Top 4 Factors to Consider When Choosing Your Mortgage With home prices and rates still relatively high, securing a mortgage can feel daunting––even to the most experienced borrowers. But don't let that deter you: If other homebuyers’ experiences are any indication, odds are you'll eventually find a home loan that works well for you.  In fact, research from the Real Estate and Mortgage Institute of Canada (REMIC) found that even after the Bank of Canada... [read more]

National Real Estate Market Update for 2023 There’s an old adage in real estate: location, location, location. But ever since the Bank of Canada began its series of inflation-fighting interest rate hikes last year, a new mantra has emerged: mortgage rates, mortgage rates, mortgage rates. Higher rates had the immediate impact of cooling homebuyer affordability and demand. But when the Bank of Canada announced in early March that it would put additional rate changes on hold, the... [read more]

Top 7 Tips To Attract the Best Offers for Your Home     Not long ago, home sellers were in their heyday, as historically-low mortgage rates triggered a real estate buying frenzy. However, the Bank of Canada shut down the party when it began raising interest rates last year.1 Now, it’s not as simple to sell a home. While pandemic-era homebuyers were racing the clock—trying to lock in a low mortgage rate and gain a foothold in the market—current buyers... [read more]

Celebrate Sustainably: 5 Ideas for an Eco-Friendly Holiday at Home It's the most wonderful time of the year. But for many families with festive plans and hectic schedules, it's also the most wasteful.  According to one survey, for example, 60% of respondents admitted to throwing away more than usual during the holiday months as they filled up their trash bins with uneaten food, wrapping paper, gift bags, and commercial packaging.1 The reality is, Canadians routinely... [read more]

Renovate or Relocate? 3 Questions To Help You Decide Does your current home no longer serve your needs? If so, you may be torn between relocating to a new home or renovating your existing one. This can be a difficult choice, and there’s a lot to consider—including potential costs, financial implications, and quality of life.  A major remodel can be a major commitment. From hiring contractors to selecting materials to managing a budget, it can take a tremendous... [read more]