House hunting can be an exciting adventure, but it's easy to make mistakes along the way. From overlooking essential details to making hasty decisions, the process can become overwhelming. In this blog, we'll explore the top 10 house hunting mistakes and how to avoid them. Understanding these common pitfalls can save you time, money, and stress, ensuring a smoother journey to finding your dream home.

At The Johnson Team, we pride ourselves on helping clients navigate the real estate process with ease. If you're ready to start house hunting, contact us to begin working with an experienced agent right away.

 


Composition of house hunting text in white, with house roof design on blue


1. Not Getting Pre-Approved for a Mortgage

One of the biggest mistakes buyers make is not getting pre-approved for a mortgage…

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Navigating the real estate market can be challenging, especially for first-time home buyers. The First Time Home Buyer Incentive is a government program designed to make homeownership more accessible for Canadians. Whether you're dreaming of a cozy condo in downtown Toronto or a family home in the suburbs, this incentive could be the key to unlocking your future. 

At The Johnson Team, we’re here to help you understand and navigate this opportunity, ensuring your home-buying journey is smooth and successful. If you're ready to start house hunting, contact us today to begin working with an agent right away.

What is the First Time Home Buyer Incentive?


Generative AI : Saving for a first house deposit or a first time home buyer incentive program

The First Time Home Buyer Incentive is a shared-equity mortgage program offered by the…

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When you buy a home, you want to ensure that your investment is protected. One essential tool for safeguarding your property rights is title insurance. In this comprehensive guide, we'll explore everything Ontario residents need to know about title insurance, from what it is to why it's important, and how to choose the right provider. By the end of this guide, you'll have a clear understanding of how title insurance works and why it's a must-have for homeowners. And remember, The Johnson Team is here to help you with all your real estate needs. Contact us today to connect with an expert agent!

What is Title Insurance?


Title Insurance

Title insurance is a form of indemnity insurance that protects property owners and lenders from financial loss due to defects…

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Understanding the quitclaim deed, a crucial legal instrument in real estate, can be a game-changer. It's like having the legal right to pass a parcel in a game, but instead of a gift, you're transferring ownership of real property. That’s what a quitclaim deed does. It allows someone to transfer their ownership in a property to someone else, quickly and simply, without making any promises about the property’s history. It's like saying, "I'm giving you what I have, but I'm not promising it's problem-free."

However, while quitclaim deeds can be useful, they also come with risks, especially if you don't know the whole story of the property you're getting. That’s why it’s important to have experts by your side. Enter The Johnson Team: your local real…

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Welcome to your comprehensive guide to understanding expropriation in Ontario. Expropriation, while a powerful tool for public projects, can significantly impact property owners' lives and livelihoods. In this guide, we'll delve into the intricacies of expropriation law in Ontario, shedding light on what it entails, how it works, and what rights property owners have throughout the process. Whether you're facing the prospect of expropriation or simply want to understand the process better, this guide is your go-to resource.

From the basics of expropriation to the complexities of compensation claims, we'll cover it all in clear and accessible language. So, let's embark on this journey together, empowering you with the knowledge and understanding you need…

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Imagine you've just made your home purchase in Canada, and after calculating the purchase price and Canada mortgage terms, you've agreed to pay back the loan bit by bit every month. This agreement to pay back the money you borrowed to buy your house is called a mortgage. Now, if for some reason, you stop making those monthly payments, you could be in what's called a mortgage default. This is a serious situation because it could mean losing your home.

Understanding mortgage default is crucial for anyone with a home loan. It helps you make smart choices about your finances and can prevent potential problems down the road. Whether you're thinking of buying your first home or are already a homeowner, knowing about mortgage default can keep you informed and…

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When it comes to renting out your property, finding the right fit can be as crucial as the property itself. Asking the right tenant screening questions is your first line of defense against potential rental headaches. These questions help you gauge not only the financial reliability of prospective tenants but also their responsibility and compatibility with your property’s environment. This careful questioning can prevent future issues and ensure a harmonious landlord-tenant relationship.

In this guide, we will outline 10 essential tenant screening questions that every landlord should ask. By incorporating these inquiries into your screening process, you can better identify candidates who are likely to be punctual with rent, respectful of the property,…

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Welcome to your comprehensive guide on rent deposits in Ontario, designed to demystify this essential aspect of landlord-tenant relationships. Whether you're a seasoned landlord or just dipping your toes into the rental market, understanding the ins and outs of rent deposits is crucial for a smooth and successful tenancy.

A rent deposit is a common practice in Ontario where tenants provide landlords with an upfront sum equivalent to one month’s rent. This deposit acts as a form of security for landlords, offering financial protection against potential damages or unpaid rent. It's important to note that a rent deposit is distinct from other upfront payments, such as last month’s rent.

In this guide, we'll explore everything you need to know about…

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Are you curious about rent-to-own homes? It's a housing option gaining traction across Canada, and for good reason. Picture this: you're dreaming of owning your own home but aren't quite ready to take the plunge into a traditional mortgage just yet. That's where rent-to-own homes come into play. This innovative arrangement allows you to rent a property with the option to buy it later, offering a stepping stone to home ownership without the immediate financial commitment.

What's driving the surge in popularity? Well, for starters, it's a flexible solution for both buyers and sellers. Home buyers get to test-drive their potential future home while gradually building up their finances, while sellers can attract a wider pool of potential buyers by offering…

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Why Rental Properties Are Still a Good Investment When Interest Rates Rise

In an economic landscape where interest rates are climbing, many investors might second-guess the viability of investing in rental properties. However, even with these financial adjustments, rental properties continue to offer significant benefits. This blog explores why rental real estate remains a compelling investment option during periods of rising interest rates. If you're considering expanding your investment portfolio, The Johnson Team is here to guide you through the complexities and opportunities of the real estate market.

The Enduring Appeal of Rental Properties

Resilience in Changing Economic Conditions

Rental properties have historically demonstrated…

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