For many first-time buyers, homeownership can feel like an impossible dream. Skyrocketing prices, strict mortgage rules, and the challenge of saving for a down payment all make it seem out of reach. But what if there was a secret hack that smart buyers are using to afford homes sooner?

Here’s the good news: there is! And it’s not just a trick—it’s a real, legitimate strategy that can get you into a home faster than you ever thought possible. Let’s break it down.

1. The Down Payment Struggle And How to Overcome It

Most first-time buyers spend years saving for a down payment, only to see home prices rise faster than they can save. It’s frustrating. But there’s a better way to close the gap without waiting forever.

The Tonsto Down Payment Assistance Program is a game-changer. Instead of struggling to come up with every last dollar yourself, you can get up to $50,000 or 2% of the home’s price—no loan, no interest, no debt. Just free money to put toward your home.

Why this works:

• You can buy a home now instead of waiting years to save.
• Unlike loans or shared equity programs, you don’t have to repay this money.
• It works for a variety of home types, including resale, new builds, and even commercial properties.

2. Get Pre-Approved First: It Gives You an Edge

Many first-time buyers start by house hunting, but the real pros know that getting pre-approved for a mortgage before you shop makes all the difference.

Here’s why:

• Sellers take pre-approved buyers more seriously.
• You’ll know exactly how much home you can afford.
• The process moves faster, so you don’t lose out on the perfect home.

Pro tip: Some lenders working with Tonsto’s program may even offer a lower mortgage rate, saving you thousands over the life of your loan.

3. Work With Realtors Who Know These Shortcuts

The right realtor isn’t just someone who shows you houses, they’re your secret weapon in finding the best home for your budget and speeding up the process.

What to look for in a realtor:

• Experience with first-time buyers.
• Knowledge of programs like Tonsto’s Down Payment Accelerator.
• Strong negotiation skills to help you get the best deal without overpaying.

Tonsto connects buyers with top-tier, vetted realtors who already understand these strategies, so you don’t have to waste time searching.

4. Make Smart, Competitive Offers

In a competitive market, the difference between getting the home you love and missing out is how strong your offer is.

Winning offer hacks:

• Be pre-approved—it makes sellers more likely to accept your offer.
• Have your down payment ready (Tonsto’s assistance can help with this!).
• Work with your realtor to craft an offer that’s competitive but still within budget.
• Be flexible with closing dates to appeal to sellers who need a quick sale.

5. Speed Through Closing Without Delays

Once your offer is accepted, closing quickly is key. Delays can cost you the deal—or add unnecessary stress.

How to make closing easy:

• Work with a real estate lawyer who specialises in quick closings.
• Ensure your mortgage documents are in order ahead of time.
• Use a program like Tonsto’s to eliminate last-minute financing issues.
• Have your home inspection completed early to avoid any surprises.

6. Leverage Government Incentives and Tax Breaks

In addition to programs like Tonsto’s Down Payment, there are other government programs that can help you save even more money.

Helpful programs to check out:

• First-Time Home Buyer Incentive – A shared-equity program that reduces your mortgage payments.
• Home Buyers’ Plan (HBP) – Lets you borrow up to $35,000 from your RRSP tax-free for a down payment.
• First-Time Home Buyers’ Tax Credit – A credit that helps offset closing costs.

Using these programs alongside Tonsto’s assistance can give you an even bigger advantage when buying your first home.

Final Thoughts

The dream of homeownership isn’t out of reach—it’s just about using the right strategy. By tapping into programs like Tonsto’s Down Payment Accelerator, getting pre-approved, and working with the right experts, first-time buyers are getting into homes much sooner than they expected.

If you’ve been waiting for the perfect time to buy a home, this is it. With the right financial assistance, expert guidance, and smart home-buying tactics, your first home is closer than you think.

Ready to take the next step? Check your eligibility today and make homeownership happen faster than you ever thought possible!