The Canadian mortgage market experienced a number of changes this past year. There were some ups and there were certainly some downs. The following are some of the biggest trends from the past year, and how we expect the market to unfold in 2012. Continue reading
Category Archives: General Interest
Mortgage Brokers Offer Tangible Benefits
Very few people can afford to pay for their property in full. This is by no means a bad thing – property is expensive and it’s perfectly normal for an investment of this size to require long-term financial planning.
That’s what mortgages are all about.
Banks and lenders provide individuals with the option of borrowing money in order to afford a property purchase. But how do you know what kind of lending agreements are out there? The most obvious course of action is to head to your bank. But let’s not be hasty. Banks can only provide you with access to a small slice of the mortgage pie. A qualified mortgage broker, on the other hand, can connect you with lenders of all shapes and sizes, including trust companies, chartered banks, credit unions and private funds. Continue reading
How to Get a Mortgage When You’re Self-Employed
More and more Canadians are leaving the head office for a home office, quitting corporate jobs in order to start their own companies. In fact, statistics show that nearly 20% of all income earners in Canada are now self-employed. Which is fantastic… until you need to apply for an affordable mortgage rate. Securing a mortgage when you own your own company can be difficult, especially if your business is relatively new. Today, lenders want proof of a stable income before considering adding you to their accounts. Here are a few ways to ease the process and increase your chances of qualifying for the best mortgage rates. Continue reading
How to Check Your Credit Score
Did you know that your credit score can mean the difference between an affordable mortgage rate and an astronomical one? This three-digit number can unlock endless possibilities for your financial future, but only if you know how to properly maintain it. The first step? Knowing how to check your credit rating. Continue reading
How to Break Your Mortgage Without Breaking the Bank
Interest rates are low, and from the looks of things, should remain stable well into 2012. If you’re currently paying out the nose because you’re locked into a fixed-rate mortgage, now could be a good time to break your mortgage and refinance your rate. Unfortunately, trying to break a mortgage before your term is up can be a nightmare experience. The penalties for bailing early can be high, so don’t be rash with your decision. Consult with a mortgage broker before you dive in head first. Continue reading