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  • Happy Holidays

    Happy Holidays

    The middle of winter has long been a time of celebration around the world.
    Many peoples rejoiced during the winter solstice, when the worst of the winter was behind them, and they could look forward to longer days and extended hours of sunlight.Popular modern customs include gift-giving and the display of various holiday decorations.Here's wishing you Happy Holidays! May the good times and treasures of the present become the golden memories of tomorrow. We hope you have a safe and relaxing holiday season.Happy Holidays!

  • Are “Good Rates” About to Wake Real Estate?

    Are “Good Rates” About to Wake Real Estate?

    Slide 1

    Rates finally sit in a “good place,” but buyer confidence hasn’t fully bounced back yet.

    Slide 2

    Canada’s nine rate cuts brought major relief, yet affordability still challenges first-time buyers nationwide.

    Slide 3

    Lower borrowing costs usually boost sales, so stronger buyer activity could show up early next year.

    Slide 4

    A recession-triggering trade fight could stall housing, even though only 16% fear buying right now.

    Slide 5

    Despite uncertainty, limited detached-home construction means anyone waiting for a price crash may wait years.

  • How to Use a First Home Savings Account (FHSA)

    The First Home Savings Account (FHSA) helps first-time Canadian home buyers save up to $40,000 tax-free for a down payment. Contributions are tax-deductible, with an $8,000 annual limit and carry-forward allowed. Withdrawals for qualifying home purchases are tax-free, while non-qualifying withdrawals are taxed. Funds can be invested tax-free and transferred to RRSPs if unused. The FHSA complements the Home Buyers’ Plan but has lower contribution limits.

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  • Will Canada Cut Rates Again?

    Will Canada Cut Rates Again?

    Analysts see December as a pause, not the end of easing, with more cuts possible if growth and jobs weaken.

    Economic slack, labor softness, and trade tensions increase pressure for additional policy support in 2026.

    Bank signals limits of monetary policy amid tariffs, but economists expect further easing if conditions deteriorate.

    Fiscal stimulus may help, but slow impact could prompt renewed cuts if unemployment rises or demand cools.

  • How To Increase Your Odds Of Securing A Mortgage When Self-Employed

    Getting a mortgage as a self-employed individual is challenging due to income variability and stricter lender rules. To improve approval chances, increase your down payment to lower loan-to-value ratio, maintain a strong financial cushion, reduce existing debt to improve debt-to-income ratio, boost your credit score, and establish at least two years of positive business cash flow. Proper preparation can make you a more attractive borrower.

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  • How to navigate buying and selling a home at the same time

    Timing the sale of your current home with the purchase of a new one can be challenging. Understanding local market conditions is crucial, as buying in a seller's or buyer's market affects pricing and timing. Deciding whether to buy or sell first depends on financial and logistical factors, with options like renting out your old home or using contingencies. Working with an experienced real estate agent familiar with simultaneous transactions can help navigate timing, strategy, and negotiations effectively.

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  • Preparing to get a mortgage

    Before applying for a mortgage, check your credit report for errors and ensure a good credit score to avoid denial or co-signing requirements. Lenders assess your income, expenses, debts, and credit to calculate your gross debt service (GDS) ratio, which should not exceed 39%, and total debt service (TDS) ratio, which should stay below 44%. Passing a stress test at a higher qualifying interest rate is mandatory for federally regulated lenders.

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  • Rate Cut Again: Can Housing Survive This?

    Rate Cut Again: Can Housing Survive This?

    Slide 1:
    BoC rate ↓ 25 bps, ninth cut since May 2024.

    Slide 2:
    Rate trims buy time, yet falling home prices and high debt still loom large.

    Slide 3:
    Unemployment climbs, GDP growth slows — Canada faces tough economic transition and rising risks.

    Slide 4:
    Household debt is sky-high, leaving little room for borrowing to boost the economy.

    Slide 5:
    Housing bubble bursts quietly while policy rate cuts can’t fix domestic financial instability.

  • Steady Rates Until 2027: Buyers Eye Year-End Market?

    Steady Rates Until 2027: Buyers Eye Year-End Market?

    Slide 1
    “BoC holds rates steady, signalling calm until 2027.”

    Slide 2
    “Inflation stays on target, economy grows 2.6%, resilient despite U.S. tariffs.”

    Slide 3
    “Home prices fell 3.2% in 2025, but modest 1.8% growth expected 2026.”

    Slide 4
    “First-time buyers finally see improved affordability thanks to rate cuts and moderation.”

    Slide 5
    “Stable rates, moderate price growth, targeted government support: 2026 feels buyer-friendly.”

  • Things not to do when finalizing mortgage financing

    Between removing your financing subject and finalizing a home purchase, avoid actions that could jeopardize your mortgage approval. Key cautions include promptly informing your mortgage professional of changes like closing dates, not financing new purchases without approval, making all payments on time, not co-signing loans, not changing jobs without consultation, and preserving your down payment funds. Always communicate changes to prevent last-minute issues.

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