RESOURCES · CANADA
Mortgage resources & guides
Every guide, Nova Scotia program, and free calculator I use with real clients — organized so you can find the one that answers your question.
GUIDES
Plain-English guides
Long-form explainers on the decisions that matter most.
How Refinancing Works
When to refinance, how the math works, and what it actually costs in Canada.
OpenFirst-Time Homebuyer Guide
Step-by-step from pre-approval to closing — every cost, deadline, and decision.
OpenOpen vs Closed Mortgage
Rates, prepayment privileges, and break penalties — which structure actually fits your plans.
OpenFirst-Time Buyers' GST/HST Rebate
The new federal rebate — up to $50,000 back on a new-build home. Who qualifies and what it's worth.
OpenDocument Checklist
Everything you need to gather before your first call — organized by situation.
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NOVA SCOTIA PROGRAMS
NS first-time buyer programs
Provincial programs that help Nova Scotians get into a home with less down.
Nova Scotia DPAP
Down Payment Assistance Program — eligibility, amounts, and how to apply.
OpenNova Scotia 2% Down Pilot
First-time buyer pilot — 2–4% down, no CMHC, through participating credit unions.
Open2% vs 5% Down Comparison
See exactly how the NS 2% pilot compares to a standard 5% down purchase.
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CALCULATORS
The four most-used calculators
The quickest answers to the questions buyers ask most.
Mortgage Payment Calculator
Monthly payment with today's rates, amortization, and CMHC insurance.
OpenHome Buying Cost Calculator
Total closing costs — land transfer, legal fees, inspection, deed transfer.
OpenCost of Owning a Home
Property tax, insurance, maintenance, utilities, condo fees.
OpenBuy Now or Wait
How much further ahead — or behind — you'd be if you waited X years to buy.
OpenPrepayment Savings Calculator
See how much sooner your mortgage is paid off if you make extra payments.
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