Malinoff/Brent logo

613.561.2317

Mark Malinoff
Sales Representative

613.328.1299

Linda Brent
Sales Representative

Malinoff-Brent logo with RLP logo

Buying or Selling a Home? You May Have Questions

Frequently Asked Questions

Click on a question below to expand the section and see the answer.

We are happy to answer your questions, but here are some of the more common ones that we hear.

If you don’t find the question or the answer you were looking for here, please contact one of our sales representatives directly or use the form on our contact page to get in touch.

If I'm interested in a property, how can I determine if the list price is fair?

We will look at the property’s sales history and comparable recent sales to help assess true market value.

How do I know what price to offer for a property?

Based on comparable recent sales and our extensive experience, as well as any other relevant factors such as competing offers, we will recommend an offer price that will protect your best interests and give you your best chance to get your dream property.

What is the difference between 'pre-qualified' and 'pre-approved' for a mortgage?

If you are “pre-qualified” you have determined, with a loan officer, what price you can afford based on the down payment, your debts and the amount the mortgage company will approve for your mortgage. Being “pre-qualified” is only a determination of your probable credit. If you are “pre-approved”, your credit, employment and funds have been approved by the lender.

What are closing costs?

Closing costs are an accumulation of charges paid to different entities associated with the buying and selling of real estate. For buyers, they are usually about 4-6% of the total sales price of a property. Some of the closing costs you might encounter are: application fees, appraisal fee, Land Tansfer taxes, movers, documentation fee, homeowners’ association fees, loan fees, mortgage insurance, origination fees, tax registration and title insurance premium.

What is title insurance?

Title insurance protects the named insured against loss because of defects, liens, encumbrances, adverse claims, violations of municipal zoning by-laws, encroachments or other matters not shown or disclosed to the new owner that attach before date of policy. Some forms of title insurance will also cover against losses arising from real estate title fraud, forgery and false impersonation. Title insurance is available for a low premium that is paid only once at the time of closing, adn coverage is valid for the entire time you own the property.

Do I need a home inspection done on every home I'm interested in?

In some cases, the sellers might already have commissioned a recent home inspection by a reputable home inspector to save you the trouble! It is also possible to purchase a property conditional on a subsequent home inspection. We will help you determine on a case by case basis whether an inspection is recommended.

What is a home inspection and should I have one done?

A home inspection is a visual examination of the property to determine the overall condition of the home. In the process, the inspector should be checking all major components (roofs, ceilings, walls, floors, foundations, crawl spaces, attics, retaining walls, etc.) and systems (electrical, heating, plumbing, drainage, exterior weather proofing, etc.). The results of the inspection should be provided to the purchaser in written form, in detail, generally within 24 hours of the inspection.

A pre-purchase home inspection can add peace of mind and make a difficult decision much easier. It may indicate that the home needs major structural repairs which can be factored into your buying decision. A home inspection helps remove a number of unknowns and increases the likelihood of a successful purchase.

What happens to my deposit while I await closing?

Your deposit is held in the listing brokerage’s trust account until closing, when it is applied towards the purchase price of the property and related costs. If an interest bearing clause was part of your original offer, you may be entitled to the interest accrued on the deposit once the property has closed.

What is SPIS?

A Seller Property Information Statement is an optional form that sellers can fill out when listing their homes. The seller warrants as to certain information pertaining to their home, such as their knowledge of any structural problems, details on mechanical systems and upgrades etc. If you are interested in a specific property we can let you know if there is an SPIS available and send you a copy of it.

How can you help me find the right home?

We will not only impress you with our knowledge of the local market but we will appreciate what you are looking for in a home. We will show you what is available in your price range, and discuss with you how the features and benefits of specific homes and neighbourhoods fit your requirements.

Why should I work with just one REALTOR?

If you don’t have an exclusive agency agreement with us, you’re not legally obligated to work only with us to find your next home. It may, however, greatly benefit you to do so. Please talk to us regarding our position and then determine what’s best for you.

What happens when you are not available?

Our team works extremely long hours and we try to be available whenever and wherever you need us. However as accommodating as we try to be, we are not always available.

We do however have a great team and are willing to help each other out to assist our clients when needed.

What makes your real estate service special?

Every REALTOR® tries hard to give top-notch service, but what distinguishes us from the rest?

Our team is dedicated to the services we provide. We care about our clients and are not about just making the deal, but we are about building lasting relationships. Our goal is to do such a good job for you that you would not only use our services again in the future but recommend us to your family and friends.

Say hello!

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It would be our pleasure to show you homes in and around the Kingston area. If you are ready to sell your home, we would be happy to take time to sit with you and discuss how to market your home successfully.

613.544.4141 (Office)
613.548.3830 (Fax)

613.561.2317 (Mark - cell)
613.328.1299 (Linda - cell)

info@welcomehomekingston.com

Malinoff Brent Team
Royal LePage ProAlliance
80 Queen Street
Kingston, Ontario K7K 6W7