Do I need a real estate agent to buy a home in Ontario?

No, Ontario law does not require you to use a real estate agent when buying a home. You can negotiate directly with the seller or their agent. However, a buyer's agent (now often called a buyer representative) provides services that many buyers find valuable: helping locate properties, advising on pricing, drafting and negotiating offers, and guiding you through conditions and closing timelines.

Traditionally, the buyer's agent commission was paid by the seller from their sale proceeds, making buyer representation appear "free" to the buyer. Changes to how agent compensation is disclosed mean you should now review any buyer representation agreement carefully before signing so you understand who pays the commission and how much.

Regardless of whether you use an agent, you need an independent real estate lawyer in Ontario. Your lawyer handles the legal side of the transaction — title search, mortgage documents, registration, and closing — and your interests are their only concern. An agent and a lawyer serve different, complementary roles.