First-Time Buyers

Resources and guides specifically for first-time home buyers

Closing Costs for First-Time Buyers in Edmonton

Closing costs in Edmonton run 1.5% to 4% of the purchase price, roughly $7,100 to $11,800 on the median home. Here is every line item, plus why Alberta's lack of a land transfer tax keeps your costs low.

Jun 17, 20268 min read

First-Time Buyers

The First-Time Home Buyer's Guide to Edmonton (2026)

Buying your first home in Edmonton means some of the lowest big-city prices in Canada plus the full slate of federal first-time buyer programs. Here are the real numbers and the steps to take.

Jun 17, 20269 min read

First-Time Buyers

How Much Down Payment Do You Need in Canada?

The minimum down payment in Canada starts at 5%, but the exact amount depends on the home price. Here are the rules, the CMHC insurance costs, and what 5% looks like on a real Edmonton home.

Jun 17, 20267 min read

First-Time Buyers

The GST New Housing Rebate: What First-Time Buyers Should Know

The First-Time Home Buyers' GST rebate returns up to $50,000 on new homes in Canada. Here is who qualifies, how to claim it, and where Edmonton prices land against the thresholds.

Jun 17, 20268 min read

First-Time Buyers

Using the RRSP Home Buyers' Plan to Buy Your First Home

The RRSP Home Buyers' Plan lets first-time buyers withdraw up to $60,000 tax-free toward a down payment, or $120,000 for a couple. Here is how it works in Edmonton, plus the repayment rules and how it stacks with the FHSA.

Jun 17, 20268 min read

First-Time Buyers

FHSA: The First Home Savings Account Explained

The First Home Savings Account is the most powerful account a first-time buyer in Edmonton can open: tax-deductible going in, tax-free growth inside, and a tax-free withdrawal coming out. Here is how it works and how fast it covers an Edmonton down payment.

Jun 17, 202610 min read

First-Time Buyers

First-Time Home Buyer Programs in Alberta (FHSA, HBP & More)

The FHSA, RRSP Home Buyers' Plan, and two tax credits can free up over $100,000 for your first Alberta home. Here is how each program works and how to stack them against real Edmonton prices.

Jun 16, 20268 min read

First-Time Buyers

Edmonton Open House Guide: What to Inspect, Ask, and Watch For

What to look for, what to ask, and how to read a room when attending open houses in Edmonton. In a market where buyers have more leverage than they've had in years, you can afford to be thorough.

Mar 17, 20266 min read

First-Time Buyers

Edmonton Real Estate Terms: Deposits, Conditions, and Closing Costs Explained

In Alberta, "deposit" is the term - not earnest money. Here is what it means, how conditions protect you, and exactly what to budget for closing costs in Edmonton.

Mar 17, 20266 min read

First-Time Buyers

Living Near MacEwan University: Best Neighbourhoods for Students

MacEwan sits downtown at 104 Ave. Here are the closest neighbourhoods, what rent actually costs in 2026, and where to buy if you are staying long-term.

Mar 17, 20267 min read

First-Time Buyers

Mortgage Insurance in Canada: What Edmonton Buyers Need to Know in 2026

5% down on the first $500K, 10% on the rest up to $1.5M. The 30-year amortization is now open to all first-time buyers and new-build purchases. Here is what the rules actually say.

Mar 17, 20267 min read