First-Time Buyers
Your first purchase, without the overwhelm.
Pre-approval, down payment options and a realistic price range — explained in plain language, so you walk into your first purchase informed instead of anxious.
Buying your first home shouldn't feel like a second job.
Between rates, down payment rules, insurance premiums and closing costs, first-time buyers face a stack of unfamiliar terms and decisions — usually while competing for a property.
I break it down step by step so you always know where you stand, what it costs, and what happens next.
Pre-approval first
Know your real budget before you start touring homes — no guesswork, no disappointment.
Down payment strategy
From minimum down payment rules to using registered savings through the Home Buyers' Plan.
Insurance & closing costs
What mortgage default insurance costs, when it applies, and what to set aside for closing.
Rate & term guidance
Fixed versus variable, and which term actually matches your plans for the next few years.
From first conversation to keys
Discovery call
Income, savings, timeline and goals — the full picture before any numbers.
Pre-approval
A real budget and a rate hold, so you can shop with confidence.
Offer accepted
I move your file to full approval and coordinate with your lawyer and realtor.
Closing day
Funds released, keys in hand, and a clear picture of your payments.
"Maryuri Herrera was very helpful and professional. I felt very supported and she was amazing. She made my overall experience go very smoothly. I would recommend her to anyone."
★★★★★ — Claudia Vernazza · Google review
Questions first-time buyers ask
How much down payment do I need?+
The minimum is 5% on the first $500,000 of the purchase price, with a higher requirement on the portion above that. I'll walk you through the exact numbers for your target price range.
What is mortgage default insurance?+
It's required when your down payment is under 20%. The premium protects the lender and is normally added to your mortgage balance — I'll show you exactly what it adds to your payment.
How far ahead should I get pre-approved?+
Ideally 60–90 days before you start seriously house-hunting. That protects a rate while you shop and keeps your budget realistic from day one.
Fixed or variable rate?+
It depends on your risk tolerance, your timeline and how much payment certainty you need. We'll compare both with real numbers on your file rather than a rule of thumb.