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What First-Time Home Buyers Should Expect When Purchasing a Home

The following is based on a conversation from 2013 with local real estate expert Kendall Ayres. The content has been revised and updated to ensure it remains relevant for today’s first-time home buyers.

Buying your first home is a major milestone — and for many first-time buyers, the process can feel overwhelming at the start. To help clarify what to expect, I sat down with local real estate expert Kendall Ayres of Sutton Seafair Realty to discuss common questions, misconceptions, and practical advice for first-time home buyers.

Below are some of the key insights from our conversation.

Expect the process to take time

One of the most important things first-time buyers should understand is that finding the right home often takes longer than expected.

Starting the home search is a big decision, and it’s not uncommon for the process to take several months. Buyers should go in knowing that patience matters. Rushing into a purchase can lead to regrets later, especially if the property doesn’t fully align with long-term needs.

The value of working with a real estate agent

A real estate agent plays multiple roles throughout the buying process. They act as:

  • A consultant, helping buyers understand the market

  • A negotiator, advocating on the buyer’s behalf

  • A coordinator, overseeing contractual details and timelines

There are many moving parts when purchasing a home. Having an experienced agent involved can reduce stress, save time, and help buyers avoid costly mistakes.

Closing costs first-time buyers should plan for

Many first-time buyers underestimate closing costs. While exact amounts vary, buyers should be prepared to discuss potential costs such as:

  • Property transfer tax (and whether any exemptions apply)

  • Legal or conveyancing fees

  • Home inspections

  • Property tax adjustments

  • Strata fees, if applicable

  • GST/HST, where applicable

Having this conversation early — before writing an offer — helps prevent surprises later in the process.

What tends to worry first-time buyers most

Uncertainty is a common source of anxiety. For many buyers, the process feels overwhelming simply because it’s unfamiliar. Others worry about choosing the right professionals to work with.

Building trust with your real estate agent and mortgage broker is key. Buyers should feel comfortable asking questions and confident that their interests come first.

Saving tips for first-time buyers

There’s no one-size-fits-all approach to saving, but first-time buyers should lean on their professional team. Mortgage brokers and real estate agents can often identify ways to reduce costs or plan more efficiently — whether that’s through mortgage structure, incentives, or timing considerations.

Where first-time buyers often start their search

Every buyer’s situation is different, but many first-time buyers begin by looking at:

  • Condominiums

  • Townhomes

These property types often provide a more accessible entry point into the market, depending on location and personal goals.

Common misconceptions about buying a first home

One of the biggest misconceptions is that buyers assume they can’t afford to purchase at all.

In reality, affordability varies widely depending on income structure, down payment, and mortgage options. Speaking with a mortgage broker early helps clarify what’s realistic and allows buyers to plan with accurate information.

What to prioritize when choosing a first property

There’s no universal checklist. The “right” property depends on individual priorities, such as:

  • Long-term plans (living vs. investing)

  • Proximity to work or schools

  • Lifestyle preferences

  • Walkability and amenities

  • Quiet versus urban settings

Clear communication with a real estate agent helps align the search with what actually matters most to the buyer.

A question agents hear all the time: “Is it a good time to buy?”

Rather than focusing on timing the market, the more productive conversation centers on readiness. Understanding what a buyer wants, where they want to live, and what fits their financial comfort level allows everyone to stay informed and prepared when the right opportunity comes along.

Final thoughts

For first-time home buyers, knowledge and preparation are powerful. Working with the right professionals, asking questions early, and taking a measured approach can make the process far less stressful — and far more rewarding.