The Mortgage Gal
Changes to federal tax budget
On January 27, 2009, the Minister of Finance Jim Flaherty, announced the government's first deficit budget in 11 years, the result of living in a challenging...
Fixed or variable-rate mortgage?
“Wow!” you say to your spouse as you hit the brakes on the car. “Did you see the mortgage rate those guys are advertising?” Your worries are over,...
Buying revenue property
If you’ve been thinking about buying a revenue property, given the current lending environment and the slower real estate market – which has shifted to a...
Can""t I do this myself?
Some people, once they begin to understand the concept of the Money Merge Account, think they might actually be able to do this themselves, without having to...
Steps to become mortgage free
If owning a home is most people's dream, then don’t you think that should mean owning a home free and clear of any mortgage? Yes, this is a little more work...
Mortgage industry in the media
In recent weeks, there have been numerous articles in the national media on the state of the Canadian mortgage industry. Issues regarding the impact of longer...
Deck the halls
We all do a little more entertaining over the holiday season. And at this time of year, you want to offer your guests the warmest of holiday welcomes. This...
Mortgage insurance benefits
Homeownership on your terms. With the right preparation and resources, you can buy a home that best suits your lifestyle. Mortgage insurance provides you with...
Homeowner’s autumn checklist
Whatever the weatherman or the almanac says, we know that the warm season really ends with the changing of the clocks to mark the beginning of standard time...
Mortgage plain-talk
What’s the difference between “amortization” and “term”? There are many stresses associated with home buying – both financial and emotional. And...
Refinancing your mortgage
Many homeowners wished they’d asked more questions when they got their mortgage. They assume there’s nothing they can do until the mortgage matures. Not so....
Fast-track to mortgage free
Did you know that a mere $30 extra with each of your monthly mortgage payments could save you about $11,000 over the life of your mortgage? When you add it up...
Advantages of Home Equity
After years of paying down your mortgage, you’ve built up a significant amount of equity in your home. Instead of using costly credit cards or high¬interest...
Cottage by the lake
As you breathe in that deep breath of fresh air you know you’ve found that idyllic spot where you’ve always dreamed of spending your golden years. It’s...
Protect against mortgage fraud
A home is the single largest purchase that most Canadians will make in their lifetime, yet many homeowners are unaware of the dangers posed by identity thieves...
Finding your mortgage fit
You step through the door and feel the exhilarating rush that tells you this is the one this is the house for you. You’ve decided on the house, but now you...
Your dream renovation
The lure of a stunning gourmet kitchen or sparkling spa-style bathroom may have you chomping at the bit to begin a home renovation. But if you heed the advice...
The right time to buy
When is the right time to buy real estate? Seek advice from a mortgage professional to evaluate your options As with every market, the real estate sector...
Self-employed get credit for experience
We’ve all heard the old stories. A successful, self-employed Canadian who can work wonders in his or her professional life can’t manage to secure a decent...
Self-employed enjoy mortgages designed for them
Ahh…it’s a favourite daydream of working Canadians: to go into business for yourself! For some Canadians who are self-employed, their situation is the...