first home

Mortgage rules have changed. Again. What does this mean for you? The changes, which take effect January 1st, 2018 and have several impacts to you as a borrower: The average Kingston household will qualify for a $55,000 smaller mortgage. This represents a DECREASE of 15% in your borrowing power – no matter what you do or […]

Whether you’re a first-time homebuyer or you own a home and are thinking about moving, buying a new home is a major decision. From personal to financial to market considerations, you’ll need to weigh a lot of factors and information along the way. Bringing you expert, independent advice As a mortgage broker in Kingston ON, […]

Did you know that the majority of first-time homebuyers are Millennials? That’s right; Canadians born between 1980 and 1995 now represent a full 77 per cent of first-time homebuyers. If you fit the mold, then get a leg up on the competition as we enter the year’s hottest real estate month. Here are our five […]

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 […]