How to Build a 12-Month Budget for a $600K–$675K Starter Home
Many families don’t need an $850K home to get started. A realistic entry point is often in the $600s, and the path to ownership is clearer than most people think.
Here’s the framework:
🔹 Set a price target: $600K–$675K
🔹 Estimate your down payment: $35,000–$42,500
🔹 Reverse engineer the savings: $2,925–$3,550/month
🔹 Prepare 2% for closing costs (but less for first time buyers)
🔹 Improve credit for better approval strength
🔹 Study micro-markets: Orangeville vs. Shelburne vs. Grand Valley vs. Erin
A well-designed 12-month strategy is often the difference between renting for another year…or owning your first home.
We are happy to build one for you.