Zown, a full-service tech-powered real estate platform, has announced the launch of Canada’s first end-to-end real estate app, giving eligible Canadians the ability to earn rewards on their monthly rent that can be used toward the future purchase of a home.
Available for free across Canada, the Zown app is designed for renters who want to own a home but are struggling to save for a down payment while managing high monthly housing costs.
The launch follows as findings from the 2025 Homeownership Insights Survey, conducted by Zown in partnership with the Angus Reid Institute, found that 66% of Ontario residents who do not currently own a home still consider homeownership a lifetime goal.
That number rises to 84% among Gen Z respondents and 69% among Millennials nationally. When asked which form of support would make the greatest difference for prospective buyers, 42% of respondents selected a cash-back-style incentive.
Through the app, eligible users upload their lease agreement and provide proof of their rent payment each month. They can continue paying their landlord through their existing method, while earning Zown rewards equal to 8% of their rent per month, which can then be applied toward a future home purchase through Zown.
“Homeownership is something many young Canadians want, but saving for it has become increasingly difficult when so much of their income is already going toward rent.
“We believe the years you spend renting should help move you forward. Our goal is to give renters a way to start building toward homeownership long before they’re ready to buy.”
Rishard Rameez, Founder and CEO, Zown
The rewards program builds on Zown’s existing commission-sharing model, which has provided eligible homebuyers with up to $25,000 back at closing. Since 2022, Zown has helped over 1,000 homebuyers complete over $500m in real estate transactions and has returned over $7m to buyers.
Over 65,000 people in Zown’s community are currently renting and want to purchase a home, while over 2,000 Canadians have already joined the app’s waitlist.
Beyond rent rewards, the app’s AI real estate agent allows users to search for properties, access market analysis, book showings and prepare offers from their phone. Licensed Zown REALTORS® review and complete showings and transactions, combining AI-powered support with professional oversight throughout the homebuying process.
After purchasing a home, customers can use the app to find services including legal and mortgage support, insurance, moving, inspections, plumbing, electrical work, HVAC, roofing and landscaping.
Zown’s goal is to help 10,000 young Canadians purchase a home by 2028, while continuing to expand its platform to support Canadians throughout their journey of renting, buying and beyond.
