Category Archives: Residential Mortgages

8 Things to Be Aware of When Buying a Second Home

You can afford a second home, let us show you how!

Now that low interest Canadian mortgage rates are readily available, it seems like the perfect time to invest in a second home. Here’s what you should know before purchasing a second property.

Things to Learn Before Buying a Second Home

1) Do your research.

You will need to resist the urge to buy a home because you want a getaway. Research the properties, area, and low mortgage rate options beforehand. This is an investment, not just a vacation.

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Property Investment Seminars – Scam or Helpful Resource?

So, you’re thinking about investing in real estate? Congratulations – property investment is a great way to diversify your portfolio and improve your financial footing during periods of economic uncertainty.

There’s just one problem – you don’t know where to start. Continue reading →

What You Need to Know About the New NHA MBS Policies

Last Friday, the Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation issued a statement announcing another round of mortgage restrictions, this time concerning limits on new National Housing Act Mortgage-Backed Securities (NHA MBS). The statement, which was sent to banks, credit unions, and other mortgage lenders, outlined new restrictions that would limit lenders to a maximum of $350-million new guarantees, the amount of “market NHA MBS”, that can be guarenteed by CMHC for the month of August. The restrictions come at a time when housing prices are still near record highs. Continue reading →

Ottawa’s Mortgage Rules: One Year Later

It was roughly one year ago that Finance Minister Flaherty announced his fourth round of mortgage restrictions in as many years. The reason for these changes was simple: cool down an out-of-control housing market. By tightening lending rules, Flaherty hoped to lower the risk to taxpayers and curb excessive rates of household debt.  Continue reading →

Location, Location, Location: What Are Home Hunters Really Looking For?

Location, location, location – it’s the most important aspect of any potential house hunt. But just what constitutes a good location? Whether you’re searching for a new home or thinking about putting your’s on the market, it pays to know what makes or breaks a prime location in your area.  Continue reading →