1. Evaluate Your Finances: Determine your savings, income, and expenses. Calculate how much you can afford to spend on a home.

2. Credit Score: Check your credit score, as it will affect your mortgage rate and approval.

3. Down Payment: Save for a down payment. In Canada, the minimum down payment is 5% for homes up to $500,000, 10% for any amount above $500,000.

Step 2: Get Pre-Approved for a Mortgage 

1. Mortgage Lender: Choose a lender (bank, credit union, or mortgage broker) and get pre-approved for a mortgage. This will give you an idea of how much you can borrow and show sellers you're serious.

2. Documents Required: Gather necessary documents such as proof of income, employment history, and financial statements.

Step 3: Determine Your Needs and Wants 

1. Home Criteria: Make a list of what you need and want in a home (location, size, type, features).

2. Market Research: Research neighborhoods and compare prices to understand what fits your budget.

Step 4: Hire a Real Estate Agent 

1. Find an Agent: Hire a real estate agent who is familiar with the area and has a good track record.

2. Agreement: Sign a Buyer Representation Agreement with your agent.

Step 5: Start House Hunting 

1. View Listings: Your agent will send you listings that match your criteria.

2. Open Houses and Showings: Attend open houses and schedule showings for homes you’re interested in.

Step 6: Make an Offer 

1. Offer Price: Decide on a fair offer price based on market conditions and comparable sales.

2. Conditions: Include conditions such as financing, home inspection, and sale of your current home.

3. Submit Offer: Your agent will submit the offer to the seller.

Step 7: Offer Acceptance and Negotiations 

1. Negotiations: Be prepared for counteroffers and negotiate terms until both parties agree.

2. Accepted Offer: Once accepted, you’ll sign the Agreement of Purchase and Sale.

Step 8: Conduct a Home Inspection 

1. Hire an Inspector: Hire a qualified home inspector to assess the property's condition.

2. Inspection Report: Review the inspection report and address any issues with the seller.

Step 9: Finalize the Mortgage 

1. Submit Documents: Provide your lender with the signed Agreement of Purchase and Sale and any other required documents.

2. Approval: Obtain final mortgage approval.

Step 10: Hire a Real Estate Lawyer 

1.Lawyer’s Role: Your lawyer will handle the legal aspects of the purchase, including title search and closing documents.

2. Legal Fees: Be prepared to pay for the lawyer's services.

Step 11: Closing the Deal 

1. Closing Costs: Prepare for closing costs, which can include land transfer tax, legal fees, and adjustments.

2. Final Walkthrough: Do a final walkthrough of the home to ensure it’s in the agreed condition.

3. Sign Documents: Sign all necessary closing documents.

4. Transfer of Funds: Your lawyer will arrange the transfer of funds to the seller.

Step 12: Move In