Buying a home in Ottawa, one clear step at a time

From your first pre-approval to the day you get the keys, here is what to do, what it costs and how I help along the way.

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The 10 steps to buying

Tap any step to see what happens and what I handle for you.

Define your goals

First home, forever home or investment? We pin down location, size, must-haves, commute, schools and resale value so every showing is worth your time.

Get pre-approved

A pre-approval sets your real budget, locks in a rate for a set period and shows sellers you are serious. I will connect you with mortgage professionals I trust.Tip: do this before you tour homes.

Partner with the right broker

You get local knowledge of Ottawa neighbourhoods, current market data and someone who protects your interests from the first showing to closing.

Browse listings and tour homes

I set up MLS® alerts matched to your criteria and arrange private showings, so you see new listings as soon as they hit the market.

Make a smart offer

We review recent sales to set a competitive price, then decide on conditions such as financing, home inspection or status certificate for condos.

Negotiate and finalize

I negotiate price, closing date and inclusions for you and handle the paperwork so nothing is missed.

Go firm and prepare to close

Once conditions are satisfied, the deal is firm. We book your lawyer, finalize your mortgage and arrange insurance.Tip: your deposit is due as set out in your offer.

Prepare for the move

Set up utilities, book movers and update your address. I give you a moving checklist so nothing slips through.

Closing day

Your lawyer completes the transfer, funds are released and ownership becomes yours. You will usually pick up the keys the same day.

Welcome home

I stay available after closing for questions and for referrals to contractors, cleaners, movers and more.

What it costs to buy

Budget for more than the down payment. These are typical Ontario figures to plan with.

Upfront costs

Down payment5% of the first $500K, 10% of the rest up to $1.5M, 20% above that5%–20%+

Ontario land transfer taxOttawa has no extra municipal taxSee estimator

Legal fees and disbursements$1,500–$2,500

Home inspection$500–$800

Title insurance$300–$500

AdjustmentsPrepaid property tax, utilities, condo feesVaries

Land transfer tax estimator

Purchase price

I am a first-time buyer

Ontario land transfer tax–

First-time buyer rebate–

You pay–

Estimate for a single-family home in Ontario. Rebate maximum is $4,000. Confirm final figures with your lawyer.

Programs for first-time buyers

Government programs can lower what you need to bring to closing. Confirm current limits and eligibility before you rely on them.

First Home Savings Account (FHSA)

Contributions are tax-deductible and withdrawals for a first home are tax-free. You can contribute $8,000 a year, up to $40,000 in total.

Home Buyers' Plan (HBP)

Withdraw up to $60,000 from your RRSP toward a first home without paying tax, then repay it over time.

Questions buyers ask

Quick answers. I am happy to go deeper on a call.

How much should I save before I start looking?

Plan for your down payment plus roughly 1.5%–4% of the price for closing costs, depending on the price and whether you qualify for the first-time buyer rebate. A pre-approval will show your budget range.

Do I pay you as the buyer's broker?

We agree on how I am paid in a written buyer representation agreement before we start touring homes. I will walk you through it so you know exactly what to expect.

What is a pre-approval, and is it a guarantee?

It is a lender's estimate of what you can borrow, based on your income, debts and credit. It is not a final commitment, since the property and your finances are confirmed before the mortgage is approved.

Should I get a home inspection?

I recommend it for almost every purchase. It can uncover costly issues before the deal is firm and gives you leverage to negotiate or walk away.

How long does it take to buy a home?

Search time varies, but once an offer is accepted, closing is commonly 30–60 days. You can choose a date that works for your move.

Ready to start your search?

Book a no-pressure buyer consultation and we will map out your budget, neighbourhoods and timeline.

Book a consultation Call 613-327-0131

Ali Realty Group Inc., Brokerage · 354 Gladstone Avenue, Ottawa