As a mortgage broker here in Canada, I know that diving into the world of mortgages can feel like stepping into a labyrinth of numbers and jargon. In this article, I will explore two of the most common mortgage options in Canada: fixed-rate and adjustable-rate (often referred to as variable rate) mortgages. We’ll break down […]
Adding cooking structures to your backyard can provide new opportunities for dining and entertaining and allow you to create the perfect outdoor kitchen. While jumping in and getting started is tempting, be sure you understand the local by-laws and regulations first. Municipalities each have their own fire safety, zoning and placement by-laws for outdoor cooking […]
In recent years, we’ve witnessed a seismic shift in our work lives, notably the rise of remote work brought about by the COVID-19 pandemic. This change isn’t just about swapping office desks for dining tables; it’s profoundly impacting where we choose to live and our mortgage and real estate decisions. In this post, let’s explore […]
What started as an idea to amalgamate the Realtors Association of Hamilton-Burlington (RAHB) and Waterloo Region Association of Realtors (WRAR) soon caught wind and spread like all good ideas often do. Julie Sergi, a realtor with RAHB for 19 years, saw an opportunity to join forces with a like-minded organization to form a stronger association […]
The Federal Government announced in September that, in addition to the new 30-year amortization option for first-time homebuyers of new builds (which took effect August 1st), they will also extend this option to first-time buyers of resale homes and all buyers of new builds, who take out an insured mortgage. The new rules, set to […]
With interest rates dropping, many homeowners ask the same question: Is now the right time to refinance my mortgage? The simple answer? It could be! But as with most financial decisions, a few factors must be considered to ensure it’s your correct move. Why Refinance? Refinancing your mortgage can be an excellent opportunity to take […]
Severe weather events have become more common nationwide, specifically in Ontario. The most recent, an extreme rainfall event in July 2024, saw record-breaking flooding in Mississauga, along major highways, and in parts of Toronto including Union Station. Many homes and businesses sustained flood damage, leaving homeowners worried about the next extreme weather event. As a […]
Retirement is around the corner for many in Canada today, with a quarter of the demographic falling into the senior category by 2030. While so much of the population is hitting this milestone, their housing options may differ from what they once envisioned. Downsizing to a smaller home or condo is much more expensive than […]
It’s no secret that the dream of buying a home is becoming harder for many families and first-time homebuyers, yet the housing market is still doing well and homes are still selling at all price points. It begs the question: Who are the buyers? In the luxury market, prices vary depending on the location, but […]
PURCHASING A COTTAGE OR VACATION HOME CAN BE AN EXCITING VENTURE, OFFERING A PERFECT GETAWAY FROM THE HUSTLE AND BUSTLE OF CITY LIFE. HOWEVER, IT’S ESSENTIAL TO APPROACH THIS PURCHASE WITH CAREFUL CONSIDERATION AND THOROUGH PLANNING. HERE ARE SEVEN KEY THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE DIVING INTO CANADA’S COTTAGE OR VACATION HOME MARKET. UNDERSTANDING THE MARKET […]