It’s Time to Crush Your Credit Card Blues. 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 […]

Market Beware: Subject Free Offers. When it comes to purchasing a home, most offers include conditions or subjects, which are requirements or criteria to be met before the sale can be finalized and the property is transferred. Some of the most common subjects include: Financing approval Home inspection Fire/home insurance protection Strata document review if […]

3 Things You May Not Know About Cash-Back Mortgages. It can get pretty exciting to see campaigns around “cash-back mortgages” but, before you get too far along, here are three things you might not know about these types of mortgages: Occasionally you will see campaigns on cash-back mortgages, so don’t jump at the first one […]

Debt Reduction Key as Interest Rates Soar. There are lots of reasons people fall into debt but only one way out — and it requires a combination of planning, discipline, and persistence. With the rise in interest rates, there is no better time to map out an action plan to reduce your debt. Start by […]

Title fraud is a danger in B.C., and home insurance can’t protect you from it. It’s not just Ontario: title fraud cases are on the rise in B.C. as well. Daniela DeTommaso, President of FCT, recently sat with Weekend Mornings with Stirling Faux on 980 CKNW to discuss the rising threat. “[Fraud has become] so sophisticated,” Daniela explains. […]

After You Buy – Closing Tips. Now that you have finished signing your mortgage paperwork and getting the keys to your first home, there are a few things to keep in mind after you buy to protect your investment and ensure future financial success! Maintaining your home and protecting your investment: Becoming a homeowner is a […]

Second Mortgages: What You Need to Know. 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 […]

How Job Loss Affects Your Mortgage Application. Whether you’ve made an offer on a home already or are still in the process of looking, you already understand that buying a home is likely the largest investment you’ll ever make. When it comes to your mortgage application, there are a few things that you should avoid […]

When you’re looking for a new mortgage or refinancing, lenders will look at both your debt servicing ratios and your credit score as part of the process. Your debt servicing ratios give lenders information about your ability to repay the money you borrowed, while your credit score provides information about the way you manage credit. […]

How to Pay Off Your Mortgage Faster. When it comes to homeownership, many of us dream of the day we will be mortgage-free. While most mortgages operate on a 25-year amortization schedule, there are some ways you can pay off your mortgage quicker! 1. Review Your Payment Schedule: Taking a look at your payment schedule can be […]