the community. - What kind of ongoing training do you offer, if any?
Training at the beginning of your career is just one piece of the puzzle. Ongoing training throughout your real estate career can help you stay competitive and advance your career. Look for a brokerage that offers regular training and development opportunities. - What are your office hours?
Office hours can affect your ability to meet with clients and access resources, as well as outside agents and clients looking to book appointments outside of standard office hours. Look for a brokerage with extended office hours that fit everyone’s needs and schedules. - What is your brokerage’s productivity per person?
Productivity per person can give you an idea of how successful the brokerage’s agents are. Look for a brokerage with a high productivity per person ratio. - What is your brokerage’s market share in the region?
Market share can give you an idea of how well the brokerage is established and respected in the market. Look for a brokerage with a strong market share in your region.
- Does your management team sell?
Choosing the right brokerage is an important decision for any real estate agent. By asking the right questions and doing your research, you can find a brokerage that aligns with your goals and helps you achieve success in the industry.
If you have questions for us or would like some more guidance as you embark on this new career we’re always happy to help. Just reach out to our Broker/Owner, Vanessa Oake Hogan, to set up a meeting to get you started!
Getting Your Real Estate License
If you’re interested in pursuing a career in real estate in Ontario, you’ll need to obtain a real estate license. In this blog post, we’ll cover the steps required to get your real estate license in Ontario, as well as some information about Humber Real Estate College.
Step 1: Meet the Requirements
Before you can obtain a real estate license in Ontario, you must meet several requirements. These include:
- Be at least 18 years old
- Have a Canadian high school diploma or equivalent
- Be a Canadian citizen or permanent resident
- Pass a criminal background check
Step 2: Complete the Pre-Licensing Course
To obtain your real estate license in Ontario, you’ll need to complete the pre-licensing course. This course covers the fundamentals of real estate and is designed to prepare you for the licensing exam. You can take the pre-licensing course through Humber Real Estate College.
Humber Real Estate College offers both in-person and online courses, making it easy for you to complete the pre-licensing course on your own schedule. The course covers a range of topics, including:
- Real estate law
- Property ownership and transfer
- Financing and mortgages
- Property appraisal and valuation
- Real estate marketing and sales
Step 3: Pass the Licensing Exam
After completing the pre-licensing course, you’ll need to pass the licensing exam. The exam is administered by the Real Estate Council of Ontario (RECO) and consists of 200 multiple-choice questions. You’ll need to score at least 75% to pass the exam.
Step 4: Find a Brokerage
Once you’ve passed the licensing exam, you’ll need to find a brokerage to work with. A brokerage is a company that employs real estate agents and provides support and resources to help them succeed. You’ll need to complete a registration form and pay a fee to register with a brokerage.
(Stay tuned for our next blog post – How to choose the right Brokerage for you!)
Step 5: Register with RECO
Finally, you’ll need to register with the Real Estate Council of Ontario (RECO). RECO is the governing body for real estate in Ontario and is responsible for regulating the industry and protecting consumers. You’ll need to pay a fee and provide proof of insurance to register with RECO.
Good luck in your journey to becoming a licensed real estate agent in Ontario! If you have questions for us or would like some more guidance as you embark on this new career we’re always happy to help. Just reach out to our Broker/Owner, Vanessa Oake Hogan, to set up a meeting to get you started!
