brightrate

Buying a home

Buy with confidence. Know your numbers first.

Whether it's your first home or your next one, a licensed broker can help you get pre-approved and compare lenders before you make an offer.

  • Takes about 90 seconds
  • 100% free, no obligation
  • No credit check to get started

How it works

From browsing to keys in hand

  1. Tell us about your plans

    Where you are in your search, your price range and your down payment.

  2. Get matched with a broker

    A licensed broker in your province helps you understand what you can afford and gets you pre-approved.

  3. Shop with a plan

    Make offers knowing your budget. Your broker lines up the mortgage when you find the one.

Good to know

Things buyers should know

Get pre-approved first

A pre-approval shows sellers you're serious and tells you your budget before you start making offers.

5% down can be enough

The minimum down payment starts at 5% of the price. With less than 20% down, you'll need mortgage default insurance.

Budget for closing costs

Plan for land transfer tax, legal fees and inspections on top of your down payment.

Want the full picture? Read Fixed vs. variable: which is right for you?.

Questions

Common questions

Is this really free?

Yes, 100% free. You never pay Brightrate anything, and there's no obligation. Brokers are paid by the lender when a mortgage closes. In rare cases, like private lending, a broker may charge a fee, and they must tell you before you agree to anything.

What's the difference between pre-qualified and pre-approved?

A pre-qualification is a quick estimate. A pre-approval means a lender has reviewed your details and is willing to lend up to a set amount, often with a rate held for a period of time.

I'm a first-time buyer. Can you still help?

Yes. Brokers work with first-time buyers every day and can walk you through programs and requirements in your province.

Will this affect my credit score?

No. Answering these questions doesn't involve a credit check. If you decide to apply later, your broker will ask your permission first.

Who will contact me, and how?

One licensed mortgage broker in your province, by phone, text or email. Your details go only to that broker. They're never sold to marketers.

Start your home search the smart way.

A few quick questions. A licensed broker helps you get pre-approved, for free.

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