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Protecting Tenants and Strengthening Community Housing Act, 2020

The Protecting Tenants and Strengthening Community Housing Act, 2020 amends the Residential Tenancies Act, 2006, the Housing Services Act, 2011, the Building Code Act, 1992 and repeals the Ontario Mortgage and Housing Corporation Act. Originally posted on July 22, 2020 The changes to the Residential Tenancies Act, 2006 (RTA) strengthen protections for tenants ...

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What Real Estate Litigation Teaches Buyers in Ontario

Buying real estate is an exciting milestone, whether purchasing a first home, expanding an investment portfolio, or acquiring a commercial property. While the vast majority of transactions close successfully, the relatively small number that result in litigation provide valuable lessons for every buyer. Real estate disputes rarely develop because of a ...

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Working with a REALTOR® in Ontario

When working with a REALTOR® it is important to understand who the REALTOR® works for. To whom is the REALTOR® legally obligated? The Agency Relationship REALTORS® are governed by the legal concept of “agency.” An agent is legally obligated to look after the best interests of the person he or she represents. The  ...

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Do Tenants Need a REALTOR® to Find a Property to Lease?

The question is often asked: "Do I really need a REALTOR® to lease a property?" The honest answer is that many tenants successfully find rental properties on their own. The better question, however, is not whether a REALTOR® is required. It is whether professional representation can help a tenant make a more informed decision ...

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Let the Light Shine In: Home Lighting for Health

Recently, researchers discovered that the lighting in your home can have a much greater impact on your health and well-being than originally thought. Better lighting can boost your energy, increase alertness, and help you sleep better. So, it pays to ensure the lighting in your home is optimal. Here are three ...

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Delayed Offer Presentation in Ontario Real Estate

Understanding the delayed offer presentation process Delayed negotiations, used appropriately, can be a powerful tool when it comes to selling a home. Done right, this tool is a plus for buyers too. So how do you know if delayed negotiations are right for you? First, talk to your real estate agent. It’s not ...

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Why REALTORS® Earn Their Commission

REASON # 1 The numbers are In. Statistics from the National Association of Realtors® prove that homes listed with a licensed full-time agent sell for approximately 26% more than those sold “For Sale By Owner”, even after the commission. Why? Mainly because active agents know the market and what a home will bring – ...

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Risks of Not Employing a Property Management Professional

Owning a rental property can be a rewarding investment. Many landlords begin by managing their own properties, particularly when they own a single rental home or condominium. Others simply enjoy remaining directly involved in every aspect of the investment. There is certainly nothing wrong with self-managing a rental property. The more important ...

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Starting a Backyard Garden

Not every homeowner is willing or able to dedicate backyard space to a big garden, but the size of your garden shouldn’t deter you from looking into options for a very rewarding hobby. Whether through simply growing a few herbs or flowers in containers, or by tilling a plot for bountiful ...

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Do I Need a Realtor to Lease My Property?

One of the most common questions landlords ask is: "Do I really need a REALTOR® to lease my property?" The short answer is no. Many landlords successfully lease their own properties every year. The better question, however, is not whether professional representation is required. It is whether the time, responsibilities, and risks involved in leasing ...

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