Buying in Ottawa
Find the Right Home, With the Right Team
Tell us what you’re looking for and a Murphy & Associates agent will reach out with listings, neighbourhood advice and a game plan built around you.
- New and off-market listings sent to you first
- Neighbourhood, school and investment insight
- Skilled negotiation to get you the best deal
- Support from offer to closing day
Start Your Home Search
Free, no-obligation. We’ll be in touch quickly.
Call (613) 875-8400 or send us a message.
How Buying a Home in Ottawa Works
Whether it’s your first home or your next one, we guide you from first search to keys in hand. Here’s what to expect, what it costs, and how we help at every step.
Get pre-approved
Talk to a lender or mortgage broker first so you know your budget and can make a confident offer. We can recommend trusted local mortgage professionals.
Plan your search
Tell us your must-haves, preferred communities and timeline. We set up instant alerts, including new listings before they appear on the big sites.
Tour homes
We book showings, point out what photos don’t show, and share recent sales so you know what each home is really worth.
Make a strong offer
We build your offer strategy around price, conditions and closing date, then negotiate firmly on your behalf.
Firm up the deal
We coordinate home inspection, financing and any other conditions so you can firm up with confidence.
Close and move in
Your lawyer finalizes the paperwork and funds, and we make sure you’re ready for closing day and getting your keys.
Costs to budget for
- Down payment: 5% minimum on the first $500,000, more above that
- Ontario land transfer tax (first-time buyers may get up to $4,000 back)
- Legal fees and title insurance
- Home inspection
- Mortgage default insurance if you put down less than 20% (Ontario charges sales tax on the premium at closing)
- Adjustments for prepaid property tax and utilities, plus moving costs
Why buy with Murphy & Associates
- A full team of Ottawa REALTORS®, so you always have someone available
- 5-year CENTURY 21 Centurion Award winners, including 2 Grand Centurions
- Local insight across Kanata, Barrhaven, Orléans, Nepean and beyond
- Help with new builds, resale homes and investment properties
- Call or text 613-875-8400 anytime
Ottawa Home Buyer FAQ
How much down payment do I need to buy a home in Ottawa?
In Canada the minimum is 5% of the first $500,000 and 10% of the portion between $500,000 and $1.5 million. Homes above $1.5 million need at least 20% down. With less than 20% down you will also need mortgage default insurance.
What closing costs should I budget for in Ontario?
Plan for Ontario land transfer tax, legal fees and disbursements, title insurance, a home inspection, property tax and utility adjustments, and moving costs. Ottawa has no extra municipal land transfer tax.
Is there a first-time home buyer rebate in Ontario?
Yes. Eligible first-time buyers can get a refund of up to $4,000 of the Ontario land transfer tax. Federal programs such as the First Home Savings Account may also help you save.
Do I have to sign an agreement with a buyer’s agent?
Yes. Under Ontario’s Trust in Real Estate Services Act, a written buyer representation agreement is required before a brokerage represents you. We explain every clause before you sign.
How long does it take to buy a home in Ottawa?
Once you are pre-approved, many buyers find a home within a few weeks to a few months. Closing usually takes 30 to 90 days after your offer is accepted.
General information only, not financial or legal advice. Programs and rules change; confirm details with your lender and lawyer.
How It Works
Your Path to Home Ownership
Tell Us What You Want
Share your must-haves, budget and timeline using the form above or a quick call.
Get Pre-Approved
We’ll connect you with trusted lenders so you know exactly what you can afford.
Tour Homes
See the right homes first, including new listings the moment they hit the market.
Offer to Keys
We negotiate on your behalf and handle every detail through closing.
Let’s Talk
Call (613) 875-8400 · Email curtis.murphy@century21.ca
CENTURY 21 Synergy Realty Inc., Brokerage · 2310 St. Laurent Blvd, Unit 206, Ottawa
