Buying a Home in New Brunswick: A Newcomer’s Guide

Hi there! If you’re new to New Brunswick, welcome 🫶🏼. Buying your first home here can feel exciting, but it can also feel a little overwhelming — especially if you’re navigating it as a newcomer. That’s why I created this guide. My goal is to make the process clear, supportive, and approachable. This is part of my New Brunswick real estate blog, where I share tips for newcomers and anyone who wants to feel confident in their home journey.

Understanding the New Brunswick Real Estate Market for Newcomers

New Brunswick is welcoming to newcomers, but there are some important rules. For example, there’s a ban on foreign buyers purchasing residential property in certain areas. This means your eligibility depends on your permit or residency status, especially if you plan to buy in metropolitan areas like Fredericton, Moncton, or Saint John.

Breaking down these rules early can help you plan your home search and feel confident throughout the process.

Foreign Buyer Ban in New Brunswick

In certain areas, non-Canadians are prohibited from buying residential property. This law is in place to protect the housing market and ensure local residents have access to homes. However, there are exceptions for certain types of residents and properties.

Exceptions for Certain Residents

According to the Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation (CMHC), some newcomers are exceptions to the foreign buyer prohibition:

• Temporary residents studying in Canada: They must be enrolled in an authorized program, have filed income taxes for the past five years, been physically present in Canada for at least 244 days each year, have not purchased property under the prohibition before, and the property must cost under $500,000.

• Temporary residents working in Canada: They must hold a valid work permit with at least 183 days of validity remaining and have not purchased property under the prohibition before.

• Refugees and refugee claimants: Protected persons or those with eligible claims, including individuals fleeing crises, may also qualify.

• Accredited members of foreign missions: Those with valid diplomatic or consular passports.

• Non-Canadian spouses or common-law partners: When purchasing with a Canadian citizen, permanent resident, or someone exempt from the prohibition.

For more details, check the official CMHC guide here.

Exceptions for Property Types and Indigenous Rights

Certain properties are exempt from the prohibition. Residential properties outside Census Metropolitan Areas (CMAs)or Census Agglomerations (CAs) are allowed. CMAs require at least 100,000 people, with 50,000 in the core, while CAs require at least 10,000 in the core.

Additionally, Section 35 of the Constitution Act, 1982 ensures that Indigenous peoples’ rights, including land and treaty rights, are respected when purchasing property.

Work Permits and Buying a Home

If your permanent residency is still being processed, don’t worry. Certain work permits allow you to buy property while you wait. Banks consider different types of work permits, including:

• Open work permits

• Employer-specific work permits

• Provincial nominee program work permits

Understanding which type you hold can make the mortgage process smoother. Also, speaking with a mortgage specialist first is essential. They can pre-approve you and tell you exactly what budget you can work with. This step saves time and gives you confidence before house hunting.

Steps to Buying a Home in New Brunswick as a Newcomer

Here’s a simple roadmap:

1. Talk to a mortgage specialist

   • Get pre-approved and understand your budget.

2. Understand your eligibility

   • Check your permit or residency status.

3. Hire a REALTOR®

   • A local agent can guide you, show homes that fit your needs, and negotiate on your behalf.

4. Start house hunting

   • Share your must-haves with your REALTOR® — number of bedrooms, bathrooms, location, bus routes, etc.

   • Be open to seeing homes even if the photos aren’t perfect; listings can be misleading.

5. Make an offer and complete paperwork

   • Speak up if anything is unclear so your REALTOR® can explain it.

   • Find a lawyer — your REALTOR® can suggest options.

   • Ensure you understand taxes, closing costs, and legal requirements.

Helpful Resources for Newcomers

• Prohibition on the Purchase of Residential Property by Non-Canadians Act

• Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada — information about permits and residency

• New Brunswick Immigration Services — guidance about living and working in NB

If you’d like personal guidance with buying or selling a home, feel free to contact me here. I’m happy to walk you through every step.

Why I Created This Blog for Newcomers

Most of all, I want you to feel supported, informed, and confident in your home journey. Moving to a new province is a big step, and buying a home should feel like an exciting opportunity, not a confusing obstacle.

Welcome to New Brunswick — and welcome to your home-buying journey! 🏡✨