Planning a home purchase

Understand the mortgage steps that may form part of a planned home purchase and prepare questions before beginning a complete application.

Why prepare early

A conversation before you shop

Starting the mortgage conversation before you shop gives you a clearer picture of budget, timeline and the steps ahead. It does not commit you to a product.

What a mortgage conversation can cover

  • how a purchase amount is assessed
  • the difference between an early discussion, a pre-approval and final lender approval
  • term and rate-structure options in plain language
  • costs that sit outside the mortgage itself

Costs beyond the mortgage

  • down payment
  • legal fees
  • appraisal and inspection
  • provincial land-transfer tax where applicable
  • moving and ongoing carrying costs

Why work with a broker

Mortgage guidance built around your options

A mortgage broker can help you review available options from multiple lenders, understand lender requirements, and compare solutions based on your goals, income, credit profile, down payment, property type, and long-term plans.

No broker can guarantee approval, a specific rate, or that every borrower will qualify. The goal is to help you understand your options before you commit.

Read more about working with a broker

Consider:

  • your general timeline and the type of property you are considering
  • the difference between an early conversation, a pre-approval and a final lending decision
  • when detailed financial information and documents may be required through the mortgage application

Protect sensitive information

Use the right channel for each step.

Use the public contact routes only for a general objective and contact details. Do not email or submit financial documents, identity records, credit information, or detailed debts.

See how the process works

Choose your next step

Ask a general question or continue to the mortgage application.