Tag: financial advisor

• Buying A House When You’re Newly Divorced – Yes You Can! - Being newly divorced is emotionally and financially challenging. Once the papers are signed and life starts to settle into the new normal, many people begin to think about their next chapter—including buying a house.  If you’re thinking about your living arrangements, what you’re going to do next, and whether it’s even possible to get a ...
• What Every First Home Buyer Should Know About a Mortgage Pre-approval - Getting a mortgage pre-approval should be your very first step when you’re thinking about buying your first home. Buying a home is a big part of the Canadian dream, in fact, about two-thirds of Canadians owned their homes as of the last Census. And for most people, their home ends up being their biggest financial ...
• Consider The Costs of Upsizing Before Making Your Move - Have you been thinking about moving your family into a bigger home but worry about the costs of upsizing? Maybe you’re feeling cramped, need more storage or outdoor space, or you want to make the investment in a bigger home and feel like the time is now.  If you’re thinking about upsizing, it’s important to ...
• Why a Mortgage Broker is a First Home Buyer’s Best Friend - Becoming a first home buyer is exciting, but it also comes with a lot of questions — especially when it comes to securing a mortgage. Many buyers aren’t sure where to begin or how to find the best financing options for their situation. The good news is that a mortgage broker can simplify the process, ...
• The Spring Real Estate Market Is Here, Are You Ready? - The spring real estate market is traditionally the busiest time of year in Canada, and 2025 is expected to be no exception. With lower borrowing costs, pent-up demand, and an increase in listings, experts anticipate an active and competitive season. However, potential economic uncertainty and changing mortgage rules could also influence the market.  Whether you’re ...
• 13 Big Mistakes First Home Buyers Make and How to Avoid Them - First home buyers often make common mistakes when it comes to finding their dream home, but you don’t have to let that derail your journey to homeownership. Some buyers jump into house hunting or make offers without fully understanding their financial situation—only to hit roadblocks later. Keep reading to learn about the 12 most common ...
• Why Today’s Lower Interest Rates Make It A Good Time For Real Estate Investments - The Canadian housing market, including real estate investments in residential and commercial properties, is deeply influenced by interest rate trends. With the Bank of Canada cutting its overnight rate to 3% in January— the sixth consecutive reduction — there’s a lot to unpack about how this is impacting real estate investments and the broader market. ...
• Why 2025 is a Good Time to Buy Your First Home - Now that the new year is here, have you decided to make your resolution to buy your first home come true? It seems that 2025 is shaping up to be a great year for home buyers but it’s important to be sure you’re ready for one of the largest purchases of your life. I’ve helped ...
• Questions To Ask Yourself When You’re Thinking About Upsizing Your Home - Dreaming of upsizing to a bigger home? You’re not alone! Whether it’s for a growing family, a home office, or just more room to relax, many homeowners consider upsizing. But before you jump into the house-hunting process, it’s important to plan carefully. Upsizing is an exciting step, but it comes with a few challenges you’ll ...
• Understanding HELOCs and When It’s The Right Time To Use One - Home equity lines of credit (HELOCs) are a popular way for Canadian homeowners to access borrowed funds. And it’s easy to see why: HELOCs typically come with lower interest rates than credit cards or personal loans and offer the flexibility to use the money for just about anything. But what exactly is a HELOC, and ...
• A Private Bridge Mortgage Can Offer a Lifeline When Selling and Buying a Home - Between selling your home and buying a new one, there’s often a gap—and that’s where a private bridge mortgage can be a lifesaver. Let’s face it, managing the sale of your current home while purchasing your next one can feel like walking a tightrope, especially if the closing dates don’t align. It’s even more stressful ...
• The Ultimate Guide to Buying Your Next Home - Thinking about upgrading and buying your next home? One that fits your growing family… It’s an exciting step, but it comes with its own set of challenges. Unlike buying your first home, this time you’ll need to balance selling your current place while finding your next one, which can feel like a lot to handle ...
• Are You Being Gifted A Down Payment? Rules & Tips You Need to Know… - Being gifted a down payment can really help when you’re buying your first home or upgrading to a bigger place. Homes are so expensive these days, especially in Canada, that coming up with that big down payment can be really tough, especially for first-time buyers. Luckily, a lot of people get help from their parents ...
• Co-ownership May Be The Solution For Young Canadian Home Buyers - If you feel like your dream of owning a home is slipping away, maybe it’s time to think about co-ownership. If you’re a millennial or Gen Z’er, you might be wondering how on earth you’re supposed to buy a house when prices are through the roof, interest rates are sky-high, and you’re barely keeping up ...
• Is It Time To Go From Renting To Buying? What You Should Know Before Taking The Plunge - Thinking about going from renting to buying a home? You’re not alone. Lots of young Canadians are scratching their heads over this one. Most people think buying is always better, but it’s not that simple. There’s more to it than meets the eye. Right now, mortgage rates are low and house prices are dropping in ...
• A Step-By-Step Guide to Homeownership For First Home Buyers - As first home buyers, sometimes you feel like you need a guide to lead you through the jungle of mortgage financing and paperwork. With so many steps involved, the process can feel overwhelming. From securing the mortgage you need to finalizing the purchase, each stage comes with its own set of challenges and decisions. By ...
• Preparing For Closing Costs When You’re Buying a Home in Ontario - Purchasing a home is an exciting milestone, but it’s important to budget for closing costs as well as the down payment and mortgage. In Ontario, buyers face various closing costs that can add up to thousands of dollars.  Many people looking to buy a home don’t know about these extra costs or how to figure ...
• Tips For First-Time Buyers To Boost Their Credit Score For A Better Mortgage Rate - As a first-time home buyer, your credit score plays a crucial role in determining the mortgage rates and terms you’ll be offered. A higher credit score can lead to significant savings over the life of your loan. As a first-time buyer, I know how overwhelming securing a mortgage can be and I’m here to simplify ...
• Helping Your Child’s Home Buying Dreams Become a Reality - Helping your child buy a home has become a viable option for many Canadians whose millennial children find the dream of home ownership slipping out of reach. According to a 2022 report from the Ontario Securities Commission (OSC) on Millennials and the Markets, only 33% of millennials currently own homes, despite 56% considering home ownership ...
• Mortgage Application Rejected? 5 Reasons Why And How To Fix Them - Let’s face it – the sting of rejection is never pleasant, especially when it comes to something as significant as your mortgage. While the majority of mortgage applications receive a green light, occasional roadblocks can emerge, leading to the discouraging news of a denial by a lender in relation to your mortgage. Whether you’re just ...
• Why The Holidays Are The Perfect Time To Buy A Home - The countdown to the holidays is on and everyone is in a retail frenzy. Is a home the number 1 item on your wish list this year? Buying a home over the holidays may not be such a bad plan. Surprisingly, this is one of the best times of the year to get into your ...
• Why Working With A Mortgage Broker Is Crucial In Today’s Market - When it comes to hunting for the right mortgage, most people usually make a beeline for their local bank. It’s what we’ve always done, right? You sit down with a bank rep who knows all about mortgages, and they lay out your options. But guess what? Just because it’s the usual way doesn’t mean it’s ...
• Pros & Cons Of The First Time Home Buyers Incentive - Are you dreaming of owning your first home but are struggling to gather that hefty down payment? Well, your dream might be closer than you think, thanks to the First-Time Home Buyer Incentive, or FTHBI. This innovative program offers a helping hand by allowing you to borrow 5% or even 10% of your prospective home’s ...
• When It Comes To Real Estate Should You Buy First? Or, Sell First? - So, you’ve made the big decision to sell your home, secure a new mortgage, and move into a new home in your dream neighbourhood. It’s an exciting time but can also be stressful. A common question I get asked is whether it makes more sense to buy a home first or sell the one you’re ...
• Dollars and Sense: A Practical Guide to Saving For Your Down Payment - You’ve been dreaming of that perfect home, the one you and your partner have longed for. You’ve been working hard to save up a down payment for the mortgage but every month, it seems that your savings go down and the cost of getting into the market goes up. Just saving for a down payment ...
• Mastering Debt, Saving Your Down Payment and Enjoying a Budget-Friendly Summer - Now that the long, cold winter is finally behind us, it can be tempting to forget about our carefully crafted budgets and indulge in the pleasant weather. However, it’s essential to remember that our financial plans remain just as relevant during the summer months, even though sticking to them may feel more challenging. Fortunately, there ...
• Ontario’s New Home Buyer Programs: A Guide for First-Time Buyers - Embarking on the journey to homeownership is an exciting and fulfilling experience. For first-time home buyers in Ontario, there are several government programs available to help turn this dream into a reality. In this article, we will delve into the latest initiatives introduced by the Ontario government, explore the benefits of utilizing a mortgage broker, ...
• Closing Costs Rundown – Everything You Need To Know - Buying a home isn’t as simple as submitting a down payment, signing some papers, and being on your merry way. There are many extra fees that don’t normally come straight to your mind after signing off on your mortgage. Closing costs refer to the fees and expenses associated with the purchase or sale of a ...
• Navigating The Spring Housing Market Like A Pro -   The spring market is in full force! Are you prepared as a first-time home buyer or someone looking to buy their second, third, or fourth home? The spring market is here and we’re speeding ahead into summer which means now is the time to get pre-approved for the mortgage you need.  There are several ...
• Getting The Best Rate When Renewing Your Mortgage - Did you know? 88% of mortgage holders renew with their existing lender. But what if I told you that you may get a better rate when renewing your mortgage with a different lender? At the end of the day, it all comes down to money. Getting a lower interest rate means you will be paying ...
• Breaking The Homebuying Barrier: The Bridge Loan Solution - You’ve discovered your dream home in Barrie and are eager to put the “SOLD” sign up before it disappears from the market. However, there’s a small obstacle: your current house hasn’t sold yet. Or you intend to undertake significant renovations on your new home and want to avoid the hectic mess before moving in. Regardless ...
• Qualifying For A Mortgage As A Single Individual - Qualifying for a mortgage can be a daunting task for anyone, but it can be particularly challenging for single individuals. Without the added financial support of a partner’s income, it can be challenging to meet the income requirements set by lenders to officially become a homeowner in today’s real estate market. However, being single doesn’t ...
• The Ultimate Guide For Saving Your Mortgage Down Payment - Are you prepared to purchase a home? The down payment is a significant upfront cost when buying a house, and the more you allocate towards it, the lower your fees and interest payments will be over the lifetime of your mortgage. Do you have enough funds saved to secure the mortgage you require? What is ...
• “My mortgage is up for renewal and the rates are higher than I’d like. What should I do?” - Is your mortgage up for renewal? Should you let it automatically renew? Change your lender? Try and tweak your mortgage terms. Before you dive into making that decision, let’s think about it for a moment. Mortgage rates are high right now, so having a financial game plan could save you thousands of dollars on your ...
• Should you buy a home now or wait for interest rates to drop? - Buying a home can be a bit of a gamble but, it’s also one of the best investments you’ll make in your life assuming you do your homework. Maybe you buy a home and find out all the wiring has big problems so you have to hire an electrician to come in to completely redo ...
• Mortgage Amortization – Should You Go Long Or Short? - Wouldn’t it be nice to not have a need for a mortgage? Unless you’re selling your home and downsizing and moving to a lower-cost area, this reality may not be possible. So, if that’s the case, and you DO need a mortgage, the question you might have is “Should you go for a longer mortgage ...
• Investing in a Tontine To Pay For A House - There are many non-traditional ways to save money for a house other than budgeting, using government funding or inheritance money. Have you considered using a tontine to help pay for a new home? Working with a reputable financial advisor is the best way to invest your money if you are thinking of exploring tontine options. ...
• What Is An Alternative Mortgage Lender? - When you’ve decided to buy a new home, whether you’re making the transition from being a renter to becoming a homeowner or you’re leaping into home ownership moving out from under your parent’s roof… The most important part of the process isn’t finding the right house to buy… It’s securing the financing you need to ...
• How To Use Your RRSPs To Save For Your Down Payment - A 20% down payment on a million-dollar home seems like a lot, right? Not many of us have $200,000 in our pockets ready to hand over. However, there are many ways to save up for a down payment of that amount, including contributing regularly to a tax-free savings account (TFSA), looking into the equity of ...
• How The International Home Buying Restrictions Are Helping Canadians Buy Homes - Purchasing a home in Canada has become increasingly difficult with changing mortgage rules, the tightening of the stress test, and the impact of inflation over the last few years. In months past we have seen incredible competition for homes and bidding wars were commonplace which drove prices up. However, with all the changes made to ...
• What You Need To Know About Buying A House In 2023 - The past few years have been crazy in the world of real estate. Now that we’re approaching the spring market of 2023, and everything is back to normal since the COVID-19 pandemic, you will notice a slight change in market conditions. If you’re looking to buy a home in 2023, use this as your guide ...
• How To Get Pre-Approved For A Mortgage When Buying A Family Home - If you’ve stumbled across this article, it must mean you are thinking about buying a new home for your family. Whether it’s your first home or tenth, it can be an overwhelming time for you. But I’m here to answer any of your questions that you may have as well as to help you overcome ...
• New Year’s Resolutions For First-Time Home Buyers - Welcome, 2023! If buying a home is on your new year’s resolution list, then we have a lot of work to do! But I’m here to help simplify the process before you start house-hunting. Sure, scrolling on MLS for your “dream home” makes it all that more exciting, but there are some steps you must ...
• There Are Pros & Cons To Selling a House in the Winter - Happy winter! If you’ve lived in Barrie for at least one cold season, you know that we’re used to snow days, keeping an extra shovel handy, and trucking through deep snow on our coffee run. Sure, you can think about your toes freezing, but what about the beauty of the first large snowfall? The quiet ...
• Is Buying A House In The Winter a Good or Bad Idea? - When you imagine buying your first home, or packing up all your belongings in your current house and moving to a new property, I’m sure your “perfect move” doesn’t involve cold, blowing, heavy snow. In the spring, houses in your neighbourhood with a “for sale” will start popping up like weeds. Moving in the winter ...
• How Buyer And Seller Markets Impact Your Mortgage - You most likely have heard people talking about the real estate market lately, asking whether you’re in a seller’s or buyer’s market. Predicting what will happen in the new year in real estate is tricky. The average home price in Barrie in November 2022 was $721,000, as opposed to $760,000 a month ago. Compared to ...
• The Blog To Read Before Flipping A House - If you’re like me, home renovation shows get me hooked. Except, they make it look pretty easy when you see professionals with a huge budget being able to flip a rundown shack into a gorgeous tiny home. If you’re up for the challenge of buying a property and flipping it for a profit, you’re in ...
• Things To Consider When Buying Foreign Property - With the colder months fast approaching, we’re already dreaming of sunny beaches, mountain excursions, and sipping on drinks in a hot tub. Sure, you can book a vacation, but if you go down multiple times a year with the entire family, those costs can add up. Have you thought about buying foreign property to spend ...
• 5 Ways To Avoid Mortgage Financing Hiccups - It’s tempting to splurge now and then with a late-night restaurant visit, tickets to your favourite game, or some new home decor pieces. However, these “splurges” can creep up on your wallet. Sure, we can’t be perfect with our spending habits, but it’s important to stay on track with your budget when it comes to ...
• Are You Ready To Be A First-Time Home Buyer? Ask Yourself These 6 Questions First. - Are you thinking about buying your first home? How exciting! Before you choose your paint colours and home decor, ask yourself these 6 questions to see if you can buy now, or if you should wait a little longer. Learning the process of becoming a homeowner will make you less stressed about this huge financial ...
• Mortgage Incentives Healthcare Workers Need To Know About - Barrie and the surrounding area is a truly wonderful places to live. Only an hour and a bit from Toronto, it offers you everything including stunning waterfront adventures and the best skiing and snowboarding in the area. Whether you’re moving up north for a job, a vacation home, or because you want to start a ...
• How Mortgage Brokers Save You Money - “I will help you secure the lowest mortgage rate,” “Get pre-approved before you start your house hunt,” “It IS possible for you to afford a home!” These are all statements you must have stumbled upon when looking into the big scary world of mortgages as a first-time home buyer. Don’t let mortgage unknowns scare you ...
• How Do You Save A Down Payment? You Make A Plan! - Searching for a new home is the exciting part of your house hunt. Scrolling on the internet, judging each house one by one until you find one that immediately catches your eye and you just know that THIS is the one you must see. You visit the home and instantly fall in love. You could ...
• The Pros & Cons of Owning Multiple Investment Properties - Think it’s hard managing one property? What about several? With the right tools and plan in place owning multiple investment properties you rent out, turning into an Airbnb, or flipping to sell can be a smart strategy. Regardless, it’s always a gamble when buying a property. The real estate market can fluctuate, or the property ...
• How The Government Is Helping First-Time Home Buyers - For first-time home buyers, it may feel like there are always new obstacles in the way of buying your dream home. But, don’t sweat! There are many options available to help you purchase your first home. The government has many FTHB (first-time home buyer) initiatives to help you get the ball rolling in this tough ...
• Why Is Most Of My Mortgage Payment Going To Interest? - Another paycheque is coming out of your bank account and going straight to your mortgage. It feels like a neverending story — year after year of paying your mortgage so you can have a roof over your head. “Has it been 25 years yet?”, you question yourself. Hate to break it to you but you ...
• The Mortgage Stress Test & How To Pass It In 2022 - No one likes to hear the word “test”. But don’t sweat, this is a test you don’t have to study for. A mortgage stress test isn’t exactly what it seems. Sure, it can still send chills up your spine and you may lose some sleep wondering if you’ll pass, but with an experienced mortgage broker ...
• How Can LGBTQ2+ Couples Find A Mortgage? - Happy Pride Month! This month is all about showing your true colours and celebrating your unique identity with “pride!” Finding a home to live in, no matter who you are, can be challenging in this competitive market, especially as a first-time home buyer. Your sexual orientation shouldn’t affect your chances of finding your dream home ...
• Are You A Credit Risk? How You Can Still Get A Mortgage - We’ve all been there. That moment when we stare at the debt on our credit card statement and think, “How am I ever going to afford a house of my own?”. Your credit score may not be in the best shape due to your car breaking down, having to replace a big-ticket item, getting laid ...
• What You Need To Qualify For A Mortgage On An Investment Property - Have you decided to purchase an additional property as an investment? Do you have the capital or are you looking for a mortgage? If this is your first journey into the real estate investment world, working with a mortgage broker is your best bet to help you get started in this potentially lucrative world. These ...
• What It’s Like To Be A First-Time Homebuyer in Ontario - You know that feeling when you’re on a roller coaster? It’s scary yet totally thrilling at the same time. Becoming a first-time homebuyer is a bit like that – exciting yet scary! You’re taking the next big leap in your adulthood and officially becoming a homeowner for the first time. But you’re also making the ...
• Bracing Yourself For The Spring Real Estate Market - The grass is greener, the flowers are popping up, the sunshine is beaming down on your back deck, and the birds are happily chirping away. It’s finally Spring! No more snow to shovel, just raking, gardening, and grass cutting ahead. However, if you plan on selling your home, you may want to add a few ...
• How to Prepare to Buy a Cottage - It’s that time of year when cottage life is calling your name. You’re itching to go up north, enjoy the outdoors, and escape your responsibilities at home. Sure, renting an Airbnb is nice, but owning your very own cottage is even more exciting! You have free reign to make it your very own home-away-from-home to ...
• Before You Build Your Own Home? You Should Know… - We all dream about that perfect home and what it would be like to live in it. Some may think it’s a castle in the countryside overlooking open land, while others may think it’s a small home in the city built from storage containers with a very modern spin. Whatever your “dream home” is, it’s ...
• Is Buying a House with a Group of People a Good Idea? - These days, It can be very overwhelming just thinking about buying a new home with the high housing costs in today’s real estate market. Many people feel like owning a home is out of reach. Because of this, some people are looking for alternative ways to get pre-approved for a mortgage, including buying a house ...
• The Rules of Gifting a Down Payment in Canada - It’s becoming more and more common for parents to help out their children who are buying their first house by gifting them a large amount of money to use for their down payment. According to Mortgage Professionals Canada, down payment gifts from parents have doubled since 2000-2016 from 7% to 15%. With house prices getting ...
• Things To Consider BEFORE Buying A Vacation Property - These cold winter months in Barrie have us all dreaming about warmer weather on the beach. Wouldn’t it be nice to have your own place in a vacation paradise? We all want that excitement of hopping on a plane or planning a road trip to spend the winter months somewhere warm. Whether you are looking ...
• 2021: The Year In Review - Phew, 2021 has come and gone. I have happy thoughts reflecting on the good that came in the past year, and I have excited thoughts leading into 2022 as well. The pandemic has still been up in the air this past year, but we were able to adapt and shift our ways of living to ...
• New Year; New Home! - Do your 2022 new year resolutions include moving and buying a home this year? Start your new year’s resolution ASAP. The housing market is still hot and interest rates are still at record lows. But, who knows if it will stay that way. Last year, homeowners saw around a 30% equity increase from 2020 to ...
• What Is A Private Mortgage? - The real estate world is a fast-moving industry where the buyer’s decisions must be made quickly. Sometimes an unexpected house comes up on the market before you have time to get pre-approved for a mortgage through a traditional lender or have time to figure out your finances if your credit score isn’t exactly where it ...
• Getting Pre-Approved For A Mortgage When You’re Self-Employed - It’s that time of year for a self-employed business owner to sit down and file your company’s year-end. But are you planning on buying a house in the near future? Or is your mortgage up for renewal soon? These are important questions to think about if you are a freelancer or entrepreneur. When it comes ...
• What You Should Consider Before Downsizing - What You Should Consider Before Downsizing There are many reasons why you may be thinking of downsizing your home. It could be that your children have moved out and you have many empty rooms accumulating dust. Or maybe you want a smaller house so you don’t have to deal with cleaning that unused space. Maybe ...
• Why You Should Work With A Mortgage Broker When Buying A Condo - You’ve decided to move and are now searching for the perfect condo to call home. You’ve researched which neighbourhood you want to live in, what condo buildings are in the area, and even have a plan for which colour you want to paint your bathroom. However, before you find your dream condo, you should take ...
• The Ultimate Guide for First Time Home Buyers - You are finally ready to start searching for your first house! That’s exciting. You and your partner are giddy with excitement; starting the next chapter in your lives. You gather around your dinner table in the apartment that you’ve been renting for the past couple of years and stare at the blank sheet of paper ...
• Is It Better To Rent or Own a House? - There are a lot of considerations when moving into a new home.  For first-time home buyers, or homeowners looking to relocate, one question that is always a factor to think about is, “Should I rent or should I own my own house?”  There are always pros and cons for both, and an experienced and professional ...
• 4 Reasons You Should Work with a Mortgage Broker - With each passing year, more people like you are looking to buy their first home. You’ve made an offer on the house you want to call home. Now you need to figure out which mortgage lender to work with when it comes to getting pre-approved for the mortgage you need. Navigating mortgage contracts and fully ...
• Buying a Home in Retirement & What You Need to Know -   Retirement is a time in life that we all dream about. The day we can quit our job, celebrate with a big party and kick back and relax for years to come. The idea of retirement might make you think of spending your days cozied up with a few good books, long walks with ...
• First-time home buyers – Does it make sense to buy a house now or wait? - If there is one thing we have all noticed lately it’s how crazy home prices are. If there is a second thing we have all noticed it’s how crazy rental rates are to rent a house or apartment as well. So the burning question of late is: Does it make sense to buy a house ...
• Mortgage FAQs for First-Time Home Buyers - When you buy your first house, you have so many mixed emotions roll through you. From the excitement of buying a home of your very own, to a fear of buying the wrong house, to simply being overwhelmed by the whole process overall. It’s no small decision, buying your first home. That’s why I like ...
• How much of a down payment do you need? - You’re ready to buy a house. You’ve lowered your debt, you’ve been saving for a down payment for a while, and you’re finally ready to take the next step in buying your first home. When buying a house, the down payment is one of the biggest upfront expenses you will have to pay. The more ...
• A Quick Guide To Different Types of Mortgages in Canada - Getting approved for a mortgage is an exciting time. While it can be hard work, buying a house is one of the most rewarding experiences people go through in their life. Not only do you have a place to call your very own, but you are also investing your money into your future. However, there ...
• What you should know before purchasing an investment property - There are so many great benefits of owning an investment property. Real estate is an excellent avenue to invest your money, receive a passive income, take advantage of income property tax reductions, and so much more. If you’re considering buying an investment property, now is a great time to do so. However, there is a ...
• Beyond a Mortgage, what are the costs involved with buying a house? - You’ve decided to buy a house – congratulations! You’ve met with a fantastic mortgage agent or mortgage broker (like me), got approved for a mortgage, and have had your offer approved for the house of your dreams. But if this is your first time buying a house, have you considered what expenses come next? Buying ...
• Buying your first home 101 - Thinking about buying your own place? Buying a house is one of the most rewarding and exciting experiences a person can go through. It can also be pretty overwhelming, particularly if you’re a first-time homebuyer looking to secure your first mortgage. Buying real estate is also one of the biggest financial decisions you will probably ...
• Why get pre-approved for a mortgage? - Many people believe that their first step in buying a home is contacting a realtor to start house hunting. What you’ve heard, is untrue. Buying a house doesn’t start in an open house or with a search on MLS, it starts in a mortgage broker’s office. Why? Well, before you start shopping for a house, ...
• First-time home buyers – Should you buy a house now or wait? - It’s no secret that the Canadian housing market is extremely hot right now. Particularly in Ontario, houses are selling at record-high prices. Since the beginning of the global pandemic in March 2020, housing market prices started to increase and are still on the rise in 2021. According to the Toronto Regional Real Estate Board, the ...
• Spring 2021 & The Real Estate Market - 2020 was easily one of the hottest years in the Ontario real estate market to date. There was a huge demand for residential real estate, and it’s a trend we have continued to see throughout the beginning of 2021. There are tons of buyers out there, like yourself, but not quite enough supply for the ...
• Recently divorced? Here’s how to get approved for a mortgage. - Going through a divorce or separation is not an easy process. It’s an emotional, heartbreaking experience that no one can prepare you for. Leaving your partner is not an easy choice to make, and it can drastically change your life in both positive and negative ways. One of the biggest setbacks, in particular, is the ...
• Getting approved for a mortgage if you’re self-employed. - You’re thinking about buying a house, that’s great! Buying your first home is an exciting financial venture to take on. One of the first steps you will take on that journey is finding out how much of a mortgage you can get approved for. But, as someone self-employed, there are a few extra steps you ...
• 5 Tips To Success When Buying a Condo in Barrie - There are many advantages to living in Barrie. Tons of activities to do, beautiful sights to see, and not to mention the top-notch health facilities and highly rated schools in the area as well. Yes, living next to Lake Simcoe is amazing, but do you know what would make it even better? Living in a ...
• Taking the leap from renting to owning a house - To rent, or not to rent? That is the question – whether to continue renting or to buy a house and take on a mortgage. There’s a common misconception that renters are throwing their money away, and another that you need to buy a house as soon as you can afford a down payment for ...
• The Pros & Cons of Buying a Home with a Group of People - When it comes to buying a home in Canada, it is getting more and more difficult to do on your own. As property values continue to climb in different areas, it’s also becoming increasingly more hopeless to find a place on your own. That is why you may be considering buying a home with a ...
• How to reach your down payment goals - You’re thinking of buying a house, that’s fantastic! Buying a house is a rewarding experience but requires a lot of planning and thinking ahead. More specifically, you need to think about your future financially if you choose to buy a house. What is your current financial situation like? Are you in a good enough place ...
• 5 things to think about before upgrading to a larger home - There’s a lot to think about when buying a new home. Whether you’re still living in the first home you bought or you’re an investment property pro, each house you buy is a major investment that needs to be thought through very carefully. Particularly when you’re about to purchase a larger property, there are going ...
• First Time Homebuyers 101: Your checklist to take care of before the house-hunt - So, you have decided to buy your first home – congratulations! Buying your first home is an exciting and rewarding experience. There is a lot to look forward to when it comes to shopping for your first home such as checking out different neighbourhoods and browsing houses online, looking at what’s available. However, there are ...
• 5 Tips to Improve Your Credit Score - Your credit score can make or break your real estate dreams as a first time home buyer. Especially with the stress test looming overhead while you’re scrambling to get your savings together for a down payment. Mortgage lenders always will review your credit score before pre-approving you for a mortgage for a few reasons. So ...
• What happens when you buy a house without a pre-approval - It’s exciting, house hunting for the place you will call home. Especially if it’s your first home buying experience. You look through all the listings online, you make your wish list, you go out and see them in person — or virtually! Then it happens…you fall in love with a home and you are set ...
• 5 things I wish I had known as a first time home buyer - When I look back at the time I purchased my first home, I was far from an expert and I only knew the bare basics of mortgages and what I was getting into. Making the transition from renting an apartment, condo or house to buying your first home is a big leap, though a rewarding ...
• 5 Thoughts to Ponder Before Buying a Condo in Barrie - There are many reasons why you should choose to live in Barrie. The affordable living costs, the amazing balance between urban and rural living, and the lively downtown core. With a Barrie condo, however, you get to experience all of that with the bonus of a killer view and an easy, and a “less-maintenance” lifestyle ...
• Are You Ready for Home Ownership? - Congratulations! You’re ready to graduate from renting to owning your very own home. However, have you carefully thought about the lifestyle and financial changes that come with becoming a homeowner? Without careful preparation and research, taking the jump from renting to owning a house can come at quite a shock for some people. To help ...
• What is Home Equity? - There are several reasons people consider taking out home equity loans. Perhaps you’re thinking about doing some home renovations. Maybe you’re paying off other large financial debts such as college tuitions, car loans or credit card bills. For some, it may be because you’re paying off a large emergency expense or with longer lasting retirements ...
• TFSA – What Is It & How Does It Work - Want to start investing and you’re not sure where to start? You’ve come to the right place. In Canada, lots of millennials are saving – in fact, roughly 80% of the generation has savings. But are they really using their money to it’s fullest potential? According to a survey conducted by the Ontario Securities Commission, ...
• Financial Planning of RRSPs, and Why You Should Care - There’s an acronym that keeps popping up recently: RRSP. Unsure of what an RRSP is and how they can help you when buying your first home? Well, you’ve come to the right place. Here’s a quick crash course on RRSPs and how they can make a huge impact on your financial planning strategy. What is ...
• A Year in Review – Mortgage Highlights From 2019 - Wow, 2019 sure flew by, as did the entire decade! With the excitement of a brand new year upon us, let’s have a look back at 2019 and unpack some of the key issues that impacted the mortgage world and home ownership in Canada. The mortgage stress test The much-debated mortgage stress test has been ...
• What’s Trending: Is Buying a Home with Friends or Family for You? - Today’s sky-high housing prices in many areas mean that young people and families are being priced out of home ownership. With record-high rents and limited affordable housing options in some cities, a new trend that is growing in popularity is that of buying a home with other people such as friends, family and coworkers. This ...
• Going for It: How to Reach Your Down Payment Goals -   If you’re tired of renting or want to move into your very own space, it’s a great time to think about buying a home. Not only are there a lot of affordable options to choose from in Barrie and Simcoe County to meet your specific needs, but there are great mortgage interest rates right ...
• Fall & Winter House-Hunting: Tips for Savvy Buyers - Didn’t get to house hunt during the peak spring and summer months? Maybe you weren’t financially ready or didn’t have the time…but that might not be a bad thing! While the weather may be better for touring homes and it’s easier for families to move during the summer, you may find some big advantages to ...
• 5 Reasons Why You Should Work with a Mortgage Broker -   Want excellent customer service, access to the best mortgage rates and peace of mind knowing you’re in good hands? Then you need to work with a mortgage broker when it’s time to buy your next property, renew your mortgage or take out a home equity loan! It’s an old misconception that a mortgage broker ...
• What You Need to Know Before Buying an Investment Property - Buying an investment property can be a great long-term investment, with the added bonus of enjoying the income from regular rental payments. It also a great opportunity for first-time buyers to break into the housing market, as they can rent it out (or a portion of it) until they’re ready to take it over or ...
• Digging Deeper – Knowing Your Down Payment Options - Are you excited about the prospect of buying your first home, but just can’t figure out how to get that down payment nailed down? It’s not easy to save up for something as monumental as a down payment, especially when homes are priced so high in many areas. However, having a strategy in place for ...
• Rejected by Your Bank? Mortgage Options You Need to Know - Home ownership is a personal and financial goal for many people, but sometimes it can feel out of reach, especially if you’ve been dealt a rejected mortgage application by your bank. While you may think this rejection is the end of the road for you, there are steps you can take to move forward in ...
• Want a Custom Home Build? Here’s How to Finance it: - Have you always dreamed of building your own custom home or cottage exactly the way you want it? You’re not alone! Perhaps you’ve found the perfect plot of land or you’re on the hunt for something super unique…all you need now is the financing. Don’t despair – there is a mortgage you can get for ...
• Home Purchase Professionals You Need for Your Winning Team - It wasn’t that long ago that our Toronto Raptors brought home that long-awaited NBA Championship, and while Kawhi Leonard was undoubtedly a superstar MVP, it was the work of the entire team that earned them their success. The same is true when purchasing a property; you need a solid team of professionals to ensure a ...
• Safe & Sound – Security Tips for Your Cottage - I’ve talked a bit about vacation, cottage and other recreational property purchases recently, so it only seems natural to explore the importance of how to protect your big investment and help to keep it safe and sound, all year round. A cottage or chalet is meant to be your time to relax and escape the ...
• Top 5 Tips for Buying an Investment Property - The lure of owning an investment property is quite appealing, and for good reason. Real estate values keep going up, and the demand for rental properties is high – especially here in our region. Having an investment property can mean you have a steady income from the rental unit(s), as well as a nest-egg to ...
• The “Ins & Outs” of Those Tricky Cottage Expenses - In an earlier blog post, I explored the importance of financial readiness when thinking about buying a cottage or recreation property. As most Canadians know, a cottage is so much more than a relaxing oasis or fun family getaway – it’s a truly magical place. However, it also carries with it financial and maintenance obligations ...
• Are You Ready to Dive In & Buy That Cottage or Vacation Home? - With interest rates low and the current economy feeling pretty stable, many people are turning their thoughts to owning a cottage, cabin or vacation getaway. After all, who doesn’t dream of escaping city life to enjoy boating, fishing, swimming, entertaining friends and puttering around at their very own family cottage from time to time? You ...
• On Your Mark, Get Set, BUY! How to Compete in a Busy Real Estate Market: -   Spring and summer are the most popular times of the year for homes to be listed on the market. There are several reasons for this, such as nicer weather, summer vacations and/or slower business which allows time to prepare a home to sell, and it’s also the ideal time to maximize a home’s outdoor ...
• Buying a Condo? Check Out the Top 4 Condo Conundrums - If you’ve been looking through the local papers or on MLS for properties for sale in Barrie and Simcoe County, you’ve likely noticed that there are a lot more condominiums up for sale, as well as in the construction stage. Condos are definitely on the rise not just in our area, but all across Canada. ...
• Considerations for Purchasing a Cottage or Vacation Property -   With winter finally behind us, it’s time to start thinking about summer and start making those sunny-day plans! Many people dream of owning a cottage or cabin getaway and visualize long, lazy days on the dock, naps in the hammock, fishing and barbeques. There’s only one thing getting in the way however…how to finance ...
• Why You Need a Real Estate Agent - There are many things we can do on our own to save money without the need to call on a professional. For example, lots of us can build a deck, paint our house, or do our own taxes just fine without any outside help. However, when it comes to real estate transactions, it’s not that ...
• Getting a Jump Start on the Spring Housing Market - There’s no denying that winters in Barrie are long, and when spring comes around there’s an energy and excitement in the air that just can’t be beat. The real estate market also revs up in the spring, and in order to take full advantage of it and get that home you’ve been dreaming of, you’ve ...
• Thinking of Buying a Rental Property? Read This First. - You’ve thought about it for years. It’s a great way to make extra money in addition to building more equity. But what about the risks? Are there any downsides you should be aware of? Are you really ready to become a rental property owner? Before jumping in head first and buying a rental property, it’s ...
• What the Heck is a HELOC? - If you’re a homeowner, you’ve likely come across the term HELOC before. You may have even considered applying for one. But do you really know what the heck a HELOC is? What is a HELOC? To understand a HELOC also known as a Home Equity Line of Credit, it’s best to think of it as ...
• What is the Difference Between an Appraisal & a Home Inspection? - Purchase agreements, chattels, variable mortgages – when it comes to buying a new home, there are quite a few real estate terms that you should be aware of. Two terms that you may have already come across are home inspection and home appraisal. Although somewhat similar, these are not actually the same thing. Here is ...
• 10 Awesome Things to Do in Barrie this Summer - Summer is finally here! How do you plan to make the most out of your summer and make great memories? With consumer debt a growing concern for Canadians, many families in Simcoe County are choosing the ‘stay-cation’ option rather than a costly vacation away in order to save money. If a ‘stay-cation’ is part of ...
• Buying Your First Home? Read This First. - The spring season is almost upon us. In addition to nicer weather, spring also brings a surge in real estate activity in Simcoe County, with many individuals and young families looking to purchase their very first home. While it’s an exciting process, the search for your first property can also be a little stressful for ...
• Why January is the Best Time to Buy a Home - Looking to purchase a new home in Barrie? Not sure when is the best time to buy? Although the weather may not be ideal, you may be surprised to learn that the winter season is actually the best time to purchase a home. Why Winter? Although spring is typically thought of as real estate season, ...
• How Does the Bank of Canada Control Interest Rates? - The Bank of Canada seems to be shrouded in mystery; who are they and how can they control interest rates for an entire country? This unique corporation has an interesting job to do, and as Canadians, it’s rather comforting knowing they ultimately have our backs. What is the Bank of Canada and how does it ...
• When might I need a co-signer on a mortgage application?  - After looking at houses and applying for a mortgage, there’s nothing more disappointing than having an application denied. If your application is rejected, it’s usually because you (and/or your spouse) did not meet all the lenders’ criteria, or, simply put, your application wasn’t strong enough. You may not even have a poor credit rating, it ...
• What does amortization mean, and how does it impact my payments? - Wait! Keep reading! Most people’s eyes glaze over when we start talking about amortization and mortgage calculations, but I am here to simplify and explain this important part of your mortgage. Amortization of a mortgage refers to the length of time it takes to pay off your mortgage loan, and it is impacted by the ...
• Is the bank the only place to get a mortgage? - When you’ve made the decision to buy a new home, whether you’re making the transition from being a renter to becoming a home owner or you’re taking the leap into home ownership moving out from under your parent’s roof… The most important part of the process isn’t finding the right house to buy… It’s securing ...
• What is the best payment frequency for my mortgage? - When it comes to buying a home as a first-time home owner there are so many things to keep in mind, understand and make decisions about, it can be very difficult if you’re not fully understanding how each step in the mortgage process and what each of the decisions you make will mean for you ...
• How Important Is The Financing Waiver When Purchasing Your Home - In today’s real estate market many people have been waiving the financing clause in their offer to purchase a home. Before 2017 adding a financing clause was what most Realtors® would recommend adding to your offer along with an inspection to ensure the home didn’t have any problems that could be a big expense to ...
• When buying a house do I really need a home inspection? - You’ve finally found a house you love and are ready to make the offer to make it your own. As simple as that statement is, it’s a little more complicated than signing on the dotted line and making a cheque out for your deposit. Although it’s easy to get wrapped up in all the excitement ...
• Why Barrie Is A Great Place To Live - As a mortgage broker in Barrie, I’ve become very familiar with the city, and I can say emphatically that Barrie is one of the best places to live in Ontario. Not only does the city have a thriving real estate market and economy, but it has access to some of the premiere natural landscapes in ...
• How Good Does My Credit Score Need To Be To Buy A House - One of the most anxiety-inducing parts of getting a mortgage is wondering if your credit score is good enough to be approved for the mortgage you want. Since your credit score not only determines whether you’re eligible for a mortgage but also has an enormous influence over what the interest rate will be, it’s important ...
• Mortgage Penalties Can Be Debilitating, Find Out How To Avoid Or Reduce Them - Far too often I see home owners inquiring about refinancing their mortgage in Barrie to consolidate debt, separation/divorce or a major home renovation only to find out that their pre-payment penalty is outrageous.  In most cases it prevents themselves from progressing into a better financial situation.  It is critical to read into the fine print ...
• Why Should I Get a Mortgage Pre-Approval Before Shopping For a Home in Barrie? - Don’t go looking without one but also don’t rely of one too much!  I prefer to call a “pre-approval”, a “rate hold”.  Lenders will guaranty a rate for 90 to 120 days while you are out shopping for a home, if the rate drops over that time period you normally will receive the lower rate.  ...
• Is Rent-to-Own the Right Choice for my Barrie Home Purchase? - You’ve dreamed of buying your own house in Barrie but for some reason you can’t qualify for a mortgage, due to ever tightening qualifying restrictions.  This has frustrated many young families who are struggling to break a cycle of renting.  There are many reasons why someone might not be in a good position to buy their ...
• Is A Fixed Rate Mortgage Now The Right Choice For My Barrie Home? - It is true that fixed rates offer some longer-term deals if rates go up but are they going up anytime soon?  No one truly knows, economics have been wrong for the last 5 years.  So why should we believe them now?  While it’s true that the economy will eventually get stronger, we’re still a long ...
• What to do when you can’t find the “PERFECT” home in Barrie? - So you’ve spent weeks with a real estate agent looking at everything & anything in your price range.  You’re getting frustrated because every property you look at has at least one “x” on your checklist.  Did you know that you have financing options to improve a property so that it meets your needs & wants?  ...
• 5 Tips on Buying a Home in Barrie - Buying a home in Barrie or anywhere across central Ontario can be both an exhilarating and stressful experience. In this article, we offer 5 tips to help make buying a property a smoother and more pain free experience for you. Tip #1 – Educate Yourself Buying a house is a big deal, especially if it”s your first time. ...
• How to Find the Perfect Home in Barrie - Have you ever spent day-after-day touring resale homes in Barrie with a real estate agent but not finding the “exact” match for your family?  There always seemed to be something just not right, maybe it was the kitchen, the bathrooms, missing a fence or the lack of landscaping.  Did you know that the Canada Mortgage ...
• The Importance of a Mortgage Pre-approval in Barrie - You’ve probably heard the old adage “Don’t put the cart before the horse.” That same idea holds true when it comes to home buying in Barrie.  It happens far too often when a person will find that ‘perfect’ place and fall in love with it, only to discover that the home is out of their ...
• The Complicated World of Pre-Approvals - Most home shoppers know that it is important to get “pre-approval” before they start looking around but do they have a true understanding of what they are getting?  Many don’t understand that a standard pre-approval simply confirms that, based on the information provided on an application, they would qualify for up to a $xxx,xxx mortgage.  ...