Tag Archives: Housing Starts

Can the Canadian Housing Market Fix Itself?

The Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation released its second quarter housing market outlook today, stating that housing starts will likely moderate by the end of the year. While the market has remained hot through the first half of 2012, the Housing Corp. believes that both new and existing home market activity will eventually slow and even out.

Housing starts are expected in the range of 182,300 to 220,600 units this year, which is up from the roughly 164,000 to 212,700 forecasted back in 2012. The CMHC’s deputy chief economist, Mathieu Laberge, attributes this unexpected growth to condo construction, noting that the numbers varied significantly from month to month. Continue reading →

Retirement and Risky Real Estate

It’s hard to think about decreasing property values when listing prices are through the roof, but failure to understand and plan for the inevitable “bubble” burst could leave you high and dry, especially if you’re rounding the bend on retirement. According to Ben Rabidoux, a correspondent for the Globe and Mail, the next decade will likely be one of the most tumultuous in Canadian real estate history. Here’s what you should know. Continue reading →

Low Mortgage Rates = False Sense of Security?

Historically low interest rates are making it easier for Canadians to enter the real estate market. Why continue to rent when a mortgage payment could be less than your current monthly lease? If you’re considering the here and now, buying makes perfect sense. With the help of a seasoned mortgage broker, you can easily secure a best rate mortgage that’s cost-effective – but what happens when the market shifts and interest rates begin to rise? Continue reading →

Do You Know What a Property Disclosure Statement Is?

It’s standard practice for home sellers to freshen up their property prior to listing it on the market. A fresh coat of paint, new floors, or new light fixtures increase the value and marketability of a home. But sometimes these seemingly honest updates are done with the intentions of covering something up.

That’s why it’s crucial for homebuyers to always request a property disclosure statement. Seller’s are obligated to disclose any known defects to a potential buyer by way of this two page document. From zoning and water rights to plumbing, roofing, and structural damage, a property disclosure statement is designed to protect the buyer against a future of regret. Continue reading →

Housing Types

From townhouses to triplexes, there are numerous types of properties available to Canadian consumers. Not sure what layout works best for your family? Then check out our explanation of typical housing types below. Your mortgage payments and regular monthly bills may change depending on the kind of house you acquire, therefore it is vital that you carefully weigh the pros and cons related to each design before you make your final decision.

Condominiums

Condominiums, or condominiums as they’re commonly referred to, are a popular form of housing in larger cities. Inside a condominium contract, you own the unit, but do not own the land the unit is situated on, or any of the common space (lobby, gardens, and so on) outside of your unit. In order to ensure the suitable maintenance of these areas, condo proprietors are generally charged a monthly “condo fee.” Fee’s additionally help take care of things like elevator maintenance tasks, snow removal, and the use of any onsite recreational establishments (swimming pools, work-out devices, etc.). Don’t forget, these types of monthly fees are in addition to your residence mortgage payments. Continue reading →