Realtors and Mortgage Agents
The Real Estate Council of Ontario is now joining the chorus of those asking both homebuyers and investors to do their homework before leaping into a rent-to-own deal with any third party.“If a deal seems too good to be true, it probably is,” says the regulator’s registrar Joseph Richer. “As with any real estate transaction, it’s crucial for consumers to do their research before entering into a contract.”
The warning comes on the heels of media reports this summer that homebuyers have lost money and even been evicted from their homes. Incidents of investors, or homeowners looking to sell, have also made headlines across the country this year.
“Asking questions beforehand can help to prevent these unfortunate scenarios, and a registered real estate professional can help,” Richer adds. “RECO recommends that consumers conduct an online search of the company and the individuals in charge, ask for references, and see if they have a history with the Better Business Bureau.”
The registrar is also recommending parties to these growing number of deals seek independent legal advice before signing a contract so they’re up to speed on any and all possible outcomes.
Hiring a registered real estate broker or salesperson could also be part of that action plan, he says.
“A broker or salesperson has a duty to look out for their clients’ interests as they help them navigate the buying process,” according to RECO. “In addition, they must adhere to regulations and a code of ethics, and they are accountable if something goes wrong.”
Courtesy of: Canadianrealestatemagazine.ca
Believe it or not but a real estate agent is more than “just” a sales person. They are trained professionals whose goal is to act on your behalf and provide you with a clear understanding of the legal concerns and potential issues that could arise with the different properties that you will view.
We only work with reputable real estate agents so you can trust that your best interests will be served. Our goal is to ensure your buying experience is a positive one.
Negotiating the right price
One of the first things a real estate agent presents a buyer is a competitive market analysis (CMA). The CMA is study of the current market trends and recent sales in the area where the house you would like to purchase is located. The real estate will use the CMA to negotiate a fair deal for the property.
Matching Your Needs to Properties
The real estate agent will use resources at his disposal to weed-out properties that do not match your requirements and help you shorten you search cycle. There is nothing worse than looking at 100 homes, none of which meet the criteria on your wish list.
Neighbourhood knowledge
Agents usually have a better understanding of what buyers can get for their money in the neighbourhood they want to buy into. An agent will also have important information about the neighbourhoods, including schools, shopping, property taxes and demographics.
Closing assistance
Maybe most importantly, an agent can help complete the purchasing and closing documentation. Once an offer has been accepted, your agent may arrange for a home inspection, financing, a title search and a real estate lawyer, as well as ensure that all repairs and stipulations in the contract are completed.
Why Choose Us?
What Client’s Say
“Neil and Rachel have perfected the rent-to-own giving people an option to own their own home where previously there was no option.”
“There are a growing number of companies and people purporting to provide rent-to-own or lease-to-own services. Unfortunately many of them are providing less then honest services to their tenants and unfortunately it’s in an unregulated arena. However, what a delight to find Neil and Rachael, a true breath of fresh air. Their approach to the rent-to-own situation is one where ‘everyone wins’. They understand that the tenant needs to be able to afford the property at the end of the deal, and they understand that the investor needs to have security. Their model is quite literally the best I have come across for both investors and tenants alike. No matter what side of the fence you are on you are going to enjoy the process of working with Clover Properties. Honest, ethical, caring and professional.”