Getting ready to become a first-time homeowner
Ready to buy a home? We’re here to help!
Get ready to buy your first home
Buying your first home is an exciting project that requires planning and foresight. Don’t know where to start? Follow our guide!
6 Questions To Ask Before Buying Your First Home
1. Should I rent or buy?
Some people prefer to rent because it offers more flexibility. Others like the idea of a long-term investment. But which one is best for you? Take the test and read our article to find out.
2. How do I prepare my down payment?
On average, you should be saving between 5 to 20% of the value of the property you want to buy. If you put less than 20% down, the cost of loan insurance will be added1. So what’s the best way to save? Stay informed by reading our articles and learning about the Home Buyer’s Plan2 (HBP).
3. What’s the point of getting pre-approved?
Pre-approval is a vital step in the home-buying process since it
guarantees the amount that your bank is willing to lend you. It gives
you a range of the properties you can afford, offers a credibility to
your offers and freezes interest rates for 90 days. Start your free,
commitment-free application online.
4. How much does it cost to be a homeowner every year?
Buying a home is great, but don’t forget about the costs associated with your property. From insurance, to heating, electricity and gas, make sure to take everything into account when creating your budget.
Need some help with your project?
Our experts are here to answer your questions, no matter where you are in the process. Let us contact you to discuss your project.
5. How much can I borrow?
After considering the annual costs of your future home, you’ll have a better idea of your overall budget. Check out our tools to estimate your actual borrowing capacity and mortgage payments. Learn more about the CMHC incentive for first-time buyers, and how to put together your budget.
6. I found my dream home, what now?
Did you find the home of your dreams and want to make an offer? Now’s the time to apply for financing. But don't forget that buying a home comes with other costs. Planning for these expenses will help you keep control of your budget. Talk to one of our experts to learn more.
Solutions to help you buy your dream home
Loan insurance and mortgage financing
Don’t leave a financial burden to your loved ones. Insure your loan payments in the event of disability, critial illness or death4.
Get your project off to a good start
Ready to buy?
Fill out our contact form to discuss your project and schedule an appointment with an advisor.
Little details that matter
TM All-In-One is a trademark of National Bank of Canada.
1. Insurance premiums are added to the total amount of your mortgage. File examinations fees charged by Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation (CMHC) and SagenTM (formerly known as Genworth) and taxes on premiums must be paid separately. TM Sagen is a trademark of Genworth Financial Canada, the mortgage insurance company.
2. To be eligible for the Home Buyers' Plan (HBP), the property must be located in Canada, purchased or built before October 1 of the calendar year following the withdrawal from your RRSP for your primary dwelling, no later than one year after it is purchased or built. You and your spouse can each withdraw up to $35,000 from your RRSP. You'll have 15 years from the second calendar year following the withdrawal to repay the funds into your RRSP. Each year, you must repay 1/15th of the total amount withdrawn.
3. Subject to credit approval by National Bank of Canada. Certain conditions apply.
4. Subject to the terms and conditions of the insurance contract, including the period of coverage and the maximum protection limits. Details are available in the Frequently Asked Questions section and in the summary.