First time buyers may need $500,000 but ownership is still favourable

First time buyers have something of a mountain to climb these days with price increases pushing the amount needed for a downpayment higher during last year.

First time buyers have something of a mountain to climb these days with price increases pushing the amount needed for a downpayment higher during last year. Despite low interest rates it is still a daunting prospect to take on a home loan of the size required for some starter homes; in Toronto it could mean a $500,000 loan for even a modest property. That said, home ownership is still the aspiration of most and experts say that it is still a good option. Dana Senagama of CMHC told CBC that the market is set to remain strong while interest rates are low and houses will still be a hot commodity especially in Toronto, Vancouver and Calgary. Immigrants are an important driver of the housing market she says, with those that have been in Canada for a few years looking to own their own home.