Leo  Falkovsky

Leo Falkovsky

Sales Representative

RE/MAX Hallmark Chay Realty Inc., Brokerage*

Mobile:
416-356-6968
Office:
705-722-7100
Email Me
 

 

 

 

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Checklist 1: Before You Start Looking

Before you start house hunting, Create a clear list of what’s must-have, nice-to-have, and deal breakers. Know your budget and get pre-approved for a mortgage before serious searching.

Set Your Priorities:
  • Number of bedrooms & bathrooms
  • Outdoor space / lot size
  • Proximity to work, schools, transit
  • Layout and age of home
Get Financially Prepared
  • Are you pre-approved for a mortgage?
  • What’s your price range?
  • How much do you have saved for a down payment?
  • Have you budgeted for closing costs?
  • Do you have emergency savings in place?

Ready to take the next step toward your dream home? Use our Mortgage Affordability Calculator to discover what’s comfortably within your reach—and move forward with clarity and confidence.

Leo Falkovsky

Real Estate Agent & Mortgage Broker · 25 Years · Barrie, Ontario

I've spent 25 years doing two things I genuinely love — helping people buy and sell homes, and helping them finance those homes as smartly as possible.

Most people work with a real estate agent or a mortgage broker. You get both. And that combination makes a real difference — because the best home purchase means nothing if the financing isn't structured to work for you long term.

What drives me after 25 years is the same thing that drove me on day one: the moment a client walks into a home that feels right, or sits across the table from me and finally understands why their mortgage has felt like an uphill battle — and what we can do to change it. That moment never gets old.

I've always believed that technology should serve people — not replace them. I use every tool available to give my clients the sharpest market intelligence, the fastest processes, and the most informed decisions possible. But at the end of the day, buying or selling a home is one of the most personal decisions you'll ever make. And personal decisions deserve a personal touch.

Outside of work I'm passionate about health and fitness, cooking, travelling, reading, and constantly losing at chess — then working hard to get better. Most importantly, I'm a proud husband and father. Those two roles keep me grounded and remind me every day why the work I do matters.

If you're buying, selling, or thinking about financing in Ontario — I'd love to be part of that journey

What I stand for: Honesty · Integrity · Professionalism · Negotiation



Area Covered: All of Barrie, Springwater, Oro Mediate, Midhurst




Checklist 2: Interior & Exterior Features to Evaluate Before You Buy

Whether touring in person or virtually, use this checklist to assess condition, layout, and long-term livability.

Interior

Doors & Windows

  • Windows: single pane/thermopane
  • Door locks/latches work: yes/no
  • General window condition: good/moderate/poor

Kitchen

  • General size/colours
  • Island or prep space: yes/no
  • Countertop material & condition
  • Pantry/storage space: yes/no
  • Sink: single/double
  • Appliances included: yes/no

Family/Living Room

  • Fireplace: yes/no
  • Separate dining room: yes/no
  • Living room floor type/condition
  • Flooring type & condition
  • Wall & ceiling condition (cracks, stains): good/moderate/poor

Bathrooms and Bedrooms

  • Number of bedrooms & bathrooms
  • Closet space: adequate/limited
  • Bathroom ventilation (fan/window): yes/no
  • Signs of moisture or damage: yes/no
Exterior

Lot Details

  • Lot size/shape
  • Landscaping condition: good/moderate/poor
  • Driveway: private/shared
  • Mature trees, shrubs, etc: yes/no
  • Walkways condition & safety: good/moderate/poor

Structure Details

  • Number of stories: 1/2/3/4
  • Type of home
  • Condition of siding & paint: good/moderate/poor
  • Parking: uncovered/one paid space/ two paid spaces
  • Patio/deck: good/moderate/poor
  • Type of foundation: raised well above ground/visible cracks
  • Swimming pool: above/below/indoor/outdoor/none
  • General pool condition: good/moderate/poor
  • General roof condition: good/moderate/poor
  • Eaves troughs and downspouts: good/moderate/poor
  • Fenced backyard: yes/no
  • Fenced front yard: yes/no

Wondering which interior and exterior features are must-haves? Let Howard R. help you refine your checklist and find the right home—faster and with confidence.

Ready to See What Fits Your Budget? Explore Howard R.’s featured listings to understand price ranges and plan your home-buying budget.

Checklist 3: What to Look for in Home Systems

Use this checklist to spot potential issues and avoid costly surprises—whether touring in person or virtually.

Electrical System
  • Condition
  • Outlets adequate: yes/no
  • Wiring: aluminum/copper wiring
Water Service
  • Source: city/well
  • Pump age
  • Water agreement: yes/no
  • Water quality tested for potability: yes/no
Sewage/Septic System
  • Type: sewage/septic
  • Where’s septic field
  • Holding tank & system recently checked: yes/no
Heating & Air Conditioning
  • Heating Type: oil/gas/electric/steam/baseboard/heat pump/combination
  • AC Type: window/central

Unsure how to prioritize critical home systems during your inspection? Howard R. can help you identify red flags, refine your checklist, and avoid costly surprises.

 

Checklist 4: What To Look For In Neighborhood

Location is key when it comes to finding your dream home. The right location supports your lifestyle and long-term value.

Tips

Thoroughly explore the neighborhood by visiting at different times of day to get a true sense of its atmosphere and convenience. Research amenities, schools, transportation, and community events to ensure the location suits your lifestyle.

Stay ahead of the market—sign up for Neighborhood Buzzer to receive the latest listings in your preferred neighborhood.

Location
  • Nearby facilities
  • Parks, shopping & dining nearby
  • Commute & highway access
  • Close to work
  • Low Crime Rate
  • Schools & community centres
  • Places of worship
  • Fire department

Ready to Buy? Let's Discuss!

Have questions or just curious about the process? I'd love to chat and help you figure out your next step.

Have Questions?

House Hunting Checklist


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