Not every parent can gift a house or tens of thousands toward a down payment and that’s perfectly okay. In today’s Southwestern Ontario housing market, even modest financial support can go a long way for a first-time buyer.
Whether it’s covering closing costs, helping pay for a new roof, or gifting funds toward moving expenses, many parents are finding thoughtful, manageable ways to ease the home buying journey for their children. These smaller contributions may not grab headlines but they often make the difference between stress and confidence during one of life’s biggest transitions.
Closing costs are the fees and expenses involved in finalizing a real estate purchase. In Ontario, these typically add up to 1.5%–4% of the home’s purchase price an amount many first-time buyers don’t fully expect until they’re deep in the process.
For example, on a $600,000 home, closing costs could range from $9,000 to $24,000, which is no small sum when you're already juggling a down payment and moving costs.
Typical closing costs in Ontario include:
Land Transfer Tax (plus additional municipal tax in some areas)
Legal fees and disbursements
Title insurance
Home inspection and appraisal fees
Mortgage insurance premiums (if the down payment is under 20%)
Utility hook-up fees or deposits
Adjustments for prepaid taxes or utility bills
Covering some or all of these costs can free up your child’s savings for other essentials like furniture, home maintenance, or a rainy-day fund.
If your child is buying a home that needs a bit of work, offering to cover specific repairs or upgrades can be a huge relief. Some popular ways parents have helped include:
Replacing an old furnace, roof, or windows
Installing energy-efficient upgrades (like insulation, heat pumps, or smart thermostats)
Gifting an appliance package (washer/dryer, fridge, etc.)
Contributing to cosmetic improvements like fresh paint, new flooring, or updated lighting
Funding part of a basement suite or home office build-out
Even offering your time, tools, or skills known as “sweat equity” can be deeply appreciated. Helping paint, landscape, or install shelving can cut costs and make for meaningful family memories.
And remember: you don’t have to contribute up front. Many families choose to provide help after closing, once the most urgent needs become clear.
Not all support needs to be large or cash-based. Here are some lower-cost, creative options parents in Brantford, Brant County, and across Southwestern Ontario are using:
Gift Cards to home improvement stores (Home Hardware, RONA, Canadian Tire)
“Welcome Home” Fund your child can use however they choose whether that’s blinds, a lawnmower, or groceries
Furniture Contributions toward larger pieces like a couch, mattress, or dining set
Moving Expenses rent a truck or book a moving company as a housewarming gift
Professional Help pay for a cleaner, handyman, or photographer to prep or personalize the home
Practical Gifts like a stocked tool kit, snow shovel, or takeout on moving day
Even small, thoughtful gestures can ease the transition and create lasting memories.
Imagine a young couple in Brantford recently bought their first home on a tight budget. The furnace worked but barely and there was no central air. Instead of giving money up front, their parents offered to pay for a new HVAC system after the deal closed. This gave the couple peace of mind, improved their energy efficiency, and boosted the home’s value.
Another parent gave their child $5,000 to cover legal fees and moving expenses. With those costs handled, the couple was able to use more of their savings toward renovations and furnishing their new space.
These real-world gifts weren’t massive but they were incredibly strategic and deeply appreciated.
Gift letters are typically required for down payments, but not for closing costs or post-closing repairs. Still, it’s wise to document your intention in case the lender has questions.
Be clear about your gift. If the money is intended for something specific, say so up front to avoid confusion.
Don’t stretch yourself too thin especially if you plan to help multiple children. Speaking with a financial advisor can help you give confidently and responsibly.
Helping your child become a homeowner doesn’t always mean co-signing a mortgage or making a massive financial commitment. Sometimes, it’s about showing up in the right way, at the right time with closing cost support, practical repairs, or thoughtful gestures that make all the difference.
Whether it’s $500 or $5,000, your support can offer confidence, comfort, and momentum in your child’s first steps into homeownership.
Thinking about helping your child buy a home in Brantford, Brant County, or anywhere in Southwestern Ontario? We' d love to help guide you through options that work for your family’s goals and budget. Let’s chat about local referrals, real estate planning, and how to turn your thoughtful support into smart, lasting impact.
Send us a message below or call / text Paula at 226-400-6458
