Make a list of all the features you want in your new home such as number of bedrooms, bathrooms, proximity to schools, shopping and workplace.

Be sure you can afford your home. Your monthly housing costs should not be more than 32% of your gross monthly income and your entire monthly debt load (which includes debts such as car loans and credit card payments) should not be more than 40% of your gross monthly income. We can put you in touch with a mortgage representative who appreciates and understands your situation.

Calculate your other monthly living expenses such as food, clothing, transportation, personals and childcare to ensure you can afford your mortgage payments.

Call Diane Boyd!  I am a trained professional with knowledge about local conditions and the housing market in general. I service the Brampton, Caledon, Orangeville, MIssissauga and Georgetown areas. Through the Multiple Listings Service I have access to virtually every property listed for sale in my areas.  I can narrow down your search and provide you with information on properties for sale and those that have recently sold. This will allow you to make informed decisions about pricing. Licensed by the province of Ontario and a member of the Brampton real estate board, I must adhere to a high standard of ethical behavior.

Obtain a pre-approved mortgage from the lender of your choice or talk to my in-house Sutton Group Mortgage Specialist. This will help you determine the price range you should be looking in. With a pre-approved mortgage, your lender will guarantee the interest rate for 60 to 90 days.

I will always get a copy of the Seller's Property Information Statement, if it is available.  This document is completed by the sellers (optional) and ensures the buyer gets complete information about the property they are about to purchase, and alerts buyers when they need to do more research on a property.

If buying a new or existing condo, look beyond style and amenities and investigate whether the construction is of good quality. I will be sure you receive a Status Certificate so your lawyer can determine if there are or have been financial problems in the past.

I always recommend a home inspection from a professional home inspector. An inspector's written report should include how well-built the home is and whether any repairs are necessary and the estimated costs.

Don't forget about other costs when you buy your home such as legal fees, property taxes and the GST (if purchasing a new home). I will review all of these with you before you go house shopping so there are no surprises!