The Blog

That’s right! In a time when so many people are openly posting about their lives online – from blogs and websites to Facebook and Instagram – it’s important to keep in mind that too much information at your lender’s fingertips can negatively impact your chances of getting a mortgage. As part of their research into whether they should lend you …

If you’re buying your first home, all of the various expenses rolled into the term ‘closing costs’ can seem overwhelming. Closing costs include all legal and administrative expenses you’ll be responsible for paying on or near your home’s closing date. It’s important to include these costs in your budget because, in most cases, they can’t be rolled into your mortgage …

No matter how prepared you feel when your marriage breaks down, navigating a separation and then a divorce is an emotionally draining experience – regardless of who initiated the process. Separation and divorce can also be expensive as you begin dividing your finances and assets. But getting an early start on these proceedings can save you a lot of time, …

Have you immigrated or relocated to Canada within the past five years? Whether you’re a permanent resident or in the country on a work permit, I have access to some great specialty mortgage solutions with affordable down payment options. If the property value of the home you’re looking to buy is below $500,000, you can make a purchase for just …

Stress test mortgage qualification requirements that were introduced last year have resulted in many more Canadians becoming familiar with private mortgage options out of necessity. Prior to this change, many borrowers viewed the world of private lending as somewhat of a mystery. Private mortgages have been around for years, but they were often reserved for people who had credit or …

Traditionally, when you’re self-employed and applying for a mortgage, you’ll likely face more obstacles than someone who earns a regular salary through an employer. If you can prove your income, show you’re up-to-date on your taxes and you have solid credit, however, your chances of being approved for a mortgage are greatly improved. Self-employment numbers continue to grow steadily. Statistics …

While there seems to be a virtually endless supply of real estate listings available when you’re searching for your perfect place to call home, finding the right property that meets both your functional needs and your budget is not always an easy task. You may find a house with the perfect layout in your ideal neighborhood, but the interior needs …

Buying a home is likely the largest financial purchase you’ll make in your lifetime. The second? More than likely, it’s your vehicle. And, did you know that your car loan can negatively impact your mortgage qualification when purchasing a home? When you apply for a mortgage, there’s a wide variety of information that you’re required to provide in order to …

The onset of warmer spring temperatures brings with it the chance for a fresh start. For many homeowners, this means a thorough spring cleaning of the house and yard to get ready for patio season and entertaining. But, it’s equally important to conduct a spring checkup on your mortgage as well. So often, homeowners lock into a mortgage term and …

Now that spring’s in the air, many homeowners are thinking about tackling home improvements or full-on renovations from their to-do lists. If you’re planning some renovations this year and you’re looking to free up funds to support your projects, I may have a solution for you. But, first, it’s important to plan ahead. Setting a budget before deciding how you’re …