Free guide · Updated October 2026
Buying your first home in Canada
A clear, step-by-step guide for first-time buyers and newcomers in Toronto and the GTA: how much you need, how mortgages work, what closing really costs, and the programs that can save you thousands.
What’s inside
- Know your budget and get pre-approved
- How much down payment you need
- Programs that save first-time buyers money
- If you’re new to Canada
- Closing costs: budget 1.5% to 4% on top of the down payment
- Step by step: from search to keys
- Mistakes to avoid