FAQ’S

Absolutely. I'll connect you with trusted local mortgage brokers and lenders for a pre-approval, walk you through fixed versus variable rates and the federal mortgage stress test, and help you understand how much down payment you'll need before we start touring.

Just reach out by phone, email or text and let me know what's caught your eye. I coordinate every showing around your schedule and tour each home with you, sharing honest feedback on value and any red flags I notice.

We prepare an Agreement of Purchase and Sale (APS) on the standard OREA forms — setting your deposit, price and closing date, and including conditions that protect you such as financing and a home inspection. Then I negotiate on your behalf until we have a deal you're happy with.

None from me — everything is transparent and spelled out in your Buyer Representation Agreement. Beyond your down payment, plan for closing costs like Ontario land transfer tax, legal fees, title insurance and a home inspection. First-time buyers may qualify for a land transfer tax refund of up to $4,000.

In most cases the seller's brokerage pays the commission, so having me in your corner typically costs you nothing out of pocket. It's all spelled out — and always negotiable — in your Buyer Representation Agreement, which we sign before touring homes or writing an offer.

The current minimums are 5% on the first $500,000, 10% on the portion from $500,000 to $1,500,000, and 20% on any home priced over $1,500,000. If you put down less than 20%, you'll also need mortgage default insurance through CMHC, Sagen or Canada Guaranty. I'll help you run the numbers before you fall in love with a home.

I almost always recommend it. A qualified inspector reviews the roof, foundation, electrical, plumbing and more, so you know exactly what you're buying. We usually include a home inspection condition in your offer — and if a competitive market tempts you to shorten or waive it, we'll only do that with proper guidance and your eyes wide open.

The most common are a financing condition (while your lender finalizes the mortgage), a home inspection condition, and — if you're buying a condo — a status certificate review by your real estate lawyer. Depending on your situation, we might also add an appraisal condition or a condition on the sale of your current home.

Once your offer is accepted, closing usually happens about 30 to 60 days later, though the exact date is flexible and negotiated in your APS. The home search itself varies — some buyers find the one in a single weekend, others take a few months. I'll move at whatever pace feels right for you.

Yes — I help clients do this often. It comes down to timing: aligning closing dates, using conditions such as sale-of-property, and sometimes arranging bridge financing so you're not caught between two homes. Together we'll map out a plan that keeps the move smooth and low-stress.

Browse current listings on the site or contact Jennifer with your budget, preferred areas, and move-in date. She'll send you matching rentals across Hamilton, Halton, Niagara and Brantford as they become available.

Landlords typically ask for proof of income (recent pay stubs or an employment letter), references, photo ID, and a completed rental application; a credit check is common. Jennifer will help you put together a strong application.

Some owners offer short-term or furnished leases. Let Jennifer know your dates and needs and she'll help you find options that allow shorter terms.

Once you've found a place you like, Jennifer will help you submit a complete application — application form, ID, proof of income, and references — and present it to the landlord to give you the best chance of approval.

For maintenance during your lease, notify your landlord or property manager in writing as soon as an issue comes up. If you rented with Jennifer's help, she's always happy to point you in the right direction.