The Creative Ways First-Time Buyers Are Making It Work in 2025

The Canadian Real Estate Investor · Jun 13, 2025 · 58m

Is the Canadian dream of homeownership still alive? We break down the latest CMHC Mortgage Consumer Survey, revealing how first-time buyers are really getting into the market.

First-time buyers now make up 12% of mortgages (up from 10%), with over half using co-buyers and receiving family gifts averaging $74,000 ($150,000 in Ontario/B.C.).

65% of first-time buyers are at their budget maximum, with fewer using savings for emergencies (50% vs. 78% last year).

Most buyers remain optimistic: 80% see homes as good investments, and 74% expect values to rise next year.

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