The Mortgage Gal
Understanding your mortgage options
Congratulations! You've decided to begin your search for a new home, or perhaps you've already found the home of your dreams and are ready to make an offer....
Spring is here
April has arrived and now we're looking forward to warmer spring weather and a chance to get into the garden. Here's our checklist to help you get ready for...
Mortgage rule changes
Federal Finance Minister Jim Flaherty announced three new rule changes Tuesday connected to government-backed insured mortgages, CMHC, saying the government is...
A shift in first time home buyers
The demographics of the typical first-time home buyer are changing these days. More and more women today can afford to purchase a property on their own to build...
Time to 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...
Ice proof your attic
If you're like most people, you probably don't spend much time in the attic. In fact, the vast majority of Canadians go up to their attics only when dealing...
The perfect gift
The perfect gift isn't some sort of urban holiday myth. Finding that right item requires a little thought, some imagination and knowing where to find something...
Newcomers guide to Canadian housing
Roughly two-thirds of Canada’s annual population growth now comes from net international migration. For many of these new arrivals, finding a safe, affordable...
Home buyers"" tax credit
Today's focus is on the Home Buyers' Tax Credit (HBTC). What is this credit? The Federal Budget 2009 proposed a tax credit for First Time Home Buyers as an...
Rebate/grant program
Refinancing to Take Advantage of the HRTC and other Grants. With the announcement of the 2009 budget, the Canadian government has added another value added...
Fall maintenance for your home
Is your home ready for cold weather? These fall maintenance tips for your home will help get you ready for chilly temps, and help save money by making your home...
Bank of Canada holds rate
The Bank of Canada on Tuesday held the overnight rate at 0.25% following its commitment to keep rates down through the end of June 2010. The Bank of Canada...
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 looking...
Smart back-to-school shopping
Start your back-to-school shopping with a game plan. Even if your child's teacher hasn't provided a list of school supplies, you can't go wrong by sticking with...
Golden rules of renovation
Keep the golden rules in mind. Golden Rule# 1: Don't choose a renovator on price alone. The Canadian Renovator's Council of the Canadian Home Builders'...
A complete mortgage consultant
We know that purchasing a home can be a very stressful time and it is our commitment to you to assist with every step of the mortgage process. We have compiled...
Selling in a slow market
Selling a house in a slow real estate market can be difficult. In times like these, it’s not enough to simply list your home and wait you actually have to...
First time home buyer?
Your RRSP may be the down payment you're looking for. Thinking about buying your first home? Wish you had saved up a good down payment? Maybe you have, but...
Refinancing provides many options
You've heard it before and we will hear it again: there is no time like the present to refinance your home! In these economic times the opportunities to turn...
Freeing up extra space
Now that we are well on our way to enjoying spring, it is not uncommon to find your home a little cluttered in the post winter period. There is a good reason...