☕ Lattes vs. Home Savings: The Real “Pumpkin Math” 🎃

General 8 Oct

Fall is the season of cozy sweaters, changing leaves, and yes—pumpkin spice everything. While it’s easy to indulge in seasonal treats, it’s also a great time to reflect on where those small, everyday expenses go.

Let’s do the math:
The average pumpkin spice latte costs around $6.
Enjoy three a week? That’s $18/week or about $936/year.
Over five years, that’s nearly $4,700—enough to cover a good chunk of a down payment, closing costs, or home upgrades.

Of course, you don’t have to skip every latte (life’s too short for that). But making small, intentional swaps—like brewing at home or limiting takeout coffee—can make a big impact on your long-term goals.

Little choices add up, just like savings do. So this fall, enjoy your PSL guilt-free—but remember, the sweetest reward might just be the keys to your new home. 🏡✨

– Michele McGarvey Team, Dominion Lending Centres

Fall Maintenance Checklist

General 2 Oct

Protecting your home isn’t just about comfort—it’s about protecting one of your biggest investments. A little upkeep now can save you money (and stress) down the road.
✅ Clean your gutters – Prevent water damage by making sure leaves and debris aren’t clogging things up.
✅ Check your roof & shingles – Spotting issues early can keep small leaks from turning into costly repairs.
✅ Seal gaps & cracks – Keep the warm air in, the cold air out, and lower those heating bills.
✅ Service your furnace – A quick tune-up keeps it running efficiently and extends its lifespan.
✅ Winterize outdoor faucets – Drain hoses and shut off exterior taps to avoid frozen pipes.
✅ Test smoke & CO detectors – Safety first! Replace batteries if needed.
✅ Rake leaves & trim branches – Protect your yard and avoid damage from heavy snow later.
👉 Think of it like a check-up for your home. Just like keeping your mortgage in good health, regular maintenance makes sure your investment stays strong for years to come.
– Michele McGarvey Team, Dominion Lending Centres