Buyer’s Guide

Real Estate in Vancouver is one of the most sought after residential real estate markets in the world. Not only are we beautifully situated between the ocean, mountains, and some of the lushest forests, but Vancouver is also in one of the most peaceful and stable countries in the world. Vancouver’s climate boasts mild temperatures and follows all seasons with endless winter and summer activities to enjoy. A popular tourist destination and a port city, having a stake in the Vancouver market is a highly sought-after goal for many.

But where do you start?

Our team is uniquely equipped to help a first-time buyer or a long-term investor navigate the ever-changing Vancouver market. We have systems in place, paired with expert advice, to make sure the process of your purchase is made with minimal stress and tailored to your financial goals. Your relationship with money, real estate, and your home starts with a deeper understanding of your short and long-term goals. We pride ourselves on being patient with your journey while remaining attentive to your needs. The journey is different for everyone. 

What should you expect?

 Here are some of the common steps to home ownership for a buyer:

  1. The Dream
    • For most, real estate investment whether for your own family or for investment starts with a dream. The dream is always a balancing act of the head and the heart and our intention is to help you to discover what the Vancouver market can offer to you. Once you’ve established a price range, it is time to decide what type of home will best suit your lifestyle. Think about things like access to schools, recreational facilities, and neighbourhood expectations. 
  1. The Money
    • Real estate should be a pillar of your financial plan and building that plan comes with trusted advice. Getting a pre-approval in place is always highly recommended, so together we have a clear picture of your budget, monthly cost and how to structure an offer. We align ourselves with trusted, ethical and experienced mortgage brokers, mortgage advisors and financial planners to make sure you are getting sound, unbiased advice. We are happy to work with your financial team so that the process is as seamless as possible.
  1. The Benefits
    • As a buyer, working with a real estate advisor has some distinct benefits. Firstly, as advisors, we are in your corner, looking out for your best interest, above and beyond anyone else’s interest including ourselves. This is a unique relationship, we give advice, but you are always in the driver’s seat. Secondly, as a buyer, there is no additional cash outlay for our services. Lastly, we help to sort through paperwork and market data, to give you accurate valuations and help in negotiating the price. Our commitment to you “we treat you like family”. 
  1. The Hunt
    • The search for your new dream home can be the most exciting and at times, the most time-consuming part. We want to make sure that we spend this time and energy with you most efficiently and we do this by creating a customized search plan. This means we take the time to understand your dream, and help to create searches, canvas neighbourhoods, and research properties that help match your criteria. We aim to give you the insight and insider’s edge and our service includes virtual tours of homes, customized search portals, and of course, private showings. You are not just buying a house, you’re investing in a community, and we strive to make sure your new space feels like your home.
  1. The Offer
    • This is it, the culmination of anticipation and excitement come to a head when you decide to write an offer. Now it’s time to put pen to paper and negotiate what is likely one of the most important purchases of your life and we are here for you every step of the way. We prepare and guide you through the offer stage every step of the way so that when you’re ready, we’re ready. Generally, an offer will include the price, deposit, terms and conditions of the contract, and of course, closing and possession dates. As your advisor, we look to find you non-monetary advantages, and customize the terms and subjects so that risk is minimized yet a successful transaction is favourable.  We push to have your offer enter the accepted phase. 
  1. The Due Diligence 
    • Once your offer is accepted, the investigatory work begins in the due diligence period. Also referred to as your subject removal period, this is the opportunity where we have time to review the property in more detail. The typical subjects can include subject to finance, inspection, strata document review, insurance, title and any customizations for a specific property. We work closely with you to source the right professional expert like inspectors, appraisers, lenders, accountants, trades and lawyers, so that you are fully comfortable with finalizing the purchase.
  1. The Move
    • We wish to help guide you step-by-step throughout the moving process. We have customized checklists and a vast network of contacts who can help with everything from securing a mover to booking trades, and from finding a conveyancer to a professional cleaner. The move should and will be the most exciting part of your journey.