Friday, March 28, 2025

Over the years, I’ve had countless conversations with people who thought all real estate agents were basically the same. I get it. On the surface, it looks like we all have access to the same tools and do similar things. But the truth? Not all agents are created equal, and that difference can impact you in big ways, especially when it comes to your finances, your stress levels, and your long-term results.

One of the most important things I’ve learned in more than 35 years of guiding people through buying, selling, and investing in real estate is this: who you choose to work with really matters. Not every agent is a REALTOR®, and that title makes a difference you can feel.

When someone becomes licensed in Ontario, they’re called a registrant. That means they’ve completed the required education and are registered with the Real Estate Council of Ontario (RECO). They’re legally allowed to help people buy and sell real estate. But that’s just the starting point. A REALTOR® goes beyond that. As REALTORS®, Ken and I (and everyone on our team) are committed to a strict code of ethics, ongoing professional development, and we’re part of organizations that hold us accountable to a higher standard.

That means you’re getting more than someone who can legally fill out paperwork. You’re getting a partner who’s trained to protect you, advocate for you, and help you make wise financial decisions. We also have access to powerful tools like MLS® and custom search systems that allow us to find opportunities before most people ever see them on public sites like realtor.ca.

Too often I’ve met clients who thought someone was representing them, only to find out they weren’t. Just because someone shows you a house or fills out a form doesn’t mean they’re actually working in your best interest. In fact, under Ontario’s new rules, if you haven’t signed a representation agreement, that agent may be working for the other side—or no one at all. That can get messy fast.

I often compare it to showing up in court. You could represent yourself, but would you really want to when so much is at stake? The same principle applies in real estate. You deserve more than basic. You deserve full representation, clear guidance, and someone who will see what you can’t see—both the opportunities and the pitfalls.

I remember one young couple who came to us after nearly buying a property with serious foundation issues. We could see the red flags immediately. They hadn’t yet signed with anyone and were being led toward a financial nightmare. Thankfully, they slowed down, let us step in, and ended up purchasing a home that was not only structurally solid but a great financial decision for their future.

That’s what representation looks like. That’s what having the right REALTOR® can do.

At the end of the day, it’s about making wise decisions, not just fast ones. It’s about building your future, not just completing a transaction. And if you’re unsure who’s really in your corner, we’d love to have that conversation with you.

If you’re ready to have someone in your corner who brings experience, clarity, and commitment to your real estate journey, reach out to the Dekker Team today. Whether you’re buying, selling, or just thinking about your next steps, we’re here to walk with you every step of the way. Let’s build wealth wisely—together. 613-860-4663 or together@dekkerteam.com