Frequently Asked Questions
Real estate is full of confusing information, conflicting advice, and agents who talk around the question instead of answering it. Here are straight answers to the questions I get asked most often.
What percentage do most REALTORS® take?
There is no fixed or government mandated commission rate in Ontario. Commission is always negotiable.
In practice, total commission typically ranges between 4% and 5% of the final sale price, split between the listing brokerage and the buyer's brokerage.
I publish my commission structure publicly at simonsayzsold.ca/selling-your-home-the-plan-and-the-price so you know the numbers before we ever sit down together.
How do you find the best REALTOR® in your area?
Focus on local experience and track record. Look for recent sales in the specific neighbourhoods you care about, strong client reviews, and an agent whose communication style works for you.
Ask them directly: what is your average days on market, what is your list-to-sale price ratio, and what does your marketing package actually include. The answers tell you a lot.
Is it a good time to sell in Kitchener-Waterloo in 2026?
The Kitchener-Waterloo market in 2026 is balanced to slightly favouring buyers. Well priced homes in good condition in Kitchener, Waterloo, and Cambridge are still selling. Overpriced homes are sitting.
If you need to sell for lifestyle reasons the right preparation and pricing strategy can get you a strong result. If you are purely trying to maximize equity with no urgency to move, it is worth a conversation about your specific situation and timeline.
For a full breakdown of the KW market right now, read this: Is Now a Good Time to Sell in Kitchener-Waterloo?
Should I sell my home in Kitchener-Waterloo now or wait until spring?
There is no single perfect moment to list in KW. Spring and fall are both strong selling seasons. What matters more than timing is preparation and pricing.
Sellers who price accurately from day one and present their home well get results in any season. If you are thinking about a fall listing the preparation work should be starting now in the summer. Sellers who wait until August to think about a fall listing are already behind.
What is the average price of a house in Brantford?
As of early 2026 the average sale price in Brantford is approximately $677,000. The median price for freehold homes is around $565,000. Prices vary depending on property type, location, and condition.
Where is the best place to live in Brantford Ontario?
It depends on your lifestyle and what you are looking for.
West Brant and Shellard Lane are popular for families and newer homes. North of the 403 including Mayfair, Greenbrier, and Brier Park works well for commuters. The North End has larger lots, mature trees, and established neighbourhoods.
I have written a full guide to Brantford neighbourhoods if you want a deeper look.
What is the average price of a house in Cambridge?
As of early 2026 the average home price in Cambridge is around $661,000. More affordable options like condos and townhomes can be accessible at lower price points depending on the area and property type.
What is the nicest area to live in Cambridge?
Best depends on your lifestyle. Old West Galt has character homes and river views. Hespeler Village works well for families and commuters. Blair offers larger properties and a quieter feel.
I have neighbourhood guides for Hespeler, West Galt, Silver Heights, and the Gaslight District on the site if you want specifics.
Is Cambridge Ontario expensive to live in?
Cambridge is more affordable than Toronto but housing costs have risen significantly over the past several years. Average monthly cost of living is around $3,800. It is more expensive than cities like London or Windsor but offers significantly better value than anything in the GTA.
Are housing prices in Ontario dropping?
As of early 2026 many areas are seeing a softening from the peak prices of 2021 and 2022. Cambridge prices have decreased close to 10% year over year. The market is more balanced than it was at the peak, giving buyers more negotiating power than they had two or three years ago.
What salary do I need to buy a house in Cambridge?
Based on 2026 data, a household income of approximately $110,000 to $125,000 is recommended with 20% down at the average price point. More affordable options like condos and townhomes may be accessible with incomes in the $85,000 to $95,000 range.
How much down payment do you need on a $500,000 house?
In Canada the minimum down payment on a $500,000 home is 5%, which works out to $25,000. If you put less than 20% down, mortgage default insurance is required. Putting 20% or more eliminates the insurance requirement and reduces your monthly payments.
Who is the most famous person from Brantford?
Wayne Gretzky. Not a close second.
The city is also known for Alexander Graham Bell who made the first long distance telephone call from Brantford, Phil Hartman, and Lawren Harris of the Group of Seven.
Have a question that is not answered here?
I am happy to answer it directly. No scripts, no runaround.
Find Out What Your Home Is Worth
Simon Royer, REALTOR® at RE/MAX Icon Realty
226-218-6875 | simonsayzsold.ca
Not intended to solicit buyers or sellers currently under contract. RE/MAX Icon Realty Brokerage, 33-620 Davenport Rd, Waterloo ON N2V 2C2