2024 spring market expectations
The spring housing market is just around the corner! Whether you’re looking to sell, buy, or want to ensure your mortgage is in order, knowing what to expect can help.
Here is the low down on what we are anticipating for various factors affecting the housing market this season!
fraud awareness
Join Jessica Oates, Mortgage with Jessica, while we talk about fraud awareness. Protecting yourself and your mortgage from fraud is crucial to safeguard your financial well-being. Understanding some of the more common mortgage fraud scams and how to protect yourself can make all the difference!
making your home workspace more productive
Fall in love with your home and your workspace again with these tips to help you make your home office space more productive!
amortization options
Your mortgage amortization period is the number of years it will take you to pay off your mortgage. Depending on your choice of amortization period, it will affect how quickly you become mortgage-free as well as how much interest you pay over the lifetime of your mortgage (a longer lifetime equals more interest, whereas a shorter lifetime equals less interest but also bigger payments).
why you need fire insurance when getting a mortgage
Today, let's delve into a topic that might not be the most glamorous but is absolutely crucial when it comes to your mortgage in Canada – Fire Insurance. So, grab a seat and let's break down the why, how, and what to expect of this essential safeguard for your home.
the hidden benefits of home inspections in real estate
Embarking on the journey to buy a home is undeniably thrilling! Yet, amidst the excitement, there's a crucial aspect you shouldn't overlook – a house check-up, professionally known as a home inspection. Let's delve into why this process is pivotal and how it empowers you to make informed decisions.
mortgage rule transformations since 2008
Embarking on the pathway to homeownership has always been a significant life milestone, and for Canadians, navigating the twists and turns of the mortgage landscape is an integral part of this journey. Over the years, the rules and regulations governing mortgages have undergone a profound transformation, responding to the shifting tides of economic landscapes and financial stability. As we delve into this intricate timeline, our goal is to unravel the evolution of Canadian mortgages, making sense of the changes that have shaped the way we buy and finance our homes.
new year resolutions for your home
The New Year is approaching! While we are in the spirit of goal planning and setting our intentions for the coming months, don’t forget about your home!
There are several things you can do to make your home and finances work for you in 2024!
favourite holiday desserts
The holidays are a wonderful time of year for the merriment, music, lights… and treats!
You’ll need to throw out the scale for this list of scrumptious holiday dessert ideas.
winterizing your home
We Canadians are no strangers to the chill of the winter season!
As we shift into the final few months of 2023, now is a great time to check your home before the cold front hits. Below I have included a few tips that could help you save on bills, prevent future repair costs, and be more comfortable all winter long.
mortgage renewal benefits
Is your mortgage coming up for renewal? Do you know about all the incredible options renewing your mortgage can afford you?
If not, I have all the details here on how to make your mortgage renewal work for you as we start to think about 2024.
financial freedom: how the rich get richer
What does financial freedom mean to you? It's a question that might elicit a wide range of responses, and that's the beauty of it – financial freedom is a deeply personal concept.
market beware: condition-free offers
When it comes to purchasing a home, most offers include “conditions” (or “subjects” if you are in the provinces of British Columbia or Manitoba), which are requirements or criteria to be met before the sale can be finalized and the property is transferred. In some cases, homebuyers choose to approach an offer without conditions. Below we have outlined the impact of what this means for buyers and sellers to help you better understand the risks and outcomes.
how lenders review and calculate your income: a guide to common income types + documents
Navigating the complex world of mortgage applications can be an intimidating journey for anyone. Whether you are a first-time homebuyer, renewing your mortgage, or exploring options for investments or refinancing, understanding how lenders assess and calculate your income is pivotal.
spooktacular home tips
Even though Fall has already started, there are a few things you can do still to ensure your home is well-prepared for the season.
Whatever your plans, a quick check of your home will ensure there are no surprises!
fall market forecast
As we round the corner into October, now is a great time to touch base about what to expect in the marketplace this Fall!
back to school: teaching kids about money
Financial independence is a critical skill for future success that your children will not learn anywhere else. Not only does financial literacy help your children have more success in life, but it allows them to move out sooner and it avoids delaying your retirement with additional expenses to support them. So, how do you teach your children about money?
economic insights with dr sherry cooper
The Bank of Canada has a single mandate—to ensure that inflation returns to the 2% target. This means that the Bank will raise interest rates if inflation is too high and lower interest rates if inflation is too low. The U.S. Federal Reserve, in contrast, has a dual mandate—to maximize employment given a 2% target for inflation. That is a subtle but meaningful difference - let’s talk about it!
best summer bbq tips
It’s the season of outdoor parties and a summer BBQ is the perfect way to enjoy time with friends and family!
For some tips on how to make this year’s get-together your best one yet, check out my list below!
converting your basement to an income suite
With the current interest rates and economic scenarios, many Canadians may be looking for ways to bring in some extra cash. One option for this is to put your home equity to work and consider renovating your basement into a legal income suite!