Start by speaking with the Mortgage Brokers on our Team to determine your budget and get pre-approved for financing. Then, we can discuss your needs, preferred locations, and must-have features so we can begin your home search with a clear plan.

The timeline varies depending on the market and your needs. Some buyers find a home within days; others may take a few months. Once you’ve made an offer, the closing process typically takes 30–60 days.

In most cases, the seller covers the buyer’s agent commission, so you can benefit from professional guidance at no direct cost to you.

First-time buyers in Alberta have access to four key programs in 2026:

1. The First Home Savings Account (FHSA) — contribute up to $8,000/year tax-free, with a $40,000 lifetime limit.
2. The Home Buyers' Plan — withdraw up to $60,000 from your RRSP tax-free toward your purchase.
3. The First-Time Home Buyers' Tax Credit — up to $1,500 in federal tax relief.
4. GST relief on new builds — under Bill C-4, eligible buyers on new construction may save up to $50,000.

The MetroYEG team can help you stack multiple programs together to maximize your savings at the time of purchase.

The FHSA is a registered account introduced by the federal government in 2023. It combines the best of both the RRSP and TFSA:

1. Contributions are tax-deductible (like an RRSP) — up to $8,000/year
2. Qualifying withdrawals for a home purchase are completely tax-free (like a TFSA)
3. Unused contribution room carries forward — lifetime maximum is $40,000

If both you and a partner qualify, you can combine accounts for $80,000 tax-free toward your purchase. It's one of the most powerful first-home savings tools ever offered to Canadians.

Both have real advantages for first-time buyers in Edmonton:

1. New builds offer GST savings (up to $50,000 under Bill C-4), modern finishes, builder warranties, and no bidding wars — but possession timelines can be 6–18 months away.
2. Resale homes offer faster possession (typically 30–60 days), more neighbourhood choice, and room to negotiate on price and conditions — but may require repairs or updates.

MetroYEG works with first-time buyers on both paths. We'll compare the true all-in cost of each option so you can decide with full clarity.

1. Check your credit and get pre-approved — know your budget before you fall in love with a home.
2. Define your priorities — neighbourhood, must-haves, and deal-breakers.
3. Search with our Team — our market knowledge is your competitive edge & we share that all with YOU.
4. Make an offer with conditions — financing and inspection conditions protect you, if you're buying a condo then there are other conditions we add.
5. Complete your inspection and finalize your mortgage — review every detail before removing conditions.
6. Sign with your lawyer — review title, insurance, and transfer documents.
7. Get your keys — possession day means the home is now YOUR'S!

MetroYEG handles both the real estate and mortgage side in one coordinated team — which means fewer delays, fewer hand-offs, and a smoother experience from start to finish.