Navigating Your Downpayment: Essential Steps for North Vancouver Homebuyers


When diving into the realm of homeownership in North Vancouver, understanding your downpayment is paramount. In Canada, lenders mandate a minimum downpayment of 5% of the property’s value for mortgage financing. Let’s explore the intricacies of downpayments and how you can secure yours effectively.

Understanding Downpayments

Securing mortgage financing in Canada necessitates a downpayment, typically set at 5% of the property’s value. However, delving deeper, we find that anything below 20% requires mortgage default insurance, adding another layer of consideration for homebuyers.

Options to Build Your Downpayment

Utilizing Personal Savings:
If you’ve diligently saved for your downpayment, ensure you can verify a 90-day history of these funds to satisfy lender requirements.

Proceeds from Property Sales:
Recent property sales can provide the necessary funds for your downpayment, backed by proper documentation of the transaction.

Accessing RRSPs:
First-time homebuyers can leverage the Home Buyer’s Plan, tapping into up to $35k individually or $70k as a couple from their RRSPs tax-free, with a 15-year repayment period.

Gifted Downpayments:
Family members can contribute to your downpayment through gifts, supported by a gift letter indicating the funds’ nature and no repayment schedule.

Borrowed Funds:
With solid credit and income, borrowing part or all of your downpayment is feasible, factoring the associated payments into your debt service ratios.

Crafting Your Downpayment Strategy

Your downpayment journey may involve a combination of these avenues. Whether through savings, property sales, RRSPs, gifts, or borrowing, meticulous planning ensures you’re equipped to secure your dream home in North Vancouver.


Embarking on homeownership in North Vancouver requires a thoughtful approach to your downpayment. From personal savings to borrowed funds, exploring diverse avenues empowers you to take the leap into real estate ownership confidently. Ready to begin your journey?

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Let’s connect and explore your options today!