The Mortgage Gal
House hunting: finding the right fit
With so many choices and variables, how do you find the perfect fit? Before you start your search, it’s a good idea to narrow down the playing field by...
Designing a water efficient garden
You can create a lush, colourful garden that requires little maintenance or water by applying the seven principles of xeriscaping – an approach to...
Tips for a stress-free summer move
The majority of Canadians prefer to make their big move during the summer season. There are a variety of reasons for choosing this time of year: it is easier to...
Selecting the right mortgage planner
If you were investing the same amount of money you are considering borrowing right now, or have already borrowed, how would you choose your financial advisor?...
Establishing credit history
In order to purchase a home, you must have an established credit history. Each time you pay a bill (for your credit card or for a monthly service such as your...
Is home ownership right for you?
Buying a home is one of the biggest emotional and financial decisions you’ll ever make, so prepare yourself to make a knowledgeable decision. Although...
How to save with the way you pay
"How will you pay for this today?" Maybe it’s time to change the way you answer this common checkout question. With more payment options...
Lifetime approach to better fiscal fitness
To stay on the right track for each decade of your life, you need to stop moving your money problem around—raiding one pot to pay a debt in another pot....
Checking out your new neighbourhood
10 Things To Know About Your New Neighbourhood 1. What are the neighbours like? Take time to get a feel for the locals and how you might fit in. Does...
Teach your children how to save
From making an imaginary cup of tea to shopping at a make-believe grocery store, children love to mimic their parents' lives through play. So when it comes...
Time to make a move
Does the thought of changing your neighbourhood go through your mind more often than not? Here are some key indicators on when you really should consider making...
Goal setting & resolutions
January is a popular time of year to set resolutions for physical fitness, personal finance or new career directions. But with the declaration of failed...
High credit score for borrowing
Part of a Lender's decision to grant credit is an assessment of your past credit history which is why it's important to build credit once you arrive to...
Managing your mortgage
What You Should Think About When Financing Your Home If you’re like most Canadians, your home is probably the most important investment you’ll...
Building your financial muscle
Ballooning credit card debt? Expensive kids? Large mortgage? Feeling in over your head? Read below for five steps to help you build your financial muscle. ...
House hunting: the right fit for you
With so many choices and variables, how do you find the perfect fit? Before you start your search, it’s a good idea to narrow down the playing field by...
Organize important home documents
As a homeowner, we begin to accumulate papers and documents the moment we choose to purchase a home. Offers to purchase, mortgage documents, home inspection...
What is your mortgage rate?
The first question I usually get when a potential client calls me is what is your mortgage rate for 5 years? It makes me wonder if that is the only thing that...
Cash back for buyers!
How would you feel if I told you that you’d be eligible to receive cash back when you purchase your next home? Yes, it is possible and all you have...
Turn your home into income property
For the past ten years, Scott McGillivray, a 30-year-old real estate entrepreneur, has made a living by transforming houses into income properties. Today, he...