No generic list of buyer's advice can possibly work well for everyone, but there are a few prime considerations to nail down prior to making any offer:

Neighbourhood.  Where you love to hang out on the weekend may not be where you love to live full time.  Do you have a realistic feel for the neighbourhood on a Monday morning in January?

Price Range.  Be proactive and get pre-approved for a mortgage.  Not only will this pinpoint your price range, it will also help you in making a firmer and more attractive offer once the time comes.  Are you working with a good lender or mortgage broker?

New vs. Resale.  Buying from plans usually saves you money, but how much is your time worth?  Are you prepared to ride out a major delay in construction?  If so, you have the advantage of customizing your living space just the way you want it.

Building Envy.  For years you've had your heart set on that boutique loft building directly across from the park.  Well, you're not alone … get ready for a multiple offer scenario on any unit that comes up for grabs.  But would you consider a similar yet slightly less popular building tucked away on a quiet street just two blocks away?

These are just some of the factors I will help you determine prior to submitting an offer.  The process is tailor made to your unique needs and preferences, not mine.  The end result: a well-planned, hassle-free buying experience that gets you into a home you love at a price you're satisfied with.

A Note on New Developments: have you ever visited a sales office for a new condo development, perhaps even on the first day it opens, and been surprised to find many (or even most) of the units already sold?  This is because buyers that are represented by a Realtor often have first shot at the prime units, in what are known as VIP or Agent-Only events.  By working with me, you can beat the general public to the prime units, and be advised on the relative merits of competing projects in the neighbourhood, before signing on the dotted line.  Best of all: since I'm compensated directly by the developer, none of this costs you a penny.