Buying a home is both a practical decision and a deeply personal one. Whether you’re purchasing for the first time or entering a new chapter, the process is smoother when you know what to expect — and when you’re supported by the right people along the way.
This guide is designed to offer clarity, not overwhelm. It outlines the key stages of buying a home, helping you move forward with confidence, perspective, and space to make decisions that feel right for you.
Step 1:
Begin by identifying what you truly need — and what would simply be nice to have. Consider location, lifestyle, home type, and features, and have open conversations about priorities so expectations are aligned from the start.
Clarity here creates ease later.
Step 2:
A home purchase affects more than your monthly mortgage payment. Take time to review your current expenses and consider how homeownership may change them — from utilities and maintenance to insurance and long-term planning.
A well-considered budget becomes a grounding reference point throughout the process.
Step 3:
A pre-approval helps define your purchasing range and strengthens your position when it’s time to make an offer. It also allows you to understand what lenders are comfortable with — which may differ from what you feel comfortable spending.
This step is about information, not commitment, and gives you leverage when the right opportunity appears.
Step 4:
Buying a home is not a solo endeavour. Your real estate advisor plays a central role in helping you understand the market, evaluate options, and navigate offers and negotiations with clarity.
At Fraser & Co., representation begins with listening — so strategy reflects your goals, timing, and comfort level, not just the market.
Step 5:
With criteria defined, your advisor will curate and arrange viewings that align with what you’re looking for. As you explore, you’ll refine your preferences — noticing how homes feel, how spaces function, and how neighbourhoods support your day-to-day life.
This stage is about discernment, not speed.
Step 6:
Once you’ve identified the right home, your lender can finalize the details of your financing — including rate, terms, and any available programs.
While your lender leads this step, we remain a steady point of support, helping ensure timelines and conditions stay aligned.
Step 7:
When you’re ready, your advisor will help you craft an offer grounded in market context, comparable sales, and your personal priorities. Beyond price, this includes timing, conditions, and terms that protect your interests.
Negotiation is a conversation — one guided by strategy, composure, and experience.
Step 8:
A home inspection provides insight into the property’s condition and helps identify any concerns before moving forward. If issues arise, your advisor will help you evaluate options — whether that means renegotiation, further investigation, or stepping back.
This step is about informed confidence.
Step 9:
If required by your lender, an appraisal confirms that the purchase price aligns with market value. Should questions arise, your advisor will help you understand next steps and navigate them calmly.
Step 10:
In the final stage, legal and financial documents are completed, funds are transferred, and ownership changes hands. While paperwork is unavoidable, it’s handled with care and coordination — so you can focus on what comes next.
Once everything is complete, you’ll step into your new home — not just having purchased well, but having been supported throughout the process with clarity and care.
GET IN TOUCH
Fraser & Co. Founded by Michelle Fraser
Phone Our Team
(905) 428-3628
Email
[email protected]
VISIT OUR OFFICES
By Appointment
Call (905) 428-3628 to schedule
Pickering Office
896 Brock Rd, Unit 1
Pickering, ON L1W 1Z9
North York Office
685 Shepherd Ave East, Suite 401
North York, ON M2K 1B6
GET IN TOUCH
Fraser & Co. Founded by Michelle Fraser
Phone Our Team
(905) 428-3628
Email
[email protected]
VISIT OUR OFFICES
By Appointment
Call (905) 428-3628 to schedule
Pickering Office
896 Brock Rd, Unit 1
Pickering, ON L1W 1Z9
North York Office
685 Shepherd Ave East, Suite 401
North York, ON M2K 1B6
