$40,000

Comparable sales

Ask for 3–5 recent solds within ~1 km and the same beds/baths so the list price has context.

Property condition

Roof age, furnace age, hot-water tank age, electrical panel size, windows. Cosmetic vs structural.

Zoning

Confirm zoning matches your intent (single-family vs duplex vs secondary suite vs commercial).

Suite legality / potential

If suited or being marketed as suited: confirm permits, separate entrance, ceiling height, egress windows.

Monthly carrying cost

Mortgage + property tax + insurance + condo fee (if any) + utilities. Compare to your max budget.

Property taxes

Confirm the annual tax amount on the current assessment — and whether a reassessment is pending.

Insurance estimate

Get a same-day quote. Older homes, knob-and-tube wiring, polybutylene plumbing, flood plains all change the number.

Commute

Drive it (or transit it) at the actual time of day you'd commute. Map ETA lies during peak hours.

Deposit and financing conditions

Deposit size, financing condition window, condition removal date, possession date — all negotiable.

Inspection considerations

Budget for a home inspector ($500–700) and any specialty inspections (sewer scope, mould, asbestos for pre-1990 builds).