Thinking about buying a condo in Surrey or Burnaby? You’re not alone! Condos are an excellent choice for first-time buyers, downsizers, and investors alike. But the process involves more than just picking your favourite unit online. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you make smart, confident decisions along the way.

1. Understand What You Can Afford

Before you fall in love with a unit, get your financing in place. Speak with a mortgage broker or your bank to get a pre-approval. This will help you understand your budget and give you confidence when making an offer.

Learn more about mortgage pre-approvals here.

2. Define Your Must-Haves

What are your non-negotiables? Parking? Pet-friendly building? In-suite laundry? Proximity to SkyTrain? Making a clear list will help narrow your search and save you time.

3. Start the Search

Once you're pre-approved and know what you're looking for, it's time to search! Use my Property Search Tool to explore current listings across Surrey and Burnaby. You can filter by price, building type, age, and more.

4. Book Showings & Comparisons

I’ll help you book private viewings and assess each unit’s pros and cons. I’ll also give you background on the building’s reputation, strata history, and resale potential.

5. Make an Offer

Found "the one"? I’ll walk you through the offer process, including what to include in your subject clauses. Most condo offers include subjects like financing, home inspection, and reviewing strata documents.

Pro Tip:

Condo sales often require reviewing a depreciation report, bylaws, financial statements, and meeting minutes. These documents give insight into the building’s condition, budget, and any upcoming repairs or special levies.

6. Finalize Financing & Remove Subjects

Once your offer is accepted, we’ll work with your lender and inspector to remove conditions. Once all subjects are satisfied, you’ll officially purchase the property and submit your deposit.

7. Completion & Possession

Leading up to completion, your lawyer or notary will handle the paperwork and funds transfer. On possession day, you’ll get the keys to your new condo!

Extra: First-Time Buyer Incentives

• Property Transfer Tax (PTT) Exemption: First-time buyers in BC may qualify for a full or partial exemption if the purchase price is under $500,000 or $525,000 (as of 2025 updates).
• Home Buyer’s Plan (HBP): Withdraw up to $60,000 from your RRSP tax-free for your purchase.

Check PTT exemptions here

Common Buyer Questions

• How much are monthly strata fees and what do they cover?
• Is the building professionally managed?
• Are rentals allowed? What about pets?
• Is there a contingency reserve fund?

Why Work With Me?

As a local Surrey and Burnaby Realtor who specializes in helping first-time condo buyers, I’ll guide you from search to keys-in-hand. I’ll ensure you feel confident and informed through every step.

Let’s book a consultation today! I’ll answer your questions and help you explore options based on your lifestyle and budget.

Also read: Thinking of Selling this Spring?