JuanitaMortgages
Did you know? Approximately 15%+ of Canadians are self-employed, making this an important segment in the mortgage and financing space. When it comes to self-employed individuals seeking a mortgage, there are some key things to note as this process can differ from the standard mortgage.
Continue reading “Mortgages for the Self-Employed”
While you might think selling your home in winter is harder, with the right considerations it doesn’t have to be! When selling your home during warmer months, the focus is typically on curb appeal and gardening, as well as having bright colors and patterns to draw out different rooms. While curb appeal should not be forgotten in winter months, the focus should be centered on creating a warm, comfortable and welcoming space.
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When it comes to the holidays, buying gifts can be overwhelming and expensive. Fortunately, it isn’t the only option! If you have some extra time and talent, do-it-yourself gifts are a wonderful way to make your friends and family feel cherished. Thankfully, you don’t have to be a pro-level crafter to make someone a nice gift!
Here are some great ideas for homemade gifts to help you get started!
Continue reading “DiY Holiday Gifting”
Along with holiday joy come holiday bills, to avoid a sleigh-size tab, plan ahead to save money and maximize the payoff. Here are a few quick tips to make the holidays less stressful on your wallet!
Continue reading “Maximizing Your Holiday Budget”
When it comes time to renew your mortgage, most lenders will send you a renewal letter when there is 3 to 6 months remaining on your term. While nearly 60% of borrowers simply sign and send back their renewal without ever shopping around for a more favourable interest rate, I would urge you to take a moment to check out your options.
Continue reading “Up for Renewal?”
Step 1 – Your Credit Score
Whether you qualify for a mortgage through a bank, credit union or other financial institution, you should be aiming for a credit score of 680 for at least one borrower (or guarantor), especially if you are putting under 20% down. If you are able to make a larger down payment of 20% or more, then a score of 680 is not required.
Continue reading “7 Steps for Mortgage Prep”
It is hard to believe it is October already! Even though Fall has already started, there are a few things you can do still to ensure your home is well-prepared for the season:
Continue reading “Fall Home Tips”
While home inspections might not be the most exciting part of your home buying journey, they are extremely important and can save you money and a major headache in the long run.
In a competitive housing market, there can sometimes be pressure to make an offer right away without conditions. However, no matter how competitive a market may be, you should never skip out on things designed for buyer protection – such as a home inspection.
Continue reading “Why Invest in a Home Inspection”
Buying your first home is an incredible step in life, but it is not without its hurdles! One of which is demonstrating that you are creditworthy, which all comes down to your ability to manage credit. This is how lenders and credit agencies determine the interest rate you pay. A higher credit rating could mean a lower interest rate and save you thousands of dollars over the life of your mortgage.
There are several attributes that lenders consider before granting credit, and these are commonly referred to as the “Five C’s” and consist of: Character, Capacity, Capital, Collateral and Conditions.
Continue reading “Low Credit is Spooky! Get Better Credit With The 5 C’s”
A vast majority of parents are currently supporting their children (ages 18-35 years) financially, spending an average of $5,623 per year! This is an extensive additional cost that most parents cannot afford. In fact, over 30% of parents are seeing delayed retirement in order to help kids with post-secondary costs and are facing an inability or delayed timeframe in paying off their own debts.
As much as parents want to help their kids, it should not be done at the jeopardy of your own future. In fact, when it comes to teaching your children about money, there is no better time to start than now!
Continue reading “How to Talk to Your Kids About Finances”