A clear guide for families and professionals moving from other Canadian cities

Relocating to Toronto is a major step. Whether you’re moving for work, education, or family, Toronto’s real estate market can be complex—especially if you’re coming from Vancouver, Calgary, Montreal, or other cities where the buying process works differently.

Here are five of the most common mistakes I see from out-of-town buyers—and how to avoid them.

1. Choosing a Neighbourhood Based on Assumptions

Many relocating buyers start their search based on online reviews or what friends have suggested. But Toronto neighbourhoods can be very different in person.

Why this matters
– A neighbourhood that looks quiet on the map may have a busy street running through it
– Some areas vary dramatically block by block in price and lifestyle
– School zones and commute times are often misunderstood by newcomers

What to do instead
– Define your daily needs and lifestyle first
– Ask for a local agent’s insight on schools, traffic, development, and walkability
– Consider doing a virtual tour or an in-person neighbourhood walkthrough

2. Forgetting About Land Transfer Tax and Closing Costs

Buyers from other provinces are often surprised by how high the closing costs are in Toronto.

Key facts
– Toronto has both a provincial and a municipal land transfer tax
– For homes above $2M, this can be over $70,000 in cash
– Other fees include legal costs, title insurance, inspections, and adjustments

What to do instead
– Ask your agent or lawyer to calculate total closing costs early in the process
– Don’t assume your down payment is your only expense
– Ensure your deposit and savings cover all final costs at closing

Here are more articles on this topic:

• The Hidden Costs of Relocating to Toronto in 2025
• Buying a Home in Toronto While Living in Another Province: How It Works

3. Waiting Too Long to Make a Decision

Even with higher interest rates, Toronto’s best properties still sell quickly. Buyers used to slower markets often miss opportunities.

Why this happens
– Some homes are priced below market to attract multiple offers
– Sellers often set specific offer dates—and choose quickly
– Toronto agents expect serious buyers to act fast and come prepared

What to do instead
– Get your mortgage pre-approval and lawyer ready before you start touring
– Learn how offer dates, bidding wars, and bully offers work
– Be ready to submit your strongest offer when the time comes

4. Overpaying Without Understanding Local Value

Without local knowledge, it’s easy to overestimate a home’s worth—especially when comparing to cities like Vancouver or Montreal.

Common mistakes
– Assuming a newly renovated property is worth more than it is
– Not understanding school zones or walkability differences
– Bidding emotionally without reviewing comparable sales

What to do instead
– Ask your agent for recent sales on the same street or nearby
– Pay attention to lot size, layout, and long-term resale appeal
– Make offers based on facts—not photos

5. Focusing Only on the Property, Not the Surroundings

Relocating buyers sometimes fall in love with a home and forget to consider what’s around it.

Why this matters
– School catchments, traffic patterns, and zoning changes can affect long-term value
– Nearby construction or low transit access can make a great home less livable
– Community feel and safety vary by street

What to do instead
– Visit or virtually tour the neighbourhood at different times of day
– Ask about future developments, zoning bylaws, and street turnover
– Prioritize both the home and the lifestyle the area offers

Final Thought

Moving to Toronto is exciting—but buying real estate here requires a plan. The more you understand the city, its market, and how things work locally, the better your experience will be.

If you’re relocating and want professional, straightforward advice tailored to your situation, I’m here to help.

Send an email at olena@agentolena.com or call 647.294.3039 to get started.