Just like you should have a physical every year to make sure you’re healthy, you should do the same for your credit report.

Don’t wait until you go to buy something and you are turned down. And don’t worry… checking your own credit does not affect it. So, what should you be looking for?

One of the first questions we hear from buyers is: “What will my interest rate be?”

It is easy to think that this is the most important question, but there is a lot more to your mortgage contract than just the rate. And so, the rate debate continues!

So, you are looking to purchase a second property. Congratulations! This is a great opportunity for you to expand your financial portfolio and create stability for the future.

Before you launch into this purchase there are a few things you should know, depending on which type of second property you are looking to purchase.

Are you thinking of making a general improvement or renovating a fixer-upper home? 

Home renovations can increase the value or habitability of your home. But remodelling projects can be pricey depending on the scale, labour, type of home, permits, and cost of materials. For these reasons, many people consider financing options for home improvements.

 

Did You Know? The average Canadian owes $23,000 in consumer debt and has at least 2 credit cards. Source: CBC.ca

If you live paycheque to paycheque, the idea of somehow having enough money to invest and eventually have financial freedom seems about the furthest thing possible.
 

Are you looking to renovate your home this spring? A great way to spruce up the home without breaking the bank is to replace old blinds!

Here are some tips to consider when choosing window coverings:

Building a new home is an exciting adventure that requires very different considerations. To help you have the best experience building a home, we have put together the 5 most important considerations.

Did you know that you can borrow up to $35,000 from your RRSP to buy or build a qualifying home through the Home Buyer’s Plan?

If you buy the home with your spouse, common-law partner, or other individuals, each of you can withdraw up to $35,000. Income tax will not be deducted from the amount withdrawn, and the withdrawal amount will not be included in your income.

Buying a home can be a great way to invest in your future.

Real estate tends to see a strong return on investment over the long term. And it makes up part of a well-rounded investment portfolio.

But there’s no doubt about it: buying a home is also one of the biggest financial decisions you will make.

Chances are you’ve heard of the two most common mortgage product types: fixed and variable (sometimes called adjustable).

But did you know that interest rates for each type are determined by different factors?

While both fixed and variable mortgage rates are impacted by a consumer’s financial health, they are also affected by two distinct largescale economic factors. These factors include activity by the Bank of Canada and by the Government of Canada. Here’s how it works.

The winter holiday season is often said to be the most wonderful time of the year. However, it is also one of the busiest and most stressful times of the year. There are increased demands at work or in your business. The holidays tend to be socially demanding too. With all this going on at work and in your personal life, it can be very emotionally draining. This time of year is often centered on celebration, family, and friends. The fact is some people find themselves mired in family conflict or feeling lonely, heightening their levels of emotional stress.

We’ve curated a list of gifts that are sure to warm new houses this holiday season.

Best of all, these items can all be purchased from local Calgary businesses.

Does dealing with your mortgage ever feel like learning another language? Amortization. Total debt service ratio. Principal. The jargon can feel endless! But we’re ready to translate. Here are some of the most important mortgage terms to know.

We are so grateful for every referral you give us. To show our thanks for your trust and kind words, we want to give the gift of supporting your local food bank this holiday season!

How is your credit score calculated? It is a complex answer and, as such, common myths persist. Today, we are going to help you get a better understanding of your credit score and how to make the grade by busting the most common credit score myths!

You’ve reached a point in life where your job is going well, and you find yourself not only out of debt, but with some room for savings. You might start wondering, where should I put this money that will not only be safe for the future, but also grow? That’s when you’ll probably start hearing about TFSAs (Tax Free Savings Account) and RRSPs (Registered Retirement Savings Plan).

“You’re teaching them way too young,” joked the man next to me and my three girls at the bank machine; clearly he assumed we were taking out cash, and thought it would be funny to tease me about that. “No, man,” I teased back warmly; “I teach my girls to make deposits.” He laughed, I laughed, and then I invisibly high-fived myself for actually teaching my kids how to do just this. Because it’s a skill, isn’t it, to be confident and capable in money and its management.

Whether it is your first house or you’re moving to a new neighborhood, getting approved for a mortgage is exciting! However, even if you have been approved and are simply waiting to close, there are still some things to keep in mind to ensure your efforts are successful.

A down payment is one of the most essential aspects of every mortgage application and new home purchase. In Canada, home purchases require a minimum cash payment from your own funds that is put towards the purchase. This is your down payment and is considered your stake in the deal.

The number one question for any potential homebuyer or someone new to the mortgage process is “what does this process entail?”. The following is a simple outline to give you an idea of the process and help you understand what to expect as you embark on your home buying journey!