First-Time Home Buyer in Brantford? Start Here.
Buying your first home is a big step. Jake Laracy, a Brantford REALTOR® with Pay It Forward Realty, explains the down payment rules, the government programs and the offer process in plain English, with no pressure.
What Helps First-Time Buyers in Ontario
Current as of October 2026. Always confirm eligibility with the official source.
Land transfer tax refund
Up to $4,000 back on Ontario land transfer tax, which covers the whole tax on homes up to $368,000.
First Home Savings Account
Save up to $8,000 a year, to $40,000 in total. Contributions are deductible and qualifying withdrawals are tax-free.
Home Buyers' Plan
Withdraw up to $60,000 from your RRSPs for a first home and repay it over 15 years. It can be combined with the FHSA.
Home Buyers' Amount
A federal non-refundable credit on up to $10,000 of eligible costs, worth up to $1,500.
Minimum down payment
5% of the first $500,000 and 10% from $500,000 to $1.5 million. Under 20% down needs mortgage default insurance.
30-year amortization
First-time buyers can use a 30-year amortization on an insured mortgage, which lowers the monthly payment.
The first-time buyer roadmap
- Get pre-approved. Know your real budget before you fall for a house.
- Pick your areas. Compare the neighbourhood guides: character, parks, schools and commute.
- Stack your programs. Use the refund, FHSA, Home Buyers' Plan and credit above where you qualify.
- Tour with a list. Separate must-haves from nice-to-haves, and avoid touring so many homes that you cannot decide.
- Write a strong offer. Conditions, deposit and closing date matter as well as price.
- Inspect, close and move in. Budget 1.5% to 4% of the price for closing costs.
Commuting to the GTA? Read the Commuter Guide. Want current prices? See the Brantford market page.
First-Time Home Buyer FAQ
How much down payment do I need as a first-time buyer in Brantford?
The minimum is 5% of the first $500,000 of the price and 10% of the portion from $500,000 up to $1.5 million. With less than 20% down your mortgage needs default insurance, and the premium is usually added to the mortgage. You also need money for closing costs, typically 1.5% to 4% of the price.
Which first-time home buyer programs apply in Ontario?
Four main ones: the Ontario land transfer tax refund (up to $4,000), the First Home Savings Account (up to $8,000 a year and $40,000 lifetime), the RRSP Home Buyers' Plan (withdraw up to $60,000), and the federal Home Buyers' Amount tax credit (up to $1,500). Check eligibility with the provincial and federal sources, and Jake can explain how they fit together.
How do I work out my budget?
Start with a mortgage pre-approval so you know what a lender will approve, then add property tax, utilities, insurance and closing costs to your monthly and upfront numbers. For current Brantford pricing, see the live board benchmark and active listings on Jake's Brantford page rather than relying on an old figure.
Should I get pre-approved before I shop?
Yes. A pre-approval shows your real budget, usually holds a rate for 90 to 120 days, and tells sellers your offer is serious. Jake can introduce you to local mortgage brokers before you start touring.
What mistakes do first-time buyers make?
Skipping the home inspection on a busy listing, underestimating closing costs, waiving conditions without understanding the risks, and forgetting to budget for property tax and utilities. Jake walks every first-time client through these before an offer is written.
Ready to Buy Your First Brantford Home?
A free, no-obligation conversation with Jake about your budget and your options.