For a first‑time home buyer Nunavut, navigating mortgage requirements, securing land, and accessing government assistance demands careful planning. Without a clear understanding of the financial options and support available, these steps can become obstacles that slow down or even prevent you from becoming a homeowner.
This guide from BestMO walks you through every program available, who qualifies, and how to apply successfully.
Who is eligible as a first-time home buyer in Nunavut?
Eligibility requirements vary by program but share 8 common criteria:
- Be at least 19 years old
- Live in Nunavut for at least 1 year
- Not currently own a home
- Have not received NHC help to buy or build a home in the past 10 years
- Have no outstanding debts with any Local Housing Organization
- Qualify for bank financing to cover costs beyond government assistance
- 3-year average income calculation using Line 15000
- Ability to secure bank financing for the remaining costs
The NHC makes exceptions for certain situations. If you have arrears, you might still qualify by agreeing to a repayment schedule. Former homeowners who sold due to divorce, job loss, or medical reasons may also be considered first-time buyers again.
What programs are available for first-time home buyers in NU?
Nunavut offers 2 main programs for first-time home buyers, plus 3 support programs that help with ongoing homeownership costs. Together, these programs can provide over $300,000 in assistance.
The territorial government restructured these programs to better serve Nunavummiut. Each program targets different needs, whether you want to build new, buy existing, or maintain your home.
Nunavut Homeownership Assistance Program (NHAP)
NHAP helps you build a new home by providing materials and support. The program gives you $250,000 toward construction materials and shipping, which the government forgives over 10 years if you keep living in the home.
The program includes:
- Pre-approved house designs suitable for Arctic conditions
- Materials package with everything needed to build
- Shipping costs to your community
- Project management support during construction
- Homeownership education before you start
You are responsible for:
- Securing land for construction
- Providing labour through sweat equity or hiring contractors
- Getting building permits and inspections
- Covering any costs above $250,000
- Completing construction within 2 years
What are the requirements for NHAP?
Beyond basic NU first-time buyer eligibility, NHAP has specific requirements focused on your ability to complete construction.
NHAP Scoring System (100 points total)
| Category | Criteria | Maximum Points |
| Build Plan | Quality and feasibility of the construction plan | 30 |
| Financial | Debt ratio (10) + Credit rating (10) | 20 |
| Community Residency | Years in community | 10 |
| Nunavut Residency | Years in territory | 10 |
| Household Size | Family composition/overcrowding | 15 |
| Inuit Beneficiary | Status confirmation | 10 |
| First-Time Buyer | Never owned before | 5 |
Construction requirements focus on a detailed Build Plan, access to skilled labour, and building within municipal boundaries. Financial requirements include mortgage pre-approval for total costs, demonstrated ability to pay ongoing expenses, and manageable debt levels.
Nunavut Down Payment Assistance Program (NDAP)
NDAP helps you buy an existing home or build a custom one by covering your down payment. The program provides up to $80,000 based on your income, structured as a forgivable loan over 10 years.
NDAP Assistance Scale
| Annual Income Range | Assistance Amount |
| Up to $150,000 | $80,000 |
| $150,001 – $175,000 | $70,000 |
| $175,001 – $200,000 | $60,000 |
| $200,001 – $225,000 | $50,000 |
| $225,001 – $250,000 | $40,000 |
| $250,001 – $275,000 | $30,000 |
| $275,001 – $300,000 | $20,000 |
| Over $300,000 | $15,000 |
This program works with a diverse mortgage group. You find a home, get approved for a mortgage, and NDAP covers the down payment. It is simpler than NHAP because there is no construction involved.
What are the requirements for NDAP?
The focus requirements are on your ability to maintain mortgage payments and the home itself.
Property can be new or existing homes within municipal boundaries, including houses, condos, and manufactured homes. You need approval from a CMHC-approved lender, and alternative financing requires NHC approval. The key ongoing obligation is maintaining the home as your principal residence while keeping up with mortgage payments and insurance.
Additional support programs help first-time buyers in Nunavut
Beyond initial purchase assistance, the NHC recognizes that maintaining a home in Nunavut’s harsh environment requires ongoing support. 3 programs address post-purchase needs, from emergency repairs to energy efficiency upgrades.
Home Renovation Program (HRP)
Forgivable Loan Option provides up to $65,000 for households below income thresholds. It covers the cost of
materials, freight and labour.
Grant Option gives up to $20,000 (covering 50% of project costs) with no income restrictions. It works best for do-it-yourself projects where you buy materials and complete the work yourself or with friends.
Both options prioritize:
- Health and safety repairs first
- Accessibility modifications for the aging or disabilities
- Solutions for overcrowding
- Energy efficiency improvements
- Protection against harsh weather
Funding sliding scale table
| Income as % of the community HPIE Limit | Contribution amount |
|---|---|
| 0% – 80% | 100% of repair costs up to $ 65,000 |
| 81% – 85% | 80% of repair costs up to $ 52,000 |
| 86% – 90% | 60% of repair costs up to $ 39,000 |
| 90% – 95% | 40% of repair costs up to $ 26,000 |
| 90% -100% | 20% of repair costs up to $ 13,000 |
| Over 100 % | 0% |
Emergency Repair Program (ERP)
When something breaks that threatens your family’s safety, ERP provides up to $15,000 immediately. This first-time home buyer Nunavut grant does not need repayment and covers urgent issues, like:
- broken furnaces in winter,
- burst pipes,
- electrical hazards,
- roof damage during storms,
- and windows or doors that will not close properly.
To qualify, your income must be below territorial thresholds, and repairs must cost at least $1,000. You can apply multiple times since emergencies do not follow schedules.
Renewable Energy Homeowner Grant Program (REHGP)
This newer first-time home buyer Nunavut program helps cut your power bills through solar installations. It covers 50% of the costs up to $30,000 for:
- Solar panel arrays
- Battery backup systems
- Smart monitoring equipment
- Professional installation
The application process will be completed within 30 days on a first-come basis. Many homeowners combine it with HRP for maximum energy savings.
Federal programs for first-time home buyers in Nunavut
RRSP Home Buyers’ Plan: Withdraw up to $35,000 from your RRSP tax-free for your down payment. You must repay this over 15 years.
First-Time Home Buyer Tax Credit: Claim $10,000 on your income tax return.
First Home Savings Account: Contribute up to $8,000 annually, with a lifetime limit of $40,000, and all qualifying withdrawals for a home purchase are entirely tax-free.
GST/HST Rebate: Rebate on a portion of the GST/HST paid on new or substantially renovated homes.
If you are exploring homeownership options beyond the North, you can also read our detailed guides for:
- First-time home buyer in Ontario
- First-time home buyer in BC
- First-time home buyer in Alberta
- First-time home buyer in Saskatchewan
- First-Time Home Buyer Nunavut
How to apply for Nunavut first-time home buyer programs
Each program has its own application process, but preparation steps remain similar across all programs.
Step 1: Get financial pre-approval
Visit a CMHC-approved lender for mortgage pre-approval. Banks need to see stable income, manageable debts, and down payment savings.
For NHAP, get approved for total project costs plus 10%. For NDAP, get approved for the home price minus the assistance amount.
Step 2: Be qualified for program-specific requirements
For NHAP applications, create a detailed Build Plan showing construction timeline, labour arrangements, and cost breakdown. Research available lots in your community. Line up contractors or sweat equity helpers. Attend mandatory information sessions. Submit during annual application windows.
For NDAP applications, work with a realtor to find suitable homes. Get home inspections on older properties. Negotiate purchase agreements conditional on NDAP approval. Submit applications immediately, and after they are processed. Expect decisions within 30 days.
Step 3: Get approval
Sign your funding agreement promptly to secure assistance. Coordinate with your lender for mortgage finalization.
For NHAP, order materials and start construction immediately. For NDAP, complete your purchase within 60-90 days. Attend required homeownership counselling sessions.
FAQs about first-time home buyer NU
Can I use both NHAP and NDAP?
No, you must choose one program. NHAP is for building new homes with provided materials. NDAP is for buying existing homes or custom builds.
Can I combine Nunavut programs with federal incentives?
Yes. You can use NHC programs alongside federal options like the First‑Time Home Buyers’ Tax Credit, Home Buyers’ Plan (RRSP withdrawal), and First Home Savings Account (FHSA).
Can I use NHAP to build a home outside municipal limits?
No. Homes built through NHAP must be within municipal boundaries and connected to the Qulliq Energy Corporation (QEC) power grid.
Can family members co‑apply for NHAP or NDAP?
Yes. Co‑applicants are allowed, but both must meet eligibility requirements, and all names must appear on the mortgage and land lease.
Can I apply for NDAP if I already own a home in another province?
No. You must not currently own your principal residence anywhere, and you cannot have owned one in your community in the past five years.
Is there a deadline to apply for NHAP?
Yes. Intake is usually once per year, sometimes focused on specific communities. Application periods are announced by the NHC.
Is there a deadline to apply for NDAP?
Yes. Applications are accepted year‑round, subject to available funding.
The bottom line
Success comes from choosing the right program for your situation, preparing thorough applications, and understanding long-term obligations. With one-year residency and basic financial stability, homeownership in Nunavut is more achievable than ever.
Start by contacting the Nunavut Housing Corporation at 1-844-413-9355 or visiting igluliuqatigiingniq.ca. Local housing organizations in your community can provide application forms and guidance specific to your situation.
