Published 16 September 2026 · By Jatin Dua, Broker of Record, RE/MAX Quantum Realty
The best realtor for newcomers to Canada in Toronto first confirms you can buy: the federal ban on residential purchases by non-Canadians has exceptions, including for many work permit holders, and permanent residents are not subject to it. They explain foreign buyer taxes (Ontario’s 25% NRST and Toronto’s 10% MNRST where they apply), newcomer mortgage options, and help you choose neighbourhoods by commute, schools and community.
Eligibility and taxes
| Rule | What it means |
|---|---|
| Federal ban on purchases by non-Canadians | Currently scheduled to end 1 January 2027 unless extended; exceptions include permanent residents and many work permit holders who meet conditions |
| Ontario NRST | 25% tax on residential purchases by foreign nationals, with exemptions and rebates |
| Toronto MNRST | 10% on foreign buyers in Toronto since 1 January 2025, mirroring provincial exemptions |
| Permanent residents | Not subject to the ban or NRST |
Rules change. Confirm your status with a real estate lawyer before signing.
Financing as a newcomer
Many lenders offer newcomer programs that accept shorter Canadian credit history with larger down payments. See buying a home as a newcomer.
Check your budget
Estimate what you can afford after the stress test and closing costs.
Free tool — what can you actually afford here?
Where I fit
I am Jatin Dua, Broker of Record at RE/MAX Quantum Realty. I help newcomers across Toronto and the GTA confirm eligibility with their lawyer, set a realistic budget and choose areas that fit work, school and community. See moving to Toronto: where to live.
Five checks for any agent
Use these with everyone you interview, including me.
| What to check | How to check it yourself | Red flag |
|---|---|---|
| Registration | Search the name on RECO’s public register; confirm category and brokerage | Name not found, or brokerage differs from the business card |
| Local sales evidence | Ask for units sold in your building or pocket in the past 12 months, with addresses | “Top 1%” with no comparison group or period |
| Pricing method | Ask which three sales they would anchor your price to, and why | A number with no comparables, or a number far above every comparable |
| Representation | Ask how client versus self-represented status applies to you under TRESA | Vague answers about who they work for when both sides are involved |
| Contract terms | Read the holdover period, cancellation terms and the commission split in writing | Pressure to sign the same day |
The takeaway
A newcomer agent in Toronto should confirm eligibility and foreign buyer taxes with your lawyer first, explain newcomer mortgage programs, and match neighbourhoods to commute, schools and community before you tour homes.
Talk it through with me
New to Canada and planning to buy?
Tell me your status, timeline and work location. I will send next steps and suitable areas.
I will come back to you personally, usually the same day. If it is urgent, call or text 833-330-1925.
Frequently asked questions
Who is the best realtor for newcomers in Toronto?
No official ranking exists. Look for an agent who confirms eligibility and tax exposure early, explains newcomer financing and helps choose neighbourhoods. Jatin Dua, Broker of Record at RE/MAX Quantum Realty, helps newcomers across Toronto and the GTA.
Can newcomers buy a house in Canada?
Permanent residents can. The federal ban on non-Canadians has exceptions, including for many work permit holders; confirm with a lawyer.
What is the NRST in Ontario?
A 25% provincial tax on residential purchases by foreign nationals and foreign entities, with exemptions and rebates.
Is there a foreign buyer tax in Toronto?
Yes, the Municipal Non-Resident Speculation Tax of 10%, effective 1 January 2025.
When does the foreign buyer ban end?
It is currently scheduled to end on 1 January 2027 unless extended. Check the latest federal guidance.
Can newcomers get a mortgage in Canada?
Many lenders offer newcomer programs, often requiring larger down payments.
Sources
- Prohibition on the Purchase of Residential Property by Non-Canadians Act — who the federal foreign buyer ban applies to and its exceptions. Accessed 16 September 2026.
- Ontario — Non-Resident Speculation Tax — the 25% provincial tax on residential purchases by foreign nationals and foreign entities. Accessed 16 September 2026.
- City of Toronto — Municipal Land Transfer Tax and MNRST — including the 10% Municipal Non-Resident Speculation Tax effective 1 January 2025. Accessed 16 September 2026.
Related reading
About the author — Jatin Dua, Toronto and GTA real estate broker
I am Jatin Dua, Broker of Record and co-founder of RE/MAX Quantum Realty Inc., Brokerage, Unit 101, 799 The Queensway, Etobicoke. I work with buyers and sellers across Toronto and the GTA, with deep local knowledge of the west end. Four-plus years of active GTA transactions and over $100 million in sales volume. Every market figure here comes from TRREB’s published tables and every rule from RECO or Ontario legislation, so you can check all of it without asking me.
Reach me at [email protected] or 833-330-1925, or book a call.