Buying your first home is one of the most exciting—and important—financial decisions you’ll ever make. But with all the paperwork, terms, and steps involved, it can also feel overwhelming. As a mortgage agent, I work closely with first-time buyers to simplify the process and help them feel confident every step of the way.

If you’re thinking about buying your first home, here are a few key things you should know before you apply for a mortgage:

1. Know Your Budget

Before you fall in love with a home, it’s important to understand what you can realistically afford. Your budget should take into account not just the mortgage itself, but also things like property taxes, utilities, insurance, maintenance costs, and closing costs.

Tip: Use a mortgage affordability calculator to get a general idea, and then connect with a mortgage professional (like me!) to get a more accurate pre-approval.

2. Get Pre-Approved, Not Just Pre-Qualified

A pre-approval shows sellers and real estate agents that you’re serious—and that a lender has already reviewed your finances and agreed to a specific loan amount. It also gives you a clearer picture of your purchasing power.

Bonus: Getting pre-approved early can help avoid delays and surprises later in the buying process.

3. Understand the Different Types of Mortgages

There’s no one-size-fits-all mortgage. You’ll need to decide between options like fixed or variable rates, different term lengths, and amortization periods. Each comes with its own pros and cons depending on your financial goals and risk tolerance.

Don’t worry—you don’t have to figure this out alone. Part of my role is to help you navigate these choices and match you with the right mortgage product.

4. Watch Your Credit and Debt

Your credit score plays a major role in qualifying for a mortgage and getting the best interest rate. If your score is lower than you’d like, it might be worth taking a few months to improve it before applying.

Pro Tip: Avoid large purchases (like a car or new furniture) or opening new lines of credit during the mortgage process.

5. Get Your Documents Ready

To apply for a mortgage, lenders will want to verify your income, employment, assets, and debts. Start gathering:

• Recent pay stubs

• T4s or tax returns (especially if you’re self-employed)

• Bank statements

• A list of assets and liabilities

Having these ready early can make the process much smoother.

Final Thoughts

Buying your first home doesn’t have to be stressful. With the right support and a clear plan, it can be a smooth and rewarding experience. If you’re ready to take the next step or just want to ask a few questions, I’m here to help. Let’s make your dream of homeownership a reality—together.