New Canadians

Pre-Construction for New Canadians — Your First Canadian Home, Made Simple.

Buying a home in Canada for the first time is an exciting milestone. Our team guides new Canadians through every step — from mortgage approval to VIP access to closing — in plain English (and other languages too).

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Can New Canadians Buy Pre-Construction?

Yes — and pre-construction is often the ideal path for newcomers to Canada. Here's why: a deposit structure spread over 2–4 years gives you time to build your Canadian credit history and save — all while your home is being built at today's locked-in price.

Permanent Residents (PRs), skilled worker visa holders (including LMIA-exempt workers), and Canadian citizens are all eligible to purchase pre-construction real estate in Ontario. Recent rule changes (2025) have also opened up some opportunities for certain work permit holders.

The most important step is getting pre-approved by a mortgage lender experienced with new-to-Canada buyers. We work with lenders who specialize in exactly this and can connect you with the right team.

Step-by-Step: How to Buy Pre-Construction in Canada

1

Get Pre-Approved

Before registering for any project, connect with a mortgage broker who specializes in new-to-Canada buyers. They'll confirm your purchasing power and identify the best lenders for your situation.

2

Register with GoodwinHomes

Tell us your city, budget, property type, and timeline. We match you with the best upcoming launches and secure your spot on the VIP list — weeks before the public.

3

Attend VIP Launch Event

As a registered VIP, you choose your unit before the public — best floors, best layouts, at introductory pricing. Our team walks you through every floor plan option.

4

Sign the Agreement of Purchase & Sale

This is the formal contract with the builder. You have a 10-day "cooling off" period after signing to review with your lawyer and cancel without penalty if needed.

5

Pay Deposits Over Time

Deposits (typically 15–20% total) are paid in installments over 1–3 years. This gives you time to build savings and credit history while your home is under construction.

6

Close and Move In

At occupancy, you complete the mortgage and take possession of your brand new home. Your lawyer handles the closing documentation and title transfer.

Government Programs for First-Time Buyers in Canada

FHSA

First Home Savings Account

Contribute up to $8,000/year ($40,000 lifetime) tax-free. Withdrawals are also tax-free when used for a qualifying first home. New Canadians who are first-time buyers in Canada may be eligible as soon as they file a Canadian tax return.

RRSP HBP

Home Buyers' Plan

Withdraw up to $35,000 from your RRSP tax-free for a first home purchase. If both partners are first-time buyers, you can withdraw up to $70,000 combined. Repay over 15 years — or include the amount in your income.

FTHBI

First-Time Home Buyer Incentive

A federal program offering a shared equity mortgage of 5–10% (on new construction). Reduces your monthly mortgage payments. You repay when you sell or after 25 years. Ask our team if this applies to your situation.

Program eligibility and terms change. Always confirm details with a licensed mortgage professional and/or the Canada Revenue Agency.

Best Cities for New Canadians — Pre-Construction 2026

CityStarting PriceCommunityCommute to Toronto
BramptonFrom $459,000South Asian, Caribbean, diverse~45 min by GO/Highway
MississaugaFrom $549,000Diverse, multicultural hub~30 min by MiWay/Highway
ScarboroughFrom $519,000East Asian, South Asian, diverse~25 min by TTC/subway
HamiltonFrom $429,000Growing, diverse, affordable~45 min by GO train
KitchenerFrom $449,000Student friendly, international~60 min via ION+GO
VaughanFrom $599,000Italian, Jewish, diverse suburbs~35 min by Vaughan Metro
Toronto (Scarborough)From $519,000Most diverse city in the world

Common Questions from New Canadian Buyers

Do I need Canadian credit history to get a mortgage?

Not necessarily. Several lenders offer new-to-Canada mortgage programs that use international credit history, employment letters, or minimum deposit thresholds instead of Canadian credit scores. A 20–35% down payment significantly expands your options.

What is the Non-Resident Speculation Tax (NRST)?

Ontario charges a 25% NRST on property purchases by foreign nationals who are not Canadian citizens, Permanent Residents, or nominees. If you are a PR or eligible work permit holder, you may be exempt — confirm with your lawyer before signing.

Can I buy pre-construction on a work permit?

Some work permit holders qualify — especially those with employer offers in Ontario or with LMIA-exempt status. The NRST exemption was extended to certain permit holders in recent years. Our team will refer you to a real estate lawyer who can confirm your eligibility.

Will someone explain the process in my language?

Our team works with Punjabi, Hindi, Gujarati, Mandarin, Cantonese, and Urdu-speaking clients, and we work with translation resources for other languages. More importantly, we'll explain every document in plain English and never rush you through anything.

Get Free Guidance — Your First Canadian Home

Register and our team will contact you within 1 hour with a personalized plan — the right city, the right project, and the right team (mortgage, lawyer, builder) to make your first Canadian home a reality.

No pressure — education first
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Multilingual team support
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Completely free — builder pays
905-274-3000

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