Frequently Asked Questions

The minimum down payment in Canada is 5% for homes under $500,000, 10% on the portion between $500K-$1M, and 20% for homes over $1M. For a $700K home, you'd need about $45,000 minimum. However, putting 20% down ($140K) avoids CMHC insurance premiums of $20K+.

Beyond the purchase price, budget for: Property Transfer Tax (1% on first $200K, 2% on $200K–$2M, 3% on amounts over $2M), legal fees ($1,200–$2,000), home inspection ($400–$600), appraisal ($300–$500), and moving costs. First-time buyers may be exempt from PTT on homes up to $835,000 (as of 2024). Foreign buyers are subject to an additional 20% tax.

From starting your search to getting the keys, expect 2-4 months. Getting mortgage pre-approval takes 1-2 weeks, searching for homes 2-8 weeks, the offer/negotiation process 1-2 weeks, and closing (subject removal to completion) typically 30-60 days.

Spring (March-May) typically sees the highest prices and most buyer activity. However, less competition in January-February can also work in your favour. The best time depends on your specific neighbourhood and property type — we can advise based on current market conditions.

We conduct a comprehensive Comparative Market Analysis (CMA) looking at recent sales of similar properties in your neighbourhood, current listings (your competition), expired listings (overpriced homes), and market trends. We also factor in your home's unique features, condition, and lot characteristics.

The main cost is realtor commission, typically 7% on the first $100K and 2.5% on the balance (plus GST). On a $1M sale, that's approximately $29,400. Other costs include legal fees ($1,200-$1,800), potential staging ($2,000-$5,000), and minor repairs/touch-ups.

Fixed rates offer payment certainty — your rate stays the same for the term (1–5 years). Variable rates are often lower and historically save money over time, but your payments can increase if rates rise. We recommend fixed for conservative borrowers and variable for those comfortable with some risk. Rates change frequently — contact us or visit our Market page for the latest rates.

Yes, but it requires more documentation. Lenders typically want 2 years of tax returns, Notice of Assessment, and proof of business income. Some lenders offer "stated income" programs for self-employed borrowers with strong credit. Our mortgage division specializes in finding solutions for self-employed clients.

Surrey is BC's fastest-growing city with $10B+ in planned infrastructure including the SkyTrain extension. Rental vacancy remains tight and prices are 30–45% lower than Vancouver. The combination of population growth, transit investment, and relative affordability makes Surrey one of the strongest investment markets in Metro Vancouver. Market conditions vary — visit our Market page for the latest stats.

Cap rates typically range from 3% to 5% depending on neighbourhood, property type, and market conditions. Condos near transit hubs tend to offer higher yields, while detached homes with secondary suites can generate strong total returns when factoring in appreciation and mortgage paydown. Returns vary — contact us for a current analysis of your target area.

We provide five integrated services under one roof: Real Estate (buying and selling), Mortgages (residential and commercial), Insurance (home and property), Financing (private lending for investments), and Land Development. This holistic approach saves our clients time and ensures seamless coordination across all aspects of their real estate transaction.

We primarily serve Surrey and Greater Vancouver, including West Newton, Sullivan Station, Surrey Central, Whalley, Fleetwood, Cloverdale, Langley, Delta, and Burnaby. Our deep knowledge of Surrey's micro-markets gives our clients a significant advantage.