Top 10 Tips for First-Time Home Buyers in Alberta

Buying your first home is a major life decision and one of the biggest investments you will ever make. It can also be one of the most stressful and overwhelming times as you’re searching for the perfect home, reading through resources to make sure you’re on the right track, and all of the little details that can pop up. To help you ease the overwhelm, we’ve gathered some of our top ten tips for first-time home buyers in Alberta.

1. Don’t skip the home inspection

While it’s tempting to skip over getting a home inspection if you are in a hurry to close the deal, it’s a vital part of the process. You may pay for your rash decision later in terms of unforeseen repairs that can cost you thousands of dollars. A home inspection may cost you money and delay your purchase, but it will give you peace of mind – and possibly even save you money!

2. Contact an experienced insurance broker well in advance of purchasing your home

You will need protection for your valuable new asset. Not all insurance products are created equally and you want a comprehensive policy designed for your individual needs. By contacting an experienced insurance broker, you can ensure you are adequately protected and educated throughout the home buying process. Find out more about insurance and buying your first home.

3. Your pre-approved mortgage isn’t a blank cheque

Getting your mortgage pre-approved is now considered a necessity by most first-time home buyers. Get pre-approved before you start seriously looking at properties. There is no cost and no obligation – you have nothing to lose by getting pre-approved, but everything to gain.

It is important to remember, however, that the amount you are approved for is the maximum the bank feels you can afford to pay for your home based on your income. It should NOT be viewed as the amount you should pay for your home because it doesn’t include other expenses, like those possible emergency repairs mentioned above!

What if your income suddenly drops? You don’t want to be maxed out on your mortgage. Consider the total cost of ownership, including maintenance, bills, and your daily necessities.

4. Don’t obsess about interest rates

Interest rates are at historic lows. (Remember, back in the 1980s, interest rates in Alberta were over 15%!)

Don’t put off buying your first home because you are focused on small increases or decreases in interest rates, but don’t rush into buying either just because rates are low. For what’s likely to be the biggest purchase of your life, make a careful and informed decision based on more factors than interest rates.

5. Pay off your mortgage faster

There are various ways you can pay your mortgage off faster. For instance, you can increase the number of payments you make each year. Another idea is to pay every two weeks instead of monthly – you probably won’t notice the difference in your everyday cash flow but, over the years, this will save thousands of dollars in interest.

6. Don’t forget about closing costs

Don’t use all your savings on the down payment! Budget at least an additional 2.5% of your purchase price to help cover legal fees, taxes, insurance, utilities, moving costs,  and that all-important home inspection.

7. Get your First Time Home Buyers Tax Credit (HBTC)

It is easy to find out if you qualify to receive this non-refundable tax credit, and how to apply for it. Visit the Canada Revenue Agency website.

8. Get it in writing

Did you know that hundreds of homes in Alberta have been used as marijuana grow operations or drug labs? An offer to purchase is not complete without a warranty that the house or condominium has never been used for these illegal purposes. Why is this important? Homes that have been used to grow marijuana or as drug labs can be worth less, have dangerous rewired electrical systems, and mold from moisture.

9. Do your homework

The Canadian Mortgage and Housing Corporation offers an excellent guide & information for all the questions you should ask yourself before you buy your first home. They also provide worksheets to walk you through the process and plenty of essential information about tax credits and other government programs.

10. Work with a great real estate agent

Last but certainly not least, make sure you work with a reputable and experienced real estate agent, preferably one who knows the neighbourhood you’d like to move into. For first-time home buyers, this is particularly important.

Do your homework and enjoy your home buying experience!

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