Launch Your Markham Office of Real Estate Appraisers
This page provides a practical, step-by-step guide to starting a Markham Office of Real Estate Appraisers (NAICS 531320). It maps out the 13 essential requirements, permits, initial costs, and a realistic timeline to get up and running. You’ll get a clear overview of what to register, what to insure, and how to set up your office, software, and branding so you can start serving clients confidently.
What you’ll learn: the 13 requirements in plain language—business registration, a CRA business number and GST/HST registration, relevant credentials and ongoing education, office space aligned with local zoning, professional liability insurance, engagement letters and contracts, client privacy and data protection, accounting and payroll setup, banking, marketing materials, and compliance with provincial and local rules; plus workflows for valuations. You’ll also see expected costs (licensing/credentials, lease or shared office, software, insurance, and initial marketing) and a realistic timeline from formation to first client.
Markham’s strong, diverse real estate market near Toronto makes this a smart move. A growing demand for local property valuations across residential and commercial sectors means you can build a steady client base while enjoying easy access to clients, talent, and technology.
Requirements Overview
The most critical requirement for operating a business in Markham is Occupational Health and Safety Act Compliance. This is a legal obligation in Ontario, and you cannot legally run your office without meeting OHSA rules, maintaining a safe workplace, providing staff training, performing hazard assessments, and reporting incidents. It is non-negotiable—you must have a compliant safety program in place before you start.
Mandatory Operational Requirements: In addition to OHSA, there are several ongoing operational duties. Accessibility Standards (Hospitality) apply if your office serves the public. You’ll need a Business Licence and to ensure any professionals working there hold the appropriate Real Estate Broker/Salesperson Registration. If you’ll use a registered business name, complete the Ontario Business Name Registration (ServiceOntario). You may also need a Property Management License depending on the services you offer. These items ensure your office is prepared to operate legally and professionally from day one.
Business Registration & Tax: For essential government accounts, obtain a Business Number (BN) through the CRA and, if applicable, register your business name with ServiceOntario. You’ll also handle GST/HST Registration, Payroll Deductions Registration, and WSIB Registration and Coverage to manage taxes and worker protection. Having these in place helps you stay compliant and keeps payroll and vendor relationships running smoothly.
Encouragement: Start with a simple checklist and reach out to the right regulators or a local advisor who can tailor guidance for your Markham real estate appraisal office. Taking these steps now will help you launch confidently and stay compliant as you grow. You’ve got a clear path—let’s turn it into action.
Detailed Requirements
Here are the specific requirements for starting a offices of real estate appraisers in Markham:
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Business Licence RequiredGeneral business licence required to operate a business in City of Markham. Apply to City of Markham for Business Licence: 1. Determine business category 2. Complete business licence application 3. Submit required documents (ID, lease, zoning confirmation) 4. Pay application and annual fees 5. Await approval and receive licence Contact City of Markham Business Licensing for specific requirements. Home-based businesses may have different requirements. Annual renewal required.
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Errors and Omissions Insurance (Real Estate) RequiredReal estate brokerages must maintain errors and omissions insurance coverage to protect clients from professional negligence and errors. RECO requires E&O insurance for all registrants. ~$440-500/year through RECO group program. Coverage: $500K per occurrence. Automatic with registration. TRESA (July 2025) maintains requirement. Claims-made policy. Deductible applies. Contact RECO: 416-207-4800 or reco.on.ca.
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Business Number (BN) Registration RequiredA 9-digit Business Number is required for most businesses operating in Canada. It is used to interact with the Canada Revenue Agency and other federal programs. Required for GST/HST, payroll, corporation income tax, and import/export accounts. Register FREE online through Business Registration Online (BRO) at canada.ca. Takes 15-30 minutes. As of November 3, 2025, online registration is MANDATORY for new BNs - phone registration no longer available. You'll need: business name, address, owner SIN, business type, and start date. BN (9-digit number) issued INSTANTLY online. Available 21 hours/day, 7 days/week (closed 3-6am ET for maintenance).
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Accessibility Standards (Hospitality) RequiredAccommodation providers must comply with AODA accessibility standards including accessible rooms, services, communication supports, and training. Comply with AODA and Integrated Accessibility Standards Regulation (IASR). Target: barrier-free Ontario by Jan 1, 2025. AODA training within 30 days of hire. 5 accessibility standards apply. Self-service kiosk accessibility by Dec 31, 2025. Multi-year accessibility plan required. Penalties: up to $100K/day (corps), $50K/day (individuals). Human Rights Code also applies. Contact AODA.ca or 1-866-515-2025.
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Real Estate Broker/Salesperson Registration RequiredReal estate brokers and salespersons must be registered with the Real Estate Council of Ontario (RECO) under the Real Estate and Business Brokers Act. Register with Real Estate Council of Ontario (RECO) via MyWeb Portal. Complete TRESA-based education program ($4,000+), pass exams, then pay RECO registration fee $590. As of July 2025, TRESA curriculum replaces REBBA. Must be employed by registered brokerage. Additional costs: E&O insurance (~$440/yr), CREA fees ($400/yr), local board fees. 2-year registration cycle. Contact: 416-207-4800.
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Ontario Business Name Registration (ServiceOntario) RequiredBusinesses in Ontario operating under a name other than the owner's legal name must register with Ontario Business Registry through ServiceOntario. This includes sole proprietorships, partnerships, and business names for corporations. Registration provides legal protection for the business name within Ontario and is required for banking, licensing, and business operations. Registration can be completed online through Ontario Business Registry. Business name registrations must be renewed every 5 years. Register business name with Ontario Business Registry: 1. Search Ontario Business Registry (free) for name availability 2. Consider NUANS name report ($25) for thorough search 3. Register online through Ontario Business Registry 4. Pay registration fee ($60 for sole proprietorship/partnership) 5. Receive 9-digit Ontario Business Identification Number (BIN) 6. Registration valid for 5 years 7. Renew before expiry
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Occupational Health and Safety Act Compliance RequiredAll Ontario workplaces must comply with the Occupational Health and Safety Act to ensure safe working conditions. Requirements include workplace safety policies, training, hazard assessments, and incident reporting. No registration - compliance law. Must post OHSA in workplace. JHSC required for 20+ workers (or 6+ in designated industries). Nov 2025: New administrative penalty scheme, defibrillator reimbursement. Telework now covered. Fines: up to $500K individuals, $1.5M corporations. 27 regulations under OHSA. Must conduct safety audits, maintain training records. Contact: 1-877-202-0008.
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Employment Standards Compliance ConditionalApplies if you have employees. Covers minimum wage, hours of work, vacation pay, public holidays, termination notice, etc. All Ontario employers must comply with the Employment Standards Act, covering minimum wage, hours of work, overtime, vacation, termination, severance, and other workplace rights. No registration required - compliance-based requirement. Follow Employment Standards Act (ESA) for minimum wage, hours of work, overtime, vacation, leaves, and termination. Post ESA poster in workplace (free download from ontario.ca). Keep employment records for 3 years. NEW for 2025: Employers with 25+ staff must provide written employment info to new hires by July 1, 2025. Job postings must include salary ranges by Jan 1, 2026. Call 1-800-531-5551 for help.
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GST/HST Registration ConditionalRequired if annual taxable revenue exceeds $30,000 (small supplier threshold). Taxi/ride-share drivers must register regardless of revenue. Businesses with gross revenues over $30,000 in any single quarter or over four consecutive quarters must register for, collect, and remit GST/HST. Small suppliers (under $30,000) may register voluntarily. Register FREE online through Business Registration Online (BRO) when your revenue exceeds $30,000 in any 4 consecutive quarters (small supplier threshold). Takes 15-30 minutes. You MUST register within 29 days of exceeding threshold and start charging GST/HST immediately on the sale that made you exceed it. Need your BN (or get one simultaneously). As of Nov 3, 2025, online registration is mandatory. Voluntary registration available anytime for input tax credits.
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Payroll Deductions Registration ConditionalRequired if you pay salaries, wages, or other remuneration to employees. Must register before first pay period. Required if you have employees. You must withhold Canada Pension Plan (CPP), Employment Insurance (EI), and income tax from employee wages and remit to CRA. Register FREE online through Business Registration Online (BRO) when you hire your first employee. Takes 15-20 minutes. You'll need your Business Number (BN) or can get one simultaneously. Payroll account (RP) added to your BN instantly. Register BEFORE your first pay date. Required to deduct CPP, EI, and income tax from employee wages. For 2025: CPP rate 5.95%, EI employee rate $1.66/$100 insurable earnings.
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WSIB Registration and Coverage ConditionalRequired within 10 days of hiring first employee, including family members and subcontractors. Workplace Safety and Insurance Board (WSIB) registration is mandatory for most Ontario businesses with employees. Provides compensation and support for workplace injuries and illnesses. Sole proprietors and partners can apply for optional coverage. Register FREE online at wsib.ca in 15-20 minutes. MANDATORY for most Ontario employers within 10 calendar days of hiring first worker. You'll need: CRA Business Number, payroll estimate, business activity description, owner/director info. Account number issued INSTANTLY online. Construction industry has expanded compulsory coverage. Premium rates vary by industry classification. Must display WSIB safety poster in workplace.
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General Liability Insurance (Real Estate/Accommodation) RecommendedReal estate and accommodation businesses should maintain comprehensive general liability insurance covering property damage, bodily injury, and professional operations. CGL recommended but not required by RECO. Covers premises liability, third-party bodily injury. Typically $1M-2M. Brokerages often require. Separate from E&O. Landlord requirements may apply for office space. Contact RIBO-licensed broker. Not included in RECO registration.
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Property Management LicenseProperty management companies must hold a brokerage license from RECO if they collect rent, show properties, or negotiate leases on behalf of property owners. Two categories: (1) Condo management requires CMRAO license (Limited or General); (2) General rental management may require RECO real estate license for leasing. CMRAO General License: 2+ years experience + education. Limited License: <2 years, supervised. CPE: 10 credits annually. Updates Oct 2025 for experience requirements. Contact CMRAO: 416-981-9800.
Funding & Grants
Available funding programs that may apply to your offices of real estate appraisers:
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MLI Select is Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation's multi-unit mortgage loan insurance product that uses a points-based scoring system to offer enhanced financing terms to borrowers who commit to affordability, accessibility, and/or energy-efficiency outcomes. Projects earn points across three pillars — affordability (rents at 30% of median regional renter income), …
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The Housing Accelerator Fund is a $4.4 billion CMHC initiative running to 2027–28 that provides non-repayable contributions to local governments. Funding is calculated per projected new housing unit enabled by the applicant's action plan, with per-unit amounts varying by housing type (approx. $12,000–$20,000+ per unit). Payments are delivered in four …
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$300M program that ran five competitive rounds (2019-2025) through Impact Canada and CMHC, each targeting different supply barriers. Round 5 (Level-Up, $65M) focused on transforming housing production at scale via skill enhancement, automation, and supply chain improvements. All five rounds are now completed with prize recipients announced.
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The $1.5B CHDP provides up to 100% of project costs via forgivable loans (up to 1/3 of costs, forgiven over 20 years) and repayable loans (up to 2/3 of costs, amortized up to 50 years at below-market rates). First intake ran July–September 2024; additional rounds planned through 2027. Third intake …
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The FLI is a $318.9M fund that makes surplus federal properties available to eligible housing providers at below-market or no cost. The level of discount depends on social outcomes committed to in the approved proposal. Over 90 properties are listed on the Canada Public Land Bank. Budget 2024 added $112.6M …
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