August 25, 2017

1) Conduct an energy audit If you’re serious about improving your home’s energy conservation, start with an energy audit by an NRCancertified energy advisor — you can search for an advisor in your area at www.nrcan.gc.ca. You’ll get a list of recommended upgrades to help you plan, and you may qualify to receive up to […]

1) Go green, underfoot If you’re thinking of installing a hardwood floor, consider reclaimed materials or look for new wood products that are certified by the Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) Canada. You could also use more readily renewable materials such as cork, bamboo, or carpets made from natural fibres. 2) Lower your water flow Target […]

1) Land transfer tax When a home changes hands, many provinces and a few municipalities charge a property transfer tax or title transfer fee. Rates are usually on a scale of 0.5% to 2% of the home’s value and can add thousands to your purchase price. First-time homebuyers qualify for rebates or exemptions in some […]

1) What are the neighbours like? Take time to get a feel for the locals and how you might fit in. Does the area attract empty nesters and retirees, for example, or is it characterized by young families? A real estate professional can help inform you about demographic trends. 2) Does it fit your lifestyle? […]

When you apply for a mortgage loan, the mortgage planner will ask you to complete a loan application. The application shows information about the type of mortgage loan you’re applying for, as well as your personal financial situation. To fill out the application, you (and the co-borrower, if you have one) need to give the […]

1) Property tax Many of the services you’ll enjoy in your new neighbourhood, from parks and recreation facilities to road maintenance and schools, are funded in part by municipal property taxes. Rates vary widely, from region to region and home to home. Annual taxes can top several thousand dollars in urban centres, so some homeowners […]

The real estate market has been on the seller’s side these last few years and seems to be the trend the next few. Despite that, many homes don’t sell for the right price and that’s because it was broken from inside or didn’t have a good listing agent represent the sale. Before you list your […]

1) Get independent advice on your financial options As independent mortgage brokers and mortgage agents, we’re not tied to any one lender or range of products. Our goal is to help you successfully finance your home or property. We’ll start by getting to know you and your homeownership goals. We’ll make a recommendation, drawing from […]

1) Determine how much you can afford Based on your down payment, income, existing debt, regular expenditures, and other key financial information, we can help you determine how much you can afford to pay every month and the price range that works within your budget. 2) Team up with a real estate agent Finding a […]

Buying a home is a somewhat complicated transaction that involves a number of professionals who all perform different functions during the purchase process. REALTOR® – A realtor will locate houses in your price range and in the areas where you want to live. The realtor will present your “offer to purchase” to the seller until […]