1. Cash back at closing, while not illegal they lender will usually reduce the mortgage by that amount. 2. Furniture included in the contract, lenders consider this to have a value and if it is zero then it needs to state that in writing. Better yet have the seller and buyer write it in a […]

Chances are, you’ve seen real estate listings that end with terms like, “as-is, where-is” or “court ordered sale” or even “offers subject to court approval” and wondered if the listing prices were real. Or even wondered if you should be looking at foreclosed properties in order to make or save a buck. My advice to […]

Aside from paying a regular monthly mortgage payment there are other choices you’ll be presented with when approved for a mortgage. This article will explain the differences and benefits of changing your payment schedule. The goal is to pay down your mortgage as quickly as possible and save on interest. The longer it takes to […]

There are great advantages to having business for self. There are many extremely successful business owners that live great lifestyles but don’t have to pay for medical, all because they have great tax write-offs that bring their income down to a low tax bracket. The other side of this is that these great benefits actually […]

With plenty of activity in the real estate market and more new building slated over the next few years, here is my list of “Things to Consider When Buying in a New Development”. Representation Some buyers attend the display suite and consider a purchase directly with the developer sales person or the developers Realtor. Regardless […]

In celebration of the 30th Anniversary, HomEquity Bank has announced a new face for Canadian reverse mortgages. HomEquity Bank will collaborate with four-time Canadian and World figure skating champion Kurt Browning for a new series of commercials. Kurt is a Canadian figure skating legend and icon, most recognized by his upbeat and colourful personality on and off […]

As a business owner, you understand the power of financial leverage. It is especially important for companies that require significant investment in equipment, raw materials and inventory before they can begin generating revenue. A key to success is to spend as little out of pocket as possible on these necessities in order to preserve cash […]

This is the great debate around many household dinner tables nowadays: improve or move? With all the attention the real estate market is getting these days in the local and national media, I’m surprised everybody isn’t cashing in, selling and moving. Everybody who owns real estate is holding their very own lottery ticket, each with […]

One cost that can be overlooked by home buyers is mortgage default insurance. So, what exactly is mortgage default insurance and why do you need it? If you’re buying an owner-occupied home with less than 20% down payment, you are required to purchase mortgage default insurance in order to arrange your financing.  When buying a rental […]

So, you’ve worked hard to save every penny and have managed to finally afford the down payment necessary on a home. You have searched high and low, only to find the house of your dreams at a price you can afford. Though your credit rating is good and you have a stable job, there are […]