Posted on
January 28, 2026
by
Chloe Costa
Start Where You Are: The Strategic Way To Homeownership
I was chatting with a client here in Charlottetown who asked a question I actually hear all the time so I thought I would share. This question was “What do I do if I can’t afford the home I really want?”
It’s such an honest, and vulnerable question. And my answer is always the same-you start with the home you can afford.
Buying your first (or next) home doesn’t have to mean landing in your forever dream house right away. Real estate is often a stepping-stone journey, not one BIG leap.
When you buy a home that comfortably fits your budget and pre approval amount today, a few important things start working in your favor:
You start building equity
Instead of paying a landlord’s mortgage, you’re paying your own. Over time, that equity becomes a financial tool you can use toward your next move.
You benefit from market growth
Historically, property values have risen over time. That growth can help bridge the gap between your “starter” home and your next home.
Your financial position strengthens
Consistent mortgage payments, rising income, and time in the market all improve your buying power down the road.
Your needs may change
Ironically, what feels like a compromise today can end up being the perfect fit for this stage of your life and sometimes by the time you’re ready to move on, your priorities may look different anyway.
The goal isn’t to buy the house right away. The goal is to buy a house that gets you in the game and sets you up for future moves down the road.
Think of it this way: Real estate is a ladder. You don’t have to jump to the top step first — you just have to get your foot on the first one.
As always, I’m here to chat. Questions are welcome and curiosity is encouraged. & there’s zero pressure to have it all figured out.
-C