Purchasing your first home? RRSPs can help!

Did you know that, as a first time homebuyer there is a federal program in place to assist you with the purchase of your first home? 

Under the Canadian federal government's Home Buyer's Plan, you can use up to $20,000 in RRSP savings ($40,000 per couple) to help finance the down payment on your first home. The great news is that you actually have 15 years to pay back your RRSPs penalty free. This timeframe will give you plenty of time to get settled into your new home.

To qualify, your RRSP funds must be deposited for at least 90 days prior to the purchase of your new home. By working with a qualified agent like myself, I will help ensure that the required home purchasing documentation is completed with you. Prior to withdrawing any RRSP funds, you will need a home purchase contract. 

Alternatively, if you have $20,000 in savings and these funds are not located in an RRSP, you may want to utilize the Home Buyer's Plan to its maximum advantage. You could consider transferring your savings into an RRSP, and then withdrawing them through the Home Buyers Plan to receive the tax benefits. 

Not ready to buy for another few years? Consider the benefits of utilizing a Tax Free Savings Account. With a maximum contribution of $ 5000.00 per year, you can save for your future real estate investment. The great advantage of a Tax Free Savings Account is that you can withdraw anytime without penalty and most importantly its tax free! Before you make your financial decision, remember to always ask advice from an expert such as your financial advisor, lawyer and or tax specialist. These professionals can help determine which approach is best suitable for your financial situation. 

CMHC - helping with the Canadian dream

Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation (CMHC), plays a major role in Canada's housing industry. As a home buyer you can take advantage of the numerous resources available including home research services, market evaluations, and access to affordable financing options. Programs include; aboriginal housing, residential rehabilitation, adaptation for senior's housing needs, public and private partnerships, in addition to available grants and awards. 

CMHC makes it easier for Canadians to obtain a home by providing mortgage loan insurance. For many people, especially first time home buyers, saving for a down payment is a challenge. When a home buyer has 20% or less of the purchase price to put down, a lender requires mortgage insurance for protection against any payment defaults. CMHC provides this insurance for you the home buyer, to limit the lenders' risk. The lender will then agree to finance up to 95% of the purchase price of your new home. You can then purchase a property with as little as 5% down! For example, if the cost of the home is $250,000, you only need a down payment of $12,500. 

This allows you to become a homeowner, even if you don't have a large down payment put aside. You just need to meet the following conditions and home ownership can be within your reach:

• The home must be located in Canada and considered your principal residence.

•You must have a down payment of at least 5% of the purchase price. 

•Your home-related expenses must not exceed 32% of gross household income which may include utilities, property taxes and condo fees if applicable.

• Your total monthly debt load must not exceed 40% of gross monthly household income. Debt such as personal loans, car payments and credit cards would need to be factored into this percentage.

• You must be able to pay closing costs equal to at least 1.5% of the purchase price. Closing costs may include lawyers' fees, GST, land transfers and more.