A new teamwork approach to navigating Ottawa’s hot real estate market

Ted Langstaff knows that buying or selling a home is a lot more work than most people realize, especially while Ottawa is home to one of the hottest real estate markets in the country.

“Buying or selling a property is the big part, but there’s a lot more that goes into being a homeowner,” says the 36-year-old agent with Royal LePage Performance Realty.

Langstaff discovered how involved the buying and selling process is at an early age – learning from his mother, Jo Ann Langstaff, who has had a celebrated career as a real estate agent with Royal LePage.

After attending Algonquin College’s architectural technology program, Langstaff decided to follow in his mother’s footsteps and launch his own career in real estate. The two teamed up to form a unique mother-son professional partnership, which he says benefits their clients.

“When you choose to work with me, you get the personalized service from a solo agent, but with the benefit of being able to rely on the combined expertise of an award-winning team,” Langstaff says. All interactions are handled by him – not a support agent working under his banner.

Industry recognition

Since Ted joined his mother in 2015, the pair have racked up many impressive sales awards that recognize their position as top-tier agents. These include the Royal LePage Director’s Platinum Award – reserved for the top five per cent of realtors –  in 2016 and 2017 as well as the President’s Gold Award, given to the top 10 per cent of agents, in 2015 and 2018. The team is also on track for platinum status again in 2019.

Langstaff says it’s a genuine desire to build a lasting connection with his clients that sets himself apart from other agents.

“I want my clients to think of me for their property needs, even if it’s long after our initial interaction,” he says. Having built an extensive network of trusted home improvement and contracting professionals, Langstaff can make valuable referrals and guide his clients through every step of the home ownership experience.

In a market this hot, having a knowledgeable and trained resource to help with all aspects of the buying or selling process has become more important than ever, says Langstaff.

Over the past two years, Ottawa has transformed from a balanced market into one that favours sellers. In August, the number of home sales in Ottawa increased nearly 10 per cent from a year earlier, according to data from the Ottawa Real Estate Board. Coming into the fall months, typically a busy period in real estate, the market is expected to continue to pick up steam.

What this means for those looking to buy a home is that properties are selling quickly and are entertaining multiple offers, says Langstaff.

“It creates a lot of stress for people who are looking to buy when there are multiple competitive offers,” he explains. “The market has made it harder for people to do their due diligence, from both a buying and selling standpoint. It’s crucial to work with someone who can guide you through what should be an exciting process.”