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Buying your first home doesn’t have to feel overwhelming​​

 

With the right plan and guidance, you can understand your options, know what to expect, and move forward with confidence.

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First-Time Homebuyer

Getting Started:
What Can You Afford

Set the Foundation Early:

  • Pre-Qualification versus Pre-Approval (What's the difference)

  • How Lenders Assess Income, Debt, and Credit

  • What Impacts Your Buying Power

  • Why Getting Advice Early Matters

Down Payment &
Upfront Costs

This is where most First-Time Buyers get surprised:

  • Minimum Down Payment Rules 

  • Sources of Down Payment (Savings, gifted funds, RSP HBP, First Home Savings Account)

  • Closing Costs (Legal, Inspection, Insurance, Adjustments)

  • Property Transfer Tax & Excemptions

Understanding Your
Mortgage Options

Turn Confusion Into Clarity:

  • Fixed vs Variable vs Adjustable

  • Term vs Amortization

  • Open vs Closed

  • Insured vs Insurable vs Uninsured (Conventional)

The Stress Test Explained

This Is The "Invisible Ceiling" Buyers Don't See Coming

  • What the stress test is

  • How it affects affordability

  • Why your approved amount may differ from expectations

The Home Buying Process
(Step-by-Step)

  • Get Pre-Approved

  • Start your home search

  • Make an Offer

  • Conditional period (financing, inspection, etc)

  • Final Approval & Closing

Documents You'll Need

  • Income Verification (T4's, NOAs, employment letters)

  • Down Payment Confirmation

  • ID Requirements

  • Special Cases (Self-Employed, bonuses, etc.)

Common First-Time
Buyer Mistakes

  • Shopping before getting pre-approved

  • Understanding closing costs

  • Making big financial changes during approval

  • Choosing based on rate alone vs strategy

Strategy: Buying Smart
From Day One

  • Aligning mortgage with life goals

  • Planning for renewals early

  • Structuring flexibility (pre-payments, portability)

  • Thinking beyond "just getting approved"

My Role As Your Guide

This section should be personal and reassuring

Tools & Resources

  • Mortgage Calculators

  • First-Time Homebuyer incentives & programs

  • Downloadable checklists & guides

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Let's Get Started

The Best Way To Begin Your Mortgage Journey Is With A Simple Conversation

Send a Message

Contact Information

Jeff Knutson

Mortgage Broker

250-538-7133
mortgages@jeffknutson.ca

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Jeff Knutson | Submortgage Broker | Originator Licence # MB611555​

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