Your first house is closer than you think. Here's how it works.
No jargon. No pressure. Just clear, honest guidance on every step from saving your down payment to picking up your keys.
The 5 things every first-time buyer needs to understand
These aren't the only things that matter, but they're the ones that surprise people most often. Get your head around these five and the rest makes sense.
Down payment
The minimum is 5%, but there's more to it than that — and two government accounts that can help you get there faster.
Mortgage qualification
Banks don't just look at your income. They stress-test it at a higher rate to make sure you can handle it if rates go up.
Making an offer
The offer is a legal document. Conditions protect you. Knowing when to include them — and when the market won't allow it — is crucial.
Closing costs
Budget 1.5–4% of the purchase price beyond your down payment. Land transfer tax alone can be several thousand dollars.
Home inspection
A $400–$600 inspection can find $20,000 in problems before you're committed. Understanding what it covers — and doesn't — matters.
Guides and calculators
Plain-language explanations and practical tools for every stage of the buying process.
First-time buyer roadmap
Eight clear steps from "I want to buy" to "I have the keys." Each step explains exactly what to do and what to watch for.
Read the roadmap →How much can I afford?
Understand the stress test, GDS and TDS ratios, and the difference between what a bank will lend and what you should actually spend.
Understand affordability →Down payment and closing costs
FHSA, RRSP Home Buyers' Plan, land transfer tax rebates, and a full breakdown of every cost you'll face at closing.
See all the costs →Government programs
Every program currently available to Canadian first-time buyers — including what's changed recently and what was cancelled.
Explore programs →Glossary of terms
25+ real estate terms explained in plain English. Amortization, GDS, bully offers, title insurance — no jargon, just clear definitions.
Open the glossary →House-hunting checklist
15 things to check at every viewing. Designed to use on your phone while you're standing in the house.
Get the checklist →Plain language. No pressure. No sales pitch.
Buying your first home is one of the biggest financial decisions you'll ever make. Most of the information available online is either too complicated, too vague, or written by someone trying to sell you something.
GoHouses is different. We're not a lender, a real estate brokerage, or a lead-generation machine. We're a guide — written by people who've seen firsthand how confusing this process can be, and who think you deserve straightforward answers.
Whether you're two years away from buying or two weeks away, this is a good place to start.