Buying a home in Saint John, or anywhere for that matter, is one of the biggest financial decisions you will ever make. It can feel overwhelming, especially in today’s complex market. To help you navigate the process with more confidence, the Canadian Real Estate Association (CREA) has launched a unique national program called Tape Tips.

The initiative delivers 100 trusted tips from REALTORS® across the country directly into your hands on a custom roll of packing tape. The goal is to help you avoid common pitfalls and “sticky situations” while making your home buying journey smoother.

According to a 2024 Harris Poll report, while 49% of Canadians are eager to buy a home, only 11% feel ready to act in the next year. This program aims to bridge that gap by providing clear, actionable advice.

A Creative Solution to a Common Problem

“Buying a home can be exciting, but it’s easy to get stuck in tricky situations without the right support,” said Caroline Genet, Director of Marketing with CREA, in a news release. She notes that the program highlights the real-world insights REALTORS® offer and their essential role in guiding Canadians through the home buying process.

Tape Tips transforms a simple moving supply into a powerful tool, offering expert guidance in a memorable format.

What Kind of Advice Can You Expect?

The tips cover nine key categories that are crucial for any home buyer, including those in the Saint John market. These areas include:

• Budget & Finances
• Timing the Market
• Wants vs. Needs
• Renovations
• Bidding Strategy
• Property Assessment
• Location
• Knowledge
• Trust

Each tip is short and easy to understand. For example, one tip advises, “Understand and account for all closing costs upfront. You need to budget beyond the down payment to avoid surprises once you’ve moved in.” Another reminds buyers, “Make sure you visit a property at different times of the day, especially if it’s located on a main road, in a busy area or near a school.”

You can explore all 100 tips and order a free roll of the tape (while supplies last) at tapetips.ca.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the ‘Tape Tips’ program?

Tape Tips is a national initiative from the Canadian Real Estate Association (CREA) that provides 100 home-buying tips from REALTORS® printed on a roll of packing tape to help Canadians navigate the real estate market.

Who provides the tips?

The tips are compiled from the expertise and real-world insights of REALTORS® from across Canada.

How much does the tape cost?

The Tape Tips roll is available to order for free, while supplies last, through the official campaign website.

Where can I get the Tape Tips?

You can view all 100 tips online or order your free roll of tape by visiting tapetips.ca.

Is this advice relevant for the Saint John market?

Yes. While the program is national, the tips cover universal aspects of buying a home, such as budgeting, property inspections, and understanding closing costs, which are essential for buyers in any market, including Saint John.