Canada · Housing
Support for first-time buyers is split across federal tax measures and provincial assistance programs, and the provincial side is where the largest help sits for lower-income households. It's also the part most people never hear about.
Several provinces run home ownership assistance for households under a stated income ceiling, sometimes lending a substantial share of purchase costs. These are usually repayable loans rather than grants, which still helps enormously with a down payment.
Assistance programs generally need to be arranged before you commit to a purchase. Discovering one after your offer is accepted usually means you can't use it.
A loan of 40% of purchase costs is real help, but it is a liability. Read the repayment terms and understand what happens if you sell early.
Federal support for buyers largely arrives through your tax return or a registered savings vehicle rather than as cash at closing. Plan the timing accordingly.
Each with its official source and last-verified date
New Brunswick Department of Social Development
A repayable loan to help lower-income New Brunswick families buy or build a modest first home.
Value
Not stated by source
Intake
Ongoing
Last verified: September 15, 2026
New Brunswick Department of Social Development
Forgivable loans for lower-income New Brunswick homeowners whose homes need major repairs or lack basic plumbing.
Value
$7,000 – $18,000
Intake
Ongoing
Last verified: September 20, 2026
CashRadar identifies potential matches. Final eligibility is determined by the program administrator. CashRadar is an independent service and is not affiliated with the Government of Canada or any provincial government.