Unlocking the Truth: Who Bears the Real Estate Fees?
When it comes to selling a home, there is often a confusion surrounding who pays the real estate fees. Although it is commonly believed that sellers foot the bill, the reality is a bit more complex. Whether you are a buyer, seller, or simply curious about the inner workings of real estate transactions, delve into the article to unravel the mystery together.
Unveiling the Buyer’s Responsibility
Contrary to common assumptions, it is the buyer who physically covers the real estate fees. As per the terms agreed upon in the Agreement of Purchase and Sale, the buyer is responsible for providing the funds, which are then transferred from their solicitor to the seller’s solicitor through the statement of adjustments.
Navigating real estate agent fees
At the heart of every home sale, stands the real estate agent, functioning within the framework of their respective brokerages. The listing agent, operating under the umbrella of the listing brokerage, earns a fee upon the successful conclusion of the sale. This fee is typically divided, with a portion allocated to the buyer’s brokerage and the rest to the listing brokerage.
Do buyer agents out-earn listing agents?
Interestingly, buyer agents often make more per transaction than listing agents due to the way commissions are split. While the total commission might be, for instance, 5%, the buyer’s agent might receive their full commission rate, while the listing agent might accept a lower commission, say 1.5%.
This dynamic can lead to a higher earning potential for buyer agents, compensating for the effort they invest in working with potential buyers.
Deciphering Real Estate Commissions
In Ontario, the standard real estate agent commission typically amount to 5% of the property price. However, in practice, the commission can range anywhere from 3.5% to 5%. The total commission is divided among the buyer and seller agents, with the buyer’s portion typically fixed at 2.5%.
Navigating the Agreement of Purchase and Sale
The Agreement of Purchase and Sale (APS) serves as the blueprint for all real estate transactions. When buyers and sellers enter into an APS, they must consider various factors, including the inclusion of items such as appliances, furniture, and light fixtures. Additionally, crucial details such as the selling price, deposit amount, and closing date are integral components of this agreement.
Completing the Transaction
As the closing date approaches, the final steps of the transaction come into play. The buyer’s lawyer facilitates the transfer of funds to the seller’s lawyer, thus finalizing the transaction outlined in the APS. From the proceeds, the seller’s lawyer disburses various fees associated with the sale, including legal fees, land transfer tax, applicable sales tax, and, of course, real estate fees.
In conclusion, understanding real estate fees is essential for both buyers and sellers in navigating the complexities of home transactions. By unraveling the roles of listing agents, the breakdown of commissions, and the importance of the Agreement of Purchase and Sale, individuals can make informed decisions when buying or selling a property.
So, armed with the knowledge and confidence, dive into the exciting world of real estate!
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FALL MARKET KICKOFF: September 2025 Real Estate Market Update
As summer winds down, the Greater Toronto Area (GTA) real estate market is shifting once again—this time with an important boost from the Bank of Canada’s recent interest rate cut. On September 17, 2025, the Bank lowered its policy interest rate to 2.5%, marking a significant move that is expected to reinvigorate buying activity across the region.
Market Snapshot: August 2025 (TRREB) 
According to the Toronto Regional Real Estate Board (TRREB), August brought encouraging signs of stability:
- Sales: 6,232 transactions across the GTA, a 4.6% increase from August 2024.
- New Listings: 13,119, down slightly year-over-year, helping balance supply.
- Average Selling Price: $982,880, nearly flat compared to last year (+0.4%).
- Trend: Balanced conditions are giving both buyers and sellers room to maneuver, with the recent rate cut expected to stimulate fall demand.
City & Regional Highlights
Toronto 
Toronto continues to see steady demand for condos and townhomes, appealing to buyers looking for affordability in the core. Detached homes are moving more cautiously, but price stability suggests confidence returning to the market.
Mississauga 
Mississauga remains a buyer-friendly market, especially in the detached and semi-detached segments. With borrowing costs easing, families upsizing or relocating may find strong value in the fall.
Oakville 
Luxury demand in Oakville is regaining traction. The combination of limited inventory and lower financing costs positions this market for an active fall season, especially for executive homes and lakefront properties.
Burlington 
Burlington continues to attract buyers migrating west from Toronto. The city’s blend of affordability, lifestyle, and community feel has kept prices steady and competitive.
Muskoka 
Cottage country remains strong, with buyers eyeing investment properties and second homes. While activity softened slightly through the summer, the rate drop could encourage more buyers to act before year-end.
What This Means for Buyers & Sellers
With interest rates now at their lowest level in two years, affordability is improving across the GTA and Muskoka. Buyers who were waiting on the sidelines are expected to re-enter the market this fall, while sellers may benefit from increased competition for well-priced homes.
At Regan Irish & Associates, we specialize in helping clients navigate market shifts with confidence. Whether you’re buying a luxury home, selling a family property, or investing in Muskoka, our market insight and negotiation expertise ensure you get the best results.
1320 Cornwall Rd Unit 103, Oakville, ON L6J 7W5
905.842.7677
Visit reganirish.com——
August 2025 GTA Real Estate Market Update | Regan Irish
The August 2025 GTA Real Estate Market Update reflects renewed momentum and affordability in Toronto, Oakville, Mississauga, Burlington, and Muskoka. Thanks to steady interest rates and appealing home prices, July proved surprisingly dynamic. Let’s dig into the numbers and what they mean for you.
Interest Rates Remain Stable — Affordability Fueling Activity
In July 2025, the Bank of Canada maintained its key rate at 2.75%, its third consecutive pause. With lower borrowing costs now more accessible, affordability is encouraging a wave of renewed buyer activity.
GTA Market Overview: Sales Surge, Prices Slightly Dip
- Home Sales: 6,100+ transactions region-wide, marking a 10.9% increase YoY and the strongest July since 2021.
- Month-over-Month: Seasonally adjusted sales rose 13% from June to approximately 5,744 units, the biggest monthly gain in nine months.
- New Listings: Up 5.7% YoY, totaling 17,613 new offers.
- Price Trends:
- The MLS® Home Price Index (HPI) Composite Benchmark fell 5.4% YoY.
- The average GTA selling price dropped 5.5% YoY to around $1,051,719.
- Word on the street indicates the HPI drifted slightly lower—about $979,000, down 0.2% from June.
What It Adds Up To: Buyers are back in force—sales are outpacing new listings while prices softened, creating renewed market opportunities.
City Highlights
Toronto
A more balanced landscape—but some segments remain soft. Condos and detached homes see inventory rising; semis are steadier.
Oakville, Mississauga, Burlington & Muskoka
While TRREB doesn’t break down by city in these reports, regional trends suggest:
- Mississauga & Burlington: Strong rise in listings and dipping average prices give buyers leverage.
- Oakville: Stability in demand for luxury keeps discounts modest.
- Muskoka: Continued strong interest in sub-$2M waterfront properties should benefit from broader GTA momentum.
What This Means for You
- For Buyers:
Renewed affordability, rising inventory, and favorable interest rates make August a prime time to move. - For Sellers:
A more balanced market—strategic pricing and quick response will be key to success. - For Investors & Cottage Buyers:
Strong July sales in the GTA point to increasing investor interest; Muskoka remains a high-value lifestyle and investment destination.
Work With the GTA Real Estate Experts
Whether you’re planning to buy a Muskoka cottage, invest in a luxurious Oakville property, or explore options across Toronto, Mississauga, or Burlington, now is the time to act.
Regan Irish & Associates specializes in luxury, resale, and investment properties across the GTA and Muskoka. Our market insight and negotiation skills help you get the best results—whether buying, selling, or investing.
1320 Cornwall Rd Unit 103, Oakville, ON L6J 7W5
905.842.7677
Visit reganirish.com
Let’s make today’s market your opportunity—contact us today!
