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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

$329,900
2 Beds 2 Baths 202618698 MLS
Home Sweet Home awaits at 219 Chemin Ptit Paradis Road, St. Bernard, where warmth, charm, and thoughtful updates come together to create a property you'll be proud to call your own. From the moment you pull into the driveway, the inviting curb appeal and welcoming atmosphere make an unforgettable first impression. Set on a generous lot, the property features a spacious detached garage, ideal for parking, storage, lawn equipment, or creating the workshop you've always wanted. A beautifully built, private deck extends your living space outdoors, offering the perfect place to relax with a good book and enjoy your morning coffee. Lovingly maintained and extensively updated since 2023, this delightful two-bedroom, two-bath home offers the peace of mind that comes with significant recent improvements. Highlights include a new drilled well, new windows, new front and back doors with screen doors, new siding, a new deck, new garage door, all new appliances, a new mini-split heat pump, and a new generator panel and generator—with even more updates available through your Realtor®. Simply pack your bags, turn the key, and start enjoying your new home. Inside, the main floor offers the convenience of one-level living with a comfortable bedroom, main-floor laundry, a 3-piece bath with a walk-in shower, and a heat pump providing efficient heating and cooling. The kitchen and living room flow seamlessly together, creating a bright and welcoming space for everyday living. Upstairs, you'll find a second bedroom, a 3-piece bath complete with a relaxing soaker tub, and a versatile bonus space that would make an excellent home office, reading nook, or hobby area. Located just minutes from the Village of Weymouth and its everyday amenities, and approximately 20 minutes from the Town of Digby, this beautifully updated home is ready to welcome its next owners and the memories they'll create for years to come.

219 Chemin Ptit Paradis Road, St. Bernard

$399,900
3 Beds 1 Baths 202618691 MLS
Priced at an incredible $399,900, your Dartmouth story begins at 10 Tobermory! Nestled in a nostalgic, picture-perfect neighbourhood lined with basketball nets and filled with kids playing outside, this property offers an unbeatable location within walking distance to Ian Forsyth Elementary School, Woodlawn High School, and NSCC Akerley Campus. This charming one-level home features 3 comfortable bedrooms, 1 full bathroom, and an eat-in kitchen with a built-in breakfast nook. Designed for stress-free living, its manageable layout makes maintenance and cleaning an absolute breeze. It is an ideal fit whether you are looking for an affordable starter home, a manageable downsizer, or a solid rental property where you can add your own personal touches to amp up the curb appeal. Comfort is guaranteed year-round thanks to 2 efficient heat pumps, and to make your move completely effortless, the home has been professionally cleaned with all appliances included. Outside, the property sits on a flat, level 8,000-square-foot lot that includes a convenient carport and parking for multiple vehicles. The flat, fully fenced backyard creates a safe haven for pets, children's play, gardening, and summer entertaining, complete with 2 sheds for extra storage. Having lovingly raised two amazing kids, this house is filled with heart, love, and years of happy memories—offering just what your family needs, nothing more and nothing less.

10 Tobermory Road, Dartmouth

$519,900
3 Beds 1 Baths 202618688 MLS
Welcome to 16 Wedgewood Avenue in Timberlea, a well-maintained 3-bedroom bungalow nestled on a quiet street in the sought-after, family-friendly community of Greenwood Heights. Set on a beautifully treed 15,000 sq. ft. lot, this property offers exceptional outdoor space with mature trees, a detached garage, and plenty of roaming space for children and pets. Step inside to discover a bright and inviting main level designed for comfortable everyday living. The spacious living room is anchored by a cozy fireplace and features durable vinyl flooring and a ductless heat pump for efficient year-round comfort. The open-concept living and dining area flows seamlessly into the updated kitchen, which is full of character and comes complete with four appliances. Down the hall, you'll find three well-appointed bedrooms and a full 4-piece bath. The lower level expands your living space with a large rec room featuring a 2nd heat pump and includes a section with a soundproofed ceiling - ideal for musicians or a home theatre. With R-2 zoning, this home also offers an opportunity for buyers looking to add a basement legal unit, featuring bathroom rough-in and grade-level walkout access to a private patio. The lower level also offers a laundry room, workshop/utility room, and a convenient cold room for additional storage. Ideally located just minutes from schools, parks, the BLT Trails, and Metro, this home is only 7 minutes from Bayers Lake's shopping and amenities. Enjoy quick access to Highway 103, Brunello Golf Course, and downtown Halifax, just 20 minutes away.

16 Wedgewood Avenue, Timberlea

$574,900
4 Beds 2 Baths 202618684 MLS
Welcome to 23 Kingsmere Court, a beautifully maintained 2-storey family home tucked away on a quiet cul-de-sac in the desirable community of Glengarry Estates in Timberlea. Set on a private, fully fenced lot, this property offers your own backyard oasis complete with an in-ground pool, perfect for hosting summer pool parties or relaxing with family and friends. Step inside to a warm and inviting main level featuring gleaming hardwood floors, a bright bay window, and a cozy wood-burning fireplace framed by custom built-in bookshelves. The spacious dining room is equipped with a ductless heat pump for year-round comfort and flows seamlessly into the updated kitchen, which offers timeless charm, ample cabinetry, and direct access to your attached garage and backyard patio. A convenient 2-pc powder room completes this level. A hardwood staircase leads to the 2nd level, where you'll find 4 generously sized bedrooms, including the spacious primary bedroom, along with a well-appointed 4-pc main bath. The fully finished lower level adds even more living space with a large rec room featuring a cozy pellet stove, making it the perfect place for family movie nights, or a play area for the kids. Ideally located just minutes from schools, parks, the BLT Trails, and Metro, this home is only 7 minutes from Bayer's Lake amenities. With quick access to Highway 103, Brunello Golf Course, and just 20 minutes to downtown Halifax, this exceptional property offers the perfect balance of comfort, convenience, and family-friendly living.

23 Kingsmere Court, Timberlea

$649,900
3 Beds 2 Baths 202618679 MLS
Home Sweet Home! Nestled on a beautifully private 2.86-acre lot just 5 minutes from Elmsdale and Highway 102 (only 12 minutes from Halifax Stanfield International Airport), this custom-built bungalow offers the perfect blend of comfort, space, and country living. Designed for convenient one-level living, this exceptionally well-maintained home features 3 bedrooms, 2 full baths, and over 1,600 sq. ft. of thoughtfully designed living space. The spacious maple kitchen offers an island, under-cabinet lighting, and excellent workspace, while the bright living room features a cozy wet bar—perfect for entertaining family and friends. Engineered hardwood flooring adds warmth throughout the main living areas, and the generous primary suite offers a walk-in closet and a 5-piece ensuite. Two additional bedrooms, a full bath, and convenient main-floor laundry complete the layout. An energy-efficient in-floor heating system provides time-of-day savings, while the heated attached double garage offers plenty of room for vehicles, hobbies, and storage. Outside, enjoy more than 80 feet of covered wraparound decking overlooking your private backyard, complete with an above-ground pool, fire pit area, and plenty of room to relax, garden, or simply enjoy the peaceful surroundings. There's also plenty of parking and an emergency generator hookup with its own power panel. The 10' x 10' garden shed is a handy addition. Meticulously cared for inside and out, this property reflects years of pride of ownership and offers a wonderful opportunity to enjoy peaceful country living just minutes from everyday amenities.

7450 Highway 14, Nine Mile River

$555,000
2 Beds 1 Baths 202618652 MLS
Nestled on 1.31 acres in picturesque Ostrea Lake, this charming 2-bed, 1-bath home offers the best of Nova Scotia's Eastern Shore. Perfect as a year-round residence, weekend retreat, or investment, it provides comfortable single-level living that is ready to move into, renovate, or use as a rental while you plan your next chapter. Offset costs while designing and building the waterfront estate you've always imagined.Just steps away lies the true highlight—approximately 684 feet of spectacular ocean frontage on beautiful Musquodoboit Harbour. This is East Coast living at its finest. Spend your days kayaking, paddleboarding, boating, or fishing. When the tide is out, explore the shoreline where locals search for wild oysters and marine treasures. For the ultimate turnkey experience, the seller is willing to include the boat, kayak, and ride-on tractor mower as part of a package deal, allowing you to enjoy the coastal lifestyle from day one.The generous lot provides ample privacy, mature natural surroundings, and outstanding flexibility for future development. Whether you envision a modern oceanfront masterpiece, a family estate, or simply enhancing the existing home, the possibilities are as expansive as the views.Located just a short drive from the white sands of Martinique Beach and local amenities in Musquodoboit Harbour, you are also within easy commuting distance of Dartmouth and Halifax. This property offers the perfect balance of peaceful seaside living and everyday convenience.Properties offering this rare combination of acreage, existing accommodation, development potential, and extensive ocean frontage are exceptionally hard to find. Don't miss your opportunity to secure a remarkable piece of Nova Scotia's coastline and create the lifestyle you've always imagined.

732 Ostrea Lake Road, Ostrea Lake

$459,900
4 Beds 3 Baths 202618651 MLS
Imagine starting your day with a coffee on the deck while the peaceful trail behind your home invites you for a morning walk, then ending the evening gathered around the warmth of the pellet stove with family and friends. Welcome to 50 MacDonald Park Road, where comfort, convenience, and community come together in one of Kentville's most sought after neighbourhoods. Just minutes from excellent schools, shopping, restaurants, parks, recreation facilities, and Valley Regional Hospital, this location offers everything you need while keeping nature right in your backyard.Inside, you'll be welcomed by a bright, open concept kitchen and dining area that truly feels like the heart of the home, creating the perfect space for family meals, holiday gatherings, and everyday moments. The main level features three spacious bedrooms, including a primary suite with its own ensuite bath. One of the bedrooms offers the flexibility to become a formal dining room, home office, or playroom, adapting effortlessly to your lifestyle. The fully finished lower level is designed for making memories, featuring a spacious family room anchored by a cozy pellet stove, a fourth bedroom, a full bath, and the year round comfort of in floor heating. With its convenient walkout entrance, this level offers excellent space for guests, extended family, or growing teenagers looking for a little extra privacy. Outside, the paved driveway, mature surroundings, and direct access to the trail system complete this exceptional property. Whether you're raising a family, entertaining friends, or simply looking for a place that feels like home the moment you arrive.

50 Macdonald Park Road, Kentville

$359,900
3 Beds 1 Baths 202618650 MLS
Beautifully updated two-level townhouse condo in the heart of Cowie Hill, where modern updates, exceptional value, and an unbeatable location come together. Whether you're buying your first home, sick of paying rent, or looking for low-maintenance living, this move-in-ready property delivers. From the moment you walk in, you'll appreciate the fresh, modern feel. The main level features a stylishly updated eat-in kitchen with newer appliances, a spacious living room perfect for relaxing or entertaining, and convenient main-floor laundry with additional storage. Upstairs offers three generous bedrooms, including a primary bedroom with two closets, along with a beautifully updated full bathroom. Step outside and you'll discover one of this home's best features—a private, treed backyard complete with a patio. Enjoy your morning coffee surrounded by nature, host summer BBQs with friends, or simply unwind in your own peaceful outdoor retreat. Every update has already been taken care of, including fresh paint, new laminate flooring, an updated kitchen and bathroom, and modern appliances, so you can simply move in and start enjoying your new home. The location is just as impressive. Nestled in family-friendly Cowie Hill, you're only minutes from downtown Halifax, with Chocolate Lake, walking trails, schools, parks, shopping, and public transit all close by. It's the perfect balance of city convenience and neighbourhood charm. Come see why this Cowie Hill gem is the one you've been waiting for.

48 Drumdonald Road, Cowie Hill

$649,900
5 Beds 3 Baths 202618634 MLS
Discover the perfect blend of privacy, comfort, and year-round recreation with this exceptional 5-bedroom, 3-bathroom family home, privately nestled on nearly 3 acres in the sought-after Martock area of Nova Scotia. Thoughtfully designed for both everyday living and entertaining, the main level offers a spacious kitchen with patio doors leading to the expansive backyard patio, a bright dining room, a warm and inviting living room featuring a stunning wood-burning fireplace, a dedicated home office, two generously sized bedrooms, and a convenient 3-piece bath. Upstairs, you'll find three additional bedrooms, including a beautiful primary retreat complete with a walk-in closet and private ensuite, along with a spacious 5-piece family bathroom. Built for year-round comfort, the home features oil-fired in-floor radiant heating, an energy-efficient heat pump for heating and cooling, and an attached garage for added convenience. Step outside and enjoy the peaceful surroundings from the covered front deck or entertain family and friends on the large rear patio overlooking your private acreage. With plenty of room for children to play, gardens to grow, and gatherings to host, this property truly embraces outdoor living. Perfectly positioned for the active lifestyle, you're just minutes from Ski Martock for winter skiing and snowboarding, a short hike to OnTree Adventure Park, and close to scenic lakes, biking and hiking trails, golf, and some of the Valley's favourite restaurants and wineries. Excellent schools, a welcoming community, and easy access to Windsor and Highway 101 complete this outstanding location. Whether you're searching for more space for a growing family or a peaceful country retreat with modern comforts and endless recreational opportunities, this impressive Martock property offers the lifestyle you've been dreaming of.

321 Ashland Road, Martock

$524,900
4 Beds 2 Baths 202618599 MLS
Welcome to 3 Belle Vista Drive, a solid and beautifully updated bungalow in the heart of Woodlawn, one of Dartmouth's most established and family-friendly neighbourhoods. The bright main level offers functional living, with a spacious living room, a dining area, a well-laid-out kitchen, and three bedrooms served by a full four-piece bath. Downstairs, the newly finished lower level nearly doubles your living space and is anchored by an enormous rec room, ideal as a family room, home theatre, play space, or home gym. You'll also find a versatile "non-egress" bedroom/den (ideal as a home office, guest room, or hobby space), a three-piece bath, a dedicated laundry and utility area, and generous storage. Best of all, the freshly finished space comes primed and ready for the next owner to add their own paint colours and personal touch. Some big-ticket items are already done. A ducted Fujitsu heat pump (2024) delivers efficient, whole-home heating and cooling year-round, and the 200-amp electrical service was upgraded in 2024. The plumbing was modernized to PEX supply and ABS drains in 2020, the attic insulation was topped up in 2023. The roof will likely need replacing in the coming years, and this has been factored into the asking price. Sitting on a 7,300 sq ft lot with municipal water and sewer, this is a genuinely move-in-ready home. The location seals the deal. You're within walking distance of every level of school, Brookhouse Elementary, Ellenvale Junior High, and Woodlawn High, and just minutes from NSCC and Bell Lake. Portland Street shopping, restaurants, and everyday amenities are close by, with quick access to Highway 111, the bridges, and downtown Halifax, plus transit right at hand. A fantastic opportunity for first-time buyers, growing families, or anyone looking to plant roots in a quiet, connected community.

3 Belle Vista Drive, Dartmouth

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