If you’ve bought or sold a home with me, you’ve probably had this moment:

“Why do you need my ID?”
“Why are you asking where my deposit is coming from?”

Totally fair questions.

The reason is simple. It’s federal law.

In Canada, real estate professionals are regulated by Financial Transactions and Reports Analysis Centre of Canada, better known as FINTRAC. Their job is to prevent money laundering and terrorist financing, and real estate is considered a higher risk industry because large amounts of money move through it.

So we are legally required to identify our clients and understand where funds are coming from.

Not optional. Not a brokerage policy. Federal regulation.

Why We Verify ID

When I ask for government photo ID, I’m required to:

• Confirm you are who you say you are

• Determine whether anyone is acting on your behalf

• Complete a risk assessment on the transaction

This protects the integrity of the deal and the broader real estate market. It also protects you from fraud and identity misuse.

Why We Ask About Source of Funds

If you’re providing a deposit or purchasing a property, I’m required to take reasonable measures to understand where the money is coming from.

Common examples are:

• Employment savings

• Sale of another property

• Investments

• Inheritance

• A family gift

It’s not about being intrusive. It’s about ensuring the funds are legitimate and that the transaction makes sense based on what we know about you as a client.

What Clients Should Know

These requirements apply to every REALTOR in Canada. FINTRAC audits brokerages and issues real penalties for non compliance.

So when I ask for ID or ask about your deposit, it’s not paperwork for the sake of paperwork. It’s part of doing things properly and protecting everyone involved.

If you ever have questions about it, just ask. I’d rather explain it clearly than have it feel confusing or uncomfortable.