Is Real Estate in Ontario Still Affordable? Here's the Truth.

Josh Perez • February 8, 2026

If you're between 25 and 40, you've probably said it. You've definitely thought it.


"Real estate in Ontario is just too expensive."


It's a feeling that's easy to understand. Prices are high, competition is fierce, and it can feel like the dream of homeownership is slipping away.


But here's the truth:


That feeling, while real, is often based on a misconception.


I've helped over a thousand people across Ontario who felt the exact same way, and today, many of them are homeowners and real estate investors. They didn't get lucky. They got a strategy.


That's why I created the Free Ontario Homebuyer Strategy Plan.


This isn't some basic consultation. It's a fully personalized strategy built around your income, your financial picture, and your goals. It's a clear roadmap to show you what's possible.


Here's what you'll get inside:


What's Included in the Free Ontario Homebuyer Strategy Plan

1. A Full Breakdown of What You Can Realistically Afford

Forget the online calculators and guesswork. We'll give you a real, concrete number based on your unique financial situation. This is the solid foundation you need to move forward with confidence.

2. A Clear Plan to Increase That Number

Don't like your initial number? That's okay. We'll show you the exact steps you can take to increase your affordability, whether it's through credit improvements, debt management, or savings strategies.

3. A Personal Strategy for Buying, Upgrading, or Selling

Everyone's journey is different. Whether you're a first-time buyer, looking to move up, or planning to sell, we'll build a strategy tailored to your specific goals and the current market conditions.

4. A Timeline That Shows How This Becomes Possible

This isn't a vague, far-off dream. We'll lay out a clear timeline that shows you the path from where you are today to where you want to be, step by step.

5. A Long-Term Roadmap to Build Wealth

This is about more than just one transaction. We'll help you create a long-term roadmap that moves you toward the future you thought you lost, using real estate as a tool to build lasting wealth.



Stop Guessing. Start Building.

If you've ever felt that real estate is slipping away from you, it's time to get a real plan.


For more on this, you can watch my video on this topic here: https://youtube.com/shorts/R0stp72KqV4?si=dYHxjyoCnYGymGB1


Ready to get started? I offer completely free consultations to walk you through this framework.

No pressure. No sales pitch. Just clarity.


Schedule a call


Let's give you the confidence to move forward—instead of guessing.


"You might feel priced out, but you're not planned out. A personalized strategy makes all the difference." — Josh Perez


Josh Perez
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By Josh Perez June 24, 2026
You’ve found the right home, your offer’s been accepted, and your financing is approved—congratulations! But before you can pick up the keys and celebrate, there’s one more important stage: the closing process. Closing is the final step in your homebuying journey, where all the paperwork, legal details, and financial transactions come together. It can feel overwhelming if you don’t know what to expect, but with the right preparation, closing can be smooth and stress-free. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you understand the process. Step 1: Hire a Lawyer or Notary A real estate lawyer (or notary, depending on your province) handles the legal side of closing. They will: Review the purchase agreement and mortgage documents Conduct a title search to confirm the seller has the legal right to sell the property Ensure the mortgage lender is properly registered on the title Handle the transfer of funds between you, the lender, and the seller Your lawyer or notary will be your main point of contact during closing, so choose one you trust and who communicates clearly. Step 2: Finalize Your Mortgage Your lender will send the mortgage instructions directly to your lawyer or notary. At this stage: You’ll provide proof of property insurance (lenders require this before releasing funds) You’ll confirm your down payment and closing costs are available in your lawyer’s trust account The lawyer will prepare all documents for your review and signature Step 3: Pay Closing Costs Closing costs typically range from 1.5% to 4% of the purchase price. These can include: Legal fees Title insurance Land transfer tax (where applicable) Adjustments for property taxes or utilities prepaid by the seller Home inspection or appraisal fees (if not already paid) Your lawyer will provide a final statement of adjustments so you know exactly how much is due on closing day. Step 4: Sign the Paperwork A few days before closing, you’ll meet with your lawyer or notary to sign all the necessary documents, including: Mortgage agreement Title transfer Insurance confirmations Statement of adjustments Bring valid government-issued ID to this appointment. Step 5: Transfer of Funds On the day of closing: Your lender sends the mortgage funds to your lawyer Your lawyer combines these funds with your down payment and pays the seller Legal ownership of the property is transferred into your name The lender is registered on title as a secured creditor Step 6: Get the Keys! Once the paperwork is filed and the funds have cleared, your lawyer will confirm that the transaction is complete. You’ll then get the keys to your new home—officially making it yours. The Bottom Line The closing process is a series of important steps, but with the right team in place, it doesn’t have to be stressful. By working closely with your mortgage professional and lawyer, you’ll have guidance every step of the way—from signing the documents to turning the key in the front door. If you’d like help preparing for the closing process—or want a clear breakdown of your own closing costs— connect with us today.
Modern living room with large glass doors, a lounge chair, and a view of a green outdoor terrace.
By Josh Perez June 18, 2026
Forget mortgage hacks. Learn the 5 real factors that determine your approval amount in Ontario — and which levers you can pull to maximize your buying power.