FAQ
- What neighbourhoods can you sell properties in? Do you only work in Markham?
- Can you help me find a rental?
- What’s your marketing plan to help sell my home?
- How important are home inspections?
- I’m looking to sell but my house is a little outdated, what areas should I focus on renovating?
- How important is pre-approval financing?
- How long does it take to get my house up on the market?
- At what point in the process should I hire a Realtor?
- Should I buy first or sell first?
- Is it possible to buy conditional on the sale of my current home?
- What if there’s a major deficiency in the home inspection?
- How do I get the best financing?
- Can I buy a house now and not move for 6+ months?
- What do I need to know when buying?
- What do I need to know when selling?
- Does it matter what Agent I use since I can shop by myself on the Internet?
- How much does a home inspection cost?
- When I list my home, will I know who is coming through it at showings and open houses?
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What neighbourhoods can you sell properties in? Do you only work in Markham?
We trade real estate all over Ontario! In fact, a large portion of our business spreads all over the Greater Toronto Area, York Region, Durham Region, Halton/Niagara region, and even properties in cottage country such as Muskoka! We have specialists in all areas.
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Can you help me find a rental?
Absolutely! We can assist you with finding or leasing a rental.
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What’s your marketing plan to help sell my home?
Our marketing plan begins with an assessment of your home’s unique strengths and attributes. Our focus is to generate as much demand as possible for our clients' homes through direct mail, open houses, newspaper advertising, exposure on our custom website, exposure through internet advertising, and direct contact with agents and potential buyers through our extensive data base of contacts.
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With our strong branding presence in the area, we generate a great deal of attention for the homes we list. However, we do not rest on this. We are very active in promoting and marketing the properties we list. This is the key to our success, and the key to getting you the best possible return for your home investment. -
How important are home inspections?
Home inspections are a critical part of buying a home. A qualified home inspector has the ability to identify potential problems - large and small - in your home purchase before you have fully committed to the home. This is extremely important for your peace of mind as a Buyer.
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Please speak with one of our Agents for more details on home inspections, as well as the names of the best home inspectors in your area. -
I’m looking to sell but my house is a little outdated, what areas should I focus on renovating?
Before you begin renovating, the best thing to do is to talk to one of our Agents to determine if and what you should update in your home. Magazines and internet articles will recommend that you focus on the kitchen and bathrooms, or a quick coat of paint, but every home is different. More importantly, every neighbourhood is different, so there's no use in spending money if you don't have to! Additionally, we have a professional Home Staging Consultant who will visit your home and offer a free consultation.
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How important is pre-approval financing?
Very important! Pre-approval financing not only allows you to know how much you can spend, it also gives you a very valuable negotiating tool when purchasing a home. Pre-approval shows you are serious, and it can save you thousands in a competitive situation.
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How long does it take to get my house up on the market?
Depending on the situation, we can photograph, stage, market and list your home in just a couple days!
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At what point in the process should I hire a Realtor?
Earlier than you might think! The Stephen Tar Team can help you every step of the way. Even if you are just in the preliminary stages of selling or buying, it’s always advantageous to familiarize yourself with the steps and procedures.
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Should I buy first or sell first?
Everyone is different, and it really depends on what makes you comfortable. There are advantages to both approaches. The most important thing is that you do what works best for you, and don't let anyone pressure you into buying - or selling - before you are ready.
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Is it possible to buy conditional on the sale of my current home?
Yes, it is possible, but can be difficult in a competitive situation (or in a competitive marketplace).
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What if there’s a major deficiency in the home inspection?
As long as your purchase is conditional upon inspection, there are several options. We can negotiate the repair of the condition, a price adjustment to offset the condition, or we can terminate the purchase without penalty to you.
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How do I get the best financing?
Let us help you shop around. Banks can offer competitive rates, but we have relationships with mortgage brokers who may be able to get you a much better rate and save you thousands - all at no obligation to you.
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Can I buy a house now and not move for 6+ months?
Yes. Closing dates can be discussed during the offer negotiation process.
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What do I need to know when buying?
We have several knowledgeable and experienced Buyer Specialists who can walk you through all the steps of buying a home. They can give you early access to new listings as well as provide plenty of insider tips. Although it can appear “fun” and “exhilarating” to go house hunting on your own, an Agent can offer you valuable advice and make sure you are protected.
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What do I need to know when selling?
Just like no two people are the same, no two homes are the same. When you choose an agent who has been in the real estate industry for over 33 years, they carry with them 33 years of real estate knowledge and experience. That insight and expertise is passed along to you in this process – from marketing and pricing to offer negotiations, Stephen & the Team have seen it all.
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Does it matter what Agent I use since I can shop by myself on the Internet?
Not all Real Estate Agents are created equal. The Internet is a valuable tool in helping you to narrow your search, but the advice and support of a professional Realtor who has invested their career in understanding the nuances of your market cannot be easily replaced. Trust a professional, lean on them for advice, and don't let anyone rush your decision.
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How much does a home inspection cost?
A quality home inspection from a properly trained home inspector will likely cost between $200 and $500, depending on the size and style of the home. It is well worth the cost as it's difficult to spot problems on your own.
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When I list my home, will I know who is coming through it at showings and open houses?
Yes. All showings are booked through our Appointment Desk and Agents are required to provide their name and brokerage information before showings are confirmed. Prospective Buyers are not permitted to book an appointment without an Agent. During open houses, our Agents take prospective buyers information and accompany them through the house.
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