Free Guide
Everything you need to buy your first home
The Home Buyer's Guide walks you through every step — from your first budget conversation to picking up the keys — so nothing catches you off guard.
- How much you can actually afford
- Every cost beyond the purchase price
- A step-by-step timeline from offer to closing
What's Inside
A chapter for every step
Budgeting & affordability
What lenders actually look at, and how much home that really buys you.
Down payments & closing costs
Every cost beyond the purchase price, laid out line by line.
Getting pre-approved
What to have ready, and how a pre-approval actually strengthens an offer.
From offer to keys
A step-by-step timeline of what happens, and when, between an accepted offer and closing day.
A look inside
Why It Matters
Real answers, not just homework
This isn't generic advice pulled off the internet. It's written by Ottawa brokers, for Ottawa buyers, and it's meant to be read alongside a real conversation with a real person — not instead of one.
- Plain-language explanations, no jargon left unexplained
- Local context — Ottawa land transfer tax, programs and lenders
- Built to be read once and kept for reference through closing
Client Stories
Home buyers like you
“I will definitely refer you to my friends and family going forward. You were a great help in the past and with this purchase. Thanks again for all your help,”
A
Angela
“Thanks so much Derek!! You are the best. We appreciate all your help.”
B
Brad
“Thanks Derek. Will do. Great working with you again like always.”
B
Brent
“We've dealt with Derek for our last three or four mortgages and every time he exceeds our expectations. He's always provided us with great insight and competitive rates. I highly recommend Derek for your Mortgage needs!”
D
Dan
“Thanks to you and Lama for your friendly and helpful guidance in navigating the mortgage process. I would definitely recommend your services”
D
Denis
“I can recommend Derek as an efficient, effective and proactive specialist to deal with meanders of the Canadian mortgage market. Thank you, Derek, for your help.”
G
Greg
Ready When You Are
Talk to a broker about your next move
Download the Home Buyer's Guide to start discovering mortgage tips.