Your offer is accepted. Now what?
This is the stage where a few small missteps can cause big headaches.
Here are the key things to avoid:
• Major financial changes
• Missing deadlines
• Skipping inspections or status reviews
• Oversharing with the seller or listing agent
• Assuming the deal is firm before conditions are wrapped up
Staying steady during this period helps keep everything on track for closing day.
Buying in Waterloo Region and want clarity at every step? We are here to help.
Buying a home is exciting, but it can feel overwhelming without the right guidance. A buyer’s agent is here to make the process clearer, safer, and a lot less stressful.
Here is what we help with:
• Understanding local market trends
• Finding homes that truly fit your needs, including new construction
• Navigating inspections, financing, and paperwork
• Negotiating in your best interests
• Keeping the entire process on track from start to finish
And here is something many buyers do not realize.
In most cases, our compensation is offered through the co-operating commission provided by the seller, which means there is typically no added out-of-pocket cost to you. We review everything clearly before you sign anything.
Having your own agent ensures your goals and your protection come first.
If you are planning a move in Waterloo Region and want support from day one, we are here to help you feel confident every step of the way.
If you’re a first-time buyer in Waterloo Region, there’s been a lot of talk about new tax incentives that could make newly built homes more affordable. These changes are proposed only, but understanding what’s being discussed now can help you prepare for what may be coming.
The federal government has introduced a proposal that would return the full 5% GST on newly built homes purchased by eligible first-time buyers. Under the draft rules, this rebate would apply to new homes priced up to one million dollars, with a gradual phase-out up to one point five million. None of this has come into effect yet, but it represents meaningful potential support for buyers entering the market.
Ontario has also indicated plans to remove the 8% provincial portion of HST for eligible first-time buyers on newly built homes up to the same price range. This provincial change would only move forward if the federal proposal comes into effect.
These announcements have created a lot of interest here in Kitchener, Waterloo, Cambridge, and the surrounding communities for first time buyers we have talked with
Both the federal and provincial proposals apply only to newly built or substantially renovated homes. They do not apply to resale homes. This distinction is important for buyers comparing different paths to homeownership in Waterloo Region.
While nothing is in effect yet, these proposals highlight the importance of reviewing your options early. If you’re considering a new-build home, it may be helpful to speak with your lawyer, lender, and builder about how any eventual rebate could affect timing, deposits, or budgeting. If you’re exploring resale homes, this information is still valuable, because it helps you compare both paths with more clarity.
From Kitchener’s growing condo market, to family-friendly neighbourhoods in Waterloo, to newer developments in Cambridge, first-time buyers have a wide range of choices. Understanding where proposed incentives may fit in is simply part of making an informed plan.
The most important thing to remember is that these changes are proposed and may evolve. You should not rely on them until they come into effect and your lawyer confirms eligibility. But staying informed now puts you in a stronger position when the time comes to make a decision.
We’re here to help you understand your numbers, review your options, and navigate the Waterloo Region market with confidence.
Melanie & Warren McNeil, REALTORS®
Peak Realty Ltd., Brokerage
For information only. Not legal, tax, or financial advice. Confirm all details with your lawyer, lender, or accountant.
For many homeowners across Waterloo Region, that next chapter could mean:
Whatever your next step looks like, understanding your equity today can open doors tomorrow. Maybe even ones with a view like this.
Let’s talk about your options
📞 Melanie 519-590-3767 |
Warren 519-498-8118
📧 hello@teammcneil.com
Melanie & Warren McNeil, REALTORS®
Peak Realty Ltd., Brokerage
Team McNeil • Waterloo Region
For many homeowners across Waterloo Region, that next chapter could mean:
Whatever your next step looks like, understanding your equity today can open doors tomorrow — and maybe even ones with a view like this.
Let’s talk about your options
📞 Melanie 519-590-3767 |
Warren 519-498-8118
📧 hello@teammcneil.com
Melanie & Warren McNeil, REALTORS®
Peak Realty Ltd., Brokerage
Team McNeil • Waterloo Region
