🏡 Home Buyer’s Guide with Conrad Kruger, REALTOR®

Your step-by-step companion to buying a home in Prince Albert, Surrounding Communities and Lake

🤝 Why Work with a Buyer’s Agent?

When purchasing a home, it’s important to remember: The seller’s agent works for the seller. Their job is to protect the seller’s interests—not yours. (Buyers)

That’s where I come in. As your dedicated buyer’s agent, I advocate for you every step of the way—from finding the right property to negotiating the best deal and navigating the paperwork. I’ll help you:

  • Understand local market trends

  • Identify homes that match your lifestyle and budget

  • Spot red flags you might miss during a home visit 

  • Protect your interests during negotiations

  • Assist with paperwork

  • Connect you to service providers like lawyers, home inspectors, mortgage brokers, etc

With me by your side, you’ll save time, avoid costly mistakes, and feel confident in every decision.

💰 How Much Down Payment Do I Need?

Your down payment is the initial amount you contribute toward the purchase price. Your mortgage covers the rest.

  • In Canada, the minimum down payment is typically 5%, depending on the property’s value and your financial profile. Self-employed clients,  secondary homes (if not owner-occupied), rental income properties, holiday homes, and commercial properties could be subject to larger down-payments. Discuss options with your mortgage broker

  • Homes over $500 000 have larger down payments. 🔗 Learn more about down payments

💵 Do I Need a Deposit Too?

Yes! A deposit (or earnest money) shows the seller you’re serious. It’s paid when your offer is accepted and held in trust until closing.

Deposits are deducted from your down payment (it's not an additional cost on top of your down payment)

  • If conditions aren’t met, the deposit is returned.

  • If you back out without cause, the seller may keep it.

It’s a key part of making a strong offer.

🧮 What Is Pre-Qualification?

Pre-qualifying for a mortgage is your first step. A lender reviews your finances and estimates how much you can borrow.

Benefits of pre-qualification:

  • ✅ Know your budget

  • Some sellers won't let you view their home without a pre-qualification

  • ✅ Strengthen your offer - showing you are a serious buyer

  • ✅ Save time by focusing on homes you can afford

  • ✅ Identify and fix financial issues early

It gives you a competitive edge and peace of mind.

🎁 First-Time Buyer Incentives in Saskatchewan

If you’re a first-time buyer, you may qualify for these programs:

  • Métis Community First-Time Home Buyers Program  Up to $15,000 for down payment + $2,500 for closing costs 🔗 Details here

  • First-Time Home Buyers Tax Credit  🔗 Learn more

  • RRSP Home Buyers’ Plan (HBP)  Withdraw up to $35,000 tax-free ($70,000 for couples) 🔗 More info

  • Tax-Free First Home Savings Account (FHSA)  Save up to $8,000/year, max $40,000 🔗 Explore FHSA

💡 Tip: Speak with a mortgage advisor to see which programs fit your situation.

🔍 How Do I Start My Home Search?

Start at www.conradkruger.com for up-to-date listings and market insights.

  • Search below your max budget to leave room for emergencies

  • Once you spot a few favourites, reach out to me directly: 📞 306-941-1684 📧 conrad@conradkruger.com

I’ll book showings, walk you through each property, and help you weigh the pros and cons.

📈 What’s a Reasonable Offer?

In Prince Albert and surrounding areas, homes typically sell for 98–100% of the asking price.

  • Sellers rarely accept lowball offers, as decent homes may have many interested buyers 

  • Start within a realistic range

  • Remember: the seller—not the REALTOR®—decides what’s acceptable

I’ll help you craft a strong offer that reflects market value and your goals.

📋 What Conditions Should I Include?

Firstly, I am here to assist you with all the paperwork from your initial offer to closing

Here are the essentials:

  • Financing Condition: Pre-qualification isn’t final approval. This protects you if the lender declines.

  • Home Inspection Condition: A $500 inspection can save thousands in repairs.

  • Additional Conditions: Acreages, cabins, and unique properties may need tailored clauses. I’ll guide you through those.

⏳ Most buyers have 2 weeks to satisfy conditions like financing and inspection.

✅ Removing Conditions & Closing the Deal

Once you’re satisfied with all conditions:

  1. Sign the Condition Removal Form

  2. Your deposit is locked in

  3. The deal moves to the lawyers for conveyancing

  4. Prepare for closing costs and legal fees

If conditions aren’t met, you can opt out by signing a Conditions Not Met Form and reclaim your deposit.

📣 Ready to Begin?

Whether you’re buying your first home, upgrading, or investing in lake life, I’m here to guide you every step of the way.

📞 Conrad Kruger – eXp Realty  306-941-1684 🌐 www.conradkruger.com  📧 conrad@conradkruger.com

Let’s make your home-buying journey smooth, exciting, and successful!

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