Selling your home is a major financial decision. With the right strategy, preparation, and agent, you can maximize your sale price and minimize time on the market. This guide covers everything you need to know about selling a home in Mississauga and Ontario.
Step 1: Choose the Right Listing Agent
Your choice of real estate agent significantly impacts your sale price and experience. Look for:
- Local market expertise — An agent who knows Mississauga neighbourhoods, comparable sales, and buyer demographics
- Strong track record — Proven history of selling homes at or above asking price
- Marketing plan — Professional photography, virtual tours, staging, and digital marketing
- Client reviews — Check Google Reviews and Rate My Agent
- Communication style — An agent who keeps you informed every step of the way
"Marcia was great helping us selling our condo. It is a tough market but she made our unit one of the best available, assisting us with a first assessment and arranging for some staging items to increase the space and value."— Bruna Grochot
Step 2: Price Your Home Strategically
Pricing is the single most important factor in how quickly and profitably your home sells:
- Comparative Market Analysis (CMA) — Your agent will analyze recent sales of similar homes in your area
- Avoid overpricing — Overpriced homes sit on the market and eventually sell for less than if priced correctly from the start
- Consider market conditions — Buyer's market vs. seller's market affects pricing strategy
- Strategic pricing — Pricing slightly below market value can generate multiple offers and drive the price up
Step 3: Prepare Your Home for Sale
First impressions are everything in real estate. Take these steps to maximize your home's appeal:
Declutter & Depersonalize
- Remove personal photos and memorabilia
- Clear countertops, closets, and storage areas
- Remove excess furniture to make rooms feel larger
- Pack away seasonal and infrequently used items
Repairs & Updates
- Fix leaky faucets, squeaky doors, and cracked tiles
- Touch up paint — neutral colours appeal to the broadest range of buyers
- Replace dated light fixtures and hardware
- Ensure all systems (HVAC, plumbing, electrical) are in working order
Professional Staging
Professionally staged homes sell faster and for more. See our home staging services for details on how staging transforms your property.
Curb Appeal
- Mow the lawn, trim hedges, and add fresh plants
- Clean the front entrance — power wash if needed
- Ensure house numbers are visible
- Add a new welcome mat and potted plants
Step 4: Market Your Home
Effective marketing reaches the right buyers and generates showings:
Professional Photography
High-quality photos are essential. Most buyers start their search online — your photos must make them want to visit in person.
Virtual Tours
3D virtual tours and video walkthroughs let buyers explore your home from anywhere, attracting out-of-town buyers and pre-qualifying interest.
MLS Listing
Your home will be listed on MLS (Multiple Listing Service), reaching every real estate agent and buyer portal in Canada.
Digital Marketing
Targeted advertising on social media, real estate portals, and email campaigns to reach active buyers searching in your area.
Step 5: Showings & Open Houses
Tips for successful showings:
- Keep the home clean and show-ready at all times
- Leave during showings to let buyers feel comfortable
- Remove pets and their belongings during showings
- Open blinds and turn on lights for a bright, welcoming feel
- Add fresh flowers and a pleasant scent
Step 6: Review Offers & Negotiate
When offers come in, your agent will help you evaluate:
- Offer price — Compare to your asking price and market value
- Conditions — Fewer conditions mean a more certain deal
- Deposit amount — Larger deposits show serious intent
- Closing date — Does it align with your timeline?
- Buyer's financial qualification — Pre-approved buyers are preferable
Your agent will negotiate on your behalf to achieve the best possible terms.
Step 7: Accept & Close
- Accept the offer (or sign back with counter-terms)
- Buyer fulfills conditions (inspection, financing)
- Conditions are waived — the deal becomes firm
- Hire a lawyer to handle the closing (see trusted experts)
- Closing day — funds transfer, keys are handed over
Costs of Selling a Home in Ontario
| Cost | Typical Amount |
|---|---|
| Real estate commission | Negotiable (typically 4–5% total, split between listing and buyer agent) |
| Legal fees | $1,000 – $2,000 |
| Staging | $2,000 – $5,000+ (or included by your agent) |
| Minor repairs & touch-ups | $500 – $3,000 |
| Moving costs | $500 – $3,000 |
| Mortgage discharge fee | $200 – $500 |
| Status certificate (condos) | $100 – $150 |
| Capital gains tax | Only if not principal residence |
Step 8: Moving Out
After the sale closes:
- Use our change of address checklist to notify all organizations
- Cancel or transfer utilities
- Leave the home clean and in the condition specified in the agreement
- Hand over all keys, garage remotes, and access codes
Ready to Sell Your Mississauga Home?
Lacerda Real Estate provides expert guidance, professional staging, and a proven marketing strategy to sell your home for the best possible price. Contact us for a free home evaluation.
Phone: 647-244-5502
Address: 4310 Sherwoodtowne Blvd #200A, Mississauga, ON L4Z 4C4