What's a typical deposit on an Ottawa pre-construction condo?

15%–25% of purchase price over the construction period, with an initial $5,000–$10,000 at signing and milestone deposits at 30/90/180/360 days.

Can I assign an Ottawa pre-construction condo?

Usually, subject to builder consent and an assignment fee. Terms vary by builder and contract, so confirm the specifics before signing.

Are pre-construction condos protected if the builder fails?

Tarion covers Ontario condo deposits up to $20,000 per unit. Deposits above that are protected separately under the Condominium Act's trust requirements.

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Ottawa New Construction

Pre-Construction Condos in Ottawa

By Bo Yu, Broker, Right at Home Realty, Brokerage

Pre-construction condos let you lock in a brand-new Ottawa unit today at today's price, for delivery 18–48 months out. Ottawa has a steady pipeline of these releases, especially downtown, along the LRT corridor, and in master-planned communities like Greystone Village.

Prices, rates, and program rules change often. Treat the figures here as general guidance, not advice for your specific situation. Ask Bo for current OREB comparables, and confirm program eligibility with your lender or lawyer.

How it actually works

You sign a Purchase Agreement, pay deposits in stages totalling 15–25% over the construction period, move in during interim occupancy once your unit is ready, then close for real once the building is registered.

New-construction Ottawa townhomes with fresh landscaping — New-construction communities by Ottawa's major builders.

What occupancy fees are

During interim occupancy, after your unit is ready but before final registration, you pay an occupancy fee covering estimated interest on the unpaid balance, taxes, and common-element costs. It works like rent and doesn't go toward the purchase price.

Assigning instead of closing

Most Ottawa pre-construction contracts allow assignment, selling your contract before final closing, subject to builder consent and an assignment fee. It's a useful option for investors or when circumstances change.

Young family at the front door of their new Ottawa home — First-time buyers stepping into their Ottawa home.

What can go wrong

Delays, scope changes, occupancy fees, competition from later phases, and market shifts between signing and final closing are all real risks. A buyer's agent who's done this before can help you build in the right protections.

Row of modern detached suburban homes in west Ottawa — Family-friendly suburbs like Kanata, Barrhaven and Stittsville.

Questions People Ask

A few common questions

What's a typical deposit on an Ottawa pre-construction condo?: 15%–25% of purchase price over the construction period, with an initial $5,000–$10,000 at signing and milestone deposits at 30/90/180/360 days.
Can I assign an Ottawa pre-construction condo?: Usually, subject to builder consent and an assignment fee. Terms vary by builder and contract, so confirm the specifics before signing.
Are pre-construction condos protected if the builder fails?: Tarion covers Ontario condo deposits up to $20,000 per unit. Deposits above that are protected separately under the Condominium Act's trust requirements.

Keep Reading

Ottawa New Construction Homes

The freehold side of new construction.

All Ottawa Home Builders

Builder-by-builder directory.

New Construction Closing Costs

HST, occupancy fees, and condo-specific costs.

Ottawa Investment Properties

Using pre-construction as an investment strategy.

Straight From the Source

Check the numbers yourself

These are the official sources I use for current Ottawa real estate data, government programs and buyer protection.

Want the current Ottawa pre-construction release list?

I'll send you active and upcoming releases that match your budget and timeline.

See current releases

Any prices, rates, market figures or value estimates on this page are for general information only, based on the assumptions shown, and are not legal, tax, mortgage or financial advice or an offer of credit. Actual rates, payments, taxes, fees and values vary — confirm the numbers with your lender, lawyer or accountant before relying on them. Full disclosures.

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