Your Complete Home Buying Roadmap

8 simple steps from pre-approval to keys in hand—Kris Ong guides you through every stage so you never feel lost, pressured, or unprepared.

Buying a home in the BC Lower Mainland is one of the biggest financial decisions you'll ever make. This roadmap is designed to make the process clear, strategic, and successful from day one.

Your 8-Step Journey to Home Ownership

Step 1: Get Pre-Approved for a Mortgage

This is the most important first step—and the one most buyers skip. A pre-approval tells you exactly what you can afford, strengthens your position with sellers, and speeds up the entire buying process.

There’s a big difference between pre-qualification and pre-approval:

  • Pre-qualification is an estimate
  • Pre-approval is verified by a lender based on income, credit, and assets

Don’t forget to budget for closing costs as well—typically 2–4% of the purchase price.

If you're a first-time buyer, the First Home Savings Account (FHSA) may allow you to save up to $40,000 tax-free toward your home.

 

💡 Kris's Tip: Work with a mortgage broker instead of only your bank. Brokers can access multiple lenders and often secure better rates and options. I can connect you with trusted professionals.

Step 2: Define Your Wish List

Once your budget is clear, it’s time to define what you actually want in a home.

Key considerations include:

  • Must-haves vs nice-to-haves (bedrooms, parking, suite potential)
  • Preferred neighbourhoods (Surrey, Langley, Coquitlam, etc.)
  • Home type (condo, townhome, or detached house)
  • Lifestyle priorities (commute, schools, parks, walkability)

 

💡 Kris's Tip: Think about where you want to be in 5 years. Your purchase strategy should match your long-term goals, not just your current situation.

Step 3: Start the Home Search

Once your criteria are set, you’ll receive instant MLS alerts so you see new listings as soon as they hit the market.

You’ll also gain access to:

  • MLS email alerts for matching properties
  • Off-market opportunities through agent networks
  • Pre-sale and new construction options

 

💡 Kris's Tip: The best homes often sell within 24 hours. Preparation and speed matter—your pre-approval must already be in place.

Step 4: Touring Properties

Photos don’t always tell the full story. Touring homes in person helps you understand layout, condition, and overall livability.

During showings, pay attention to:

  • Natural light and orientation
  • Layout, flow, and storage space
  • Condition of major systems (roof, windows, mechanicals)
  • Neighbourhood noise and surroundings
  • For condos: strata rules, fees, and building condition

 

💡 Kris's Tip: I’ll provide sales history and comparable data before you make any decisions so you know exactly how a home is priced in the current market.

Step 5: Writing a Competitive Offer

An offer is more than just price—it’s strategy, structure, and timing.

Key components include:

  • Purchase price (based on CMA and market data)
  • Subject clauses (financing, inspection, title review)
  • Completion date
  • Deposit amount (typically 5% within 24–48 hours)

 

💡 Kris's Tip: In multiple-offer situations, the strongest offer isn’t always the highest price. Clean terms, strong deposits, and flexibility often win the deal.

Step 6: Due Diligence Period

Once your offer is accepted, you typically have a short period (around 7 days) to complete due diligence before committing fully.

This includes:

  • Home inspection
  • Review of strata documents (if applicable)
  • Title search
  • Final mortgage approval
  • Optional final walk-through

 

💡 Kris's Tip: I personally review strata documents and flag potential issues such as special levies, low reserve funds, or bylaws that could impact your decision.

Step 7: Closing Costs Breakdown

In addition to your down payment, expect closing costs of approximately 2–4% of the purchase price.

These may include:

  • Property Transfer Tax (PTT)
  • GST on new construction (if applicable)
  • Legal or notary fees
  • Home inspection costs
  • Moving expenses

First-time buyers may qualify for exemptions and rebates that can save thousands of dollars.

 

💡 Kris's Tip: Between FHSA savings, first-time buyer exemptions, and tax credits, many buyers leave money on the table. I make sure you understand every available benefit.

Step 8: Keys in Hand

This is the best part—becoming a homeowner.

On completion day:

  • Final mortgage documents are signed
  • Funds are transferred through your notary or lawyer
  • Title is registered in your name
  • You receive your keys

 

💡 Kris's Tip: My support doesn’t end at closing. I stay available for trusted referrals, investment advice, and future real estate planning.

Why Work With Kris Ong

Market Intelligence

Real-time insight into pricing trends, buyer demand, and investment opportunities in the Lower Mainland.

Network Access

Trusted relationships with lenders, inspectors, contractors, and off-market opportunities you won’t find online.

Protection First Approach

Every offer is structured to protect you legally and financially—I prioritize long-term security over short-term wins.

Always Available

Real estate moves fast. I stay responsive so you never miss an opportunity.

Presale Expertise

Specialized experience in new construction and presale opportunities across growing BC markets.

Investor Mindset

As an investor myself, I evaluate every purchase through both lifestyle and long-term wealth-building strategy.

Ready to Start Your Home Search?

Book a free buyer consultation with Kris Ong today and get a clear, personalized plan for buying in the BC Lower Mainland.