02/03/2026
Nova Scotia Lowers Down Payment for First-Time Homebuyers 🏡
The Province of Nova Scotia has introduced a new First-Time Homebuyers Program, reducing the minimum down payment from 5% to 2%. This initiative makes homeownership more accessible for eligible buyers while maintaining financial safeguards.
Key Details:
➡️ Eligible for first-time buyers with household income up to $200,000.
➡️ Minimum credit score of 630 and must pass mortgage stress test.
➡️ Program applies to homes up to $570,000 in Halifax Regional Municipality & East Hants, and $500,000 elsewhere in NS.
➡️ Delivered through participating credit unions, with provincial mortgage guarantee.
➡️ Buyers do not have to obtain separate mortgage insurance (such as CMHC, Genworth/Sagen insurance) instead the Province provides a government guarantee on the mortgage which acts in place of traditional mortgage insurance at no additional cost to the homebuyer.
The First-time Homebuyers Program was created to make Nova Scotians' first home more affordable and to help Nova Scotians achieve homeownership faster.