DID YOU KNOW THAT …….

	the real estate commission which a seller pays can be negotiated
	a seller does not have to accept a full-price offer
	whether you list your home on M.L.S. or as an exclusive listing, the  commission could be the same
	if you sell your personal single family dwelling, neither income tax nor G.S.T.  is charged except on the real estate commission and on the legal fees
	if a realtor makes a promise to you, it must be in writing
	with new agency laws, a real estate agent could be working for either a  seller or a buyer, or in some cases for both a seller and a buyer. So,  beware of what you say to a real estate agent as he/she may not be acting  on your behalf.
	in some cases you may be able to have a reduction in legal fees,  if your circumstances warrant a reduction or if you ask your lawyer
	the listing price for your home, could be the most important item of  the listing. Ensure that your realtor gives you his opinion of market value  and not just an asking price.
	only written offers are legal. Verbal offers will not stand up in court in real  estate matters.
	if requested to, a realtor must write an offer regardless of how low it may  be, and the seller must be notified that there is a written offer.
	if you take back a second mortgage and the owner defaults on the first  mortgage, you must make the payments on the first mortgage to protect  your second mortgage.
	if you have a realtor who has been working on your behalf, the realtor is  able to show you any home that is listed on the M.L.S. system, and often  he/she will be able to show you an exclusive listing as well.
	a realtor does not get paid for his/her dedication and hard work on your  behalf if you decide to buy a home from another realtor

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MONEY LAUNDERING and TERRORIST PROPERTY: It's the Law
Canada's money laundering and terrorist property financing laws fight terrorists and drug dealers through the financial system via the co-operative efforts of a number of financial intermediaries including real estate salespeople and brokers. These laws co-opt real estate salespeople and brokers to prevent Canadian real estate from becoming a haven for money laundering. Download PDF Document  18MB

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	Have a well-manicured lawn.
	Make sure that your yard is free of clutter and leaves.
	During the winter, check that you have removed the ice and snow from the driveway, walkways, and steps.
	Ensure that your front entrance and door look fresh, clean, and well-maintained.

	An investment in freshly-painted walls will pay dividends for you. Faded walls and worn woodwork will reduce the appeal of your home.
	Display the full value of your attic, basement, and other utility space. Remove all unnecessary articles.
	If your basement is dark and dreary, a coat of paint, especially on the floor, will do wonders.
	Your closets will look bigger if they are neat and well-organized.
	Fix any leaky faucets. Dripping water discolours sinks and suggests faulty or worn-out plumbing.
	Keep stairways clear, clean, and uncluttered.
	Ensure that doors don’t stick and cabinet drawers and cupboards don’t have loose knobs. Check the same things on your windows.
	Kitchens and bathrooms sell homes. Make these rooms sparkle and shine.
	Check and repair any damaged or discoloured caulking or grouting. Now is the time to display your best towels and mats.
	Your home’s illumination can be a “welcome” sign to that prospective buyer! Turn on all of your outside and inside lights when showing your home at night. This will create a glowing warmth, and make your home seem larger.

	Is the neighbourhood suitable for your family’s needs?
	If you have children, how close are the schools?
	If you don’t drive, how close are the bus routes?
	If you enjoy gardening, is the yard large enough for a garden?
	If you have small children, is there a fenced backyard for them to play in?
	Does the street have a lot of traffic?
	Is the house suitable for your family’s needs?
	Is there enough cupboard space? Closets?
	Does the house have enough bedrooms for your family?
	Is there an eating area large enough for your family?
	Has the home been well-maintained?
	What improvements will it require for your family?
	Consider using the services of a Home Inspector.