As a First-Time Home Buyer, How to Plan Finances?

In this guide, we'll provide the key steps towards making your dream home a reality in the friendly confines of Canada. From crafting a budget that doesn't make your wallet wince to deciphering the dance of down payments, we'll walk you through the not so intricate steps that lead to the front door of your very own abode.

• Create a budget: Assessing your financial situation is the first step. You should aim to allocate no more than 25–30% of your gross monthly income towards housing expenses, which comprise mortgage, property taxes, insurance, and upkeep. To find out how much you can afford to pay each month for your mortgage, use the various online tools.
• Put money aside for a down payment: In Canada, a minimum deposit of 5% to 20% of the purchase price is needed. It's critical to begin saving money for the down payment. Determine how much you need to save based on the percentage that lenders require and the price range of the properties you are thinking about. Create a budget that allows you to set aside a specific portion of your income for savings.

Read More: https://thecanadianhome.com/blog/first-time-home-buyer-incentive-all-you-need-to-know

• Take extra costs into account: You should factor in extra costs, which could include closing costs, property taxes, homeowner's insurance, maintenance and repair costs, utility costs, and possibly homeowner association dues. These are merely the material costs associated with purchasing a home; you should also budget for unforeseen expenses or emergencies. You should be ready for that.
• Include mortgage costs: To find out how much you can borrow for a mortgage, it is advisable to speak with a reputable lender. This will help you determine the costs you will incur during the mortgage process. Obtaining a mortgage pre-approval can help you understand your purchasing power and help you set realistic expectations when you search for homes within your budget.

• Take your long-term objectives into account: Purchasing a home requires a significant financial commitment, and you must be able to pay your mortgage. With the aid of Canadian government programs, such as the first-time buyer incentive program, which is available to first-time homebuyers, you can attempt to lower your monthly repayments.

[A shared-equity mortgage loan is available to eligible first-time homebuyers in Canada through the First-Time Home Buyer Incentive (FTHBI) program. It helps to reduce mortgage payments and is paid back either when the property is sold or after 25 years.]

To wrap up

So, there you have it – the roadmap to planting your roots in the world of homeownership. Crafting a budget, squirrelling away for that down payment, and considering the nuances of extra costs are the cornerstones of your expedition. Remember, your dream home isn't just about bricks and mortar; it's about creating a sanctuary where memories are made.

As you embark on this adventure, arm yourself with knowledge, embrace the journey, and, most importantly, enjoy the process of turning a house into your cherished home. With a budget as your guide and a vision in your heart, you're not just buying a property; you're investing in a chapter of your life – a chapter that begins with the turn of a key and unfolds into a story of comfort, belonging, and the joy of calling a place your own.