Seller FAQs — selling a home in Toronto

What sellers ask Trevor Bond most often: pricing, staging, timing the market, commission and what actually moves a sale price.

How do we begin?

We start by meeting — ideally in person, at the property. We'll talk through your plans, timing, and what matters most to you. I'll get to know the space too — making notes, snapping photos, and understanding what makes it sing. What makes my work most rewarding is getting to know your story — your experiences, and what's motivating your next move in life.

Are you experienced in selling various types of properties?

Absolutely. I specialize in multiple property types, including condos, townhomes, co-ops, multiplexes, and single-family houses. I'm well-versed in smaller commercial properties and even rural properties. I'll guide you through buying or selling any of these, helping you navigate their unique requirements and market strategies.

If mine is a luxury home, is there anything different you need to do?

Most homes are bought by someone who already lives nearby. Luxury homes are a little different. The buyer may live across the city, across the country, or halfway around the world. Through Bosley's membership in Leading Real Estate Companies of the World® and Luxury Portfolio International®, your home is promoted through a global network of top independent brokerages and experienced luxury agents in more than 70 countries. Does that mean a buyer will arrive from Singapore, London, or Los Angeles? Maybe. Maybe not. What it does mean is that your home won't be limited to the audience who happens to be browsing listings in Toronto that week. It gains exposure to a broader network of affluent buyers and the agents who represent them, while still benefiting from the local knowledge, marketing, and negotiation that ultimately drive a successful sale. Exceptional homes deserve exceptional exposure.

What's my property worth?

The smart-ass answer to this question is, 'it's worth what someone will pay'. So I will undertake an analysis the same way a buyer and their agent will. I analyze recent comparable sales, current competition, neighbourhood trends, and market momentum, then adjust for the features that move value: layout, condition, upgrades, parking, outdoor space, light, and location nuances. I do this in writing in a CMA. This forms the baseline value range for the home. The underlying question is, 'What is the most my property is worth?' Armed with a value, I will position your home strategically — to attract the strongest buyers and maximize competition so you achieve the best possible result. And that's when you'll really know what your property is worth.

What are all of the costs involved?

We'll take time to go over your circumstances, identify any possible surprise costs, and uncover opportunities. I developed a very helpful, tool named MATH that aggregates taxes, fees, and property-specific expenses like painting and repairs into one final number. Transparency is paramount, nothing should be hidden. International sellers, or homes that aren't your primary residence are often subject to capital gains taxes. There may be Mortgage cancellation fees if the financing isn't ported to a new property. My greatest fear is a client that is surprised upon closing. Surprises are for birthdays.

What do I have to do to sell?

Every home is different, so preparation depends on your goals, timeline, budget, and the property itself. We focus on improvements that deliver the best return and make sense within your time and budget. Sometimes that means updating a dated space; other times, simple steps like decluttering, painting, organizing, and minor repairs deliver the biggest impact. The earlier we start, the easier it is to simplify, stage, and position your home to sell well. Staging is often one of the best investments you can make when selling. I often cover all or part of this cost. In competitive neighbourhoods, homes with tricky layouts, or where existing décor doesn't show the property at its best, staging helps your home stand-out and can directly impact buyer interest and the strength of offers.

Who Pays for all this?

It depends on the home and the plan, but I often invest in staging and marketing myself, and sometimes help with packing, moving, or storage costs. More importantly, we decide together where money is best spent to get the strongest return — whether that's staging, repairs, or tackling something unexpected. My focus is always on directing the budget toward the improvements that will make the biggest difference to buyers and help you achieve the best possible sale price.

How do you get paid?

As sellers, the professional fees for myself, the buyer's agent, and the brokerages involved are typically paid by yourself as part of the transaction. These fees, plus HST, are paid on closing through the lawyers handling the sale who distribute funds according to the agreed brokerage commissions. The cooperating brokerage then processes the payment they received from the selling brokerage to the representatives involved. Brokerages like deposits to cover fees so they can promptly process fees. But there are no rules about that. Transparency in a transaction is critical and is a key push by our Real Estate Board (TRREB) and the Real Estate Council of Ontario (RECO) to instil consumer trust and confidence. Listing Agreement (LA) If you agree to hire me (please and thank you), we complete a contract, among other things, it states the total 'compensation' and the services in detail. Buyer Representation Agreement (BRA) Is the contract the Co-operating brokerage and their client, the Buyer, have signed. It states compensation as well. But these fees can be affected by the particulars of the deal. A Listing Commission may not be the same as a Buyer's commission; Or, one party is a self-represented party or with a discount brokerage. Bottom line, the Buyer's agreement with their Realtor has no bearing on the Fees charged by me and Bosley. But it may used as a tool during negotiations. Confirmation of Cooperation This is a Form, included in every deal. In it, all parties clearly state who represents whom in the transaction, and the commission agreed upon. Referral Fee I may also make money from referring buyers and sellers to other agents or brokerages. I consider this a service and take it seriously. I hand-pick and arrange interviews for up to three realtors that I feel best suit the needs of the referred. Exact fees are detailed in a form that you will sign. I often pay these referral fees to other agents. It's a professional courtesy and part of our business.

Should I buy first?

Buying first gives you time to shop carefully and secure the right home without feeling pressured by a sale deadline, and it usually allows you to move once instead of dealing with temporary housing or storage. The risk, however, is financial: if your current home takes longer to sell, you may need bridge financing and could find yourself carrying two properties, which sometimes leads sellers to accept a lower price just to firm up their sale. In practice, the right approach depends on market conditions, your tolerance for risk, and how confident we are that your current home will sell quickly. A common strategy is to begin shopping seriously so you understand pricing, prepare your home for market at the same time, then purchase with a longer closing and sell with a shorter one to better align dates and reduce risk.

How long does the selling process typically take?

It varies. You may be ready quickly, or you may need time to prepare the home and refine your plans as you learn more about the market. Once listed, some homes sell in days, while others take weeks depending on pricing, competition, and buyer demand. From first meeting to firm sale, many sellers fall in the 30–120 day range, but there's no fixed timeline. Heck, I'm still working with sellers I met 7 years ago! My role is to guide the process without rushing decisions — working at your comfort level while making sure the home is well prepared and no opportunities are missed.

How will you protect me from leaving money on the table?

It starts with smart pricing and strong presentation. Once those are dialled-in, I focus on every detail that can create an advantage in negotiations — from understanding competing listings and recent sales to managing offer timing, terms, conditions, and agent communication to create leverage and opportunity. But this isn't just another transaction. For most people, it's the largest financial decision they'll make, and it's tied to years of memories. It's hard — and often unrealistic — to treat a home purely as a commodity. Having sold many of my own homes, I understand both the financial and emotional sides of the process. There is value to the freedom of moving forward which we'll consider when the right deal is on the table.

What will be my price strategy?

That depends on your goals and current market conditions. Options range from pricing below market value to attract attention and encourage multiple offers on a set date, pricing at market value with room to negotiate, holding firm at fair market value, or starting optimistically and adjusting if the market doesn't respond. The right strategy comes down to timing, competition, and how buyers are behaving when we list, and we'll choose the approach that gives you the strongest chance of achieving your desired outcome.

Can we try a higher price first?

We can, but it's usually not the most effective strategy. Selling is already disruptive — showings, keeping the home tidy, and limiting how you use your space. Pricing too high often leads to a slower sale and extends that inconvenience without delivering better results. I rely on Months of Inventory (MOI), which estimates how long it would take for current listings to sell at today's pace. Price is the main factor that attracts buyers, and if your home is priced higher than similar properties, those homes will usually sell first while yours sits. It's also worth noting that some agents win listings by suggesting an optimistic price, only for the home to later sell for less than it might have if it had been priced correctly from the start.

What happens once my home is listed?

Typically I like to keep you up-to-date. Some sellers prefer not to know all the details, for them I adapt, for all others, you will be kept abreast of showings, showing feedback, competitive sales. I ensure the home continues to show in tip-top shape. Marketing campaigns are rolled out and tracked. MLS and social media links and actions are summarized and reported weekly, alongside any observations and recommendations for tweaks to listing content, presentation, and strategy.

How will you market my property?

My marketing focuses on selling your home — not promoting me. You won't see my face dominating your listing. Every decision is made to attract buyers and generate the strongest possible result, not my next client. I keep print materials minimal — both to reduce waste and to stay nimble, so messaging and strategy can change instantly as the market responds. Instead, we lean heavily into digital marketing: targeted online advertising, search and social campaigns, signage, and localized mailers when they make sense. Inside the home, I provide clear, well-designed information without overwhelming buyers. I'll sometimes use subtle "wall talkers" to point out hidden or thoughtful features, but I avoid clutter or heavy branding that distracts from the space itself. Each listing also receives a detailed Buyer Book and Buyer Tour video designed to answer questions buyers may not have thought to ask, helping them feel informed and confident when it comes time to offer. I often produce cinematic and social videos, interview architects and designers, or create renderings that help buyers understand a property's future potential. In short, I use whatever tools and technology best communicate a home's value so buyers fully understand what they're seeing. Behind that marketing is the reach of Bosley Real Estate and Leading Real Estate Companies of the World®, one of the largest networks of independently owned brokerages globally. While most homes ultimately sell to local buyers, exceptional properties often attract attention from outside the city, province, or country. Our network helps ensure those opportunities are not missed. Just as important is experience. Before real estate, I spent more than 15 years helping companies build brands, tell stories, and market themselves effectively. Marketing attracts attention. Strategy creates demand. My job is to combine both so the right buyers not only see your home, but understand its value and feel confident competing for it.

How do you approach negotiations?

I've been described by one client as a duck — calm, fluid and graceful (I added that part) above the water, but frantically paddling below the surface. More specifically, I seek to understand buyer's motivations and create a camaraderie with their representative. I want to make sure their buyers aren't frightened to offer by addressing and respecting their concerns. I'm concurrently researching and evaluating incoming data that can be used to defend our position. I'm always trying to gently generate a competitive offer environment, to create scarcity and emotional demand (muahahaha).

Why do you call showing agents?

I call showing agents (when it won't be perceived as a weakness), to learn what buyers liked, what gave them pause, and how our home compares to others they're seeing — and whether an offer might be coming. Those conversations can reveal opportunities to adjust strategy, presentation, or pricing early — helping us attract stronger interest and avoid losing momentum while the listing is on the market.

What if I receive a letter from potential buyers with their offer?

Buyer letters are designed to be flattering and emotionally compelling. Our focus stays on the strength of the offer — price, terms, conditions, and certainty of closing. That said, when offers are very close and not budging, a personal note may help you feel more comfortable with a decision.

Is there ever a point where I contact the buyers?

Generally we try to avoid direct contact. It can be a minefield when the stakes are high. This is the power of Representation. I will understand your motivations but keep them private. I understand the terrain and can advise on what will truly benefit you.

How far have you gone to get the deal?

I've spent Christmas Day working through architectural drawings, a scope of work and drafting complex holdbacks to create agreement for a challenging luxury cottage. I joined my client on a Sunday evening after she broke her ankle that day, sat her in a high back chair and 'together' we did all the last minute tasks that were required for the stagers the next morning. And sometimes it's less glamorous but just as important — jumping in to finish the small things that get deprioritized: pressure-washing, trimming back landscaping, or making sure work trades say is complete is actually ready for stagers, or buyers or closing.

What is the current market like?

It depends on the exact neighbourhood, price band, and timing. Real estate is local, specific, and data-driven — not a single headline. But in general, to answer the question, this market is more balanced than it's been in years. Buyers have leverage, listings are taking longer to sell, and prices are stabilizing rather than skyrocketing. Good homes still move — but strategy, pricing, and preparation matter more than hype.

What if the market shifts during my search?

Markets move, but the strategy you and I have followed will keep us grounded in facts, not frightened by headlines. A market is made of individual decisions and when I spot a sale that doesn't fit the trends, I investigate and dish the dirt.

Do you vanish after closing?

Of course not, what a stupid question. I would be sad if you didn't continue to rely on me for anything. I love connecting with past clients and providing reno advice, trade referrals, home maintenance input, or information about local developments or bylaw changes. I love to provide my opinion on anything from paint colours to kitchen updates. I like to keep in touch and know where life has taken you next.

It's all so overwhelming, will you help me stay calm?

Yes. Everyone has a different stress threshold. Some people feel too busy to begin; others feel so relaxed they risk never starting. If you don’t spell it out, I’ll pick up on your pace and adjust. Preparing and moving is more than contracts, numbers, and timelines. It affects family, routines, work, pets, and daily life. I can shoulder as much of the process as you want, organizing de-cluttering, co-ordinating trades, packing, moving and logistics. It will feel manageable, not chaotic.

Why is your bag always beeping?

My bag contains a variety of small tools that help me assess, at first blush, any house, including your own. I can see if visible knob and tube wiring is active. I can check the polarity on receptacles and functionality of GFIs. I can take laser-accurate measurements and amuse every cat. My Moisture Metre indicates if that basement baseboard stain is a concern (its very name is a concern). I also have a squash ball, usually, to check out how level the floor is — challenging slopes often mean lost balls. I have a mean flashlight, to find that ball and to check every corner and orifice of your home. I don't like surprises or playing defence. Discover, disclose or remediate. Soon you too will be asking, "don't you have something in your bag for that?"

Do you work alone or with a team?

You work directly with me, so I stay close to every detail of your sale and nothing gets lost between layers of people. Behind the scenes, I'm supported by a full-time administrator who helps coordinate marketing, scheduling, and transaction details so I can stay focused on strategy, negotiations, and guiding your sale. I also have additional licensed support when needed for rental or overflow activity. Over time, I've built a strong network of trusted professionals — trades, stagers, photographers, lawyers, mortgage brokers, and insurance advisors — so when your sale requires extra expertise, the right people are ready to step in.

What if I'm Buying in a different country?

One of the benefits of being a representative of a 100 year old, well respected brokerage like Bosley, is that we are members in Leading RE of The World, an international network bigger than any other. This organization is home to the world's market-leading independent residential brokerages in over 70 countries. LeadingRE's by-invitation-only network is based on the unparalleled performance and trusted relationships that result in exceptional client experiences. This gives me access world-class resources, as well as national and international connections to individual agents with buyers looking in our city. My luxury portfolio promotions promise international exposure.

Why Bosley?

Since 1928 Bosley has been recognized as one of the most respected and reliable brokerages in Canadian Real Estate. The Bosley Family has consistently served on boards and governing bodies on National, Provincial and local levels. They are a full service brokerage with experience and longevity. Full service is what I provide my clients and what I expect from my brokerage. My paperwork is vetted. I have in-house legal, marketing, and experienced management. I sit on Bosley's Executive Committee. In 2025, I was the Director of the the Founders Division (just another way to make insecure agent's feel important - and I'm the 'Director' of them all!). I am a top-ten producing agent brokerage-wide, and have been for over a decade. I am part of their family and my loyalty runs deep.

Have you always been a realtor?

I've always been an entrepreneur. A young teen selling croissant out of a shed next to a tea room; rental video equipment delivered to university students; hawking poster art at universities; main street retail; Canada's first licensed rep theatre/restaurant/banquet hall; renovation and design; and a busy marketing firm. Plus a dozen in between, some smarter than others. I've always been happiest in service. I take real pride in my service industry roots, from kitchens to the floor, then opening my own place and growing it to 50 employees. But I'm a builder, not a caretaker. I thrive on momentum and the chase. That's why real estate fits: every client is different, every deal is alive, and every move matters. I get to be there when lives actually change. My brief flirtation with "employment" in 2000 was at a small ad agency, where I promptly pulled a Norma Rae — launching a 15-year run owning a branding firm that helped mid-size businesses stand out and built digital experiences for everything from Cadillacs to oversized pickups. But the deeper I went into advertising, the more the work felt abstract: stress, deadlines, revisions — all to deliver a message, not a relationship. As the business grew, I found myself refuelling elsewhere — creative projects, design, and renovating properties — work that felt tangible, human, and real. When I was a teen, my dad became disabled. His plan to fully finish our basement instead became his directorial debut. From a chair plunked in the middle of a raw space, my dad taught me renovation essentials. From then on, I'd worked with other contractors and later designed and built my own places. I swung hammers, project managed, changed zoning, changed use, size, and scale of buildings. Friends liked my work and it became the perfect distraction while working in Advertising. In 2012, with my wife 9 months pregnant and a successful career that paradoxically furnished me with too much spare time, I got my real estate license. And the, rest, as they say, is in my Google reviews.

When can we have tea?

I love tea, but you can have coffee, water, wine or a beer - I'm not one to judge. We can pick each other's brains.