The Ten Commandments of Buying a Home
When buying a home, there are sure-fire ways to cause hiccups at closing; on rare occasions, it has cost the client their purchase. Here’s a fun way of remembering what not to do, until you hold the keys to your home in your hands. The Ten Commandments of Buying a Home 1. Thou…
The Five “C”s of Credit
If you’re a newcomer to Canada, self-employed, working on commission, or have a poor credit history, you may think your chances of qualifying for a mortgage are slim. Think again! The trick is to see yourself through the eyes of a mortgage lender. The 5 C’s of Borrowing Mortgage lenders look for certain characteristics in…
Using Equity To Renovate Your Home
Selling your existing home and buying another home can be very costly and stressful. Suppose you like your current home or your location. In this case, you may want to consider staying where you are and renovating—allowing for you and your family to be more comfortable and provide for better personal enjoyment. There are many…
72 Hour Preparedness Do you know what to do?
When I first moved to Ottawa in 2006, I applied for a position and was accepted as a DM Disaster Management volunteer at the Canadian Red Cross. WOW! Did I get a wake-up call? I am so incredibly grateful for the experiences I shared with other volunteers, the knowledge, the skills, and understanding I gained…
How a Home Inventory List Can Protect The Things You Love
You are moved-in and settled. The paintings and family portraits are hung neatly on the walls. The boxes are all emptied and put away under the stairs; your house has now become your home. When we met and signed your documents, I joked and said, “You are going to die, we need to plan for…
Collateral versus Standard Charge mortgages
More lenders today are moving towards collateral charge mortgages. Why? Because it glues you to “that” lender.
Bridge Financing What you need to know
A bridge loan is a short-term loan that you give yourself. You are borrowing money against your existing home’s sale to facilitate the down payment on the home you are purchasing.
Paying Property Taxes in Ottawa What are your choices?
Property taxes are a MAJOR monthly expense for all homeowners. The collection and portion of monthly property taxes are out of our control, but we have outlined below several payment options for your review…
Do You Know The Difference Between A Mortgage Broker and A Bank Mortgage Specialist?
I like to say, “I’m a one-trick pony.” Why? All I know is mortgages; this is what I do. It’s what I’ve done for the past fifteen years. I do not offer bank accounts, GICs, or RSP’s; although I am very fortunate to know many trusted professionals, I am honoured to refer my clients, if…
