The Ty Mitchell Group Understands the Unique Needs of Families Moving to Winnipeg

Are you and your family thinking about relocating to Winnipeg? You’re not alone—every year, more families are drawn to Winnipeg’s affordability, strong job market, and welcoming communities. Whether you’re moving from another province or just a few hours away, making the move with your family is a big decision.

At the Ty Mitchell Group, we’ve helped many families make a smooth transition into and out of Winnipeg. In this guide, you’ll find everything you need to know about moving here—from housing and schools to healthcare and lifestyle—and how we can make the process as seamless as possible.

Why Families Are Relocating to Winnipeg

Winnipeg continues to offer one of the most affordable housing markets in Canada. Many families are pleasantly surprised by how much home they can get here—whether that’s a bigger backyard, more bedrooms, or being closer to parks and top-rated schools.

On top of that, Manitoba has no land transfer tax under certain price thresholds, and the overall cost of living is lower than in many other provinces.

Relocating to Winnipeg: What to Know About Schools

Education is one of the top priorities for families making a move. Winnipeg offers a variety of public, private, French immersion, and faith-based schools. Some districts also offer specialized programs in the arts, sciences, or skilled trades.

A good place to start your research is the Manitoba School Directory. We can help you narrow down neighbourhoods that fit your family’s needs, including school catchment areas that align with your preferences.

Healthcare Access When Relocating to Winnipeg

When you move to Manitoba, you’ll need to apply for the Manitoba Health Services Insurance Plan (MHSIP). In most cases, your previous province’s coverage will stay active during the transition period.

Winnipeg has excellent healthcare options, including major hospitals, walk-in clinics, and family physicians. We can help you explore communities with convenient access to the healthcare services you need.

Will Winnipeg Feel Like Home?

Winnipeg is known for its diverse neighbourhoods, vibrant arts and culture scene, green spaces, and family-focused events. Whether you enjoy year-round festivals, outdoor recreation, or quiet suburban living, there’s a community here that will feel like home.

For a deeper look at what Winnipeg has to offer, check out Tourism Winnipeg and start imagining what your family’s next chapter could look like.

How the Ty Mitchell Group Supports Your Winnipeg Relocation

We’re here to make your move as stress-free as possible. Here’s how we help:

• Selling your current home for top value with proven marketing strategies.

• Coordinating your move timeline so it works for your family’s schedule.

• Connecting you with trusted professionals—from movers to inspectors to REALTORS® across Canada.

• Finding the right neighbourhood that fits your lifestyle, school preferences, and budget.

Start Your Winnipeg Relocation Journey Today

If you’re ready to start planning your move to Winnipeg, we’d love to help you every step of the way.
📞 Contact the Ty Mitchell Team today for a personalized relocation plan and a free home evaluation.

River Heights – A Leader Among Winnipeg Neighbourhoods

River Heights is one of Winnipeg’s most established and family-friendly areas. With its mature, tree-lined streets and charming character homes—ranging from Craftsman and Tudor styles to beautifully renovated bungalows—it blends timeless curb appeal with a strong sense of community.

As one of the top choices for families and professionals alike, River Heights continues to attract buyers who value both charm and convenience.

Why families love it:

• Top-rated schools like École River Heights School (now an IB Middle Years Program) and Kelvin High School, offering French immersion and strong extracurricular programs.

• Abundant parks and amenities including Cordova & Joe Malone Parks, Central Corydon Community Centre, and Grant Park Shopping Centre—all within a walkable distance.

• Community pride with 25% of residents under 20 and a calendar full of local events and club activities.

Average home prices:

• As of April 2025, the average sale price for a detached home in Winnipeg was $465,400, with River Heights often trending above that.

• In 2024, detached homes sold between $432,600 and $833,000, averaging around $566,600.

• Luxury properties along Wellington Crescent or in North River Heights can exceed $2M, while some fixer-uppers start around $250K.

Home Style: Craftsman, character, and renovated bungalows
Why Buy Here: Community feel, walkability, excellent school zones, distinctive architecture
Keywords: River Heights homes for sale, River Heights Winnipeg real estate

St. Vital

A large, family-oriented community in south-central Winnipeg, St. Vital offers a mix of older character homes, newer developments, riverfront parks, and easy access to the popular St. Vital Centre shopping mall.

Why families choose St. Vital:

• Great schools in the Louis Riel School Division, like Dr. D.W. Penner School, Collège Jeanne-Sauvé, and Dakota Collegiate.

• Outdoor amenities including 100-acre St. Vital Park, Maple Grove Park, and scenic Seine and Red River trails.

• Convenient lifestyle with shopping, markets, community centres, and year-round recreational options.

Average home prices:

• In 2024, single-family homes ranged from $330,000 to $475,000, averaging about $395,000.

• Upscale homes in Van Hull Estates, Pulberry, and River Park South average $550,000 to $650,000.

• Older bungalows in Old St. Vital can be found around $350,000.

Home Style: Character bungalows, mid-century homes, modern two-storey builds, condos
Why Buy Here: Family amenities, riverside parks, strong schools, local community feel
Keywords: St. Vital real estate, homes for sale in St. Vital Winnipeg

Transcona

Known as “Park City,” Transcona offers affordable housing, green spaces, and a strong sense of community. Perfect for first-time buyers or families who want value without losing access to amenities.

Why families choose Transcona:

• Community spirit through events like the “Hi-Neighbour Festival.”

• Parks and trails like Kilcona Park and Kildonan Meadows Park.

• Heritage landmarks such as the Transcona Museum and Rotary Heritage Park.

• Good schools in the River East Transcona School Division.

Average home prices:

• As of June 2025, the average single-family home price is $420,500.

• Condos average around $242,900.

• Some homes start in the mid-$300,000s, with larger new builds reaching up to $650,000.

Home Style: Townhomes, 1970s–90s single-family homes, new developments
Why Buy Here: Lower prices, growing amenities, parks & trails, family-friendly living
Keywords: Transcona homes, east Winnipeg properties, starter homes in Winnipeg

Tuxedo

Tuxedo is Winnipeg’s most prestigious neighbourhood—tree-lined streets, estate homes, and proximity to Assiniboine Park make it a dream address for luxury buyers.

Why choose Tuxedo:

• Top schools like École Tuxedo Park School and Shaftesbury High School.

• Walkability & nature with quick access to parks, golf courses, and boutique shopping.

• Safety with crime rates well below city averages.

• Cultural richness with historic architecture and community events.

Average home prices:

• Detached homes range from mid-$400Ks to over $2M, with estates exceeding $3M.

• In 2024, the average sale price was near $1.1M.

• Smaller homes or redevelopment lots can start at $250K.

Home Style: Estate homes, large single-family residences, upscale custom builds
Why Buy Here: Prestigious address, top schools, green space, low crime
Keywords: luxury homes Winnipeg, Tuxedo real estate, executive properties Winnipeg

Fort Garry & Whyte Ridge

Southwest Winnipeg’s Fort Garry and Whyte Ridge offer suburban convenience, green space, and homes for a wide range of budgets.

Why families choose these areas:

• Fort Garry offers proximity to the University of Manitoba, restaurants, and unique neighbourhoods like Wildwood Park.

• Whyte Ridge is known for its lakes, community centre, and strong schools.

• Both areas fall under the Pembina Trails School Division.

Average home prices:

• Fort Garry homes average $431,700 year-to-date.

• Whyte Ridge homes average $585,400, with resale listings from $529,900 to the high $600Ks.

Home Style: Mid-century homes, estates, newer infill builds, family-friendly detached houses
Why Buy Here: University proximity, outdoor recreation, quality schools, variety in home styles
Keywords: Fort Garry houses, Whyte Ridge homes, southwest Winnipeg real estate

North Kildonan

A quiet, family-friendly neighbourhood in northeast Winnipeg, North Kildonan offers affordable homes, green space, and a suburban atmosphere.

Why people love North Kildonan:

• Recreational amenities like Kil-Cona Park and Harbour View Golf Course.

• Strong community ties through local clubs and events.

• Low crime rates compared to many city areas.

Average home prices:

• Homes range from about $335,000 to $525,000.

• Smaller homes start near $300,000, while newer builds reach over $500,000.

Home Style: Mid-century homes, bi-levels, newer builds, occasional townhomes
Why Buy Here: Green space, community amenities, quiet city living, great value
Keywords: North Kildonan real estate, homes near schools Winnipeg, quiet neighbourhoods Winnipeg

Why Choose the Ty Mitchell Team?

At the Ty Mitchell Team, we believe buying or selling a home isn’t just about numbers—it’s about matching you with the right neighbourhood and lifestyle. With years of experience in Winnipeg real estate, we offer more than property searches—we give you the insight, strategy, and support you need to make confident decisions.

Here’s what we bring to the table:

• Personalized guidance — We learn about your goals, budget, and lifestyle to recommend communities that truly fit.

• Smart financial advice — Whether you’re buying your first home, upsizing, or investing, we help you make smart, sustainable moves.

• Creative property search — We find hidden gems, up-and-coming areas, and off-market opportunities.

• Data-driven insight — Our market knowledge helps you navigate changing conditions with ease.

• Stress-free process — We handle the details so you can focus on what’s next.

Whether you’re drawn to walkable, vibrant neighbourhoods or quiet, green suburbs, we’ll help you find the right fit.

📞 Contact the Ty Mitchell Team today for a free buyer consultation or home evaluation—and let’s start your Winnipeg real estate success story.

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Buying a new construction home in Winnipeg is an exciting milestone. Whether you’ve chosen a brand-new home in Waverley West, Bridgwater, Sage Creek, or one of Winnipeg’s growing suburban communities, there’s something special about selecting finishes, watching your home take shape, and knowing no one has ever lived there before.

But once you’ve signed the purchase agreement with the home builder, many buyers wonder: What happens next?

The process of buying a new build home in Manitoba is different from purchasing a resale home. Timelines, payments, and responsibilities can vary depending on the builder and the type of home you’re buying.

Here’s a step-by-step guide to what happens after you sign a purchase agreement with a new home builder in Winnipeg, including tips to protect your investment and keep the process stress-free.

 Step 1: Conditional Period (If Applicable)

Many new home purchases include a conditional period immediately after signing the purchase agreement.

This short period—typically 5–10 business days—gives you time to:

1. Secure Financing Approval:

   • Even if you have a pre-approval, your lender will need to review the specific property and builder documents.

   • Some lenders require appraisals or additional paperwork for new builds.

2. Review Legal Documents:

   • Your lawyer will review the Agreement of Purchase and Sale (APS) to ensure all builder commitments are clearly written.

   • They’ll check for completion dates, upgrade costs, and warranties.

Pro Tip:
If your builder allows, don’t skip this conditional period. It’s your safety net to confirm financing and legal details before becoming fully committed.

Step 2: Mortgage Finalization

After signing the purchase agreement, your mortgage process officially begins.

Here’s what happens:

• Your lender reviews the agreement to confirm the purchase price, deposit, and closing timelines.

• An appraisal may be ordered—even for new builds, to ensure the property meets lending standards.

• Rate locks may come into play if your possession is months away. Some lenders in Winnipeg offer long-term rate holds for new construction purchases.

Why this matters:

• Closing on a new build can take 6–18 months, depending on the construction stage.

• Ensure your mortgage approval aligns with your possession date to avoid last-minute issues.

Step 3: Builder Deposit & Payment Schedule

Unlike buying a resale home, where you typically submit a single deposit, new home builders in Manitoba often require staged payments.

Common scenarios:

1. Initial Deposit at Signing: Usually 5%–10% of the purchase price.

2. Progress Payments: Depending on the builder and home stage, additional payments may be required at:

   • Foundation completion

   • Framing or lock-up stage

   • Before possession

Important:
Always ensure deposit payments are made as directed by your lawyer or builder, and get written receipts.

Step 4: Design & Upgrade Selections

One of the best parts of buying a new construction home is personalizing it.

After signing your purchase agreement, your builder will invite you to the design or selections appointment to choose:

• Flooring, cabinetry, and countertops

• Wall paint and trim

• Lighting and plumbing fixtures

• Optional upgrades like fireplaces, smart home features, or energy-efficient packages

Tips for Winnipeg buyers:

• Stick to your budget: It’s easy to overspend on upgrades.

• Focus on long-term value: Kitchens, bathrooms, and flooring upgrades usually add the most resale appeal.

• Check builder deadlines: Some choices need to be made early to avoid construction delays.

Step 5: Construction & Progress Updates

Once selections are complete, your builder will begin or continue construction.

What to expect:

• Progress updates: Many Winnipeg builders provide photos, emails, or scheduled walkthroughs.

• Weather-dependent timelines: Manitoba’s climate can affect the pace of exterior work, especially during winter.

• Change-order deadlines: Any last-minute changes could incur extra costs.

Pro Tip:

• Stay in touch with your builder but avoid visiting the site without permission—it’s an active construction zone.

Step 6: Pre-Possession Walkthrough

As your home nears completion, you’ll be invited to a pre-possession walkthrough (also called a PDI – Pre-Delivery Inspection).

During this visit:

• The builder will show you how everything works—furnace, water shutoffs, appliances.

• You’ll check for deficiencies like paint touch-ups, cabinet alignment, or flooring scratches.

• A deficiency list will be created for the builder to address before or shortly after possession.

Step 7: Final Closing & Possession

Your lawyer and lender will coordinate the final steps to close:

1. Mortgage funds are transferred to the builder.

2. Final inspection is often done to ensure agreed-upon deficiencies are resolved.

3. Keys are handed over—you officially own your new home!

Winnipeg buyers tip:

• Confirm utility hookups and mail forwarding before move-in.

• Double-check your home insurance is in place for possession day.

Step 8: Warranty & After-Sales Service

All new homes in Manitoba come with mandatory new home warranty coverage (via the New Home Warranty Program of Manitoba).

Typical coverage includes:

• 1 year: Workmanship and materials

• 2 years: Mechanical systems (plumbing, electrical, HVAC)

• 5–10 years: Structural components

Keep in mind:

• Report any deficiencies promptly to the builder or warranty provider.

• Many builders schedule a 30-day and 1-year follow-up inspection.

Final Thoughts

Signing a purchase agreement with a new home builder in Winnipeg is just the first step in an exciting journey. From mortgage finalization to design selections and eventual move-in, each stage requires planning, patience, and attention to detail.

By knowing what to expect after signing and working closely with your realtor, mortgage broker, lawyer, and builder, you can enjoy a smooth and stress-free path to homeownership.

Thinking about buying a new construction home in Winnipeg? I can guide you through the process, from choosing the right builder to reviewing agreements and securing financing.

📩 Reach out today for expert advice and personalized support on your new home journey!

Buying a home is one of the biggest financial decisions most people will ever make. If you’re like most buyers in Manitoba—whether in Winnipeg or surrounding areas—you’ll probably rely on a mortgage to secure your dream property.

This is where a financing condition (also known as a mortgage or financing contingency) comes into play. It’s a clause in your offer that says your purchase depends on your ability to secure a mortgage. If your financing falls through, you can back out of the deal without losing your deposit.

Sounds like a safety net, right?

Yes—but in today’s competitive housing market, a financing condition can also come with risks that buyers should understand before including one in an offer.

In this blog, we’ll break down what a financing condition is, why buyers include it, and the potential risks you might face if you rely on one when buying a home in Manitoba.

What Is a Financing Condition?

A financing condition is a clause in your real estate offer that gives you a certain number of days (typically 3–7) to confirm your mortgage approval.

Here’s how it works in a typical Manitoba real estate transaction:

1. You make an offer to purchase a home and include a financing condition.

2. Your lender reviews your file—even if you have pre-approval—to ensure the property, your finances, and any required documentation meet their lending criteria.

3. If approved, you remove the condition and proceed with the purchase.

4. If denied, you can back out of the deal, and your deposit is usually returned.

This condition protects buyers from being forced to close on a property they can’t finance.

1. Sellers May See Your Offer as Less Competitive

The biggest risk of including a financing condition is that it can make your offer less attractive to sellers.

In Manitoba’s current seller’s market, many homes—especially in Winnipeg—receive multiple offers. Sellers naturally prefer offers with fewer conditions, as these are more likely to close without delays.

If you submit an offer with a financing condition while another buyer offers the same price without one:

• The seller is more likely to choose the condition-free offer.

• You risk losing out on the home even if your finances are solid.

Pro Tip:

• If you’re in a competitive market, talk to your mortgage advisor about how strong your approval is. You may not need a financing condition if your finances and the property are a strong match.

2. You Could Miss Out on Bidding Wars

Bidding wars are common in Winnipeg’s high-demand neighbourhoods like:

• Waverley West

• River Heights

• Crescentwood

• Osborne Village (for condos)

When multiple buyers are competing, sellers often look for the cleanest, fastest offer. A financing condition could:

• Knock you out of consideration immediately

• Limit your ability to compete in multiple-offer scenarios

Even if you’re offering a higher price, the uncertainty of a financing condition might push the seller toward a slightly lower but unconditional offer.

3. The Clock Is Ticking on Your Financing Period

Another risk is time pressure.

When you include a financing condition, you usually have 3–7 business days to secure full approval. If your lender needs additional paperwork, an updated appraisal, or a second review of your file, delays can happen.

If the deadline passes:

• The seller can accept another offer.

• You may have to ask for an extension, which can weaken your negotiating position.

Scenario:

• You make an offer with a 5-day financing condition.

• Your lender needs an appraisal due to the property type or market conditions.

• The appraisal can’t be scheduled in time.

• Seller gets impatient—or another buyer swoops in—and your deal collapses.

4. Sellers May Push for a Higher Deposit or Price

When a seller accepts an offer with a financing condition, they are taking on more risk that the deal could fall through.

To offset that risk, sellers sometimes:

• Ask for a higher deposit upfront

• Push for a slightly higher purchase price

• Limit the condition period to as few days as possible

This could put more financial strain on you as a buyer before you even know if the deal will finalize.

5. You May Lose Negotiating Power

If your financing condition remains in place:

• Sellers may feel they can entertain backup offers.

• You may be less likely to negotiate repairs, credits, or inclusions, because the seller knows you still need to firm up financing.

In some cases, this can weaken your leverage in the deal. Sellers often prioritize buyers who can move to a firm contract quickly.

6. Market Changes Can Affect Your Approval

While rare, a financing condition also comes with the risk of a changing market during your condition period.

For example:

• Interest rates could rise suddenly (even slightly).

• Lenders could tighten criteria if new economic data is released.

• The property could be flagged for issues after the appraisal.

If this happens while your condition is active, your mortgage approval might fall through—and the home could go to someone else.

How to Minimize the Risks

If you’re worried about the risks of a financing condition, there are several strategies to protect yourself without losing out:

1. Get a Strong Pre-Approval

   • Work with a lender or mortgage broker to get a firm pre-approval, not just a basic pre-qualification.

   • Provide income verification, tax returns, and all required documents upfront.

2. Choose the Right Lender

   • Some lenders are faster and more flexible than others in Manitoba.

   • A local mortgage broker can help navigate quick approvals.

3. Shorten the Condition Period

   • Instead of a full week, consider 3 business days if your lender is confident.

4. Know the Property Type

   • Financing conditions are riskier for unique homes, acreages, or condos with special assessments.

   • Regular single-family homes in established neighbourhoods tend to appraise more predictably.

5. Have a Backup Plan

   • If possible, know your borrowing capacity from two lenders.

   • This gives you a fallback if one lender declines.

Should You Waive the Financing Condition?

Waiving a financing condition can make your offer more competitive, but it comes with its own risk:

• If your mortgage is denied, you could lose your deposit or face legal consequences for failing to close.

You should only waive a financing condition if:

• You have a strong pre-approval and confidence in your financial profile.

• Your lender has reviewed the property type and location.

• You are comfortable with the financial risk of proceeding without this safety net.

📌 Final Thoughts

A financing condition is a valuable tool to protect homebuyers from unexpected mortgage issues—but it isn’t risk-free.

The main risks include:

• Making your offer less competitive

• Missing out in bidding wars

• Facing time pressure and reduced negotiating power

In Winnipeg’s competitive real estate market, the decision to include or waive a financing condition depends on your financial strength, lender confidence, and risk tolerance.

If you’re planning to buy a home soon, work closely with a trusted mortgage broker or lender to understand your options. A well-prepared buyer can make a competitive offer without unnecessary risk.

If you’re thinking about buying in Winnipeg or anywhere in Manitoba, I can help connect you with local mortgage experts and real estate strategies to help you compete confidently in today’s market.

📩 Contact me today to get started on your homebuying journey!