Question 1

How does the 1.75% cash back program work?

Accepted Answer

When a home is listed for sale, the seller pays a total commission — typically 2.5% goes to the buyer's agent. Most agents keep 100% of this. Hussain keeps just 0.75% to cover costs, and gives you back the remaining 1.75% as cash after closing. On a $900,000 home, that's $15,750 back. The rebate is paid directly to you by cheque or bank transfer within 7–10 business days of closing.

Question 2

How much cash back would I get on my purchase?

Accepted Answer

The formula is: Purchase Price × 1.75% = Your Cash Back. Examples: $700,000 home = $12,250 back. $900,000 home = $15,750 back. $1,100,000 home = $19,250 back. $1,400,000 home = $24,500 back.

Question 3

Is cash back from a realtor legal in Ontario?

Accepted Answer

Yes — 100% legal. Commission rebates are explicitly permitted under Ontario's Real Estate and Business Brokers Act (REBBA) and regulated by RECO. RECO's own Registrar has publicly confirmed that agents can offer rebates to buyers as long as it is disclosed in writing in the Buyer Representation Agreement.

Question 4

Is the cash back rebate taxable income in Canada?

Accepted Answer

For most buyers purchasing a principal residence — no. The CRA's position is that the rebate is not taxable income and does not need to be reported on your tax return. If buying an investment or rental property, the rebate may reduce your adjusted cost base (ACB). Consult a qualified accountant for guidance specific to your situation.

Question 5

Do I still get full realtor service, or is this a cut-rate experience?

Accepted Answer

Full service — no compromise. Every buyer gets: customized MLS property searches, private showings, sold comparables and neighbourhood analysis, offer strategy and negotiation, conditional clause advice, inspection and lawyer coordination, and support through every step to closing.

Question 6

Will I work directly with Hussain, or get passed to a team?

Accepted Answer

You work directly with Hussain from the first conversation to the day you get your keys. He personally answers every call, attends every showing, writes every offer, and negotiates on your behalf. No junior agent handoff, no call centre.

Question 7

Does the cash back affect my mortgage qualification?

Accepted Answer

Generally no — because the cash back is paid after closing, not at mortgage approval time. Your lender qualifies you based on the purchase price and your financial profile. The rebate you receive post-closing is separate from that process.

Question 8

I'm a first-time buyer — is this program right for me?

Accepted Answer

Absolutely — first-time buyers benefit the most. You're already stretched with a down payment, closing costs, and moving expenses. Getting $10,000–$25,000 back in cash after closing is significant relief. Extra time is taken with first-time buyers to explain every step, what to watch for in inspections, how to read an offer, and what every closing cost means.

Question 9

What government programs are available for first-time buyers in Ontario?

Accepted Answer

Key programs: First Home Savings Account (FHSA) — contribute up to $40,000 tax-free toward your first home. Home Buyers' Plan (HBP) — withdraw up to $60,000 from your RRSP tax-free. Ontario land transfer tax rebate up to $4,000 for first-time buyers. Toronto land transfer tax rebate up to $4,475 if buying in Toronto.

Question 10

What closing costs should I budget for?

Accepted Answer

Plan for approximately 1.5–2.5% of the purchase price in closing costs. Main items: Ontario land transfer tax, Toronto land transfer tax (if buying in Toronto), legal fees ($1,500–$2,500), title insurance (~$300–$500), and home inspection ($400–$600). Your cash back rebate can significantly offset these costs.

Find Out How Much Cash Back You'd Get on Your Next Home