Can I sell my Ontario home myself without a real estate agent?
Yes. There is no law in Ontario requiring you to use a real estate agent to sell your home. Private sales — sometimes called FSBO (For Sale By Owner) — are entirely legal. You can list on private-sale platforms, market the property yourself, and negotiate directly with buyers.
However, selling privately comes with real responsibilities. You must draft or obtain a legally sound Agreement of Purchase and Sale, handle negotiations, comply with REBBA (the Real Estate and Business Brokers Act) disclosure requirements applicable to sellers, and ensure all closing steps are coordinated correctly. You will still need a real estate lawyer to register the transfer.
Keep in mind that buyers using agents may expect a buyer's agent commission to be offered, or they may negotiate it into the price. Without MLS exposure through a registered brokerage you may reach a smaller pool of buyers. Many sellers find that the savings on commission are partly offset by the extra time and complexity involved. Before going private, it is worth getting legal advice on your obligations under the APS.
Key takeaways
- Ontario law does not require a seller to use a real estate agent
- You still need a lawyer to close and register the transfer
- Private sellers must meet disclosure obligations under REBBA
- MLS exposure is limited without a brokerage, which may affect buyer reach