Here you’ll find everything first-time buyers need to confidently purchase a new home in Surrey. From understanding presales and incentives to comparing condos and townhomes, this guide walks you through the process step-by-step. Explore neighbourhoods, learn about closing costs, and discover the best Dawson + Sawyer homes designed for first-time buyers.
Buying your first home is a major milestone—and Surrey is one of the most opportunity-rich markets for first-time buyers. With new presale options, move-in-ready homes, and access to BC’s first-time buyer incentives, the path to ownership is more achievable than many expect.
Dawson + Sawyer builds modern, functional homes designed for families, young professionals, and buyers entering the market for the first time.
Buying your first townhome or condo is easier when you understand the key steps:
1. Get Pre-Approved
Connect with a mortgage specialist to determine your budget and lock in rates.
2. Choose Presale or Move-In-Ready
Presales offer lower upfront costs, while move-in-ready homes provide immediate occupancy.
3. Secure Your Home with a Deposit
Presales often require deposit structures paid over time instead of all at once.
4. Review the Disclosure & Finalize Details
Understand strata fees, floorplans, parking, and closing costs.
5. Prepare for Completion
Your lawyer/notary will help you through final paperwork, adjustments, and title transfer.
Buying new construction gives you access to several savings programs:
GST New Housing Rebate
Eligible buyers may recover part of the 5% GST.
Property Transfer Tax (PTT) Exemption
First-time buyers may avoid PTT entirely on qualifying homes.
BC First-Time Home Buyer Programs
Various provincial incentives support affordability.
Energy & Efficiency Rebates
New builds may qualify for utility rebates depending on the home type.
Ideal for budget-conscious buyers, offering lower maintenance, secure amenities, and accessible locations.
Great for future planning, providing more bedrooms, private entrances, garages, and outdoor space. Dawson + Sawyer communities offer both options across Surrey’s fastest-growing neighbourhoods.
Alongside one of Surrey’s largest and most loved parks, with future rapid transit and everyday conveniences within walking distance.
Transit-friendly with excellent schools and modern communities—perfect for young families.
Close to shopping, dining, parks, and recreation facilities with strong future growth potential.
Diverse, well-connected, and budget-friendly with strong rental and investment potential.
Now Selling
Condos in Bear Creek
Now Selling
Creekside Townhomes in Bear Creek
Now Selling
Condos in Guildford
Buildings 6 +7 – Now Selling
Condos located directly on the SkyTrain
Eligible buyers may access GST rebates, Property Transfer Tax exemptions, and provincial first-time buyer programs.
Presales offer flexible deposits and price protection, while move-in-ready homes provide immediate possession.
Most Surrey presales require 5–10% paid in stages over the construction period.
Expect 5% GST, legal fees, and adjustments for utilities or strata fees. PTT may be exempt for qualified first-time buyers.
A realtor can help with negotiation and paperwork, but you can also purchase directly from a developer’s sales team.
Find modern presale and move-in-ready homes designed for first-time buyers.