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

Your step‑by‑step companion to buying a home in Prince Albert, surrounding communities, and lakes.

🤝 Why Work with a Buyer’s Agent?

When purchasing a home, it’s important to remember: the seller’s agent represents the seller and protects their interests — not yours.

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.

Here’s how I help:

✅ Guide and educate you throughout the home‑buying process

✅ Connect you with trusted service providers (mortgage advisors, home inspectors, lawyers, etc.)

✅ Schedule viewings and highlight the pros and cons of each property

✅ Draft strong offers with proper conditions and handle all paperwork

✅ Negotiate on your behalf and provide advice at every stage

✅ Support you from pre‑qualification all the way to closing day

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

🧮 What Is Pre‑Qualification?

Pre‑qualification is your first step. A lender reviews your finances and estimates how much mortgage you qualify for.

If you don’t have a mortgage advisor, I’ll connect you with a trusted professional.

What are the benefits of pre‑qualification:

• SOME SELLERS WONT LET YOU VIEW THEIR HOME WITHOUT A PRE-QUALIFICATION 

• Know your budget - Save time by focusing on homes you can afford

• Strengthen your offer and show sellers you’re serious

• Identify and fix financial issues early

• Gain peace of mind and a competitive edge

💰 How Much Down Payment Do I Need?

Your down payment is the initial amount you contribute toward the purchase price, with your mortgage covering 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, rental properties, holiday homes, and commercial properties may require larger down payments. (Discuss options with you mortgage advisor)

• Homes priced over $500,000 also require higher minimums. - LEARN MORE ABOUT DOWN PAYMENTS

💡 Always discuss your options with a mortgage advisor.

💵 Do I Need a Deposit Too?

Yes! A deposit (earnest money) shows the seller you’re serious & It’s a key part of making a strong offer.

• Paid when your offer is accepted and held in trust until closing

• Deducted from your down payment (not an extra cost)

• Returned if conditions aren’t met

• Forfeited if you back out without cause 

🎁 First‑Time Buyer Incentives in Saskatchewan

If you’re a first‑time buyer, you may qualify for:

• Métis Community First‑Time Home Buyers Program – Up to $15,000 for down payment + $2,500 for closing costs LEARN MORE

• First‑Time Home Buyers Tax Credit - LEARN MORE

• RRSP Home Buyers’ Plan (HBP) – Withdraw up to $35,000 tax‑free ($70,000 for couples)

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

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

How much are closing costs?

The simple answer is in Saskatchewan you should budget approximately 1% to 3% of the home's purchase price

Typical Buyer Closing Costs include 

Title Transfer Fees, Mortgage Registration, 

Legal Fees 

Usually $1,000 to $2,500, varies from lawyer to lawyer - shop around

Property Tax Adjustments

• Varies by property.
• Buyers reimburse the seller on a pro‑rated basis for any property taxes the seller has prepaid beyond the possession date.

PST on Mortgage Default Insurance

If your down payment is less than 20%, you’ll pay 6% PST on the mortgage insurance premium (e.g., CMHC).

• The premium is added to your mortgage, but the PST must be paid upfront.

Home Inspection

• Typically $400 to $600.

Appraisal Fee

• Usually $300 to $500, depending on lender requirements. 
  • Lenders require appraisals to ensure the home's value supports the mortgage amount. 

Title Insurance

• Generally $300 to $450.

🔍 How Do I Start My Home Search?

Begin at www.conradkruger.com for up‑to‑date listings and market insights.

PRO Tips:

• Search below your max budget to leave room for emergencies

• Once you spot a few favourites, reach out to me Conrad 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 95%–100% of asking price.

• Sellers rarely accept lowball offers, especially for desirable homes

• Start within a realistic range

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

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

📑 What Conditions Should I Include?

Essential conditions often include:

• Financing Condition – 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

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

✅ Removing Conditions & Closing the Deal

Once conditions are met: You will need a lawyer to help you with closing the deal and transferring title (If you don't have a lawyer I can connect you with a few service providers)

• Sign the Condition Removal Form

• Your deposit is locked in

• The deal moves to the lawyers for transfer

• Prepare for closing costs and legal fees (your mortgage broker will guide you with the costs at pre-qualifying)

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, 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!