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Buyer guide

Buyer document
checklist.
Be ready.

Getting pre-approved and closing on a home in Calgary requires a specific set of documents. Having these ready before you need them speeds up the process and makes you a stronger buyer in a competitive market.

Check off items as you gather them. Your progress is saved in this session.

Interactive checklist

Documents you'll need.

Your progress 0 of 0 items
Identity & residency 0 / 4
✓
Government-issued photo ID (driver's licence or passport)
Two pieces of ID required for most lenders. At least one must be government-issued with photo.
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Second piece of ID (credit card, health card, etc.)
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Proof of Canadian residency or immigration status
PR card, work permit, or Canadian passport. Required for newcomers — ask Shanna about newcomer mortgage programs.
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Social Insurance Number (SIN)
Income & employment 0 / 6
✓
Letter of employment on company letterhead
Must state: position, start date, employment status (full-time/part-time), and annual salary.
✓
Last 2 pay stubs (most recent)
✓
Last 2 years T4 slips
✓
Last 2 years Notice of Assessment (NOA) from CRA
Available through My Account on CRA website. Critical for self-employed buyers.
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If self-employed: Last 2 years full T1 tax returns and financial statements
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If rental income: Current lease agreement and last 2 years rental income history
Down payment & assets 0 / 5
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90-day bank statements for all accounts used for down payment
Lenders need to verify the source of your down payment. Large deposits within the 90-day window will require explanation.
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RRSP statements (if using Home Buyers' Plan)
First-time buyers can withdraw up to $35,000 per person from RRSPs tax-free under the HBP.
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FHSA statements (if applicable)
First Home Savings Account — contributions are tax-deductible and withdrawals for a first home are tax-free.
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Gift letter (if any portion is a gift from family)
Must state: gift amount, relationship to donor, and that repayment is not required. Signed by donor.
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Investment account statements (TFSA, non-registered)
Existing debts & liabilities 0 / 4
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Most recent mortgage statement (if you currently own)
Shows remaining balance, monthly payment, and maturity date.
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Car loan or lease statements
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Student loan statements
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Line of credit statements (HELOC, personal LOC)
At closing (after accepted offer) 0 / 5
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Home inspection report
Shanna will arrange a trusted inspector. Budget $500–$700.
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Mortgage commitment letter from lender
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Home insurance binder (proof of insurance for closing)
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Certified cheque or wire transfer for closing costs
Typically $3,000–$5,000 beyond your down payment. Your lawyer will provide the exact amount.
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Real estate lawyer contact confirmed and retained

Ready to start the process?

Shanna can connect you with a trusted Calgary mortgage broker and walk you through exactly what you need to get pre-approved fast.

Talk to Shanna Back to buyer guide
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Sotheby's International Realty Canada

Your multilingual Calgary REALTOR® — serving buyers and sellers across SW and NW Calgary with Sotheby's global platform and personal, trilingual service.

Phone (587) 585-8333
Email shanna.lin@sothebysrealty.ca
Office 5111 Elbow Dr SW
Calgary, AB T2V 1H2
© 2026 Shanna Lin Real Estate. All rights reserved.
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Sotheby's International Realty Canada

This website is not the official website of Sotheby's International Realty, Inc. Sotheby's International Realty, Inc. does not make any representation or warranty regarding any information, including without limitation its accuracy or completeness, contained on this website. Shanna Lin is a licensed REALTOR® with Sotheby's International Realty Canada. The trademarks REALTOR®, REALTORS®, and the REALTOR® logo are controlled by The Canadian Real Estate Association (CREA) and identify real estate professionals who are members of CREA.