Credit Scores & Renting in Ontario: What Tenants Need to Know (and How to Boost Yours)

Tenants: Wondering why every rental application asks for a credit check? We break down how credit scores are built in Ontario, what “good” really means, and how to land your next lease—even if your score isn’t perfect.

Understanding Your Rights as a Residential Tenant in Ontario

Get informed advice about your tenancy rights from a trusted Realtor.

Tenants: As a tenant in Ontario, it’s crucial to understand your right: from pets and rent deposits to rent increases and showings when your rental is up for sale. In this week’s blog, we break down essential tenant protections, highlight valuable resources, and explain how a Realtor can help you navigate renting in Ontario with confidence.

The First Night Box: Your Essential Checklist for Moving into a New Home

Clearly packed essentials for the first night simplify your moving experience.

Moving: Moving day can be exciting but stressful. Avoid the frantic search for essentials by packing a “First Night Box.” This box contains everything you’ll need for a comfortable first night in your new home—personal items, important documents, electronics, and even snacks! Use our handy checklist to ensure your first night is smooth and hassle-free.

Can You Sell Your Home Privately If You’re Already Signed With a Realtor?

#NickAnswersReddit: A homeowner wonders if they can sell privately to a neighbour even though they’ve already signed with a Realtor. Nick explains the legal and practical considerations of selling off-market when under a listing agreement, and offers tips on how to make it work without ending up in hot water.

Is Now a Good Time to Buy a Condo in Ottawa? Advice for a First-Time Buyer and Permanent Resident

#NickAnswersReddit: A first-time buyer couple in Ottawa wonders if now is a good time to buy a condo and what they should know as permanent residents. Nick provides detailed guidance on market timing, the condo buying process, and key considerations for non-citizen buyers.

Should You Sign a Buyer Representation Agreement for a New Build in Ontario?

New Home Construction in California - Wooden Frame in Progress

#NickAnswersReddit: This week, Nick tackles a question from a first-time buyer in Ontario who was asked to sign a Buyer Representation Agreement (BRA) with a builder’s agent. Nick explains what these agreements mean, how they work, and why it’s okay to negotiate the terms—or walk away.

Movin’ On Up: How to Buy Your Next Home When You Already Own One

This image shows a new residential home in the early stages of construction, featuring an exposed wooden frame under a bright blue sky. The setting suggests a suburban development, likely part of a new housing project. Captured by photographer D Goug, this photo highlights the framing phase, a critical step in home building.

#NickAnswersReddit: Already own a home but want to move into something new? This week, Nick walks through the step-by-step strategies to buy your next home while selling your current one. Whether you’re wondering about bridge financing, sale contingencies, or porting your mortgage, you’ll find practical advice here to help you move up the property ladder in Ottawa.

How to Choose the Right Neighbourhood to Live in Ottawa

A peaceful scene of a small boat navigating the Ottawa River, showcasing the city’s natural beauty and urban charm.

The Purchase Process: Choosing the right neighbourhood in Ottawa can make all the difference in your home search. Whether you’re looking for a quick commute, a great place to raise a family, or access to top restaurants, this guide will help you understand how location impacts lifestyle and property value. Explore top Ottawa neighbourhoods by category and learn how to refine your search to find the perfect fit.

The Three Types of Issues When Buying a Home

A quiet residential moment in front of a brown-painted home, reflecting the typical suburban setting of many Ottawa neighborhoods.

The Purchase Process: When buying a home, dozens of little issues can arise—during the inspection, legal review, or financing stage—but they all boil down to just three types: problems you can live with, ones you can renegotiate, and those that make you walk away. Understanding the difference between them is a simple but powerful tool for homebuyers, especially first-timers in Ottawa. This guide walks you through each category, with real examples and advice on how to handle them with the help of your real estate team.

How to Interview a Buyer’s Agent to purchase a home in Ontario

Purchasing a Home: On the flip side of our article a few weeks ago about interviewing a listing Realtor, here’s everything that you need to know to hire a great Buyer’s Agent!