Let’s bring it back to super basics for your first time buyer audience and talk about the eternal debate that haunts all homebuyers – fixed, or variable?
There is no doubt that sourcing a down payment is the worst part of first-time home buying. So let’s make a cheat guide for prospective buyers to feel a little better about where that money can come from.
Stepping into the mortgage world for the first time can feel a bit like learning a new language. But don’t worry, I’m here to translate some of the key terms and concepts that can make a significant difference in your homeownership journey.
As we roll into August, it’s an exciting time for first-time homebuyers in Canada. With several pivotal changes now in effect, the dream of homeownership is more attainable than ever.
Deciding when to buy your first home can feel like a huge leap. If you’re wrestling with the decision, here are some clear signs that you might just be ready to transition from renting to owning.
Embarking on the journey to buy your first home is thrilling, and your very first step should be securing a mortgage pre-approval. But what exactly is a pre-approval, and why is it so crucial?
Contrary to the fear I hear all the time from prospective first time buyers, there is no rule saying that you must be debt free to get a mortgage.
You can have debt – it’s just about how that debt stacks up against your household income, and how lenders assess your ability to make it all work.
I connect with prospective new homebuyers every day who are stressed about decreasing their debt loads.
It’s a bit of a misconception that you need to be completely rid of it before you buy a home. Having debt doesn’t automatically disqualify you from getting a mortgage. What lenders really look at is your ability to manage and service your debt effectively.
If you have been relying solely on registered accounts like RESPs and RRSPs for your long-term savings goals – join the club. Most of us are brought up on the notion that just going through the motions of contributing to these traditional vehicles will set us and our families up for life. And while they have been true once upon a time, times have changed.
As the calendar flips to a new year, many Canadians approaching or in their retirement years find that their long-held hopes, goals and aspirations return to front of mind for the first time in a long time. With life’s daily hustles calming down, you finally get the space and time to ponder – how do I spend this next chapter meaningfully?
Mortgages have gained a bit of notoriety lately, and not for the right reasons. Between the rollercoaster of rate increases and the high cost of homeownership, it’s easy to see why many Canadians might view their mortgage as a financial burden rather than an asset.
There are very few Canadians for whom debt management isn’t a priority right now.
As interest rates fluctuate and financial uncertainties loom, finding effective ways to handle debt isn’t just wise - it’s essential. Traditional debt management strategies often fall short of addressing the unique challenges faced by homeowners today.
Investing is more than just putting money into assets; it’s about a fundamental shift in how you view money and debt.
Shifting your money mindset (as cliche as it may sound) is key to this transformation—it means seeing opportunities for growth where others might see barriers and understanding that every financial decision has the potential to impact your wealth.
Are you tired of watching your rent payments disappear each month, contributing nothing to your long-term financial goals? You’re not alone. Many successful real estate investors started exactly where you are: paying rent and dreaming of more. Transitioning from renter to investor is a powerful shift that opens the door to building substantial long-term wealth. Why Real Estate?
As summer rolls in, it’s the prime time to dive into real estate investing. But, diving in is more than just a leap of faith; it’s about smart planning and sidestepping the usual traps that can snag newcomers.
Amid housing affordability crises and stories pitting greedy corporate landlords against struggling tenants, it’s tempting to make assumptions that disqualify you from rental property investing entirely. Too rich, too ruthless, too risky, too much.
In the world of personal finance, few topics spark as much interest - and confusion - as tax optimization. It’s often wrapped in layers of complexity that can deter even the savviest investors. Yet, mastering this aspect of your financial plan is crucial to maximizing your returns and building a more robust financial future.
When we talk about tax optimization, it might initially sound like we’re discussing some gray, elusive tactics reserved for the financial elite. However, it’s genuinely about ensuring you manage your finances wisely, guaranteeing you only pay what you legally owe. It’s completely legitimate and financially prudent.