Real estate is full of misconceptions, and a few persistent ones can skew expectations or cost you opportunities. Whether you are buying your first home, selling, or investing, it helps to separate fact from fiction before you make a decision. Here are five of the most common real estate myths, and the reality behind each.
Myth 1: You must put 20 percent down to buy a home
A 20 percent down payment is not always required. In Canada, for a home priced under $500,000, the minimum is 5 percent. For a home between $500,000 and $999,999, it is 5 percent on the first $500,000 and 10 percent on the portion above that. Homes priced at $1 million or more do require 20 percent down, and that applies to everyone, from first-time buyers to seasoned purchasers. Knowing where your price range falls is an important early step in planning a purchase.
Myth 2: The best time to sell is spring
The market does have a seasonal rhythm, with more activity in spring and summer, but the best time to sell is more personal than the calendar suggests. Selling in the fall or winter can mean less competition, and the buyers who are active in those months tend to be serious and often working to a deadline. The same logic applies on the buying side, which we explore in when is the best time to buy a home in Kelowna. The right timing depends on your situation and the current market more than on the season.
Myth 3: All real estate agents are the same
Agents vary widely in experience, local knowledge, niche expertise, and the way they work with clients. That difference matters, because it shapes how well your home is positioned or how confidently you buy. It is worth knowing what to look for, which we cover in questions to ask when choosing a realtor, and it is the difference our real estate services are built around. The right fit is the one whose approach and expertise match what you need.
Myth 4: You cannot buy a home with a less-than-perfect credit score
A higher credit score helps and can secure a better interest rate, but a less-than-perfect score does not automatically rule out buying a home. There are mortgage options designed for a range of credit situations, and there are often practical steps you can take to strengthen your position before you buy. The key is getting clear advice early so you know where you stand and what is possible.
Myth 5: Home renovations always increase your home’s value
Not all renovations are created equal. Some updates add meaningful value, while others return little of what they cost, and over-improving for the neighbourhood can actually work against you. Before taking on a major project, it pays to know which improvements are worth it, which is exactly the question we answer in how to increase your home value before you sell. When you are preparing to list, our guide to preparing your home for sale helps you focus your effort where it counts.
Frequently asked questions
For a home under $500,000 it is 5 percent. Between $500,000 and $999,999 it is 5 percent on the first $500,000 and 10 percent on the rest. At $1 million or more, 20 percent is required.
Not necessarily. Spring is busier, but selling in fall or winter can mean less competition and more serious buyers. The best timing depends on your circumstances and current market conditions.
Often yes. A higher score helps with rates, but a lower one does not automatically disqualify you. There are options for various credit situations, and steps you can take to improve your position first.
The best decisions in real estate come from facts, not myths. If you would like clear, honest answers about your own situation, we are always glad to help you sort the two.









