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🛡️ Know Your Rights

Don't sign away your power. Know what you're entitled to in Ontario's real estate system.

Whether you're buying, renting, or leasing out property, the law gives you rights — but too often, they’re hidden behind jargon, paperwork, or pressure. This page breaks down your core rights in plain English, so you can protect yourself and push back when something doesn’t feel right.

🏠 Buyer Rights (Under TRESA)

You do not need to sign anything to view a property.

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✅ You have the right to:

  • Act as a self-represented buyer — you don’t have to use an agent

  • Refuse to sign a Buyer Representation Agreement (BRA)

  • View publicly listed properties unless the seller has clear written restrictions (Form 244)

  • Ask questions about the property without being forced into a contract

  • Be informed of your options — agents must explain customer vs. client roles

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⚠️ Watch out for:

  • Agents who claim it’s “illegal” to view homes without signing a BRA

  • Bait-and-switch tactics: offering info or showings only if you sign

  • Refusals to present your offer if you’re unrepresented

🧾 Seller Rights

If you’re listing your home:

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  • You don’t have to use Form 244 to delay or restrict offers

  • You can choose when and how offers are presented

  • You have the right to transparent advice from your listing agent

  • You can ask your agent to accommodate self-represented buyers if you want a wider pool

🛋️ Tenant Rights (Under the Residential Tenancies Act)

If you’re renting a home in Ontario:

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  • You must be given the Ontario Standard Lease Agreement

  • You cannot be forced to sign private or brokerage-created leases that leave out your legal rights

  • You have a right to:

    • Clear rent terms

    • Disclosure of who is responsible for utilities

    • Maintenance and repair obligations spelled out

    • Quiet enjoyment of your unit

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⚠️ Red flags include:

  • Being asked to sign OREA or brokerage-branded leases

  • Missing pages about maintenance or dispute resolution

  • “Extra” clauses that contradict the RTA

🧑‍💼 Landlord Rights

As a landlord:

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  • You are legally required to use the Ontario Standard Lease

  • You can still screen tenants and add permitted clauses — but not override the law

  • You have the right to:

    • Timely rent payments

    • Respectful use of your property

    • Enforcement of lease terms via the Landlord and Tenant Board (LTB)

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You also have a right to know that the agent helping you lease your property is using legal, compliant forms — not templates designed to protect the brokerage over you.

🧠 Legal Tip: Representation Is a Choice — Not a Requirement

Real estate agents in Ontario must now follow TRESA (Trust in Real Estate Services Act). Under these rules:

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  • You must be given the RECO Information Guide before signing anything

  • You must be told the difference between being a client (represented) or a customer (unrepresented)

  • You can decline representation entirely

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If you’re pressured, misled, or denied service because you won’t sign — you may have grounds for a complaint.

🔍 What If You’re Not Sure?

If something feels off, trust your instincts.

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📁 Explore our Case Files to see what others have reported
📤 Submit your experience — even if you’re unsure whether it “counts”
📚 Learn more about Form 244 Abuse, BRA Misuse, or Lease Confusion

Real estate should be transparent, honest, and fair.


But when it’s not — knowing your rights is the first line of defense.

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🛠 We’re here to help you stand your ground.

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