How much do I need for a down payment in Ottawa?
For homes under $500,000, the minimum is 5%. Between $500,000–$999,999, it's 5% on the first $500K and 10% on the remainder. For $1M+, you need at least 20%. At Ottawa's current average of ~$667K, a minimum down is roughly $41,700 — but we typically recommend 10–20% to lower your monthly carrying costs and avoid CMHC insurance premiums.
How long does it take to buy a home in Ottawa?
From pre-approval to keys in hand, most buyers take 60–90 days. The search phase varies — some clients find their home in two weeks, others take three months. Once you're under contract, the typical closing period is 30–90 days depending on what you negotiate. Competitive situations can move faster. We'll build a timeline around your actual situation, not a generic average.
Do I need a home inspection?
Yes — always. In competitive markets, there's pressure to waive inspections to strengthen offers. We'll discuss that strategy if it becomes necessary, but we always work to include inspection conditions where possible. The cost is typically $400–$600 and can save you from five- or six-figure surprises. We have trusted inspectors across every Ottawa neighbourhood.
What are closing costs I should budget for?
Budget 1.5–2.5% of the purchase price on top of your down payment. The main items: Ontario Land Transfer Tax (first-time buyers get a rebate up to $4,000), legal fees ($1,200–$2,000), title insurance (~$200–$400), home inspection ($400–$600), and any moving costs. We'll give you a precise estimate once we know your target price range.
Is Ottawa's market a good time to buy right now?
The right time to buy depends on your personal situation more than market timing. Ottawa's market is among Canada's most stable — government employment and institutional anchors reduce the volatility seen in Toronto or Vancouver. Q1 2026 saw moderate inventory with price growth staying flat in most segments. We'll show you current data for your specific target neighbourhood before you make any decision.
What's the difference between a buyer's agent and a listing agent?
A listing agent represents the seller — their job is to get the best price and terms for their client. A buyer's agent represents you. In Ontario, buyer representation is typically paid from the seller's proceeds, meaning you get professional advisory at no direct cost to you. We represent buyers exclusively on all buyer engagements — we never double-end a transaction where we'd represent both sides.
