The First-Time Buyer Checklist

First-Time Home Buyer Checklist

Check them off one by one — and if anything on this list raises a question, that's exactly what I'm here for.

• Check your credit report (free via Equifax/TransUnion) and dispute any errors — fixes take months
• Stop applying for new credit — every application dings your score
• Open or top up your FHSA — up to $8,000/year grows tax-free for your first home
• Keep your down payment in ONE account — lenders trace 90 days of statements
• Know your real budget — income and down payment set the price, not the listing photos
• Get pre-approved — it's free, holds a rate for up to 120 days, and makes sellers take you seriously
• Gather your documents: photo ID, 2 pay stubs, T4s (2 yrs), Notices of Assessment (2 yrs), 90-day bank statements
• Self-employed? Add T1 Generals (2 yrs) plus business financials or 12 months of business bank statements
• Budget past the price: land transfer tax, legal (~$2,000), inspection (~$500), moving costs
• Don't switch jobs mid-approval — lenders love stability
• House-hunt inside your pre-approved range — bidding above it breaks deals
• Keep the down payment liquid — no locking it into GICs or crypto
• NO new car loans or furniture financing until AFTER closing — this kills more approvals than anything
• Line up a real-estate lawyer early — good ones book up
• Found “the one”? Re-run the numbers with me — every property changes the math
• Closing week: final walk-through, bring ID and your down-payment draft to the lawyer, budget the closing adjustments
• Get the keys 🔑 — then set a reminder for 6 months before renewal (I'll do this for you)