Down Payment Calculator Canada

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Set up direct deposit and skip the monthly fee. Free to open, and the Easy plan has no monthly fee. Worth doing if you will actually move your pay or your CRA deposits over, not if the card sits unused. Code BREMO2026.

See how it works

See the exact minimum down payment for your target home price, closing costs, and how long it will take to save it all.

Saving for a down payment is the biggest financial challenge facing most first-time homebuyers in Canada. Understanding exactly how much you need — including minimum requirements, CMHC insurance, and closing costs — helps you build a realistic savings plan.

Down Payment & Savings Calculator

Target Down Payment
Remaining to Save
Time to Save

Minimum Down Payment Rules in Canada (2026)

Home PriceMinimum Down PaymentCMHC Insurance?
Under $500,0005% of purchase priceYes (required)
$500,000 – $999,9995% on first $500K + 10% on remainderYes (required)
$1,000,000+20% minimumNot available
Any price (no CMHC)20%+Not required
The FHSA Advantage: The First Home Savings Account (FHSA) allows first-time buyers to contribute up to $8,000/year (max $40,000 lifetime) with tax deductions like an RRSP AND tax-free withdrawals like a TFSA. It's the most powerful tool for saving a down payment. If you're eligible, maximize it.

Saving for a Down Payment: Best Strategies

  1. Open an FHSA immediately if eligible (first-time buyer) — tax deduction + tax-free growth is unbeatable
  2. Use TFSA for down payment savings — tax-free growth, flexible withdrawal
  3. Home Buyers' Plan (RRSP): First-time buyers can withdraw up to $35,000 from RRSP tax-free (must be repaid over 15 years)
  4. Automate monthly transfers on payday before you can spend the money
  5. Store in a High-Interest Savings Account (not invested in equities) — too much risk right before you need the money

Don't Forget Closing Costs

First-time buyers often focus exclusively on the down payment and are surprised by closing costs. Budget an additional 1.5–4% of the purchase price for:

Accelerate Your Down Payment Savings

KOHO's automatic savings rules transfer money to your goals every time you get paid or make a purchase. See your down payment progress grow in real time. Get $100 cash with code BREMO2026.

Get $120 with KOHO →