November has a way of slowing us down. The days get shorter, the pace gets quieter, and we naturally start thinking about the things—and the people—that matter most. It’s a month centred around gratitude, reflection, and preparing for the season ahead.

That makes it the perfect time to take a thoughtful look at your mortgage protection.

Manulife Mortgage Protection Insurance (MPP) is designed to safeguard your greatest investment and your family’s financial well-being. None of us can predict the unexpected, but we can plan for it—so that if life takes a sudden turn, your home remains a place of comfort, stability, and security.

MPP can help cover your mortgage payments in the event of critical illness, disability, or death, providing peace of mind when your family would need it most. It’s one of those decisions that doesn’t take long, but makes a lasting impact.

As we move into the final weeks of the year, consider giving yourself the gift of confidence: knowing your home—and the people in it—are protected no matter what tomorrow brings.

– Michele McGarvey Team, Dominion Lending Centres

“You don’t need to have it all figured out — just take the next step.”

When it comes to homeownership, that advice couldn’t be more true. Whether you’re saving for your first home, thinking about a renewal, or planning to refinance, the journey can feel overwhelming if you try to see it all at once.

The truth is, big goals are built on small, intentional actions. Setting a budget, checking your credit, or talking with a mortgage professional — each step brings you closer to your goal.

You don’t have to have every answer today. What matters is progress — moving forward with clarity and confidence, one step at a time.

At the Michele McGarvey Team, we’re here to walk alongside you through every part of your mortgage journey. Whether you’re ready to buy, renew, or simply explore your options, we’ll help you take the next step toward the future you’re building.

Small steps today. Big dreams tomorrow. 🏡💙

– Michele McGarvey Team, Dominion Lending Centres

There’s something special about mornings at home. Whether it’s the smell of fresh coffee, the soft crackle of the fireplace, or that peaceful moment before the day begins — those quiet rituals shape more than just our mornings. They set the foundation for how we approach our goals, our finances, and even our future.

Your home is more than a place to live — it’s where your dreams take root. Taking just a few moments each morning to reflect on your priorities can help you stay aligned with what matters most. Maybe that means checking in on your budget, setting aside funds for renovations, or revisiting your mortgage plan to see if it still fits your lifestyle.

Mindful moments don’t have to be big ones. It’s the consistency — the decision to pause, plan, and stay intentional — that builds long-term success. A quick review today can lead to smarter financial choices, reduced stress, and a clearer path toward your goals.

So, as you sip that first cup of coffee tomorrow, take a moment for yourself and your future. After all, a great day — and a great life — starts right at home. ☕🏡

– Michele McGarvey Team, Dominion Lending Centres

As the seasons change, it’s a great time to look at small adjustments that can make a big impact—especially when it comes to your mortgage.

One simple switch? Moving from monthly payments to biweekly payments. It might not sound like much, but it can help you pay off your mortgage faster and save thousands of dollars in interest over the life of your loan.

Here’s how it works:
Instead of making 12 monthly payments per year, biweekly payments mean you make 26 half-payments. That adds up to the equivalent of 13 full payments a year—one extra payment going directly toward your principal.

✅ You’ll reduce your interest costs over time.
✅ You’ll build home equity faster.
✅ And you could cut years off your amortization—without increasing your total monthly budget.

It’s a small change that delivers big results, helping you own your home sooner.

So this fall, as you watch the leaves turn and cozy up indoors, consider giving your mortgage a little refresh, too. The payoff might surprise you!

– Michele McGarvey Team, Dominion Lending Centres

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

When it comes to buying a home, many people focus on saving for a down payment or finding the right property. But there’s another piece of the puzzle that plays a huge role in your mortgage options: your credit score.

Your credit score is essentially a snapshot of your financial reliability. Lenders use it to decide not only whether to approve your application, but also what kind of interest rate you’ll receive. A higher score signals lower risk for the lender, which often translates into lower rates and better terms for you. Over the life of a mortgage, this can add up to thousands of dollars in savings.

The good news? Your credit score isn’t set in stone. Making payments on time, keeping balances low compared to your limits, and avoiding unnecessary new credit can all help improve your score. Even small changes can make a noticeable difference over time.

If you’re planning to buy a home, your credit score should be part of your strategy. Understanding where you stand—and how to strengthen it—can put you in the best position when it’s time to apply for a mortgage.

– Michele McGarvey Team, Dominion Lending Centres

As the school year kicks off and families settle into their new routines, fall brings a fresh opportunity to focus on your housing plans. The hustle of summer moves and vacations slows down, making it an ideal time to think about what your next home chapter looks like.

Maybe your family needs more space for growing kids or a quieter neighbourhood close to their new school. Perhaps you’re ready to transition from renting to owning, building equity, and creating a home you love. Whatever your goals, fall’s stable routines and predictable schedules can make the home-buying process feel more manageable.

Getting pre-approved for a mortgage now can put you ahead of the curve when the market picks up again. It means you’ll shop with confidence and move quickly when the right home appears.

Remember, this season of new beginnings is more than just a fresh school year — it’s your chance to set the foundation for your family’s future. If buying or refinancing is on your mind, reach out. We’re here to help guide you every step of the way.

Fall into your perfect home this season — because every great journey starts with a solid first step.

– Michele McGarvey Team, Dominion Lending Centres

Life has a way of throwing curveballs when we least expect them. A sudden job loss, a serious illness, or the unexpected passing of a loved one can quickly change your financial picture. When your income is affected, the thought of keeping up with mortgage payments can feel overwhelming—and the last thing you need in those moments is the added fear of losing your home.

That’s where Manulife Mortgage Protection Plan (MPP) comes in. MPP is designed to step in during life’s toughest moments, helping cover your mortgage payments so you and your family can focus on what truly matters—recovery, healing, and moving forward.

Whether it’s short-term support during an illness or long-term protection for your loved ones in the event of your passing, Manulife provides peace of mind knowing your home is safeguarded. You’ve worked hard to build your life in your home—MPP helps ensure it stays yours, no matter what life brings. Think of it as a safety net for your biggest investment and your family’s sense of security.

– Michele McGarvey Team, Dominion Lending Centres