Are You Ready for Home Ownership?
Owning a home may be your dream, but for the purchase to be the happy and rewarding experience it’s meant to be, you’ll need to be both financially and mentally prepared for the responsibilities that come with it.
Many first-time buyers think home ownership is just like renting — but with the freedom to have pets and paint the walls. While those benefits are real, they also come with new obligations: a mortgage, property taxes, insurance, and ongoing maintenance. Preparing for home ownership means taking a close look at your finances, lifestyle, and long-term goals.
Questions for First-Time Home Buyers
Are you ready to buy?
Owning a home means more than choosing paint colours. It requires ongoing maintenance, budgeting for repairs, and a willingness to take on responsibility. Be sure you’re prepared for both the challenges and the rewards.
How much can you afford?
Stretching your income too far can turn home ownership into a burden instead of a joy. It’s often wiser to start with a modest home now, then work your way toward your dream home in the future.
What is your debt-to-income ratio?
Lenders typically want to see:
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Total debt no more than 40% of your income.
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Housing costs (mortgage, taxes, insurance) no more than 32% of your income.
What that buys will depend on your market. In smaller communities, 32% may cover a large home, while in a hot city market it may cover a condo or townhouse.
What do you want in a home?
Ask yourself:
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Do you mind lawn care and home repairs, or would you rather have maintenance included?
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Do HOA rules bother you, or do you prefer a community where everything is uniform?
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Would you rather clean gutters or pay a monthly condo fee?
Your answers will guide you toward the right type of property.
How We Can Help
Buying your first home is easier with the right team on your side. We’re committed to helping first-time buyers in Calgary find the right home at the right price.
Here’s how we support you:
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Understanding your needs and budget – We’ll balance what you want with what you can afford.
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Objective guidance at showings – We’ll help you stay focused on your priorities.
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Connecting you with trusted lawyers and inspectors – Professionals who protect your interests.
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Navigating offers and negotiations – From price to terms, we handle the paperwork and strategy.
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Ensuring proper inspections – So you avoid costly surprises down the road.
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Final walkthroughs before closing – Confirming everything is ready before you get the keys.
From your very first consultation to the moment you walk into your new home, we’ll be with you every step of the way.
Take the Next Step
If you’re a first-time home buyer in Calgary and want guidance through the process, we’d love to help.
Contact us today for more information about buying your first home.
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