Looking to Make a Move in Halifax? 📞 Book A Call - calendly.com/zachsurette-royallepage/30min Instagram @zachsells.homes
Welcome to Part 3 of our complete Halifax First-Time Home Buyer’s Guide! In this episode, we’re tackling the most critical financial step before you start house hunting in HRM: getting a mortgage pre-approval and setting a realistic home-buying budget.
Whether you're looking at condos in Downtown Halifax, semi-detached homes in Dartmouth, or detached properties in Sackville or Bedford, understanding what you can actually afford is the key to a stress-free home buying journey.
We break down the difference between a pre-qualification vs. pre-approval, compare banks vs. mortgage brokers in Nova Scotia, detail the 2026 government incentives (like the FHSA, HBP, and Nova Scotia’s DPAP), and explain Halifax’s hidden closing costs, including the 1.5% Deed Transfer Tax!
⏱️ TIMESTAMPS / CHAPTERS 0:00 - Intro: What You'll Learn in Part 3 1:04 - Pre-Qualification vs. Pre-Approval: Don't Make This Mistake! 1:42 - Requirements for Pre-Approval 2:32 - Bank vs. Mortgage Broker: Who Should You Work With? 3:54 - 2026 First-Time Homebuyer Government Incentives (FHSA, HBP, DPAP) 5:54 - Budgeting & Halifax Closing Costs Explained (Deed Transfer Tax & Hidden Fees) 6:59 - Final Tips & What’s Next in Part 4!
The opinions expressed herein are solely that of Zach Surette, not Royal LePage® or NSAR and should not be misconstrued as advice or the basis of an agency relationship whatsoever. Please consult your professional advisor prior to taking action on any decisions relating to the matters discussed in these videos. This communication is not intended to solicit those currently under contract. This is not financial advice.
