Although credit cards interest rates have not been affected by the recent surge in the prime lending rate, the fact remains that credit card debt is usually the most expensive debt you can have. The average is around 20% and even the so-called ‘low interest’ cards carry a rate in excess of 10%. Expediting the […]

Get to know the important basics before you choose your mortgage. You have to be sure you select what is most important to you – lower rates or flexibility. Before you choose a mortgage, take some time to study mortgage types: Closed Mortgage: If you want consistency with respect to rates and the length of your […]

One of the biggest benefits to purchasing your own home is the ability to build equity in your property. This equity can come in handy down the line for refinancing, renovations, or taking out additional loans – such as a second mortgage. What is a second mortgage? First things first, a second mortgage refers to […]

When traditional lenders (such as banks or credit unions) deny mortgage financing, it can be easy to feel discouraged. However, it is important to remember that there is always an alternative! If you’re seeking a mortgage, but your application doesn’t fit into the box of the big traditional institutions, you’ll find yourself in what’s commonly […]

For those of us with a flair for aesthetics or a penchant for history, historic homes offer a unique chance to own something special. What is a Historic Home? Typically, for a home to be considered “historic”, it needs to demonstrate rare or outstanding architecture. Typically, historic homes are at least 50 years of age, […]

If you are reading this you probably have a keen interest in improving your financial situation — but how are you going to measure your progress? The easiest way is by setting and achieving a goal. This could be short-term and focused, like wiping out a credit card debt. On the other hand, it could […]

Your payment schedule is the frequency that you make mortgage payments and ranges from monthly to bi-monthly, bi-weekly, accelerated bi-weekly or even weekly payments. Below is a quick overview of what each of these payment frequencies mean: Monthly Payments: A monthly payment is simply a single large payment, paid once per month; this is the […]

As the cost of living has increased, it may be challenging to meet your retirement income needs and access the cashflow you need to live a desired lifestyle. One advantage that many retired Canadians possess is home ownership. Tapping into some of the equity you have built in your home can help you obtain the […]

Are you thinking about co-signing on a loan? If you’re looking to help out a family member or loved one, this is a great way to do that as a co-signer can help overcome stress testing and borrowing limits. However, it is important to be aware of the implications when co-signing on any loan. 1. […]