Choosing the right real estate agent can make or break your experience. Whether you’re buying your first home, selling a property, or investing, asking the right questions early helps you avoid mistakes, save money, and feel confident in your decisions.

If you’re wondering what questions to ask a real estate agent, this guide covers the most important ones to ask before you sign any agreement.

Why Asking the Right Questions Matters

Not all real estate agents work the same way. Some specialize in certain neighbourhoods, property types, or market conditions. Others may lack experience in negotiations or pricing strategy.

Asking clear questions upfront helps you understand how an agent works, what value they bring, and whether they’re the right fit for your goals.

Questions About Experience and Local Knowledge

How long have you been working as a real estate agent?
Experience matters, especially in competitive markets. An agent with a strong track record understands pricing trends, negotiations, and common pitfalls.

Do you specialize in my neighbourhood or property type?
Local knowledge is critical. An agent familiar with your area can price accurately and identify good opportunities faster.

How many buyers or sellers are you currently working with?
This helps you understand availability and whether you’ll receive enough attention.

Questions About Strategy and Pricing

How will you determine the right price?
For buyers, this means understanding fair market value. For sellers, it means avoiding underpricing or overpricing. The agent should explain how comparables and market data are used.

What is your strategy in a competitive market?
Ask how they handle multiple offers, bidding wars, and negotiations. Strong agents have a clear plan.

How do you help clients avoid overpaying?
A good agent protects your interests, not just closes deals quickly.

Questions About Communication

How will we communicate and how often?
Clear communication is essential. Ask whether updates are provided by phone, email, or text and how frequently.

Who will I be dealing with directly?
Some teams delegate tasks. Make sure you know who your main contact is throughout the process.

Questions About Fees and Contracts

How are you compensated?
Understand commission structure, what services are included, and whether there are any additional fees.

What agreement will I be asked to sign?
Ask about buyer representation agreements or listing contracts, including length and cancellation terms.

Questions About Support and Due Diligence

Do you recommend inspectors, lawyers, or mortgage brokers?
An experienced agent has a reliable professional network to support the transaction.

How do you help with paperwork and deadlines?
Missed timelines can cost money. Your agent should manage documents carefully and keep you on track.

Questions About Market Conditions

Is now a good time to buy or sell?
A trustworthy agent gives honest advice based on data, not pressure.

What risks should I be aware of in this market?
Strong agents explain both opportunities and risks so you can make informed decisions.

Final Thoughts

Knowing the right questions to ask a real estate agent puts you in control of the process. A good agent welcomes these questions and answers them clearly. Transparency, experience, and communication are key to a successful real estate transaction.

Before you start your journey, take the time to interview agents and choose someone who understands your goals and protects your interests.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Should I interview more than one real estate agent?
Yes. Comparing agents helps you find the best fit for your needs and comfort level.

2. Is it okay to ask an agent for references?
Absolutely. Past client feedback offers valuable insight into how the agent works.

3. Do buyers have to pay their real estate agent?
In most cases, the seller pays the commission, but this can vary depending on the transaction.

4. What red flags should I watch for?
Lack of clear answers, poor communication, or pressure to rush decisions are common warning signs.

5. When should I start talking to a real estate agent?
As early as possible. Even before you’re ready to buy or sell, an agent can help you prepare.

Buying a home is one of the biggest financial decisions you’ll make. Whether you're upgrading, downsizing, or moving to a new neighbourhood, the process works best when you follow a clear plan.
Here are 10 essential tips for buying a home that will help you stay organized, confident, and prepared in today’s Canadian market.

1. Know Your Budget Early

Start with a realistic financial plan. Consider mortgage payments, utilities, insurance, property tax, and closing costs. A well-defined budget keeps your search focused.

2. Get Pre-Approved

A mortgage pre-approval shows sellers you’re serious and gives you a clear price range. In competitive markets, this is essential.

3. Understand Your Must-Haves

List your non-negotiables: location, number of bedrooms, parking, schools, or condo amenities. This prevents confusion and speeds up decision-making.

4. Research Neighbourhood Trends

Look at price growth, future transit expansion, and community features. Toronto neighbourhoods vary widely. You can browse local listings and data at https://remaxpluscity.com/ for up-to-date insights.

5. Work With an Experienced Real Estate Agent

A strong agent helps you evaluate pricing, avoid overpaying, and negotiate effectively. They also guide you through paperwork and protect you in the offer process.

6. Don’t Skip the Home Inspection

Inspections reveal hidden issues that may cost thousands later. Even newer homes can have underlying problems, so never skip this step.

7. Understand Closing Costs

Closing costs often surprise buyers. In Ontario, expect 1.5% to 4% of the purchase price. Budget early so there are no unexpected stressors.

8. Think Long-Term

Choose a home that fits your lifestyle for the next several years. Consider family plans, career changes, commute time, and resale potential.

9. Avoid Emotional Decisions

Stay objective. Compare recent sales, review neighbourhood trends, and evaluate the home logically before submitting an offer.

10. Be Ready to Act

Homes can sell quickly. Once you’ve prepared your financing and criteria, you’ll be ready to move confidently when the right home appears.

Final Thoughts

These tips for buying a home give you a strong foundation for a smooth purchase. For local Toronto listings, neighbourhood guides, and expert support, visit https://remaxpluscity.com/.

FAQs About Buying a Home in Canada

1. How much money do I need to buy a home in Canada?

Plan for your down payment, closing costs, and a deposit. Most buyers need 5% to 20% down, plus closing costs of about 1.5% to 4% of the purchase price.

2. Should I buy a home before selling my current one?

It depends on your financial comfort and market conditions. Many buyers prefer selling first to avoid carrying two mortgages.

3. How long does mortgage approval take?

A pre-approval can be done within days. Full approval after an accepted offer usually takes 5–10 business days.

4. What credit score do I need to buy a home?

Most lenders prefer 650+, but approvals can happen below this with strong income and a larger down payment.

5. When is the best time to buy a home?

Spring and fall have the most listings, but winter often offers better deals with less competition. The best time depends on your personal timing and budget.

Toronto’s waterfront remains one of the city’s most searched markets for condos for sale, offering lake views, modern buildings and fast access to transit, parks and dining. Buyers looking for Toronto waterfront condos choose this area for its lifestyle, investment strength and walkability to Union Station and the Financial District.

Top Waterfront Areas for Buyers

Harbourfront, Queens Quay and East Bayfront provide the best mix of lakefront views, amenities and new developments. These neighbourhoods continue to rank high for Toronto lakefront condos, luxury waterfront suites and condos for sale near Union Station.

For current listings, visit https://waterfront-condos.ca/.

Why the Waterfront Stays in Demand

Residents want convenience, transit access and a premium urban environment. Waterfront condos deliver strong rental potential, consistent resale value and steady interest from both local and international buyers.

If you're searching for waterfront condos for sale in Toronto, the area offers some of the best opportunities for long-term value and downtown living.