Free checklist · First home
Are you ready to buy?
A five-minute honest check before you visit a single property. Every box you can't tick is something to fix first.
Your money
- I know my exact savings, not a rough guess.
- My down payment meets the rule: 5% on the first $500,000 and 10% above.
- I have set money aside for the welcome tax, notary, inspection, moving and adjustments.
- I have opened an FHSA, and I know whether I can use the RRSP Home Buyers' Plan.
- If I'm buying new, I've checked the first-time buyers' GST rebate.
- I will still have an emergency fund after closing.
Your credit
- I have checked my Equifax and TransUnion reports.
- I am not applying for new credit before my mortgage.
- I have a mortgage pre-approval in hand.
Your real monthly cost
- Mortgage payment at today's rates, not last year's.
- Municipal and school taxes.
- Home insurance.
- Condo fees, if any.
- A monthly repair and maintenance reserve.
- Transport costs from the new address.
Your life plan
- I know where I want to be in five years.
- This property still works if my household changes.
- If I'm looking at a plex, I actually want to be a landlord.
The process
- I understand that the seller's broker represents the seller, not me.
- I plan to have a pre-purchase inspection.
- I have chosen a notary.
- I have tested the neighbourhood, including my commute at rush hour.
Some boxes left empty?
Let's go through them together in a free 30-minute consultation, in English or French.
Choose a time