Mandeep Kang, a 19-year-old from Surrey, has achieved a remarkable milestone by purchasing a home for his mother. This decision stemmed from his desire to alleviate the financial burden she faced while working as a cleaner, primarily at Vancouver International Airport. Kang, an only child, reflected on his mother's struggles, stating, "My family’s had it pretty tough, especially my mom, who’s really been the breadwinner. I just felt bad growing up and seeing her work so hard and most of her paycheque would go towards rent. That’s what she’s been doing most of her life since she came to Canada."

Kang's journey began when he took a part-time job at a grocery store at 16. He worked diligently, saving money for a down payment on a home. He opened a separate bank account to set aside funds that he did not spend on household expenses. After graduating in 2023, he enrolled in the electrician foundations program at BCIT and worked as a lawn care worker while waiting to enter the four-year electrician apprenticeship program. Since December 2023, he has been earning between $22 and $30 an hour as an apprentice, which helped him save approximately $30,000.

Despite his determination, Kang faced challenges along the way. He acknowledged that he sacrificed a typical social life during his teenage years, stating that it was "not at all" possible at the time. Late last year, he connected with realtor Noah Natovitch, who informed him that his savings were sufficient for a down payment on an entry-level property. "I thought you’d need a lot more than that," Kang said, laughing.

Kang's journey to homeownership was not without obstacles. He had just turned 19 and obtained his first credit card, but his lack of credit history and short job record posed difficulties. Natovitch noted, "It was probably a 50-50 chance of him getting approved on the financing side." With the assistance of mortgage broker Moulik Toor, Kang developed a comprehensive mortgage plan.

Initially, Kang's application for a property in January fell through due to insufficient credit and income history. Undeterred, he continued to work, save, and build his credit. By June, he was pre-approved again and submitted an offer for another property. This time, he succeeded. The Kangs moved from a small 700-square-foot basement suite to a $500,000 two-bedroom, two-bathroom condo in West Newton, a community they wanted to remain in. Kang made a down payment of just over $25,000.

Toor remarked on Kang's financial responsibility, noting that his improved income and credit history made a significant difference in the lender's eyes. The ability to co-sign with his mother also facilitated the process. Natovitch praised Kang's determination, stating, "I could tell from the beginning, he’s a motivated individual and he trusted us. No one gave up on the team."

The family signed the paperwork and moved into their new home on August 15. Kang revealed that he surprised his mother during the signing, saying, "It was during the signing part when I told her. Everything was pretty much good and done by then. It was a surprise for her. She was really happy, smiling and she gave me a hug."

Kang's achievement is notable in the competitive B.C. housing market. He recognizes the uniqueness of his situation but believes others can achieve similar goals. "I just really felt bad for my mom. She deserved better than what she got and I was kind of her last hope for something good," he said.