What’s the Real Cost of Owning a House in Ottawa? A Breakdown for First-Time Buyers

Buying your first house in Ottawa is exciting—but if you're only budgeting for your mortgage, you're missing half the picture.

One of the most common (and costly) surprises for new homeowners? The actual day-to-day and year-to-year cost of house ownership.

Whether you're eyeing a semi in Westboro or a detached in Orleans, here's exactly what you should be budgeting beyond your down payment and monthly mortgage.

1. Property Taxes

In Ottawa, property taxes are calculated based on your home’s assessed value.

• Typical range: $3,000–$6,500/year

• Where the money goes: Garbage collection, snow removal, libraries, emergency services, and more

• Pro tip: You can look up the estimated taxes on most listings or use the City of Ottawa property tax estimator.

2. Utilities & Monthly Bills

Expect to pay for:

• Hydro (electricity): ~$100–$200/month

• Gas (heating): ~$100–$300/month (season-dependent)

• Water & sewer: ~$80–$150/month

• Internet & cable: ~$70–$150/month

• Hot water tank rental (if applicable): ~$20–$35/month

This adds up fast, especially in larger homes or older properties with less efficient systems.

3. Home Insurance

This one is non-negotiable—especially if you have a mortgage.

• Cost: ~$800–$1,500/year depending on the home, location, and coverage

• Tip: Bundling it with car insurance can save you some cash.

4. Ongoing Maintenance

Homes need love—especially in Ottawa’s four-season climate.

• Snow removal & salting: ~$300–$700/year if you hire someone

• Lawn care: ~$200–$600/year (or DIY if that’s your thing)

• Annual maintenance & upkeep: Budget at least 1–3% of your home’s value per year for:

  • Roof repairs

  • Furnace servicing

  • Window caulking

  • Plumbing issues

  • Appliance replacements

Even something like cleaning out your eavestroughs can cost a couple hundred dollars if you hire out.

5. Bigger Renovations & Upgrades

Want to eventually finish your basement, update the kitchen, or add a deck?

• Common upgrade costs:

  • Kitchen reno: $15,000–$50,000

  • Bathroom reno: $10,000–$25,000

  • Basement finishing: $25,000+

  • Landscaping: $5,000+

You don’t have to do it all at once—but it’s smart to keep a reserve fund just in case.

6. Surprises (Because They Always Happen)

Even the best-maintained homes come with surprises. That could be a sump pump failure, a cracked foundation, or a raccoon family that’s decided to call your attic home.

• Recommended emergency fund: $5,000–$10,000 (especially in the first year)

So… How Much Should You Budget for Home Ownership in Ottawa?

Here’s a rough monthly estimate on top of your mortgage:

• Property taxes: ~$400/month

• Utilities: ~$300–$500/month

• Insurance: ~$100/month

• Maintenance/reserve: ~$300/month

Estimated extra monthly cost: $1,100–$1,400/month

Final Thoughts

Owning a house in Ottawa is one of the most rewarding investments you can make—but it comes with responsibilities (and costs) that many buyers don’t consider.

The more informed you are, the better your home will serve you—not just as a place to live, but as a vehicle for stability and wealth.

At New Purveyors, we don’t just help you find a house—we help you understand what it really means to own one.

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