A practical guide to buying your first home in Canada's capital — real numbers, neighbourhood insights, and every step of the process explained clearly.
Your Guide
A REALTOR® with RE/MAX Hallmark Ottawa specializing in helping first-time buyers navigate Ottawa's real estate market with confidence.
Born and raised in Ottawa, I've spent my whole life in Hintonburg, so when I talk about this city's neighbourhoods, I'm not reading from a brochure. I know these streets personally.
Buying your first home is one of the biggest decisions you'll ever make, and I believe you deserve an agent who's in your corner. Not rushing you, not overwhelming you, just giving you clear, honest guidance every step of the way.
I built this guide because I kept seeing the same thing: smart, capable people held back by confusion, misinformation, or fear of making the wrong move. My goal is simple. To make sure that's not you.
When you're ready to take the next step, I'm here.
Step by Step
Seven clear steps from financial prep to getting your keys — with no surprises along the way.
Finance
Understanding how much you can borrow — and what you'll actually need in your bank account.
Get pre-approved before you shop. Locks in your rate for 90–120 days.
You'll need:
All buyers must qualify at the higher of: your actual rate + 2%, or the Bank of Canada qualifying rate (currently 5.25%).
Fixed Rate
Predictable payments for the full term. Best if you want stability.
Variable Rate
Fluctuates with the BoC rate. Currently attractive, but carries risk.
| Purchase Price | Minimum Down |
| Up to $500,000 | 5% |
| $500,001 – $999,999 | 5% + 10% on remainder |
| $1,000,000+ | 20% |
CMHC Insurance: Required if down payment is under 20%. Premium of 2.8%–4.0% added to your mortgage balance.
Hidden Costs
Budget 3–4% of the purchase price on top of your down payment. On a $600K home, that's $18,000–$24,000.
Ontario Land Transfer Tax
~$8,975 on $650K
First-time buyers get up to $4,000 back. Ottawa has NO municipal LTT.
Real Estate Lawyer
$1,500–$2,500
Handles title search, closing paperwork, and fund transfers.
Home Inspection
$500–$700
Non-negotiable. Catches Kitec plumbing, insulation issues, and more.
Title Insurance
$300–$500
Protects against title defects and fraud.
Property Appraisal
$300–$500
Sometimes covered by the lender — always ask.
Moving Costs
$1,000–$3,000
Local moves on the lower end; factor in distance and volume.
Incentives
Take full advantage — these programs can add up to tens of thousands of dollars in savings.
Where to Live
An honest look at the most popular areas for first-time buyers — with real price ranges and trade-offs.
Real Numbers
See exactly what you'd need in cash at three different price points — all assuming 5% down and first-time buyer status.
Local Knowledge
Things your agent should tell you — and things that are unique to buying in Ottawa.
Final Step
Use this the week before your closing date. Tap each item as you complete it.
Common Questions
Get Started
Leave your info and I'll reach out within 24 hours. No pressure, just a friendly conversation about your goals.
Your Guide
I specialize in helping first-time buyers navigate Ottawa's market with confidence — from your first question to getting your keys. No pressure, just clear guidance every step of the way.
Ottawa, Ontario · 2026
Let's connect, talk through your goals, and map out a plan that works for your timeline and budget.
