Mortgage Renewal: Don’t Just Sign—Strategize!

General Michele McGarvey 25 Jun

When your mortgage comes up for renewal, it might seem easiest to sign the lender’s offer and move on. But that convenience could cost you. Your renewal is a perfect opportunity to reassess your financial goals and explore better options. With interest rates, home equity, and life circumstances constantly changing, the mortgage you needed five […]

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How to Choose the Right Mortgage Broker

General Michele McGarvey 16 Jun

Choosing the right mortgage broker can make a huge difference in your homebuying experience—and your long-term financial health. A good broker doesn’t just shop rates—they become your trusted guide through the entire mortgage process. Here’s what to look for: Experience & Knowledge: Look for someone who understands your local market and has a solid track […]

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Don’t Overlook Your Property Taxes – Here’s Why They Matter

General Michele McGarvey 9 Jun

Paying your property taxes might not be the most exciting part of homeownership, but it’s one of the most important. These taxes fund essential local services—like schools, emergency services, and road maintenance—and missing payments can lead to serious consequences, including late fees, interest, and even a tax lien on your home. One smart way to […]

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The Power of a Mortgage Rate Hold

General Michele McGarvey 30 May

Buying your first home is exciting—but it can also be overwhelming. One way to simplify the process and protect yourself is by securing a mortgage rate hold. A rate hold, typically valid for 90 to 120 days, locks in the current interest rate while you shop. If rates rise, you’re protected. And if rates drop, […]

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6 Spring Home Upgrades to Boost Comfort and Value

General Michele McGarvey 22 May

Spring is the perfect time to refresh your home. As the weather warms up, consider these six upgrades to enhance both your comfort and property value. 1. Kitchen Renovation A kitchen makeover adds beauty and function. Mid-sized renovations typically cost $25,000–$40,000 in Canada. 2. Roof Replacement Upgrade an aging roof to improve energy efficiency and […]

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The Smart Way to Track Your Financial Health

General Michele McGarvey 15 May

The Smart Way to Track Your Financial Health Paying off debt or hitting savings milestones can feel like major wins — and they are. But if you want a clearer picture of your overall financial progress, it’s important to look at more than individual goals. One of the best ways to measure your financial health […]

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Closing Costs – The Real Numbers You Need to Budget For

General Michele McGarvey 29 Jul

Buying a home is one of the most exciting ventures in life! To ensure it goes smoothly, you need to have a proper budget in place to protect your financial security and help you make the best decision for your future location. However, the cost of the home is not the only cost that you […]

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Proven Strategies To Lower Your Interest Rate

General Michele McGarvey 10 Jun

Lowering your interest rate can save you money over the life of a loan or credit card. Here are some proven strategies to help you accomplish that: Improve Your Credit Score: Lenders typically offer lower interest rates to borrowers with higher credit scores. Pay your bills on time, keep your credit card balances low, and […]

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Alternative Lending: Managing Mortgage Affordability

General Michele McGarvey 21 May

If you’re seeking a mortgage, but your application doesn’t fit into the box of the big traditional institutions, you’ll find yourself in what’s commonly referred to in the industry as the “Alternative-A” or “B” lending space. These lenders come in three classifications: Alt A lenders consist of banks, trust companies, and monoline lenders. These are large […]

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