First-Time Home Buyers
In Peterborough

Everything You Need to Know Before You Buy Your First Home

Unlock the keys to homeownership with Julian McCaslin, your trusted Peterborough REALTOR®. This guide is packed with first-time home buyer tips to make your journey smooth and stress-free. From budgeting and exploring government incentives to finding the perfect neighbourhood and closing the deal, I provide you with expert advice tailored to your needs. Let me help you make this exciting milestone unforgettable. Contact me today and take the first step towards owning your dream home!

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Step 1: Determine Your Budget

Before you start looking at houses, it’s crucial to understand what you can realistically afford.

Here’s what you should consider:

Your down payment (minimum is 5% for homes under $500,000)
Closing costs (usually 1.5%–4% of the purchase price)
Monthly mortgage payments
Property taxes and utilities
Ongoing maintenance

💡 Tip: Get pre-approved for a mortgage so you know what you’re working with before you look.

Step 2: Understand the Incentives

Ontario and the federal government offer programs to help first-time buyers:

First-Time Home Buyer Incentive (shared equity loan with CMHC)
RRSP Home Buyers’ Plan (HBP) – withdraw up to $35,000 tax-free
Land Transfer Tax Rebate – save up to $4,000 in Ontario
First Home Savings Account (FHSA) – a new tax-free way to save

I’ll help you understand your qualifications and how to take advantage of these programs.

Step 3: Choose the Right Home

Once you have a clear budget and plan, it’s time to look at what’s out there. I’ll help you narrow down your search based on your goals, lifestyle, and long-term needs.

We’ll look at:

Neighbourhoods (schools, amenities, commute times)
Type of home (detached, semi-detached, condo, townhouse)
Resale potential and condition of the home

Step 4: Make an Offer

Found the one? I’ll help you write a strong, competitive offer that protects your interests.
You’ll talk about:

Offer conditions (like financing or home inspection)
Negotiation strategies
Deposits
Timeline from offer to closing

Step 5: Close the Deal & Move In

Once your offer is accepted, we’ll work with your lawyer and lender to make sure everything goes smoothly. You’ll need to:

Finalize financing
Complete the home inspection
Review all legal documents
Pay closing costs and get your keys!

🎉 Congrats! You’re officially a homeowner!

Need Help? You Don’t Have to Do This Alone.

I guide first-time home buyers through the entire process, from figuring out what you can afford to moving into your dream home.

📞 Call me today or send a message to start your journey with expert support, honest advice, and a REALTOR® who’s got your back every step of the way.

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First-Time Home Buyers In Peterborough