When families think about relocating to Toronto, it often starts with a video.
Not long ago, I received this email:
Dear Ms. Feoktistova,
My wife and I have watched many of your videos, and we appreciate your attention to detail and all the information that you share, especially for families. We have two boys, ages four and seven. We currently live in Houston, Texas, but we are relocating to Toronto, hopefully in the summer of 2025. I will be attending XYZ University, and my wife will be working for ABC Company.
We are looking for a home in a neighborhood with great schools, access to parks, and transportation. Ideally, we would like a single-family, detached home with 3–4 bedrooms, a finished basement, and a yard. We have looked at several neighborhoods online and a few in person on our last trip.
We will be in Toronto from April 8–18 and would like to meet with you.
We look forward to speaking with you!
Sincerely,
Chris
Emails like this are very common in my work.
Behind the videos I create, there’s a real commitment to helping families relocate with ease and clarity. It’s not just about the market stats or virtual tours. It’s about trust, guidance, and organization. And it all starts with a thoughtful response.
Please find more articles in the following links:
- Buying a Home in Toronto: Unique Aspects to Consider
- Buying a Home in Toronto While Living in Another Province: How It Works
How I Respond to Relocating Families
When I receive a message like Chris’s, I reply quickly. People want to know they’re in good hands. Here’s the kind of message I usually send:
Dear Mr. Smith,
Thank you for your email and kind words of appreciation. I would be happy to meet with you in person when you are in Toronto and discuss your options.
Additionally, if you are not familiar with Toronto, I would be glad to take you on a tour and show you the neighborhoods that might be a good fit. All of this can be tailored to your needs.
In the meantime, we can start with some basics. Are you looking to rent or buy a home? Please let me know so I can better understand your goals.
From there, I schedule a video consultation to learn more about their needs, priorities, and timeline.
The First Video Call: What to Expect
Our first video call usually lasts 30 to 60 minutes. We cover:
- Family lifestyle and daily routines
- Schooling priorities and timelines
- Budget and financing questions
- Preferred home styles and neighbourhoods
- Commuting patterns and career considerations
I listen carefully, ask detailed questions, and offer real-time suggestions based on Toronto’s current market and school landscape.
Afterward, I always follow up with a summary email so the family has a written record of everything we discussed.
Planning Before Arrival
The biggest mistake relocating families make? Waiting until they land in Toronto to begin.
Here’s what we do instead:
- Start tracking the market together
- Share and review listings daily
- Prepare documents for school registration
- Narrow down neighborhoods based on goals
- Schedule tours and meetings in advance
I always adapt to each client’s pace. Some want step-by-step guidance. Others just need a high-level overview. I’m flexible, organized, and focused on what works best for your family.
Buying Without Visiting? It’s Possible.
Many families cannot visit Toronto before buying. That’s where my virtual relocation services come in.
I offer:
- Live or recorded property tours
- Detailed commentary about the home and area
- Community insights, school feedback, and commute notes
- Honest pros and cons from a parent and realtor’s perspective
Some families also involve a local friend or relative. I coordinate with them for on-site visits if needed.
How I Support Families with School Decisions
I am not an education consultant. But I am a parent of three who has spent years attending school open houses, exhibitions, and talking to teachers and parents.
My advice is personal, not professional—but it’s grounded in lived experience. I also share many school-focused videos on my YouTube channel. These cover:
- Public vs. private school comparisons
- How school zones influence real estate decisions
- Top elementary and secondary options by neighbourhood
More Than Real Estate: My Trusted Network
Many clients continue working with me after they move. They get access to:
- Lawyers, mortgage brokers, and accountants
- Contractors, cleaners, and handymen
- Interior designers, painters, and more
In fact, many of my clients become friends. We meet for coffee, explore Toronto together, and share local tips and connections.
Thinking About Relocating to Toronto?
If you’re planning a move—either from within Canada or internationally—reach out. We can start with a quick email or a call to map out your options.
Send an email at olena@agentolena.com or call 647.294.3039 to get started.