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The Home Buying Process

Before You Buy a Home, A Checklist

The time has come and you are ready to buy for first or next home-sweet-home for yourself or an investment.

Before you start your search, review this checklist, which we hope will help you prepare your budget and guide you on your way to financial success in this and future real estate transactions.

1. Reduce Debt & Increase Credit Score: 

Before you start looking for your next home you should request a credit report. This will give you a starting point on understanding your credit score before you request a loan. Your credit score will influence the interest rate of your loan.

2. Save Money to Set Yourself Up with a Large Down Payment:

 Before starting your home search, it's important to get advice from a qualified lender about what you can afford and the minimum down payment required with new rules in Canada. You'll want to save and get as close to possible to this amount as soon as possible. This may allow you to get a better mortgage rate and you may qualify for special programs like the First-Time Home Buyers Plan or other financing options. 

3. Keep a Conservative Budget

: It’s just not the list price that is included in the purchase. Keep in mind there are inspection fees, title insurance, legal fees, moving expenses, and typically new furniture purchases that you should prepare for in advance. Along with the initial closing costs and moving expenses, you should also be aware of your monthly budget moving forward. With homeownership comes property taxes, condo fees, home repairs, and more. You want to make sure you are prepared for future budgeting as well. 

4. Get Pre-Approved

Your pre-approval can help if you are putting in an offer against someone who is not... makes you look like a more ready-now buyer. Your pre-approval is based on your actual income, debt, and credit history. This is different from pre-qualification, which is how a lender determines how much you can afford.

5. Set Your Home Buying Budget

By getting your finances in line before your first home showing you know the price range of a home that you can actually afford. It is important to set a realistic budget that fits your income level and characteristics you want in a home. 

6. Find an Agent You Trust

An agent will be able to guide you along the way and educate you in the home buying process. Also, keep in mind an agent usually is very well connected to the other professional advisors you will need before closing day. 

As you begin the process to find your next home checking these items off your list will provide you with a more successful home buying experience. Our team is here to help you! Let us know the area and/or neighbourhood you are looking to live along with your top needs our team of professionals will assist with finding your next home.

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Newest Listings in Nova Scotia

$499,999
3 Beds 2 Baths 202421943 MLS
Have you been waiting for that Hole in One property in Downtown Dartmouth? Welcome to the newly renovated and truly unique 190 Windmill Road—a property that offers the perfect blend of modern style, historic charm, and unbeatable location. This historic home, which stood strong during the Halifax Explosion (check out the photo hanging in the dining room), has been lovingly transformed, updated and modernized. Boasting curb appeal with its spacious 4-car driveway and a stunning new porch, you’ll be greeted by the bright airy sunroom of your dreams that flows seamlessly into the open-concept main living area. Upstairs, you’ll find three bedrooms, perfect for a growing family or guests, along with a versatile den just off the primary suite. Whether you need a home office, an extra closet, or a cozy reading nook, this room is ready to meet your needs. Enjoy waking up to serene Harbour views from the second floor (a reminder of your short commute and proximity to both Bridges and the Alderney Landing Ferry Terminal) then retreat to the newly renovated bathroom with a luxurious soaker tub and sleek walk-in shower—your personal spa. For golfers, this property is a dream come true. The backyard has been transformed into your very own putting paradise, so you can work on your short game anytime! When you're ready for a full round, Brightwood Golf Course is just a quick 4-minute drive or a refreshing 18-minute walk away. Young couples will love this home for its modern updates, low maintenance design, and its prime location close to everything. Whether you're commuting or enjoying all that Dartmouth has to offer, you’ll find convenience and charm at every turn. If you’re looking for a move-in-ready home with a central location, plenty of space, ample parking, NO OIL, a fenced backyard, a golfer’s twist (I could go on but I’ll let you see for yourself) call your REALTOR and book your tee time now!

190 Windmill Rd, Dartmouth

$649,900
2 Beds 202421935 MLS
Stylish traditional-modern duplex in the heart of central north-end Halifax. Built around 1892, this set of over-under-flats is perfect for an owner-occupied with income, an attractive wide-market rental investment, and students that would rather own than pay rent. Ground floor, spacious open-concept main unit has a cohesive feel, with softwood floors throughout. It has an updated kitchen with dishwasher, granite counter tops, and stainless-steel appliances. It is filled with natural light from windows and doors throughout the unit and is connected to the backyard. The bathroom area was completely rebuilt in 2017 from the foundation up, with all new plumbing, wiring, and fixtures. The bedroom is spacious with double closets allowing for ample storage and an office nook. There is a heat pump on the main floor and a washer & dryer with plenty of storage in the high-ceilinged basement. The backyard is a private lush garden oasis with mature trees and strategic landscaping. It is fully fenced, with generous multi-level terraced decks, which lends well for gardening and gatherings. The upstairs unit has consistent warmth and character with the downstairs, including original softwood floors, an updated open-concept kitchen with a custom-built bookcase island, granite countertop, and contemporary finishes. The bedroom has a glass garden door with a generous balcony, overlooking the south-facing backyards. Other updates (2015 & 2017) include metal roof, new electrical, plumbing, spray foam insulation, drywall and in-unit laundry. Both apartments have fixed-term leases that expire October 31st, 2024. With two power meters and electric heat, tenants are responsible for their own heat. Onsite parking for two cars completes the picture!

5522 Bloomfield Street, Halifax Peninsula

$514,900
3 Beds 4 Baths 202421921 MLS
Welcome to147 Lier Ridge; a rare find in Governor’s Brook with a unique location that backs onto greenspace and is neighbouring a park. This six year old home has three bedrooms, two full bathrooms & two half bathrooms. There are 1,290 square feet of finished space with another, currently unfinished, 472 square feet on the basement level. Overall, a total of 1,762 square feet of interior space, plus a 228 square foot garage. On the main floor, an ample entryway leads to an open concept kitchen, dining area & living room that is serviced by a heat pump. Here, a double patio door leads out to a large deck and a fully fenced backyard. Below this rear deck, there is another outdoor sitting area with walkout access from the basement level. The basement is currently unfinished, however, with some drywall & flooring, this could be easily completed. Or perhaps you’ll want to continue to use it as storage space and a workshop. Note that there is a half bath in this space. Upstairs, there are three bedrooms and two full bathrooms. The two secondary bedrooms are a great size and let in plenty of natural light. The primary bedroom spans the width of the home and comes with a full ensuite, heat pump and walk-in closet. Finally, this home comes with a full-size, heated garage and a driveway that the owners have expanded to allow two cars to fit comfortably side-by-side. In the garage you’ll find a ‘Powerwall’ system, a compact home battery that stores energy for automatic backup in cases where a storm affects the neighbourhood power grid. Currently on a lease-to-own program with NS Power for $28.75/month (including HST). Conveniently located near schools, bus routes, playgrounds & all amenities. This area also connects to the extensive McIntosh Run trail system, offering kilometres of picturesque hiking and mountain biking.

147 Lier Ridge, Spryfield

$699,000
3 Beds 2 Baths 202421894 MLS
Dreaming of lakefront living within the highly sought after community of Fall River NS? Look no further. Welcome to 3609 Highway 2, nestled on the beautiful shores of Fletcher’s Lake. This spectacular property offers over 220ft of prime waterfront and is perfectly situated on a professionally landscaped oversized lot. Feel at home within this charming 1.5 storey 3 bed 2 bath family home. The bright & welcoming main level includes a mudroom, kitchen, dining room, bedroom, 4-piece bath, spacious living room, family room and an office. Enjoy the electric fireplace for added warmth & ambiance. The feeling & reality of being “lakeside” is truly captured within this home. The 2nd level boasts a bathroom, a bedroom & a primary bedroom with 2 walk-in closets & a private deck of its own. With access points through either the living room or family room to a huge private deck makes for an incredible view from just about anywhere! The outdoor space is ideal for entraining friends & family, day or night. A heat pump has been installed to optimize the home’s efficiency & add additional comfort for all four seasons. A generator hook up has been installed for peace of mind, and you will enjoy the detached garage for extra storage. The large lot offers a ton of opportunity; one being that the current zoning allows for an accessory backyard suite if desired. Who needs a cottage when you live here? Enjoy the tranquility of lakeside living with convenient access to urban amenities. Offering a family friendly neighbourhood within a sought-after school district. Only mins to all schools, all amenities and less than 15 mins to the Halifax International Airport. Don't miss out on this fantastic opportunity, call today for your private viewing!

3609 Highway 2, Fletchers Lake

$599,500
4 Beds 3 Baths 202421895 MLS
Prepare to be captivated by the charm of this century home while delighting in the conveniences of today. Upon entering the enclosed porch you will find ample storage, and the perfect transitional space between indoors and out, to hang up the dog leash, and towel them off before entering into the home. A beautifully appointed kitchen features full height cabinets for an elegant and seamless look, a farmhouse sink, and a centre island at the heart of the space. The walk in pantry also houses a freezer and 2nd fridge. The formal dining space has a tray ceiling for architectural appeal, and features a striking stone wall, ideal for you to add a wood or propane fireplace insert. Also on the main floor is the laundry, combined with a 2 piece bath, a newly remodeled office that could be a 4th bedroom, stately living room featuring both a heat pump and a pellet stove and a beautiful sunroom. Upstairs are three welcoming bedrooms. The primary bedroom offers a walk-through closet and ensuite plus there is a 4 piece main bathroom. The attic offers the opportunity to finish into additional living space. Outside there is a deck with a covered barbecue space for outdoor cooking, a stone patio with gazebo, and for the handy person there is a two level workshop with a walkout basement, an ideal space for projects & creativity. A mix of fruit trees and berry bushes are strategically interspersed with perennials around the almost half acre lot. Book your private viewing today and experience the beauty and elegance of this stunning property first hand.

1484 Bridge Street, Kingston

$967,000
3 Beds 3 Baths 202421864 MLS
Welcome to 51 Three Brooks Drive! This stunning home offers over 250 feet of water frontage on picturesque Big Hubley Lake. Discover the perfect blend of comfort and nature in this charming two-story home. This spacious residence boasts 3 bedrooms and 2.5 baths, designed for modern living and family gatherings. As you step inside, you'll be greeted by an inviting open concept main level that seamlessly connects the expansive family room to the delightful kitchen. Natural light floods the space, enhancing the warmth and charm of the home. Off the kitchen, a beautiful year-round sunroom awaits, providing a perfect spot to relax or enjoy your morning coffee. From here, step out onto the covered deck that overlooks the private backyard, an ideal place for outdoor entertaining or enjoying serene evenings surrounded by nature. Convenience is key with a large mudroom/laundry area located on the main floor, along with access to the garage, currently transformed into a full gym to accommodate your fitness needs. Venture upstairs to discover a luxurious primary bedroom that features captivating views of the lake, along with two additional well-appointed bedrooms. This level is complete with an additional full bathroom, ensuring comfort and privacy for the whole family. The lower level offers a relaxing family room, abundant storage space, and a mudroom that conveniently walks out to the backyard, providing easy access for outdoor activities. Stroll down to your private dock on the lake, a true haven for those who enjoy fishing, kayaking and swimming. The nearby sandy beach is perfect for sunny afternoons, while the family-friendly neighborhood offers tennis and pickleball courts, bike parks, playgrounds. You’ll also find many local trails such as Rails to Trails perfect for walking/running, biking and exploring. Brunello Golf Course, one of Nova Scotia's premier courses, is less than 10 minutes away. Don't miss this opportunity to own your dream home in a vibrant community!

51 Three Brooks Drive, Hubley

$489,000
4 Beds 2 Baths 202421859 MLS
Nestled in the country setting of Waldeck East, 1086 Waldeck Line Road offers an idyllic country retreat perfect for families or retirees seeking tranquillity and space. This expansive property blends modern farmhouse aesthetics with rustic charm, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere across its 15-acre expanse. The home itself boasts four well-proportioned bedrooms and 1.5 bathrooms, each space infused with a touch of history and character. The bright eat-in kitchen provides the heart of the home, while the adjacent country dining room offers a space for more formal gatherings. Family spaces are cozy, many offering panoramic views of the surrounding acreage, with an alcove on the second level presenting a serene spot to admire the vista. Authentic details such as stairs with patina, a classic clawfoot tub, unique towel storage solutions, a glassed-in shower, and an antique sink vanity add to the property's undeniable charm. Cozy bedrooms retain a historic feel, ensuring restful slumber amidst the tranquillity of the countryside. The land includes a small barn with stalls and a hay storage loft, ready for equestrian pursuits or rural projects. Upgrades to the house include but are not limited to; new windows, new insulation, updated laundry, new hot water tank, central fired boiler-burning an economical 5 cords a year, new heat pump (2024), and steel roofs on the house and barn. Additionally, the 30 x 34 ft barn has been hooked up to water and electric, and with its large hayloft, it is perfect for your horses, cattle, goats or chickens, with electric and utility fenced paddocks in place. Boasting nutrient rich soils and an impressive selection of fruit trees and berry bushes such as, apple, pear, heartnut and peach as well as, raspberries, blackberries and red currants, this property is a Homesteaders paradise. This homestead has always been organically farmed and the hayfield produces 34 round bales per year.

1086 Waldeck Line Road, Waldeck East

$475,000
3 Beds 4 Baths 202421861 MLS
Welcome to 42 Midyat Court! This beautiful 3 bedroom plus den, 2 full 2 half bath home is located on a quiet cul-de-sac in popular Easter Passage. Entering the home you will be greeted by the modern open concept living featuring new flooring and fresh paint. Flowing through the charming living room and passing the convenient half bath you enter the modern kitchen which features an eat-in peninsula, stainless steel appliances, new countertops, loads of storage and prep space. Off the kitchen is an additional sitting area and a generous dining space featuring a ductless heat pump and sliding patio doors out to the private deck and fully fenced backyard. This main floor is perfect for family living and entertaining! Downstairs in the finished basement is where you'll find a large family room with multiple windows, a den and an additional flex room/family room with a half bath. On the top level is where you'll find the primary bedroom with its large windows, ductless heat pump, walk-in closet with custom cabinetry and an ensuite bath. This level also has your laundry area, a full bathroom, and two additional bedrooms. This home backs onto a wooded HRM owned lot where you can find the popular Serop Crescent Playground which is just through a walkway at the end of the cul-de-sac. Located within walking distance of all the local schools, parks, walking trails, public transit and the popular Fisherman's Cove on the waterfront.

42 Midyat Court, Eastern Passage

$599,999
3 Beds 3 Baths 202421848 MLS
Discover the Essence of Halifax! This beautifully renovated home is just minutes away from the Armdale Rotary, Chocolate Lake, universities, and downtown. Originally built in 1938, it underwent a complete transformation in 2011, boasting a comprehensive renovation that included additional sq ft and all new plumbing, electrical, and ventilation systems. Featuring 3 spacious bedrooms and 3 full bathrooms, this residence also includes a large recreation room and a luxurious 4-piece ensuite, making it a true dream home. Its custom design, stunning views, and prime location near all amenities set it apart. As you enter through the double driveway, you'll be welcomed by an open-concept living space accentuated by gleaming hardwood floors and charming exposed brick. The stunning kitchen is a chef’s delight, featuring quartz countertops, ample cabinetry, and stainless steel appliances. On the upper level, you'll find a fabulous family room that opens onto a deck with picturesque city views. The two adjacent bedrooms are generously sized with plenty of closet space. The master suite serves as a personal retreat, complete with an ensuite featuring a soaking tub and a glass walk-in shower, plus a Juliette balcony accessible through double garden doors. The lower-level recreation room is perfect for a private movie theater or hobby area, providing ample space for relaxation and entertainment. Step outside to a level backyard, ideal for outdoor activities. With an attached double garage, plenty of parking, and abundant storage options, this home is perfectly equipped for your lifestyle. Welcome to your new haven

15 Maplewood Drive, Halifax

$545,000
4 Beds 2 Baths 202421847 MLS
Imagine coming home to 279 Windsor Drive, where the peaceful, tree-lined streets of Haliburton Hills offer the perfect blend of nature and community. Your mornings start with a cup of coffee on the rear deck, overlooking your private, lush backyard. As the sun rises, you hear the soft sounds of nature, a perfect beginning before heading out to explore the nearby walking trails, parks, and playgrounds just minutes away. Step inside to discover a bright, welcoming home with updated light fixtures. The spacious living and dining areas are ideal for hosting family gatherings or enjoying quiet nights in. The kitchen, recently enhanced with new countertops, a stylish backsplash, and freshly painted cabinets, offers plenty of storage and functionality for all your cooking needs. It flows effortlessly into the dining room, making it easy to entertain while preparing meals. On the main level, you’ll find the primary bedroom, a second bedroom and a full bath that has been refreshed adding a modern touch. Head downstairs to discover two more bedrooms, a spacious family room where the cozy corner woodstove sets the perfect atmosphere for relaxing, and a newly renovated bathroom featuring a sleek glass shower with black trim. Recent updates in 2021 have made this home even more inviting and move-in ready. The new septic system, water heater, wood stove, and radon mitigation system provide peace of mind. This home is not just a place to live but a lifestyle waiting to be embraced. Whether you're soaking in the natural beauty of your surroundings or enjoying the modern comforts inside, 279 Windsor Drive is the perfect place to create lasting memories.

279 Windsor Drive, Stillwater Lake

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