How Technology Is Changing Canadian Real Estate

Technology has arguably caused changes in every industry. Real estate is no exception. From more access to hard data to sleek video listings, here are some of the biggest ways technology has helped make both buying and selling a home in Canada easier and more comfortable.

Data is increasingly available. Most Canadian provinces now allow the sale prices of homes to be publically available (although some cities, like Toronto, tried to appeal the decision). For years, hard data was only available through MLS, but tech-based companies—like Zillow, for example—now provide this, while other companies freely show the appreciation of certain buildings and similar kinds of data. This makes it easier for buyers to get a fuller understanding of what they’re buying into.

Video and virtual tours expand the search. Thanks to the increase in slick video tours, it’s now easier than ever to view a home from afar. This makes it easier for foreign buyers—or even local buyers with busy schedules—to expand the amount of homes they can see. It’s almost like having a 24-7 open house at your disposal!

Digital documents speed up the process. Gone are the days of having to drive all over the city to sign every document you need to close a sale or secure an agreement with a REALTOR®. Programs like DocuSign have been a lifesaver for this formerly tedious process.

Meet your new agent … online. Ever noticed you don’t get as many real estate agents knocking on your door to introduce themselves? That’s because the internet gives them a whole world to introduce themselves to. If you’re not choosing your next agent based on a personal referral, chances are you might find them through a Facebook search, where you can get a glimpse of their style and connect with some of their past clients.