Sara Kashanian

Sara Kashanian Your Home, Your Future, My Passion

Knowing the difference between soft and hard credit checks can give you a real edge as you plan your home purchase. 🏡A s...
05/25/2026

Knowing the difference between soft and hard credit checks can give you a real edge as you plan your home purchase. 🏡

A soft credit check is what lenders use for pre-qualification, this step is quick and won’t impact your credit score. It’s perfect when you’re just starting to explore your options and want a clear sense of your buying range, all without any risk to your credit profile.

When you’re ready to get serious and make an offer, pre-approval comes into play. That means a hard credit check, which digs deeper into your financial situation. While it may cause a slight change to your credit score, Canadian credit bureaus treat several mortgage applications close together as a single inquiry. This makes it possible to shop around for the right lender and rate, something buyers in Toronto appreciate, especially with competitive listings.

Understanding these steps helps you time your moves confidently and keeps your goals in reach. 📑✨

Have you ever wondered which step to take first, or been surprised by how the process works? Let’s chat below!

Heading toward pre-approval sets first-time buyers apart in Ontario’s fast-moving market. 🗝️Pre-approval is more than a ...
05/20/2026

Heading toward pre-approval sets first-time buyers apart in Ontario’s fast-moving market. 🗝️

Pre-approval is more than a formality, it’s proof to sellers that you’re serious and financially ready. While pre-qualification gives a quick sense of your budget using your own numbers, lenders will want to verify everything before handing over a pre-approval letter. That’s why gathering your documents ahead of time can give you a real edge when it counts.

Here’s what you’ll typically need: proof of income (like recent pay stubs and tax slips), details about assets and debts, government-issued ID, and evidence of steady employment. 📝 Each lender may have small differences, but having these ready means fewer surprises and smoother processing. In my experience, this level of preparation makes you stand out, especially when bidding gets competitive.

Keep in mind, staying financially steady between pre-approval and closing is key to holding onto your commitment from the lender. Avoid big purchases or job changes until your keys are in hand. đź”’

Have you started your own checklist, or is there a document you’re still unsure about? Share your thoughts or questions below.

Knowing how pre-qualification works gives first-time buyers a confident head start. 🏡✨Pre-qualification is a quick, info...
05/07/2026

Knowing how pre-qualification works gives first-time buyers a confident head start. 🏡✨

Pre-qualification is a quick, informal way to estimate your buying range before you get too deep into the home search. It only needs basic info and doesn’t impact your credit score, which is ideal if you’re just curious about where you might land in Toronto’s market.

Once you’ve figured out your budget and are ready to start visiting listings, getting pre-approved takes you further. This step is more formal, lenders will check your financial details and documents. Pre-approval means you have a verified amount in hand and shows sellers you’re serious. In markets like Toronto, that extra assurance can tip the scales your way when it’s time to make an offer.

If you’re early in the process, start with pre-qualification for a clear sense of what’s possible, then use pre-approval to lock in your rate and boost your negotiating power. 🌟

What’s the biggest thing you’re wondering about financing your first home? Let’s talk about it below!

04/30/2026

Thinking of claiming a first-time buyer rebate in Toronto? It all comes down to how you live in your new place. 🏡

For these rebates, the key requirement is that you make the property your principal residence and actually move in within a certain period after closing. Intent matters here, your home must be the spot where you live day-to-day, not just an investment or a part-time address. If you’re buying with a partner, everyone listed needs to qualify and plan to live there too. ✨

This focus on principal residence applies to both Ontario and Toronto rebates, and it doesn’t matter if you’re choosing a condo or a detached. As long as it’s truly your main home, you’re in the right lane. Before making a move, double-check these occupancy rules so your rebate goes smoothly! 📝

Does the occupancy rule surprise you? Let me know if this changed how you look at your next step!

04/30/2026

Getting financing to work in your favor in Ontario calls for more than just luck, it’s all about the right strategies. 🏡

Lenders and local regulations push buyers to approach each deal with careful planning. That means knowing how to structure your finances, stress-testing for bumps in the market, and making sure your plan stands up even when things shift. The biggest win comes from long-term thinking, prioritizing cash flow and future demand, not just hoping for a quick bump in price.

Using a disciplined buy-and-hold approach in the right growth neighborhoods can set you up for more reliable income and less stress. 💡 Short-term trades might promise excitement, but it’s the steady approach that stands up to unpredictable markets and avoids extra risk.

Want to find out how your financing approach matches up to today’s Ontario landscape? Share your biggest question or worry about qualifying or leverage below, let’s get practical. 👇

04/29/2026

Many buyers don’t realize how much the right down payment strategy can change their monthly costs and options in Toronto. 🏡

Understanding the difference between putting less than 20% down and reaching that threshold goes beyond just hitting a target. When your down payment is below that mark, lenders require CMHC insurance, which means a higher monthly payment, though it also lets you enter the market sooner with less cash upfront. Reaching 20% down avoids insurance and brings more flexibility, but it often takes longer to save, especially in a fast-moving market like Toronto.

No matter which path you’re considering, remember to factor in closing costs and have funds ready for things like legal fees, taxes, and insurance. This is where a clear plan matters, I always walk clients through the true out-of-pocket costs before they move forward, so there are no last-minute surprises. 📋

Are you weighing your options for down payment and unsure what makes the most sense for you? Share where you’re at or ask your questions below, let’s talk through your next step. 💬

04/28/2026

Spring in Toronto brings fresh possibilities for buyers ready to make a move. 🌱

This season sees more homes hitting the market, which means buyers can explore a wider range of options and feel less pressure from bidding wars. With interest rates holding steady and local incentives tailored for newcomers, it’s easier to secure a place that truly fits your needs.

The flow of new listings, especially in popular neighborhoods, gives first-time buyers, upsizers, downsizers, and investors room to compare and negotiate on their terms. Sellers are also more willing to work with serious buyers during this period, opening doors for better outcomes whether you’re buying or listing.

Curious if spring’s market shift could make your next step easier? What’s the most important feature you’d look for in your next Toronto home? 🏡 Tell me below!

04/27/2026

Knowing the difference between upfront and ongoing housing costs can make all the difference for first-time buyers in Mississauga. 🏡

Upfront closing costs, like land transfer tax, legal fees, title insurance, and home inspections, are the foundation of your home purchase budget. These are one-time expenses you’ll need to cover before you get your keys. On the other hand, ongoing monthly housing expenses, mortgage payments, property taxes, insurance, utilities, and maintenance, become part of your everyday financial picture. Both matter equally when mapping out a budget that protects your long-term peace of mind. 🔑

It’s not just about what you can afford today. Planning for these two cost categories up front keeps your move stress-free and sustainable, especially as the Mississauga market rewards prepared, selective buyers who are clear on their financial limits. When you separate these expenses from day one, you put yourself in a stronger negotiating position and avoid surprises that could stretch your budget down the line. ✨

What was the most surprising housing expense you discovered as a new homeowner? Let me know below!

04/26/2026

Move-in-ready homes can redefine the real cost of owning in the GTA. 🏡

In today’s market, buyers have more time and choice than ever before, making a property’s condition and renovation status a key piece of the financial puzzle. While it’s tempting to focus on just the purchase price, a home that’s been well maintained, inside and out, often means fewer surprises down the line. Fresh updates and energy-efficient features can help protect your monthly budget, minimize emergency repairs, and support resale value if you decide to move on.

As I help clients sort through their options in Toronto, I always weigh upfront savings against the true long-term costs of ownership, including ongoing maintenance and potential lifestyle changes. Choosing the right property means planning for both the expected and the unexpected, and that peace of mind is something no spreadsheet fully captures. 🛠️✨

What would you prioritize most in your first home, a turnkey renovation, or a project with future potential? Let’s hear your take below.

04/25/2026

Most buyers never realize just how many moving parts a pre-construction assignment involves. 🏗️

When a pre-construction unit is assigned, there isn’t just a simple hand-off, there’s a legal relationship between three parties: the original buyer, the assignee, and the developer. This structure means every detail must be coordinated carefully. The assignor often remains responsible for the contract until the developer grants a full release, making things more complex than most direct resale deals. Builder consent isn’t just a formality; it’s essential, and attempting to transfer without it could mean serious consequences.

Recent changes in Ontario’s regulations have only added more layers, making it crucial to have professional support. Navigating this landscape means understanding builder requirements, crafting solid agreements, and making sure every party’s interests are protected. That’s why connecting early with a real estate agent who understands assignment restrictions, and a lawyer familiar with the new legal obligations, can make all the difference. 📄🔑

Have you come across assignment sales or considered one yourself? Share your thoughts or questions below!

Address

1396 Donmills Road Unit 101
North York, ON
M3B0A7

Telephone

+14168826644

Website

Alerts

Be the first to know and let us send you an email when Sara Kashanian posts news and promotions. Your email address will not be used for any other purpose, and you can unsubscribe at any time.

Contact The Practice

Send a message to Sara Kashanian:

Shortcuts

Share

Category