Finding the right home means preparation. It also means understanding some basic steps and principles involved to make the process easier:

Step 1 Obtain a Pre-Approved Mortgage: This will tell you exactly how much you can afford. You can submit an offer with confidence.

Step 2 What are YOU looking for? Finding the right home means research. Research can begin when you know what your needs in a home or property are. Make a checklist. Make a wishlist. Highlight immediate and necessary needs such as: type of home, location, special features, number of bathrooms and bedrooms. This will give you and your REALTOR® a clearer direction towards finding that right home.

Step 3 Enlist a REALTOR®: Finding a REALTOR® to help in your search is important. A REALTOR® can provide a vast amount of information on the buying and/or selling of homes. Choose the right REALTOR® you can trust.  Don't just choose someone you know.

Step 4 The Offer: When you find the right home it is time to decide on a buying figure. Typically, an offer will combine such aspects such as: financing, inspections, insurance, SPIS conditions and surveys. It may also include items in the household or property such as lighting, cabinets, doors and/or appliances.

Step 5 The Firm Offer: A firm offer simply means that you have completed your conditions and are now going to proceed with buying the property outlined in the offer. 

Step 6 Closing Day: Typically, on closing day, the property and the mortgage is officially registered by your lawyer, and you become the new home owner.