This is arguably the biggest, most difficult and most time-consuming part of the home buying process. Think about it – in November 2021, the average home price in Canada rose to $720,850. To avoid taking out a high-ratio mortgage, you’ll need at least 20 per cent as a down payment, or about $145,000. It’s important to start thinking about how you will come up with the money – whether it’s using your RRSPs through the first-time Home Buyers’ Plan, savings, or financial help from the Bank of Mom and Dad.

This one’s important, because your potential mortgage lender will be doing the same. A credit score is a number between 300 and 900 that rates your credit-worthiness. According to credit-rating company Equifax, a score of 690 or higher is considered “good.” Lenders will use this score in tandem with other factors, such as your debt-to-income ratio, to determine mortgage eligibility.

Remember that phone bill you forgot to pay a couple of years ago? It can come back to haunt you. Even a one-day-late payment is still considered “late,” and can negatively affect your credit rating – and your potential to qualify for a favourable mortgage. If you’re not happy with your credit score, take some time to bring it up to par before you start the pre-qualification process.

With interest rates rumoured to rise in 2022, take advantage of this low interest-rate environment while you still can. Getting pre-approved for a mortgage will lock in your rate for up to 120 days. A mortgage pre-approval is not an obligation to purchase in this time fame, nor are you committed to that particular lender. It’s just a written confirmation of the approved amount and the promised rate, so you can shop with confidence within a budget you know you can afford.

Online is a good place to start your search, but nothing beats first-hand experience. With budget in mind, bundle up and hit the streets to explore different neighbourhoods and the amenities you’ll have access to. Do you rely on public transit? Is an active night life important to you? Daycares and schools? Parks and rec? Highway access? How close (or far!) do you want to be from family and your work place? Think about your day-to-day needs, and anticipate how they might change over time.