Exploring the Different Sources of Down Payment for Buying Residential Real Estate | Adrian Williams Mortgages

When buying residential real estate in Canada, one of the biggest expenses is the down payment. While the minimum down payment required for most properties is 5%, many buyers aim for a higher down payment to reduce their monthly mortgage payments and obtain a lower interest rate. However, coming up with a large down payment can be challenging, and many buyers wonder where they can get the funds. Here are some different sources of down payment when buying residential real estate in Canada:

Personal Savings

The most common source of down payment for homebuyers is personal savings. This can include money that has been saved in a savings account, a registered retirement savings plan (RRSP), or a tax-free savings account (TFSA). Using personal savings for a down payment is advantageous because it doesn't require any additional borrowing or interest charges.

Gifted Funds

Another source of down payment for homebuyers is gifted funds. This is when a family member or friend provides funds to help with the down payment. Gifted funds are acceptable to most lenders, as long as they are accompanied by a signed gift letter and proof that the funds have been transferred to the buyer's account.

Homebuyer Programs

There are several homebuyer programs available in Canada that can provide financial assistance with the down payment. For example, the Home Buyers' Plan (HBP) allows first-time homebuyers to withdraw up to $35,000 from their RRSP to use as a down payment. The First-Time Home Buyer Incentive (FTHBI) provides shared equity mortgages to first-time homebuyers, allowing them to reduce their monthly mortgage payments.

Personal Loans

Some buyers may choose to take out a personal loan to use as a down payment. However, this can be risky, as it adds to the overall debt load and increases the monthly expenses. Personal loans also typically come with higher interest rates than a mortgage, which can result in higher overall borrowing costs.

Sale of Assets

Finally, some buyers may choose to sell assets, such as stocks or other investments, to raise funds for a down payment. This can be a good option for those with substantial assets but limited cash reserves. However, it's important to consider the tax implications and potential capital gains when selling assets.

In conclusion, there are several different sources of down payment when buying residential real estate in Canada. Personal savings and gifted funds are the most common options, while homebuyer programs and the sale of assets can provide additional financial assistance.