Frequently Asked Questions

We know there are questions when it comes to buying or selling a home. This resource below will help you on your journey. If you have any questions, contact us any time.

1) What is the difference between a Sales Representative and a Broker?

There are two categories of RECO (Real Estate Council of Ontario) licensing for REALTORS®: A Sales Representative who has met the initial licensing requirements, and a Broker who has achieved the next level of education. A Broker can also run a Brokerage, becoming a Broker of Record. All brokerages in Ontario must designate a broker of record, an individual who, above all, ensures that the brokerage and its employees (brokers, salespeople, other persons) comply with the Real Estate and Business Brokers Act, 2002, and Regulations (collectively known as REBBA 2002), and standards are maintained.

2) Why should I choose Simply Realty®?

There are many valuable reasons as to why you would want to work with us to help you buy or sell your home:

a) Simply Realty® Inc., Brokerage is a boutique real estate agency. This means we make it personal, are efficient and transparent, and are able to customize services. Sellers know our expertise and professionalism will not only get their home looking its finest, but will also get them a trusted listing which will stand out from the rest.

b) The Broker of Record is your contact. With full-service representation, Victoria will personally represent you and will be your contact from consultation to closing. She has the legal knowledge, education and experience with various transactions to get the job done right. From listing preparation to the most intricate details of marketing and contract negotiations, there is no hand-off to an assistant or another team member.

With a mere posting, Victoria will equip you with the professional listing you need for optimal exposure along with a marketing package that will engage buyers and attract attention.

c) Dedication is 24/7. We consider timing and first impressions critical to a successful sale and our proven strategy always requires after-hours dedication. There is no hand-off of the listing to office staff who are limited by their working hours and/or do not have a vested interest in ensuring the uploaded listing is perfect.

d) Meticulous analysis and error-free content. We take liability very seriously and ensure every listing, agreement and all marketing material is complete with accuracy and detailed perfection. Our clients’ best interests are always at the forefront.

e) Captivating multimedia and top-tier innovation. We have the creativity, tools and resources instantly available to price your home properly and to market your home to the right buyers. We expect nothing less than top-quality, and collaborate with the right teams to ensure your home is presented immaculately.

f) Cutting-edge customization. As a boutique real estate brokerage, we have full control over service customization. We know what works, listen attentively to our clients’ needs and wants, and offer choice and flexibility—something that isn’t available with larger brokerages. This is why our real estate Sellers are able to choose between full-service representation and mere posting arrangements. Additionally, as a result of no corporate overhead, no team commissions and no multi-level marketing fees compared to our brand-name counterparts, our professional fees are fair and an honest reflection of our expertise and services rendered.

3) As a Seller, how much commission will I pay?

We know how to prepare a home for the market, what buyers to attract and how to get a deal. Our fees are based on our expertise and the amount of work and liability involved; we will not take advantage if certain elements of the selling process are unnecessary.

When Sellers opt for full-service representation, our professional fees (usually a percentage of the sale price, payable on closing) include two components: 1) Listing Brokerage fee—to market/sell your home, and 2) Cooperating Brokerage—to the REALTOR® who brings a Buyer.

With a mere posting arrangement, a one-time fee is charged upfront to prepare marketing material and list the home to REALTOR®.ca. Any Cooperating Brokerage commission (if offered by the Seller) is paid on closing after the home has been sold.

4) As a Buyer, how much commission will I pay?

For home buyers who purchase a home which offers a Cooperating Brokerage commission (as explained above), there is no additional commission payable on behalf of the Buyers to Simply Realty® Inc., Brokerage.

5) I changed my mind and no longer want to sell. Can I cancel my listing?

Selling a home should be a commitment that Sellers take seriously with full cooperation; however, we completely understand that “life” can happen. If clients wish to take their home "off the market" due to unexpected circumstances, we will work with you to determine what arrangements can be made that will be suitable for all parties involved.

6) How do I know you are fully licensed and registered to trade in Real Estate?

RECO is the governing body of the real estate profession in Ontario, and every Buyer and Seller should be familiar with RECO’s Real Estate Professional Search to confirm REALTOR® or Brokerage registration. Every REALTOR® must also present RECO’s Registration Certificate while on duty and when asked. RECO also carries out disciplinary actions relating to non-compliance and violations against the Act. In the interest of public safety, we encourage Buyers and Sellers to review RECO’s Regulatory Activities and Decisions to ensure your REALTOR® or Brokerage has not had any charges, convictions, suspensions or decisions taken against them.

7) What are the costs associated with a home purchase?

Land Transfer Tax Calculator
Additional Costs

8) Where can I find moving information?

Mail Redirection - Plan your move and forward your mail to your new address
Ontario Ministry of Transportation - Change information on your Driver’s License
Ontario Ministry of Health - Change information on your Health Card

9) What are the closest schools/institutions in the area?

Ontario Universities
Ontario Colleges
Ontario Private Schools
Ontario School Information Finder

Fraser Institute - check your school’s performance and compare rankings.