Steps to Buy Your First Home in Toronto, Ontario

Step-by-Step Guide

Step 1: Financial Preparation


  1. 💡 Check your credit score (minimum 600–680 recommended).

  2. 💡 Save for down payment: 5% for homes under $500k; 10% for $500k–$999,999; 20% if over $1M.

  3. 💡 Prepare for closing costs (3–5% of purchase price: land transfer tax, legal fees, inspections).

  4. 💡 Get mortgage pre-approval to know your budget.

Step 2: Define Your Needs & Wants


  1. 💡 Choose preferred Toronto neighbourhoods.

  2. 💡 Decide property type: condo, townhouse, semi, detached.

  3. 💡 Prioritize features: size, bedrooms, parking, yard, etc.

Step 3: Hire Professionals


  1. 💡 Real Estate Agent (buyer representation is free).

  2. 💡 Mortgage Broker/Bank for financing.

  3. 💡 Lawyer for closing.

  4. 💡 Home Inspector for property review.

Step 4: Start the Home Search


  1. 💡 Tour homes with your agent.

  2. 💡 Compare prices with recent sales.

  3. 💡 Stay within your budget and pre-approval.

Step 5: Make an Offer


  1. 💡 Prepare Agreement of Purchase and Sale (APS).

  2. 💡 Include conditions (financing, inspection, status certificate).

  3. 💡 Negotiate price, closing date, inclusions.

Step 6: Secure Financing


  1. 💡 Provide lender with signed offer and documents.

  2. 💡 Receive final mortgage approval.

Step 7: Closing Process


  1. 💡 Lawyer conducts title search and prepares documents.

  2. 💡 Pay closing costs and down payment balance.

  3. 💡 Receive keys on closing day 🎉.


First-Time Buyer Self-Check Questionnaire

Financial Readiness


  1. ✨ Do I know my credit score and is it in good standing?

  2. ✨Do I have enough saved for a down payment?

  3. ✨Have I budgeted for closing costs (3–5%)?

  4. ✨Have I been pre-approved for a mortgage?

  5. ✨ Do I have a stable source of income?

Home Needs & Lifestyle


  1. ✨ Do I know which Toronto neighbourhoods fit my lifestyle?

  2. ✨ Am I clear on the type of property I want (condo, house, townhouse)?

  3. ✨ Do I need parking, extra bedrooms, or a home office?

  4. ✨ Am I open to commuting if it means lower prices?

Decision Confidence


  1. ✨ Am I ready for homeownership responsibilities (maintenance, taxes, utilities)?

  2. ✨ Am I comfortable with my monthly budget after mortgage + bills?

  3. ✨ Do I have a lawyer, agent, and mortgage professional I trust?