Frequently Asked Questions

Yes. The Mother Daughter Team™ is women-owned and operated, and every REALTOR® on the team is a woman — Laura Brown, Kristina Kritikos, Maria Angelescu and Michelle Smith. The team was founded by Laura Brown in 1985 and is now led by Laura together with her daughter Kristina. The team operates under Royal LePage Burloak Real Estate Services, Brokerage; the women-owned description refers to the team itself, not to the brokerage.

Our initial consultation is complimentary. For buyers, how our brokerage is paid is clearly explained before any representation agreement is signed, including whether compensation is being offered through the seller's brokerage. For sellers, we use an established commission structure that is fully explained and agreed to before any listing agreement is signed. All fees are disclosed and agreed to upfront, with no surprises.

The process typically takes 60–90 days from the start of your search to closing day. However, this varies depending on market conditions, your specific criteria, and how quickly you find the right home. The closing period (from accepted offer to possession) is usually 30–90 days and is negotiated as part of your offer.

A home evaluation is a professional assessment of your property's current market value based on recent comparable sales, your home's condition, and current market trends. Yes — our evaluation is completely free and there is absolutely no obligation to list with us or anyone else.

This depends on your financial situation and risk tolerance. Selling first gives you a firm budget but may require temporary housing. Buying first ensures a seamless move but requires carrying two properties temporarily. We'll analyze your specific situation and recommend the best strategy for you.

In October 2026, Burlington's benchmark price was $879,800, up 0.3% from a year earlier, according to the Cornerstone Association of REALTORS®. The median sale was $1,206,000 for a single-family home and $700,000 for a townhouse, condo or semi, and homes took an average of 32 days on market. See our market report for the latest monthly figures.

We strongly recommend a home inspection for every purchase. While waiving inspection conditions became common in the heated 2020–2022 market, conditions have normalized and buyers can once again protect themselves with thorough due diligence. Our team can recommend trusted, certified inspectors.

Ontario land transfer tax is paid by the buyer. It is charged in brackets from 0.5% to 2.0% of the price, plus 2.5% on any portion above $2 million for a home with one or two single-family residences. On an $850,000 home it comes to $13,475. First-time buyers may qualify for a refund of up to $4,000. We'll provide a complete closing cost estimate before you make any offers.

Simply contact us and we'll prepare a comprehensive equity report showing your home's estimated current value, your estimated equity position, and current market comparisons. This is free, confidential, and requires no commitment.

In Canada, the minimum down payment is 5% on the first $500,000 of the purchase price and 10% on the portion between $500,000 and $1,499,999. For homes priced at $1.5 million or more, a minimum 20% down payment is required. If your down payment is less than 20%, you'll also need CMHC mortgage insurance. Use our mortgage calculator to see exactly how your down payment affects your monthly costs.

For most buyers the biggest closing cost is Ontario land transfer tax: on an $850,000 home it is $13,475 before any first-time buyer refund. You'll also pay legal fees and disbursements, title insurance, a home inspection and property tax adjustments, so ask your lawyer and inspector for quotes. Burlington and Hamilton have no municipal land transfer tax. First-time buyers may qualify for a land transfer tax refund of up to $4,000.

The mortgage stress test requires all Canadian buyers — even those with 20%+ down — to qualify at the greater of their contract rate plus 2% or 5.25%, the minimum qualifying rate set by OSFI, the federal regulator. This means you may qualify for less than expected. For example, even if your lender offers 4.5%, you must prove you can afford payments at 6.5%. Our affordability calculator factors in the stress test so you know your real budget before you start looking.

A fixed-rate mortgage locks your interest rate for the entire term (typically 3–5 years), giving you predictable monthly payments. A variable-rate mortgage moves with your lender's prime rate, which follows the Bank of Canada's policy rate — you may pay less when rates drop but more when they rise. Fixed rates offer predictability, while variable rates can rise or fall during your term. We can connect you with trusted mortgage brokers to find the best option for your situation.

There is no single minimum. Each lender, and each mortgage insurer when you put down less than 20%, sets its own credit score requirements, and a higher score usually gets you better rates. If your score is low, you may still qualify through alternative or private lenders at higher rates. Improving your credit score before applying — by paying down debt, avoiding new credit inquiries, and keeping card balances well below their limits — can save you thousands over the life of your mortgage.

Yes — we strongly recommend getting pre-approved before you start looking at homes. Pre-approval tells you how much a lender is prepared to lend you, can hold an interest rate for a period set by your lender, and shows sellers you're a serious, qualified buyer. Sellers take offers backed by a pre-approval more seriously. The process takes 1–3 business days and requires proof of income, employment, assets, and a credit check. Contact us and we'll connect you with a trusted mortgage professional.

On closing day, your lawyer transfers the remaining purchase funds to the seller's lawyer, registers the property title in your name, and provides you with the keys — typically by early afternoon. Before closing, you'll have completed a final walkthrough to confirm the property's condition, signed mortgage documents, and provided your lawyer with a certified cheque or wire transfer for the balance owing (down payment minus deposit, plus closing costs). We guide our clients through every step so there are no surprises. Learn more about our buyer process.

Burlington property taxes are based on the assessed value of your home multiplied by the municipal tax rate. For 2026, the City of Burlington puts urban residential tax at $1,015.29 per $100,000 of MPAC assessed value, about 1.015%, covering the city, Halton Region and education. On a home assessed at $800,000, that's about $8,122 per year (about $677 a month). Keep in mind that assessed values are often lower than market value. Property taxes fund local schools, roads, parks, emergency services, and community programs. Use our mortgage calculator to see how property tax impacts your total monthly housing cost.

The rent vs. buy decision depends on your financial situation, timeline, and goals. Buying builds equity and offers long-term wealth, while renting provides flexibility. If you plan to stay for several years and have a stable income and a down payment saved, buying is often worth a close look. Our affordability quiz can help you see where you stand.

A competitive offer involves more than just price. Key factors include a strong deposit, mortgage pre-approval, flexible closing dates, and a clean offer with reasonable conditions. In multiple-offer situations, we advise on strategic pricing based on comparable sales, neighbourhood trends, and seller motivation. Sometimes a well-structured offer at a fair price beats a higher but riskier one. We help buyers compare price, deposit, conditions, and closing terms before deciding how to structure an offer — let's talk strategy.

Burlington's top family-friendly neighbourhoods include Alton Village (newer builds, excellent schools, parks), Headon Forest (mature trees, community feel, schools nearby), and Tyandaga (ravine lots, close to nature trails). Each offers a different lifestyle and price point. For a detailed breakdown of schools, parks, and home prices by area, explore our Burlington neighbourhoods guide or take our neighbourhood match quiz.

A strong sale strategy considers recent comparable sales, active competition, property condition, presentation, marketing, and offer terms. Pricing too far above comparable properties can reduce early buyer interest and extend time on market. Our seller services include a comprehensive market analysis, professional staging consultation, professional photography and video, MLS and social media exposure, and skilled negotiation. Start with a free home evaluation to see what your property is worth today.

Both cities offer excellent schools, safe neighbourhoods, and lakefront living — but they differ in price point, character, and lifestyle. Burlington tends to be slightly more affordable with a vibrant downtown core and strong community feel. Oakville skews higher in average home prices with a more established luxury market. Commute times to Toronto are similar via GO Transit. We help families compare these communities based on budget, housing type, commute, and lifestyle priorities. Read our detailed Burlington vs. Oakville comparison guide for a full breakdown.

Ontario first-time buyers can take advantage of several programs: the Ontario land transfer tax refund for first-time buyers (up to $4,000), the First Home Savings Account (FHSA) for tax-free down payment savings of up to $40,000 ($8,000 a year), the Home Buyers' Plan allowing up to $60,000 withdrawn from your RRSP tax-free, and the federal Home Buyers' Amount, a non-refundable tax credit worth up to $1,500. With less than 20% down, first-time buyers can also choose an amortization of up to 30 years instead of 25. Read our complete first-time buyer guide for step-by-step details.

If you're selling your principal residence, the gain is generally tax-free under Canada's Principal Residence Exemption. However, if you're selling an investment property, rental property, or cottage, 50% of the capital gain (the difference between what you paid and what you sold for, minus eligible expenses) is added to your taxable income. Proper tax planning and record-keeping are essential — especially for investors with multiple properties. Read our capital gains tax guide for details.