Regardless of where you’re buying or the market conditions, there’s one thing every homebuyer has in common: you have to make an offer to purchase a home.

Whether you’re still in the browsing stages or have started to put your plan into action, as a prospective buyer, it is wise to do some legwork and gain insight into the process of how to make an offer on a house in Canada. While your real estate agent is there to guide you, the more you know about the home-buying process, the smoother it will be.

An efficient process is especially pivotal in a seller’s market, where you’ll need to take quick and decisive action when you find a property that interests you.

Preparing for Making an Offer

Having all your ducks in a row makes home hunting easier and allows you to pounce on the perfect property when you find it.

Get Cash Ready for Your Down Payment and Deposit

Part of understanding the ins and outs of how to make an offer on a house, is ensuring you have cash on hand for both your upfront and closing costs. Don’t know the difference between an upfront deposit and a down payment? Since a more robust deposit could be the key to winning a bidding war, it’s vital that you do.

Ideally, you’ve placed your savings in either a regular savings account, a TFSA (tax-free savings account) or an FHSA (first-time home buyer’s savings account), as withdrawing the cash outright, or selling investments within these accounts and then withdrawing the money, will be tax-free.

On the other hand, if you need to take money out of an RRSP or sell investments to come up with the cash you’ll need, you should understand the tax implications of those actions and include it in the next step.

Creating a Purchase Budget

When you visit your bank or mortgage broker, they’ll let you know how much mortgage you’re pre-qualified/pre-approved for. But that doesn’t mean you should ante up the total amount when you make an offer on a house. You’ll need to create a purchase budget to better understand what you can afford.

Break out your favourite spreadsheet software, drop in your current savings plus all your expected sources of income over the next twelve months, then add in what you’ll need for your downpayment, deposit and closing costs – including any tax repercussions from liquidating registered accounts, etc.

Calculate what your monthly property tax, insurance, utilities, condo or homeowners association (HOA) fees would be, then calculate the monthly mortgage payments for various offers. For example, if you pre-qualified for an $800,000 mortgage, you’ll want to determine how offers from $650,000 to $750,000 affect your monthly mortgage payments.

By creating a budget that spans a full year (or more), you can play around with different offer amounts and know whether you’ll have enough cash left over every month to renovate or redecorate as needed or whether you’ll be “house poor” – meaning almost all your income will go towards just getting by – versus being able to truly enjoy your new home.

The maximum budget for your offers will become apparent, ensuring that you don’t get caught up in the heat of the moment and make an offer that’s beyond your ability to afford.

Do Another Walkthrough at a Different Time of the Day

If you liked what you saw on your first showing and plan on making an offer on the condo or house, do another walkthrough at a different time of the day.

A home inspection will tell you what you need to know about the “fitness” of the structure, electrical and plumbing, so what you’re evaluating on your second go-round is not just whether the look and location are better than homes you’ve seen before, but whether this house will suit your needs now and at least five years forward.

Visiting at a different time of day is crucial, as you might watch a neighbourhood that seemed serene and peaceful in the morning, transform into a maelstrom of constant noise and traffic after dark.

Chatting up the neighbours can also help you learn about the property and the surrounding area. 

How Long to Make an Offer on a House After a Property Viewing?

If you’re happy with what you’ve seen, there’s no reason to wait to make an offer. In fact, in a hot market with multiple daily showings, the sooner you can get an offer on the table, the better.  

How to Make an Offer on a House 

Mortgage Pre-Approval:

New home buyers often wonder if they need pre-approval before making an offer on a house. Unless you plan to pay cash for the house, you’ll need to secure financing, and that’s where pre-approval comes into play. It will also help if you need to move quickly with your offer.

Once you plug your pre-approved mortgage amount into your purchase budget, you’ll know exactly how much you can spend, and you’ll also be able to reassure the seller that you won’t have to back out of the purchase based on financing. 

A pre-approval also locks in the current interest rate for up to 120 days, so you can shop with peace of mind, knowing that you’re insulated from rate hikes in the near future. If interest rates drop before you buy, your lender should honour the new lower mortgage rate when you’re ready to make your purchase. 

Decide on an Offer Amount:

When considering how high or how low an offer to make on a house, a crucial step is understanding the property’s value. To do that, you’ll want to get your real estate agent to conduct a Comparative Market Analysis (CMA), which compares the property with similar homes in the area that have recently sold, are currently on the market, or were on the market and didn’t sell. This analysis helps you gauge the house’s fair market value based on factors such as location, condition, size, and unique features. 

While determining the offer amount, it’s essential to balance the property’s market value with your budget, but the current market conditions also influence the decision.

In a buyer’s market, you may have more leeway to negotiate BELOW the asking price, whereas in a seller’s market, you might need to offer at or ABOVE the asking price to be competitive. Your offer should reflect both the property’s worth and what you can afford, keeping in mind that your initial offer sets the stage for all future negotiations. 

Additional Considerations:

When making an offer on a house, there may be additional considerations beyond the offer amount – such as a home inspection, mortgage financing and an agreement on a closing date – which are crucial for a successful transaction. When thoughtfully addressed in your offer, they protect your interests, demonstrate your commitment to the seller, and make your offer more appealing. We’ll go into more depth on some of these conditions below. 

Real Estate Paperwork:

When you’re ready to make an offer on a house, your agent will draw up the necessary paperwork, typically referred to as a Real Estate Purchase Agreement, though its name differs across the country. According to Canada Mortgage and Housing Corp., your offer documents must include the following specific details in order to be valid: 

• Your legal name, the name of the seller and the address of the property 

• The amount you’re offering to pay (the purchase price) and the amount of your deposit 

• Inclusions and exclusions (for example, are the window coverings included in the purchase?) 

• The date you want to take possession (“closing day”) 

• A request for a current Land Survey 

• The date the offer expires 

• Any other conditions that must be met before the contract is finalized (for example, a satisfactory home inspection)

The Price:

When making an offer on a house, be prepared to negotiate. Your negotiating power will depend on a few factors. The current market conditions in the immediate neighbourhood will dictate whether you can make a lowball offer – a likely scenario in a buyer’s market – or perhaps an offer that’s higher than the asking price, which became common in the record-breaking seller’s market brought on by the pandemic. 

Deposit:

While “deposit” and “down payment” are often used interchangeably, they are different. At the time of the offer, the buyer should come prepared to put a deposit on the home they hope to buy. 

The deposit will be rolled in with your down payment, showing the seller that you’re serious about buying the home and that you have your finances in order. If the buyer walks away from the deal, they will forfeit their deposit in most cases. 

There’s no standard deposit amount. It will vary based on the property type and the buyer’s desire for the particular home. The deposit is generally given to the seller’s agent to be held in trust until the deal is firm, but some sellers require a deposit to be placed in an escrow account.  

Down Payment:

A down payment is the amount of money paid up-front as a lump sum when you buy a home. It is calculated as a percentage of the total purchase price.

In Canada: 

• For homes with a purchase price of $500,000 or less, the minimum down payment is five per cent. 

• The minimum down payment for homes priced $500,000-$999,999 is five per cent for the first $500,000 and 10 per cent for the remaining portion. 

• Homes over $1.5 million require a 20-per-cent deposit. 

Keep in mind that this is the bare minimum required to qualify for a mortgage. However, anything below 20 per cent is considered a “high-ratio” mortgage and requires mortgage loan insurance.

Mortgage default insurance, or mortgage loan insurance, protects the mortgage lender if you aren’t able to make your monthly mortgage payments. While mortgage loan insurance is required if you have less than a 20-per-cent down payment, a lender may still require it – even if you put the complete 20-per-cent down – especially if you’re self-employed or have a poor credit history. 

Firm Versus Conditional Offer in Real Estate:

With the competitive market brought on by the pandemic, it was common to hear of bidding wars where buyers would make an offer without any conditions. This is called a firm offer. The buyer is 100 per cent certain of the purchase. They do not require any conditions for a home inspection or financing. Once the offer is made, the buyer can’t back out of the deal. 

Conversely, a conditional offer requires specific terms to be satisfied for the offer to be valid. These conditions protect the buyer; some common conditions include: 

• Purchase conditional on financing: This is a common condition for first-time homebuyers making an offer on a house, and it requires the sign-off of the mortgage lender for the deal to go through. The buyer will have a few days to get this, and the process will include a home appraisal. If the lender does not agree to finance the property, the buyer will notify the seller, and the offer becomes null and void.

• Purchase conditional on home inspection: A home is likely the biggest purchase you’ll make in your lifetime, so it’s always recommended that the offer be dependent on a satisfactory home inspection. A professional home inspector will look at things in and around the home that are openly visible (they will not be opening up walls or floors). The inspector will examine the structure, roof, plumbing, heating, and electrical systems to ensure the house is in good condition. If the home isn’t up to par, this condition allows the buyer to return to the seller and request repairs, a reduction in the price, or rescind the offer entirely.

• Purchase conditional on the sale of a home: If a prospective homebuyer already owns a home, they may want to ensure it is sold before agreeing to purchase a new property. This isn’t ideal for the seller, as every condition has a potential domino effect. 

A firm offer is typical in a hot market. With all other things being equal, a seller is more likely to accept an unconditional offer over one that could fall through for several reasons. 

Negotiations:

An experienced real estate agent will be able to advise you on what you can realistically negotiate, depending on the market conditions. In a buyer’s market, you hold the cards, knowing that there are plenty of other options on the market. In a seller’s market, you compete with other buyers vying for the same property, so quick action and a strong offer are more likely to work in your favour. 

Legal:

Your offer is a legal document, so ensure you read and understand everything outlined within it. If you don’t, you shouldn’t sign until you review the offer with a lawyer.  

Feeling Better About How to Make an Offer on a House?

Buying a home is a big deal, from the shopping and vetting process to the financial and emotional commitment you’re about to make. The offer is also a legally-binding document.

All your questions about making an offer on a house are valid, as even seemingly minor details will have a domino effect throughout the rest of the purchasing process and even long after you’ve taken possession.

Don’t go it alone. Work with an experienced RE/MAX agent and an experienced real estate lawyer to avoid potential pitfalls and ensure your best interests come first.

You’ve likely heard people lauding the benefits of home ownership. Canadian real estate has historically seen solid long-term gains, which bodes well for existing homeowners and those who plan to buy and keep the place for the long term. There are several other benefits of owning a home, including a roof over your head, a place to plant roots, pride of ownership, and a part of retirement planning. However, as with all investments, there is that initial cost of owning a house in Canada, and unlike other investment vehicles, a home also comes with ongoing expenses. So, down to the nitty-gritty: How much will it cost to buy a house?

Here’s How Much Will It Cost to Buy a House:

The price of the home and the services associated with the purchase are all relative to the type of property, its age/condition and location, so do your research to ensure it remains a good investment. A real estate agent can outline what you can expect to pay and maybe some unexpected expenses. In the meantime, here’s a list of hidden costs to factor into your budget.

Deposit

Depending on the price of a home and the market conditions, you should factor an up-front deposit into the cost of buying a home. You’re expected to pay a deposit when you make an offer on a home.

The deposit is a security measure to ensure you don’t lose the home to another interested buyer. The deposit also assures the seller that you’re serious about the purchase. If you are required to pay a deposit, it will become part of your down payment once you have purchased the home—it comes off the home’s purchase price. There’s no standard deposit amount, as it varies between provinces. However, your real estate agent can advise you based on the home’s asking price and the market conditions.

Down Payment

In Canada, the minimum down payment on a home depends on the purchase price. If the house is below $500,000, the minimum down payment will be five per cent. If the price is from $500,000 to $999,999, the down payment is five per cent on the first $500,000 and 10 per cent on the remaining amount.

While five per cent is the minimum down payment, anything below 20 per cent is considered a high-ratio mortgage and requires mortgage loan insurance. To avoid this, you’ll need a down payment of 20 per cent or more. This insurance is paid in a lump sum or added to your mortgage and included in your payments.

This can be a challenge, given how high home prices are in the Canadian real estate market, but there are some avenues to pursue to help you achieve this goal, such as the First Home Savings Account (FHSA).

Land Transfer Tax

When you buy a home, you are required to pay a land transfer tax on closing to the territory or province where you are buying. This tax is based on the amount paid for the property, as well as the remaining amount on any mortgage or debt assumed as part of the arrangement to buy it.

Cost will vary depending on your municipality, the size of the land and other factors. Alberta, Saskatchewan, and parts of Nova Scotia do not have Land Transfer Tax at all, while other provinces use a tiered system—meaning, the higher the purchase price, the higher the percentage you pay. Meanwhile, homebuyers in Toronto are hit with a double whammy, having to pay a municipal land transfer tax on top of the provincial land transfer tax.

Appraisal Fee

An appraisal is essential for the buyer. It lets the lender know they are providing a mortgage for a legitimate price and that you are paying fair market value for the home.

A property appraisal will typically cost in the ballpark of $300 – $400 but can vary depending on the appraiser and your location. However, this is an essential step, saving you from borrowing more than you need to and preventing lenders from giving you too much.

Home Inspection

Though it is not required, a home inspection is recommended in the home-buying process, helping you avoid many potential pitfalls. In hot real estate markets, many homebuyers will waive a home inspection from their conditions. It is a wise investment, helping you avoid costly repairs and renovation. A failed home inspection could be a negotiating factor or a deal-breaker.

A home inspection will generally cost an average of $500 depending on the size, age, and condition of the home, but it’s well worth the cost for the peace of mind you’ll have.

Property/Home Insurance

Most lenders will require you to have enough home insurance to cover the total cost of the property. Lenders will ask for proof of insurance before providing the funds to purchase the home.

While property insurance is likely already something you have factored into your budget, it’s important to do your research and find a reasonable quote that will ensure you are covered should anything unexpected happen. The more coverage you add to your home insurance, the higher the annual premiums.

Mortgage Insurance

Your lender will most likely offer you mortgage life insurance. If you pass away while the policy is valid, the insurance company will pay out what you owe the lender, ensuring that your family can remain in your home without making any payments.

An alternative to mortgage insurance is factoring your mortgage into the payout of your life insurance policy. This way, your beneficiaries get the money directly and can pay your mortgage lender, unlike mortgage insurance, where the payout goes to the lender first. Talk to your financial advisor about which option works better for you and your family.

Mortgage insurance is not to be confused with mortgage loan insurance, which protects the lender against mortgage default. Mortgage loan insurance is required if your down payment is less than 20 per cent of the purchase price.

Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation (CMHC)

The Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation (CMHC) plays a useful role in your home-buying endeavours as it offers prospective homeowners a broad array of calculators, online tools, and reports to ensure you are making the most informed and responsible decision for you and your family.

The federal housing agency provides the public with six vital tools:

• Decide if home ownership is right for you.

• Finance your home (mortgage basics, pre-approval, and loan insurance).

• Make an offer and close the deal (how to produce an offer).

• Check if you are financially ready for homeownership.

• Find the right residential property.

• Maintain your home and protect your investment (rebates and funding for renovations, repairs, and emergency planning).

Lawyer Fees

A real estate lawyer or notary is required to complete the purchase of a home. They prepare and review all legal documents, with the agreement of purchase and mortgage as the primary documents. Additionally, they ensure there are no previous claims on the property to help provide you with a clean title to the property.

The fee you will be charged by your lawyer will vary depending on the person representing you and must be paid upon closing. Ask your real estate agent for advice, as they likely have a preferred trusted lawyer they can refer you to.

Title Insurance

Title insurance is a one-time fee that protects from losses related to the property title or ownership. Though not required, it protects you from unknown title defects, existing liens on the property, structural encroachment issues, title fraud, and errors in surveys and public records. Talk to your lawyer about title insurance and if it benefits you.

Property Taxes

Property tax is billed annually, and it is expressed as a dollar rate for every $1,000 estimated to be the market value of your property. The tax is paid on property owned by an individual or an entity and is one of three taxes a household pays in Canada, the others being sales tax and income tax.

When you’re looking at homes to purchase, your real estate agent will be able to tell you what the property tax was for previous years. This information will allow you to plan for this ongoing expense.

Maintenance and Energy Costs

Potentially your largest ongoing homeowner expense, these costs include lawn care/ yard work, professional services, additions/upgrades and the cost of keeping the house running year-round. Ensure that you factor these costs on top of your mortgage and property taxes when determining if you can afford a home.

Depending on your location, many utility companies will offer an energy calculator to give you a rough estimate of how much you may spend on any given month. So, if you are in the beginning stage of moving up from a bachelor condominium suite to a three-bedroom house and you are unsure how much the energy bill will be, this tool can help you.

Moving Expenses

It’s easy to forget about the small things when moving, but it’s important to remember they can add up quickly! Consider the cost of cable, Internet, electricity, natural gas and other utility installations. Don’t forget about movers, a moving truck, and feeding your friends who are helping out!

Ultimately, this is what you should be planning for when it is time for the big move:

• Moving truck rental or professional movers

• Moving supplies

• Moving insurance

• Move-in expenses

Believe it or not, you can put your moving expenses on your taxes. By taking a gander at Line 21900 on T1-M, you can claim moving expenses and determine which expenses you can claim.

Land Survey

A land survey is a legal document that evaluates your home’s boundaries. Though it is not a requirement to sell your house in most jurisdictions, it will establish trust, outline the size of the property, and define future possibilities of expansion. The cost of the survey depends on how much work is involved and the time of year, but you can expect to pay at least $1,000.

Additionally, it can provide insurance against future headaches because you will not have to engage in potential quarrels with your neighbours since the land survey will identify a border between two plots of land and where the fence should be erected.

In the end, you will need to find qualified local surveyors. Be sure you interview these professionals and understand the full costs of these services.

Time to Create a Budget

Now that you have a better idea of the cost to buy a home, it’s time to hit the books to find out how much these services will cost in your area. Make a list, create a budget, and get started!

Here is how to get started:

• Get to the brass tacks: Can you afford a home?

• Dig deeper into your finances (fixed and variable)

• Review your budget frequently to ensure you have not missed anything.

• Your housing costs, including mortgage, should not exceed 32 per cent of your gross income each month.

• Do you have a down payment?

• Whether you are buying a home or you already own one and want to protect your finances, be sure to have a dedicated savings account for anything property-related. Plus, set up automatic transfers to this account to pad your finances.

• If you have extra money at the end of the month, consider putting it toward anything home-related, be it a down payment or mortgage pre-payment, if you have that allowance as part of your contract.

Source: https://blog.remax.ca/much-will-cost-buy-house/

There are many things you can change about a home. Need more space? Is the kitchen outdated? Does the place “need work?” These can all be fixed with a renovation. One thing you can’t change, is the location. That’s why it’s so important to do your research and choose a location that not only fits your needs now, but in the future as well. In this article, we’ll guide you through five steps to help you choose the best location to buy a home.

Choosing the Best Location to Buy a Home

When shopping for a home, it can be easy to get blinded by the dazzle of a home’s features, like a brand-new kitchen or the pool in the backyard. However, it is critical to take time to think about where you would like to live, before you can dive deeper into the type of home you would like to live in.

According to a new survey by REMAX Canada, four in five Canadians said they would recommend their neighbourhood as a great place to live. That tells us that this is on Canadians’ radar, and they’ve done their research.

Furthermore, three-quarters of Canadians said they have made compromises to live where they do—highlighting an important reality that, sometimes, compromises have to be made to attain some of the must-haves on your list or criteria. With that said, 57 per cent of Canadians said despite their compromises, they love their neighbourhoods and agree that their lifestyle aligns with the neighbourhood they live in.

Let’s explore some lifestyle factors and how they may influence your choice of location.

Step 1: Urban versus Suburban

There are pros and cons to living in both, but one important factor is the cost of living in each location. If you prefer to live in the city, look at all your options to see what your budget will get you in the city, versus what it will get you in the suburbs. After weighing both options, the question remains, urban or suburban?

Step 2: Explore the Neighbourhood

Depending on if you are a young professional, are raising a young family, or are downsizing, you are likely looking for a likeminded community and neighbourhood where you will fit in. While conducting online research is a great place to start, nothing is better than first hand experience. These tips will help you choose the perfect neighbourhood.

Step 3: Research Proximity to Work and School

Commute times have gotten longer in Canada’s biggest cities, and the time spent getting to and from work is a deciding factor for many, when choosing where to work. Well, the same applies when choosing where to live. When choosing the best neighbourhood to buy a home, take some time to research the proximity to work, schools and other places you frequent on a regular basis. With that being said, jobs can come and go for a variety of reasons, so while the location of your workplace should factor into your decision on the best neighbourhood to buy a home, it shouldn’t be the only factor.

Step 4: Think About Family & Friends

Finding the right location means considering the distance to family and friends, and how long it will take you to get to them. If a change in location will mean you are further away from the people closest to you, you should consider if it is still the right option for you.

Step 5: Look Into Crime Rates

One of the main reasons your house feels like home is because as soon as you walk through the door, you feel safe. Getting a good understanding of what happens in the neighbourhood you are considering moving to can easily be done by conducting research on the crime rates in that area, compared to the other areas you are considering.

Although you may just be starting your home search, researching locations is one of the most important first steps. Your REMAX agent is a great resource for information on the many neighbourhoods within your city. Once you’ve decided on a general area, you can zero in and start the search for your new home!

Start Your Search 

Source: https://blog.remax.ca/choosing-best-neighbourhood-to-buy-a-home/

Buying a house is a big deal for many of us. Owning a home is the ultimate symbol of personal success. It’s the reward for years of hard work, smart planning, and sticking to your financial goals. It means finally having a space that’s all yours—a place where you can kick back, grow, and make countless memories. But the thrill of chasing homeownership comes with its share of surprises, from the rollercoaster of market prices to figuring out loans and sifting through a mountain of paperwork. We hope to make your journey smoother by sharing common mistakes made by first-time buyers. We will provide key insights and practical tips so you can avoid pitfalls and make better-informed decisions.

Not Getting Pre-Approved for a Mortgage

Getting pre-approved does a couple of big things for you: it gives you a clear picture of what you can afford and makes sellers take you seriously. Imagine falling head over heels for a house only to find out it’s way out of your budget. Talk about heartbreak! Worse yet, stretching beyond your means can lead to a tough financial situation down the line. Sellers are more inclined to consider your offer seriously if they know you have financial backing.

Your credit score is a key factor lenders consider. Ensure it’s in good shape, as higher scores can secure you more favourable loan terms. If your score needs improvement, take steps to bolster it by paying down debts and correcting any errors on your credit report. Don’t settle for the first lender you meet. Compare rates and terms from multiple lenders to find the best deal. Each lender may offer different rates and fees, so shopping around can save you money in the long run.

Overlooking Additional Costs

A common oversight among first-time buyers is focusing solely on the down payment and monthly mortgage payments, neglecting the myriad of additional costs that come with homeownership. Closing costs, which can range from 2% to 5% of the home’s purchase price, property taxes, homeowners association fees, home insurance, and ongoing maintenance costs, can significantly impact your overall budget. By keeping these in mind, you’ll steer clear of financial surprises down the road so you can enjoy your new home without the stress of unanticipated bills.

Neglecting the Need for a Home Inspection

Skipping a home inspection to save a bit of time or money might seem like a shortcut, but it’s a risky move that can end up costing you more than you bargained for. A thorough inspection can reveal all sorts of hidden problems, from structural issues that compromise the house’s safety to outdated electrical systems that need a complete overhaul or even plumbing nightmares waiting to happen. A comprehensive home inspection can also highlight issues with the land itself, such as drainage problems that could lead to basement flooding or foundational shifts. These are concerns that not only affect your wallet but also your home’s livability. Uncovering these problems before you close the deal gives you a powerful negotiating tool. You can ask the seller to handle the repairs or to lower the price to cover the costs you’ll have to shoulder.

Letting Emotions Drive the Decision

Letting your heart rule over your head when you find a property you love is tempting, but you should keep your emotions in check to make a wise investment. Before making an offer, take a step back and consider the practical aspects. One useful strategy is to bring along a friend or family member during viewings—someone who can offer a fresh perspective and highlight things you might overlook when you’re smitten with a property. Make a list of non-negotiables for your new home to keep your priorities straight, so you don’t compromise on essential features for the sake of emotional attachment. Before you make an offer, research the local market thoroughly to understand the value of homes in the area. This will help you make an informed offer that’s in line with current market conditions, preventing overpayment.

Failing to Consider Future Needs

First-time homebuyers often get caught up in what they need right now without thinking much about what life might look like in the next 5 to 10 years. Big life changes, like adding to your family, switching jobs, or even just changing up how you want to live, can impact how well your home fits your life. Picking a place that meets your needs today and down the road can save you from the hassle and expense of moving or remodelling later on. When you’re looking for your home, it’s wise to think about the location, how big it is, the layout, and whether there’s room to grow or change things up. Keeping an eye on the future while you choose your home can help make sure it’s a good fit for the long haul.

Steer clear of the common hurdles in the home-buying process with RE/MAX, Canada’s leading real estate organization with unrivalled market share in nearly every region. Start your path to homeownership with our guidance, ensuring no detail is overlooked. Reach out to a REMAX agent today.

Search Listings

Source: https://blog.remax.ca/avoid-these-common-mistakes-made-by-first-time-home-buyers-2/

Adventure awaits! You and your pet are about to embark on a big move, from one province to another or clear across the country.

Long-distance moves require a lot of planning, preparation, and coordination. Especially when you’ve got your fuzzy BFF in tow. Moving with a dog is one thing, and moving with a cat can be another.

In order to keep enthusiasm high and stress levels low for both you and your pets, we’ve got some tips on how to prepare and pull off a long-distance move with your four-legged bestie.

Prepping for the big adventure

Before any packing for your move begins, make it a priority to ensure that your pet is healthy and ready for travel.

On the road (or in the air)

Some long-distance moves will be made easier
by breaking up the journey over the course of a few days

Find your Nearest Pet Valu

More Resources…

Moving with pets
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Sharing a home with pets brings a blend of joy, companionship and responsibility – whether that home is large or small, freehold or condo.

Congratulations on your move! By now, you know that some extra planning helped make it a smooth one for you and your furry friend(s). Now comes the fun part – life in your new home. Life with pets comes with some unique considerations. From shedding to elevator etiquette, Pet Valu's Animal Care Experts share some best practices and tips for living your best life, with pets in tow.

The truth about shedding

Even the most devoted pet lovers would agree that shedding isn’t exactly a perk. One moment, your home is spotless, and the next, fur has taken over. It clings to furniture, covers your clothes, and somehow settles on surfaces your pet hasn’t even touched. Shedding is a natural and necessary process that helps dogs and cats maintain a healthy coat. Some pets shed lightly year-round, while others seem to unleash a fur storm when the seasons change. 

It allows them to remove dead or damaged hair, make room for new growth, and regulate their body temperature. Shedding helps distribute natural skin oils, which keep the coat moisturized and protect against irritation. It can be influenced by factors such as breed, health conditions, diet, stress, and living environment. While some pets shed more than others, all animals with fur experience some level of natural hair loss.

How to minimize shedding

Although shedding cannot be completely stopped, Pet Valu emphasizes that pet owners can take proactive steps to reduce fur loss and maintain their pet’s coat health.

Grooming

Regular grooming is one of the best ways to manage shedding. Brushing and bathing help remove loose fur before it falls onto furniture and clothing. Using the correct grooming tools for your pet’s specific coat type is key. Some pets benefit from daily brushing, while others only need grooming a few times per week. Watch out for changes in skin and coat health during grooming sessions can help detect early signs of problems.

Diet and Hydration

A nutrient-rich diet with omega fatty acids (such as those found in fish oil) can help strengthen hair follicles, reduce excessive shedding, and promote a shinier, healthier coat. Hydration is equally important—well-hydrated skin is less likely to become dry or irritated, which can lead to increased hair loss.

Managing Stress-Related Shedding

Stress can cause pets to shed more than usual. This is because stress triggers the release of hormones that cause sudden hair loss. Many pet owners notice this when taking their pet to the veterinarian, during travel, or in unfamiliar environments. The good news is that stress-induced shedding is usually temporary—once the pet is calm, the excessive shedding stops. To help reduce stress, pet owners can provide a stable routine, a safe and comfortable environment, and positive reinforcement during stressful situations.

Essential cleaning hacks

There is a particular type of chaos that comes with owning a pet. Between shedding, muddy paw prints, and the occasional accident, keeping your space fresh with a pet around takes a little extra effort. With the right habits and tools, you can stay ahead of the mess without spending hours cleaning. We teamed up with Pet Valu to bring you the best pet cleaning hacks, along with expert-approved tips to make cleaning up after your pet as easy as possible.

Maximizing small spaces

If you’ve ever lived in a small space with a pet, you know the struggle is real. Between their toys, bedding and feeding stations, it can sometimes feel like your home belongs more to them than to you. Finding that sweet spot between making your pet feel at home and keeping your space livable isn’t always easy. But don’t worry; here are some tips and clever tricks to help you maximize your space without sacrificing style, comfort or your sanity.

Dedicated Pet Zones

A smart setup keeps your home tidy and your space feeling like yours not just your pet's playground. Set up food and water bowls in a consistent, low-traffic spot near the kitchen, which is ideal for easy refills. Place beds in quiet spots where your pet can relax undisturbed. Keep toys organized in baskets, bins or furniture with built-in storage. Choose options that match your home's aesthetic.

Vertical Space

When floor space is limited, go vertical. Install cat shelves, trees or wall-mounted climbing units to expand their territory. A window hammock is perfect for lounging while keeping the floor clear. Look for pet beds with built-in storage, or consider ottomans and benches that double as cozy pet retreats. These space-saving solutions keep your home looking neat while maximizing every inch.

Take it Outside

The outdoors is your pup's playground! Start by taking short walks, letting them sniff and explore at their own pace. Always bring poop bags to clean up after your pet, along with some treats for rewards or training. Look for nearby parks, walking trails, or pet-friendly stores where your pet can stretch their legs and socialize.

Protect Your Home's Value

While pet-friendly homes can be cozy and welcoming, untreated stains, odours, and excessive fur buildup can lead to long-term damage that may lower the value of your home. Carpets that have absorbed years of pet accidents, scratched hardwood floors, and lingering pet odours can all become costly issues when it’s time to sell or renovate. Here are a few helpful tips:

1. Trim your pet’s nails regularly to reduce scratches on hardwood floors and furniture.
   

2. Seal and protect flooring with a scratch-resistant coating, or choose durable, pet-friendly materials like vinyl, laminate, or tile to minimize wear and tear over time.
   

3. Invest in pet-safe scratch guards for doors and walls to prevent claw marks.
   

4. ​Use washable, stain-resistant paint on walls to make cleaning up pet smudges, dirt, and fur buildup easier.
   

5. ​Invest in furniture covers to prevent fur and dirt from embedding into upholstery. These are easy to wash and swap out when needed.
   

6. ​Ventilate your home regularly to keep pet-related odours from settling into fabrics and walls.

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