Short, plain answers to the questions I hear most often from people who've recently moved to Canada. Tap a question to open it. For more depth, see my guide for newcomers.
If you're a permanent resident, yes — on the same footing as a Canadian citizen. If you're in Canada on a work or study permit, a federal ban on most purchases by non-Canadians is in effect until at least January 1, 2027, with some exemptions. Confirm your eligibility with a real estate lawyer before you start.
5% on the first $500,000 of the price, 10% on the portion from $500,000 to $1,499,999, and 20% on homes of $1.5 million or more. Below 20% down, your mortgage must be insured.
Often, yes. Several lenders and insurers have newcomer programs that accept international credit reports, bank statements and rental history. Many apply only within your first few years in Canada, so it's worth speaking with a mortgage broker early.
BC charges an Additional Property Transfer Tax of 20% on foreign nationals buying residential property in Metro Vancouver and other specified areas, on top of the regular tax. Confirmed BC Provincial Nominees may be exempt on a principal residence. Permanent residents and citizens don't pay it.
After your offer is accepted, you pay a negotiated deposit — commonly around 5% of the price — which is held in trust until completion and then credited toward your purchase.
For most resale homes, yes: BC's Home Buyer Rescission Period gives you three business days to cancel, for a fee of 0.25% of the price.
Property Transfer Tax, legal or notary fees, inspection, appraisal, adjustments, and GST on new homes. A common rule of thumb is 2–4% of the price. See my closing costs guide.
A security deposit can be no more than half of one month's rent, plus a separate pet damage deposit of up to half a month's rent if pets are allowed.
Once every 12 months, with three months' written notice. For 2026, the maximum allowable increase is 2.3%.
Never pay before viewing in person and confirming the person has the right to rent the unit. Be cautious with prices far below market and pressure to pay fast.
Yes. I work in both English and Turkish, and I'll explain every document in whichever language you're most comfortable with. Official documents are in English.
One more question worth asking that rarely makes these lists: how is the building constructed, and what will it need in the next ten years? It's often the biggest difference between two homes that look alike — and it's the question my construction background helps me answer.
Every client's situation is different — I'm happy to walk you through what applies to you, in English or Turkish.