Frequently Asked Questions

How to Choose a Good Cash-Back Realtor

Buying or selling a home is a significant financial decision, especially in the Greater Toronto Area, where property values can exceed the revenue of many small businesses.

Given the stakes, it’s essential to hire a partner or professional who can manage the process like a project, rather than settling for a basic customer representative focused solely on showing properties and making offers.

The home buying or selling process is intricate and interconnected, requiring more than just real estate knowledge. Your ideal partner should have strong business acumen and the ability to approach the transaction like running a business.

This professional should offer comprehensive analysis, reliable predictions, and help you navigate uncertainties, risks, and changes. They should assist with both current and future planning, helping you prioritize key considerations.

To maximize your investment, your realtor should develop effective strategies and tactics, anticipate opportunities, and act decisively when the right moment arises.

Of course, integrity and cost are also important factors when choosing your realtor. Striking the right balance between their capabilities, integrity, and cost is the key to a successful and mutually beneficial deal.

If you’d like to discuss your requirements and learn how my approach can help, feel free to call me at +1 905 872 6870 for a chat.

Is using a cash-back realtor worth it?

It depends on the homebuyer’s individual situation and priorities.

Whether a commission rebate is offered or not, there is often an inherent conflict of interest between buyers and agents. Buyers aim to secure the lowest possible price, while agents may prefer to maximize their commission with minimal effort. Ultimately, the decision comes down to what aligns best with the buyer’s goals and circumstances.

Does cashback in real estate mean discounted service?

Not necessarily—it depends on the policies of the specific agent or brokerage. Most agents adhere to industry standards, codes, and regulations, prioritizing client satisfaction, referrals, and future business. Additionally, the penalties for any violations are significant, ensuring agents maintain compliance.

When will I receive a buyer agent rebate?

Cashback is usually not provided at closing, as it takes time for the buyer’s brokerage to receive payment from the seller through the listing brokerage. Typically, the rebate is issued a few weeks after the transaction has successfully closed and all funds, including commissions, have been processed by the listing brokerage or lawyer.

Does a commission rebate impact the land transfer tax?

No, the land transfer tax is calculated based on the purchase price of the home. Any questions about how a commission rebate might relate to taxes should be addressed with qualified professionals, such as real estate accountants or tax specialists.

Is a real estate commission rebate taxable or tax-deductible?

If you sell a property that is not your primary residence, a buyer agent rebate could impact your capital gains tax.

Specifically, the cashback received from a real estate agent would reduce the adjusted cost base (ACB) of the property. This reduction increases the taxable capital gains. To ensure accuracy and compliance, it’s advisable to consult a qualified tax professional regarding these implications.

What is a commission rebate?

A commission rebate is when a real estate agent gives a portion of their commission back to a homebuyer. This occurs when the buyer’s agent refunds part of the commission paid by the seller.

Do house buyers pay commission? Who pays commission for buyer’s agent?

In most cases, the seller covers the real estate commission for the buyer’s agent, typically around 2.5% of the home’s purchase price in the Greater Toronto Area in the current market.

However, there are exceptions. Sometimes, the seller offers less than the standard 2.5% commission or may not provide any commission to the buyer’s agent. In such situations, the buyer is responsible for covering the shortfall.

Are real estate commission rebates legal? Can real estate agents offer cash back?

Yes, offering cashback to homebuyers is legal in Ontario. According to the Real Estate and Business Brokers Act (REBBA 2002), real estate agents are allowed to provide rebates to homebuyers. However, giving a rebate to an unregistered third party as a referral is not permitted.

To prevent any confusion or misunderstandings, it’s recommended to document the buyer-agent commission rebate in writing. This can be included in a Buyer Representation Agreement (BRA) or outlined in a separate agreement detailing the rebate terms and conditions.

Is there a standard form or template for rebates?

Cashback can be documented in the Buyer Representation Agreement or detailed in a separate agreement. Either option is acceptable, provided it clearly outlines key information such as the rebate amount or percentage, the recipients, how it will be collected, when it will be provided, and any conditions that apply.

Is there a real estate commission rebate for the seller?

No, the seller does not receive a commission rebate. The seller is responsible for paying the realtor fees to the listing brokerage, which includes the portion allocated to the cooperating brokerage (i.e., the buyer’s brokerage) as specified in the agreement.

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