Straight answers to the questions Ontario buyers and homeowners ask most, written by Vishvesh Patel.
The minimum down payment in Ontario follows a simple three-tier rule based on the purchase price. Here is the rule, worked examples at common price points, and how the FHSA and Home Buyers' Plan help you reach it faster.
Down payments · 5 min readNewcomers to Canada do not need to wait years for a credit score before buying. Lender newcomer programs accept international credit reports, bank reference letters, and rental history instead. Here is who qualifies and what to prepare.
Newcomers to Canada · 5 min readFixed rates buy certainty; variable rates have historically cost less but move with the Bank of Canada. The right choice depends on your budget, your plans, and how you would handle a payment increase. Here is a clear framework for deciding.
Mortgage rates · 6 min readYour renewal is the one penalty-free chance to fix your mortgage, yet most people sign the first offer their bank mails them. These five mistakes are the most expensive ones I see, and every one of them is avoidable with a few weeks of lead time.
Refinancing · 5 min readYour credit score decides which lenders will consider you and what your mortgage will cost. Most score damage comes from a few fixable habits. Here is what actually moves a Canadian credit score, and a realistic timeline for improving it before you apply.
Mortgage qualification · 6 min readClosing costs surprise more Ontario buyers than any other part of buying a home. Beyond your down payment, expect roughly 1.5 to 4 percent of the price in taxes and fees. Here is every common line item, what it costs, and the refunds that reduce it.
First-time homebuyers · 5 min readBook a free consultation. We look at your numbers together, in plain language, with no pressure and no cost to you.
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