Tips and Advice

An overview of the HST in Ontario – coming into effect July 1, 2010.

Wednesday, February 24th, 2010

After July 1, 2010, every residential real estate transaction in Ontario will face a significant tax increase. Specifically, home buyers and sellers can expect to pay 8% more on legal fees, appraisals, real estate commissions, home inspection fees, moving costs and the provincial government’s forthcoming system of mandatory home energy audits.  While the impact  of the tax will…

Good and Bad Debt – Is There a Difference?

Tuesday, February 23rd, 2010

Not all debt is created equally.  Let’s face it, debt is not something we desire to have but there is a difference between the good and bad and it lies in how it can hurt or help you reach your financial goals.

Some debt can be seen as an investment in one’s future such as:

    8 Super Tips for Paying off your Mortgage Faster

    Monday, February 8th, 2010

    For many Canadian homeowners, paying off their mortgage as quickly as possible is a top priority.  Paying down extra principal in the years by whatever means possible can shorten the life of your mortgage and dramatically lower the interest you’ll pay over the long haul.  Here are a few “super” tips on how to make this happen:

    1. …

    Let’s talk 7 and 10 year fixed mortgage rates…

    Monday, February 1st, 2010

    …and why they may not be the best choice for your mortgage.

    There has been a lot of talk in the news the last 2 weeks about extended fixed terms, namely 7 and 10 year fixed mortgages. It’s true that rates are historically at their lowest right now and a 10 year mortgage at let’s say 5.25% looks very…

    Latest version of the “Homebuyer’s Guide” now available

    Monday, January 25th, 2010

    Please find my latest version of the very popular “Home Buyer’s Guide”.  This comprehensive guide offers a wealth of information – perfect for a first time home buyer but also a great reference for anyone who is in the home buying process.

    Home Buyer’s Guide – PDF

    Mortgage Brokers

    Tuesday, November 17th, 2009

    Wondering about the advantages of using a Mortgage Broker? Click below to see 6 reasons…

    Six Reasons to use a Broker – PDF

    What does my AMP stand for and why should you look for this accreditation from a Mortgage Broker?

    Accreditation for Mortgage Brokers – PDF

    Credit

    Tuesday, November 17th, 2009

    Wondering about the importance of your credit history? Here’s a brief explanation…

    Credit History – PDF

    Need to fix and improve your credit? Here’s how…

    Credit Repair 101 – PDF

    First Time Homebuyers

    Tuesday, November 17th, 2009

    A great article for First Time Homebuyers….

    First-Time Homebuyer – PDF

    Rates

    Tuesday, November 17th, 2009

    Deciding between fixed or variable rate….

    Fixed or Variable-Rate Mortgage – PDF

    Closing Costs

    Tuesday, November 17th, 2009

    A discussion about closing costs and what to expect…

    Closing Costs – PDF

    Renovations

    Tuesday, November 17th, 2009

    Dreaming of a renovation? Here are five steps to make it a reality….

    Five Steps to your Dream Reno – PDF

    Self-Employed

    Tuesday, November 17th, 2009

    Are you self-employed? A great read on self-employed
    borrowers and how experience is a big plus…

    Self-employed Get Credit for Experience – PDF

    Second Homes and Rental Properties

    Tuesday, November 17th, 2009

    Looking at purchasing a condo as a rental investment? Great article discussing this…

    Condo Rental Investment Properties – PDF

    Thinking about purchasing a second home? Here are some tips…

    More Canadians Purchasing Second Homes – PDF

    Considering buying a cottage or a vacation home? Take a look at this article…

    Recreation Property – PDF

    Downsizing your Mortgage and Your Life

    Tuesday, November 17th, 2009

    Is it time to downsize your home and your life?
    Take a look for some tips…

    Downsizing Your Home – PDF

    Holiday

    Tuesday, November 17th, 2009

    Getting your home ready for the holiday season…

    Deck the Halls – PDF

    Needing holiday inspiration? Take a look….

    A Dickens of a Holiday – PDF

    Debt Consolidation

    Tuesday, November 17th, 2009

    Considering consolidating your debt? Here are a few things that may help you…

    Spring Cleaning Debt Consolidation – PDF

    Landscaping/Gardening

    Tuesday, November 17th, 2009

    Things to look out for in the garden during fall…
    The Garden in Autumn- PDF

    Look what landscaping can do for your home value. An eye opening article…

    The Wow Factor – Curb Appeal – PDF

    The benefits of planting trees on your property…

    Tree Planting – PDF

    Curious about creating a garden? Take a peek…

    Creating a Garden – PDF

    Miscellaneous Tips & Advice

    Tuesday, November 17th, 2009

    Considering a second mortgage? Here is some advice…
    Second Mortgages – PDF

    Keeping yourself organized during your move – a checklist…
    -moving checklist

    Dreaming of being mortgage free? Here is some advice…
    Fast-tracking to mortgage-free – PDF

    Keeping your home safe. A spring checklist…
    Safe As Houses Spring Checklist – PDF

    Protect your home and garden investment. An autumn checklist…
    Homeowners Autumn Checklist – PDF