Homeowner AF: The Canadian First Time Homebuying Podcast

Brianna Goslin
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Welcome to Homeowner AF: The Canadian First Time Homebuying Podcast, the ultimate resource for first-time homebuyers in Ontario and across Canada. Hosted by experienced mortgage agent Brianna Goslin, each week she breaks down the barriers to homeownership, offering practical, easy-to-digest advice that will help you navigate the complexities of buying your first home, while de-mystifying your entry into Canadian Real Estate. Brianna covers topics like: Why do I need a pre-approval?What happens in the mortgage pre-approval process.How much cash do I need to close?How to expedite your down payment savings.What you should know when purchasing your first home after a divorce.What you need to know about credit scores.Housing market trends.Interest rates and how they affect you.Essential information about home insurance for new buyersand so many more first-time homebuying questions! This podcast supports Canadian first-time homebuyers at every stage of the homebuying journey, from real estate curious to ready to buy househunters- Homeowner AF will keep you motivated, inspired, and well-informed about the Canadian homebuying process. Tune in weekly for fresh insights that will make your home-buying journey feel less overwhelming and more empowering.

  1. 4d ago

    The Wealth Within Your Walls, Part 1: Understanding Your Home Equity

    Your home isn’t just where you live, it can also be one of your biggest wealth-building tools. Today on Homeowner AF, I’m kicking off my Wealth Within Your Walls series by breaking down home equity, what it actually means, how it grows, and why it can become such an important part of your financial picture as a Canadian homeowner. I’m also sharing why understanding equity matters before you purchase your first home, especially if you want the flexibility to access that wealth in the future. Here’s what we get into: How home equity is calculated and how your down payment gives you your first equity position when purchasing a homeThe two major ways your equity can grow over timeWhy equity contributes to your net worth and how Canadian homeowners may eventually access it through refinancing, a second mortgage, or a home equity line of credit (HELOC)When you can actually start accessing your home equity and why your equity position mattersWhy the mortgage you choose as a first-time home buyer impacts your options if accessing equity is a part of your five or 10 year planThis is just the beginning of our Wealth Within Your Walls conversation. In the next episodes, I’ll dive deeper into refinancing and home equity lines of credit so you can better understand the options available as your equity grows. If you’re ready to talk about your first home purchase, mortgage pre-approval, or how your mortgage can support your long-term homeownership goals, book a free call with me at bricallme.com. Download Brianna's Mortgage App Specific Questions?  Ready to get started? Book a free call with Brianna: www.Bricallme.com Join my mailing list: https://briannagoslinmortgages.myflodesk.com/mortgagebites Website: https://www.brxmortgage.com/agent/brianna-goslin Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/briannagoslinmortgages Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/brianna.goslin.mortgages LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/briannagoslinmortgages

  2. Oct 6

    Homebuyer's Plan vs. FHSA: Which One Is Right for Me?

    Your down payment may not have to come entirely from your regular savings. In this episode, I explain how the Home Buyers’ Plan (HBP) and First Home Savings Account (FHSA) can help eligible first-time home buyers in Canada access and build funds for a home purchase. I walk you through the rules you need to understand before incorporating either program into your strategy, so you can set yourself up for the best case scenario when you're ready to buy. Here’s what you’ll learn: Who qualifies as a first-time home buyer for the Home Buyers’ Plan and FHSA, including when a previous homeowner may become eligible againHow the FHSA can help you build your down payment through tax-deductible contributions and tax-free qualifying withdrawalsHow eligible couples can each use an FHSA towards their purchase, increasing the amount available for their combined down paymentHow the Home Buyers’ Plan allows eligible buyers to access RRSP funds for a home purchase and what you need to know about repaymentThe key differences between the FHSA and HBP, including why the repayment requirement can influence how you use each programWhy understanding the withdrawal and eligibility rules before making an offer is an important part of preparing for your mortgage and home purchaseThe Home Buyers’ Plan and FHSA can create additional opportunities for Canadians to strengthen their down payments, but the right approach depends on your specific financial circumstances and timeline. If you want advice tailored to your situation, book a free call with me at www.bricallme.com. Do you have a question you want answered on the podcast? Send me a message or voice note on Instagram @briannagoslinmortgages. I'll see you next time! Resources: Homebuyer's Plan FHSA Specific Questions?  Ready to get started? Book a free call with Brianna: www.Bricallme.com Join my mailing list: https://briannagoslinmortgages.myflodesk.com/mortgagebites Website: https://www.brxmortgage.com/agent/brianna-goslin Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/briannagoslinmortgages Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/brianna.goslin.mortgages LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/briannagoslinmortgages

  3. Sep 29

    Lowest vs. Best Mortgage Rate: Why Your Neighbour's Rate Doesn't Matter

    Today on Homeowner AF, I’m answering one of the biggest questions I hear from Canadian homebuyers and homeowners: how do I get the lowest mortgage interest rate? Whether you’re purchasing your first home, renewing your mortgage, or refinancing, I’m breaking down why comparing rates to everyone in your community Facebook groups might not actually help you find the mortgage that saves you the most money. Keep listening to learn: Why comparing mortgage rates with others can be misleading when borrowers may be talking about completely different mortgage products, including fixed versus variable ratesHow an insured mortgage can come with a lower interest rate while the mortgage insurance premium increases your overall cost of borrowingHow your income, debts, down payment, credit, amortization, property location, and financial goals all play a role in determining the mortgage rate and product you actually qualify forThe hidden trade-offs that can come with a low interest rate and why saving on your rate today could limit your options or cost you more down the roadHow lender turnaround times can affect a home purchase, especially when you have a short financing condition or closing timelineWhy working with a mortgage agent or broker can help you look beyond the headline rate and find a mortgage that fits your unique finances and goalsLet’s find the best-fit mortgage for you, not the lowest possible rate. If you’re a first time home buyer in Ontario who wants advice based on your actual numbers, book a free call with me at bricallme.com. Don’t forget to leave a like on this episode and I’ll see you next week! Listen to Episode 2 of the podcast: Do You Really Need 20% Down? The Truth About Minimum Down Payment, Insured Mortgages, and Buying Sooner Specific Questions?  Ready to get started? Book a free call with Brianna: www.Bricallme.com Join my mailing list: https://briannagoslinmortgages.myflodesk.com/mortgagebites Website: https://www.brxmortgage.com/agent/brianna-goslin Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/briannagoslinmortgages Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/brianna.goslin.mortgages LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/briannagoslinmortgages

  4. Sep 22

    Buying a Home in Ontario in the Next 6 Months? 4 Things I Would Do To Stay Mortgage Ready

    Today on Homeowner AF, I share the practical steps I would take if I was buying in the next six months. If you’re currently planning to purchase your first home in Ontario, getting pre-approved is just the beginning. Listen in as I go over the steps you can start taking now so you can stay mortgage ready and be prepared to act fast when the right property comes along. Here’s what I get into: Why I want you to keep saving after your pre-approval and down payment are in place, including building an emergency fund for the added costs of homeownershipHow a mortgage rate hold can help protect your purchasing power when interest rates fluctuateWhich mortgage documents you’ll need to keep updated so your application can move quickly once you have an accepted offer and a financing conditionWhy expanding your location search could open up more affordable homeownership opportunities, particularly if you work remotely or have flexibility with your commuteHow assembling your homebuying team early, including your mortgage agent, realtor, and real estate lawyer, can help you prepare for a smoother purchaseWhy choosing to work with people you trust mattersThe more prepared you are before you find your property, the better positioned you’ll be to move through your mortgage financing with confidence. Do you have specific questions about your unique homebuying situation? Book a free call with me at www.bricallme.com.  Listen to Episode 3 of Homeowner AF: What is a Pre-Approval and Why Do I Need One? Mortgage Pre-Approval Explained Specific Questions?  Ready to get started? Book a free call with Brianna: www.Bricallme.com Join my mailing list: https://briannagoslinmortgages.myflodesk.com/mortgagebites Website: https://www.brxmortgage.com/agent/brianna-goslin Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/briannagoslinmortgages Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/brianna.goslin.mortgages LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/briannagoslinmortgages

  5. Sep 15

    Can First-Time Homebuyers Still Buy a House in Ontario? What the 2026 Data Reveals

    Today on Homeowner AF, I dig into Teranet’s Q2 2026 Market Insight Report and what the latest Ontario housing data actually tells us about Canadian first-time homebuyers. Heads up: the numbers may challenge some of the headlines you’ve been hearing. First-time buyers are making up a growing share of Ontario’s non-condo market and today, we’ll be looking at where they’re buying, what they’re buying, and how you can use this information to build a smarter homeownership strategy around your own finances. Here’s what I get into:  The growing role first-time homebuyers are playing in the non-condo marketHow first-time buyers are purchasing homes across Ontario and why looking beyond one city or neighbourhood can change what’s possible within your budgetWhat the rise in solo first-time homebuyers tells us about buying on your own, especially for buyers in their 20s and early 30sThe four practical steps I recommend taking to position yourself for homeownership, starting with your mortgage pre-approval and the monthly payment you can comfortably affordWhy being flexible with location and property type can create more opportunities without sacrificing the financial boundaries you’ve set for yourselfWhy your first-time homebuyer strategy should focus on what you can control rather than trying to predict interest rates or the next move in the Canadian real estate marketIf your goal is to become a homeowner in Ontario, this episode will help you think differently about what’s possible and where to start. Leave me a comment with a question you want answered on the podcast or send me a message on Instagram @briannagoslinmortgages. I’ll see you next week! Teranet’s 2026 First-Time Homebuyer Market Snapshot Specific Questions?  Ready to get started? Book a free call with Brianna: www.Bricallme.com Join my mailing list: https://briannagoslinmortgages.myflodesk.com/mortgagebites Website: https://www.brxmortgage.com/agent/brianna-goslin Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/briannagoslinmortgages Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/brianna.goslin.mortgages LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/briannagoslinmortgages

  6. Sep 8

    Don't Overcomplicate It! How to Get Started As a First-Time Canadian Homebuyer in 2026

    If buying your first home is on your radar but you’re not sure where to start, this episode is for you. Today, I break down the practical steps you can take right now to strengthen your finances, start building your down payment, and position yourself for a future mortgage pre-approval. Every first-time home buyer has a different starting point. You might already have savings and great credit, or you might be years away from purchasing and wondering where to begin. The important thing is having a plan that makes sense for your finances and your homeownership goals. Here’s what you’ll learn: Why opening a First Home Savings Account (FHSA) early on is a mustThe importance of building your savings muscle by consistently setting aside money for your down paymentWhy carrying debt doesn’t automatically prevent you from becoming a homeowner and how to think strategically about paying down debt while savingHow protecting your credit can strengthen your future mortgage application and help position you for a competitive interest rateWhy connecting with a mortgage agent or broker before you’re ready to buy can help you align your savings, debt repayment, and financial decisions with your ultimate goal of becoming a homeownerWhether homeownership is one year away or five, the decisions you make today can help put you in a stronger position when it’s time to purchase. Ready to lock into your goal of becoming a homeowner? Book a free call with me at www.Bricallme.com. Don't forget to leave a like and review on this episode. I'll see you next week! Specific Questions?  Ready to get started? Book a free call with Brianna: www.Bricallme.com Join my mailing list: https://briannagoslinmortgages.myflodesk.com/mortgagebites Website: https://www.brxmortgage.com/agent/brianna-goslin Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/briannagoslinmortgages Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/brianna.goslin.mortgages LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/briannagoslinmortgages

  7. Sep 1

    3 Things I Wish I Knew Before Buying My First Home in Ontario

    Today on Homeowner AF, I share the things I wish I avoided as a first-time home buyer in Ontario. I purchased my first home in Oshawa in 2015 with my then-boyfriend, now husband, with a plan to build equity and use our starter home as a stepping stone toward our long-term goals. Looking back, there are a few conversations and decisions that could have made the process a lot less stressful. If you’re currently house hunting in Ontario as a first-time homebuyer, listen in to the lessons I learnt the hard way, so you can feel more confident when it’s your turn to buy. Tune in to hear: The importance of prioritizing your financial plan and homeownership goals above the opinions of friends and familyWhy we intentionally purchased a home with a basement apartment, how rental income helped support our lifestyle, and why being a landlord worked for us despite other people’s concernsHow our mortgage pre-approval helped us choose a purchase price based on a monthly payment we were actually comfortable carryingWhat first-time home buyers should discuss before actually make an offerThe kinds of conversations you should be having with your partner before going in on a shared down paymentWhat I learnt about cohabitation agreements and why protecting yourself and your investment is an important part of buying real estate with another personVisit jointly.ca to learn more about cohabitation agreements in Canada. If you’re a first time home buyer in Ontario and you’re thinking about your pre-approval, let’s get you the information you need to make your next move with confidence. Book a free call with me at www.Bricallme.com. I’ll see you next week! Specific Questions?  Ready to get started? Book a free call with Brianna: www.Bricallme.com Join my mailing list: https://briannagoslinmortgages.myflodesk.com/mortgagebites Website: https://www.brxmortgage.com/agent/brianna-goslin Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/briannagoslinmortgages Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/brianna.goslin.mortgages LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/briannagoslinmortgages

  8. Aug 25

    The #1 Thing Killing Deals Right Now Is Good News for First-Time Homebuyers

    Today on Homeowner AF, I’m breaking down a shift in the Ontario housing market that could create a real opportunity for first-time home buyers heading into fall 2026. While some buyers are running into challenges getting their deals across the finish line, first-time buyers may have an advantage simply because they have fewer moving parts. In this episode, I cover: Why are some home purchases falling through in Ontario right now, and what does it have to do with existing homeowner who are buying, aka “move-up buyers”?What is a sale-of-home condition, and why can it make an offer less attractive to a seller in today’s market?Could being a first-time home buyer actually give you an advantage when competing against move-up buyers?Does a buyer’s market means you have more negotiating power, and what you should know before deciding how much to offer.Should you still include financing and home inspection conditions when there is less competition for a property?How early should you get pre-approved if you are hoping to buy in fall 2026?If buying your first home is on your radar, this market could present an opportunity worth paying attention to. The key is understanding where your advantage may be and having your financing lined up before the right property comes along. If you want to know what you could qualify for or get your mortgage pre-approval started, book a free call with me at www.Bricallme.com.  Specific Questions?  Ready to get started? Book a free call with Brianna: www.Bricallme.com Join my mailing list: https://briannagoslinmortgages.myflodesk.com/mortgagebites Website: https://www.brxmortgage.com/agent/brianna-goslin Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/briannagoslinmortgages Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/brianna.goslin.mortgages LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/briannagoslinmortgages

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About

Welcome to Homeowner AF: The Canadian First Time Homebuying Podcast, the ultimate resource for first-time homebuyers in Ontario and across Canada. Hosted by experienced mortgage agent Brianna Goslin, each week she breaks down the barriers to homeownership, offering practical, easy-to-digest advice that will help you navigate the complexities of buying your first home, while de-mystifying your entry into Canadian Real Estate. Brianna covers topics like: Why do I need a pre-approval?What happens in the mortgage pre-approval process.How much cash do I need to close?How to expedite your down payment savings.What you should know when purchasing your first home after a divorce.What you need to know about credit scores.Housing market trends.Interest rates and how they affect you.Essential information about home insurance for new buyersand so many more first-time homebuying questions! This podcast supports Canadian first-time homebuyers at every stage of the homebuying journey, from real estate curious to ready to buy househunters- Homeowner AF will keep you motivated, inspired, and well-informed about the Canadian homebuying process. Tune in weekly for fresh insights that will make your home-buying journey feel less overwhelming and more empowering.

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