First-Time Home Buyer in Ottawa
Work with a licensed mortgage agent in Ottawa today and get your dream home.
- No Hidden Fees
- 35+ Lenders
- Same Day Pre-Approval
Your Trusted Partner for an Ottawa First-Time Home Buyer Loan
I’m Matt Price, an Ottawa-based mortgage agent dedicated to helping first-time home buyers secure the right financing to purchase their dream home. I don’t work for a single lender like big banks; I work for you. I also understand the local real estate market and neighborhoods because I live and work in Ottawa.
If you’re a first-time home buyer, I’m here to help you make a smart buying decision that aligns with your long-term financial plans.
Competitive Rates
Access to multiple lenders and competitive rates.
Unbiased Advice
Unbiased advice tailored to your goals.
Flexible Solutions
Flexible solutions the banks do not always offer.
Faster Approvals
A smoother and faster approval process.
Full Support
Support from application to closing and beyond.
Local Expertise
Ottawa-based agent who understands the local market.
Down Payment Programs for First-Time Buyers
Two government programs can significantly boost your down payment:
First Time Home Savers Account - Government of Canada
Save up to $8,000/year ($40,000 lifetime max) in a tax-deductible account. When you withdraw from your first home, it's completely tax-free, with no repayment required.
Home Buyers Plan (Government of Canada RRSP)
Withdraw up to $60,000 from your existing RRSP ($120,000 for a couple) tax-free to put toward your home. Unlike the FHSA, this is a loan from yourself, repaid over 15 years.
Many buyers use both together, applying funds from each toward the same purchase.
Not sure which programs you qualify for, or how to structure your savings? With access to 35+ lenders, I can help you find the right mortgage — and the right savings strategy — for your first home in Ottawa.
Estimate Your Monthly Payment
Use our calculator to estimate your mortgage payments.
What Our Clients Say
My clients value honest advice, fast communication, and a smooth experience. Many return for future mortgages and refer friends and family because they know I am always focused on their best interests.
“As first-time buyers, we were overwhelmed. Matt made everything easy and found us a rate 0.5% lower than our bank!”
Sarah & Michael T.
Barrhaven
“Refinanced and saved $300/month. Smooth process, always available. Highly recommend!”
Robert & Patricia C.
Kanata
“Self-employed, thought a mortgage was impossible. Matt found the perfect lender. Can’t thank him enough!”
Jennifer L.
Orleans
Frequently Asked Questions
Have questions? We’ve got answers.
What is the difference between a mortgage agent and a bank?
Banks and credit unions can only sell you their own mortgage products. But a mortgage agent isn’t tied to one lender. As a licensed mortgage agent in Ottawa, my job is to work on your behalf, not the bank’s, comparing rates and terms across 35+ lenders so you land the best deal for your situation. Whether you’re buying your first home or your fifth, having someone navigate the home-buying process for you — instead of just handing you one bank’s offer — makes a real difference.
How much do your services cost?
Nothing, in most cases. Lenders pay me directly once your mortgage closes, which means you get full access to my services (rate comparisons, application support, and guidance through closing costs and every other step) without paying anything out of pocket.
How much down payment do I need?
It scales with the home’s price. Under $500K, you’ll need 5% down. Between $500K and $999K, it’s 5% on the first $500K and 10% on anything above that. At $1M or more, you’re looking at 20% minimum. If your primary residence search has you unsure what fits your budget, including ongoing costs like property tax, we’ll map it out together at your initial consultation.
What is a mortgage pre-approval?
Think of it as your buying power made official: a pre-approval confirms how much you can borrow, holds your interest rate for up to 120 days, and signals to sellers that you’re ready to move. I can typically turn one around in 24–48 hours. Want something faster and less formal just to gauge your monthly mortgage payment range? A pre-qualification takes under 24 hours.
Can you help with bad credit or self-employment?
Yes. Neither one closes the door on homeownership. Whether you’re worried about not meeting a minimum credit score or your income doesn’t look “traditional” on paper, access to 35+ lenders, including alternative and non-bank lenders, means there’s usually a path forward for a first-time homebuyer in almost any situation.
Do I need mortgage insurance?
If your down payment is less than 20% of the purchase price, you’ll be required to carry mortgage insurance (also called default insurance) on top of your mortgage. It protects the lender if you default, and the premium is typically added to your mortgage rather than paid upfront. I can walk you through how it affects your overall costs before you commit.
Can I use my RRSP or FHSA toward my down payment?
Yes, many buyers combine both. A first home savings account lets you save up to $40,000 tax-free specifically for a first home, while the Home Buyers’ Plan lets you borrow from your existing registered retirement savings plans, up to $60,000, to put toward the same purchase.
Let's Make Your Next Move Simple
Whether you are exploring your options or ready to apply, I am here to help. Reach out today for a personalized mortgage strategy and discover how much you could save with a local mortgage agent in Ottawa.