Synergy CU Home Handbook
Buying a home? We’re here to help—our Home Handbook makes the process easier to understand, step by step.

Not All Mortgages Are Equal
A mortgage is a major purchase, so it is important to know you have the package and lending professional that is right for you.

Factors for Lending Decisions

What to Bring to the Lender

Cost of Ownership
It is important to know exactly what costs you are going to incur up front and along the way.

Household Budgeting:
Developing an Effective Budget

Tips on Budgeting
To manage your personal finances with budgeting, the budget itself is not enough – it is imperative you make it work for you.

Your Housing Options
It is important to understand the different types of housing options available to you in your area and the factors you need to consider when you are looking to purchase your home.

You and Your Realtor: Making The Offer

You and Your Lawyer
Buying a home may be the biggest investment you’ll ever make. Your lawyer, realtor and financial advisor work together to protect your investment, prevent surprises and help you work through any problems.

Your Down Payment

Protecting Your Mortgage from the Unexpected

Finding the Synergy Mortgage that's Right for You
Not everyone likes to scroll through pages of info—so we’ve wrapped everything up in a downloadable PDF, complete with helpful worksheets to guide you through your home-buying journey.
Apply online
Speak to a mortgage specialist
What to Bring to Your Mortgage Appointment
Verification of Income
- Employed: T4 slips, recent pay stubs, and last year’s tax return
- Self-employed: Balance sheet, income statement, and tax returns for the current and previous two years
- Other income sources: Documentation for social security, child tax benefits, commissions, interest income, etc.
List of Assets
- Bank accounts with approximate balances
- Savings bonds, stocks, or other investments with market values
- Other registered or serial-numbered assets (e.g., vehicles, equipment)
List of Liabilities (Debts)
- Credit and store cards
- Loans: car, furniture, student, personal, or co-signed
- Mortgage or rental payment history
- Alimony or child support documentation
Information About the Property
- Listing details
- Purchase contract (if available)
- Property appraisal (if available)
- Heating cost estimates
Confirmation of Down Payment
- From another financial institution: Bring a statement
- Gifted funds: Gift letter and proof of transfer (e.g., cheque copy)
- Equity from another property: Tax assessment or recent appraisal
Additional Documents for New Home Construction
- Last 3 years of tax returns and current pay stubs
- Contractor/subcontractor names
- Builder’s New Home Warranty Program info (with registration number)
- Blueprints and specifications
- Appraisal (if required)
- Construction contract
- Cost analysis worksheet
- Builder’s insurance (prior to advances)
- Fire insurance (once construction is complete)
- Water potability test (for CMHC-insured or rural properties)
- Details on holdbacks and interim expenses