First-Time Buyer Specialist

First-Time Home Buyers

Understand the purchase budget, down payment, closing costs and documents before making an offer.

Overview

Understand the purchase budget, down payment, closing costs and documents before making an offer.

For a first purchase in Maple Ridge, Pitt Meadows or elsewhere in BC, build the budget before choosing a mortgage. The down payment is only one part: allow for applicable taxes, legal work, inspection, appraisal, insurance and adjustments, then consider the household costs after you move in.

A pre-approval can help establish a working price range, but it does not approve every property or guarantee funding. The lender still needs acceptable documents, the property and any remaining conditions. Tell your broker about changes to income, debt or the source of your down payment while you are shopping.

FHSA, Home Buyers' Plan and BC property transfer tax relief have separate conditions. Review the current official rules before withdrawing funds or relying on an exemption, and confirm the purchase and financing conditions with the appropriate professionals.

Key Features

Purchase and closing budget
Program eligibility review

How It Works

Step 1

Free Consultation

We discuss your goals, review your financial situation, and determine the best mortgage strategy for you.

Step 2

Compare Suitable Options

I compare rates, terms, lender requirements and costs, and help you work through the requested documents and conditions.

Costs Explained Before You Commit

Any broker or lender fees that apply to your file will be explained before you proceed.

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Common Questions

First-Time Home Buyers — Common Questions

Get answers to common questions about this mortgage service.

What is the minimum down payment for a first home?
For an eligible purchase, the general minimum is 5% through $500,000, then 5% on the first $500,000 plus 10% on the remainder for a price below $1.5 million. At $1.5 million or more, at least 20% is required. Lender, borrower, property and mortgage-insurance conditions apply, and closing costs are separate.
Does a pre-approval mean I can remove my financing condition?
No. A pre-approval is preliminary. The lender must assess the specific property and confirm the required documents and remaining conditions. Review the financing condition with your broker, realtor and legal professional before the purchase becomes firm.
Which first-time buyer programs should I check?
Check FHSA, the RRSP Home Buyers' Plan and BC property transfer tax relief separately. Each has its own definition of eligibility and requirements; qualifying for one does not automatically qualify you for the others.
How long will the lender review take?
It depends on the lender, the completeness of your documents, your income and the property. Start early and ask what remains outstanding rather than relying on a fixed online turnaround promise.
Service Area

Serving Maple Ridge & Surrounding Communities

Whether you're in the heart of Maple Ridge or the wider Coquitlam region, I'm here to help with your mortgage needs.

Discuss first-time home buyers

Maple Ridge families trust Tania for clear, honest mortgage advice. Let's find the perfect mortgage for you.

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