The Benefits of Buying a Home After 35
Tanya Toye • September 25, 2025
For many people, homeownership feels like a milestone they should achieve in their twenties or early thirties. But the truth is, there are real advantages to waiting a little longer. If you’re over 35 and thinking about buying your first home, you may be in a stronger position than you realize.
While buying earlier has its merits, purchasing later in life often means you’re approaching the process with more stability, experience and perspective. Instead of feeling rushed to get onto the property ladder, you can make choices that reflect your long-term goals and financial confidence.
With that in mind, following are some key benefits to buying a home after 35.
- Greater financial stability. By your mid-thirties, you’ve likely had more time to grow your career, increase your income and build savings. This can make qualifying for a mortgage easier and may give you access to better rates and terms. With more savings, you can also put down a larger down payment, helping reduce your overall loan amount and monthly payments.
- Stronger credit history. Time is on your side when it comes to credit. By 35, many people have established a longer credit history, which lenders look for when assessing risk. A strong credit score can unlock better mortgage options and greater flexibility when choosing between lenders.
- Clearer life goals. Buying a home is more than just a financial decision – it’s a lifestyle choice. This stage of life is a great time to plan intentionally. Thinking ahead about your budget, desired neighbourhood, long-term career path or retirement goals can ensure your home purchase truly supports your future. Most people are more realistic by this age when it comes to the type of home that will work best financially.
- Building equity for the future. While buying a home earlier allows for more years of equity growth, starting at 35 still gives you decades of potential appreciation and mortgage paydown ahead. Homeownership can be an important part of retirement planning, offering financial security and stability later in life.
- Confidence in your decisions. Experience matters. By your mid-thirties, you’ve likely already made big financial choices – such as buying cars, investing or managing debt. That experience gives you more confidence to make a sound, informed homebuying decision.
Buying a home after 35 comes with its own set of advantages. With more stability, clearer goals and stronger financial footing, you’re often better positioned to make a smart investment.
Wondering if now’s the right time for you to buy a home? I’m here to help: 604-788-8693 |
tanya@tanyatoye.ca
How to Use Your Mortgage to Finance Home Renovations Home renovations can be exciting—but they can also be expensive. Whether you're upgrading your kitchen, finishing the basement, or tackling a much-needed repair, the cost of materials and labour adds up quickly. If you don’t have all the cash on hand, don’t worry. There are smart ways to use mortgage financing to fund your renovation plans without derailing your financial stability. Here are three mortgage-related strategies that can help: 1. Refinancing Your Mortgage If you're already a homeowner, one of the most straightforward ways to access funds for renovations is through a mortgage refinance. This involves breaking your current mortgage and replacing it with a new one that includes the amount you need for your renovations. Key benefits: You can access up to 80% of your home’s appraised value , assuming you qualify. It may be possible to lower your interest rate or reduce your monthly payments. Timing tip: If your mortgage is up for renewal soon, refinancing at that time can help you avoid prepayment penalties. Even mid-term refinancing could make financial sense, depending on your existing rate and your renovation goals. 2. Home Equity Line of Credit (HELOC) If you have significant equity in your home, a Home Equity Line of Credit (HELOC) can offer flexible funding for renovations. A HELOC is a revolving credit line secured against your home, typically at a lower interest rate than unsecured borrowing. Why consider a HELOC? You only pay interest on the amount you use. You can access funds as needed, which is ideal for staged or ongoing renovations. You maintain the terms of your existing mortgage if you don’t want to refinance. Unlike a traditional loan, a HELOC allows you to borrow, repay, and borrow again—similar to how a credit card works, but with much lower rates. 3. Purchase Plus Improvements Mortgage If you're in the market for a new home and find a property that needs some work, a "Purchase Plus Improvements" mortgage could be a great option. This allows you to include renovation costs in your initial mortgage. How it works: The renovation funds are advanced based on a quote and are held in trust until the work is complete. The renovations must add value to the property and meet lender requirements. This type of mortgage lets you start with a home that might be more affordable upfront and customize it to your taste—all while building equity from day one. Final Thoughts Your home is likely your biggest investment, and upgrading it wisely can enhance both your comfort and its value. Mortgage financing can be a powerful tool to fund renovations without tapping into high-interest debt. The right solution depends on your unique financial situation, goals, and timing. Let’s chat about your options, run the numbers, and create a plan that works for you. 📞 Ready to renovate? Connect anytime to get started!
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