by Kara Herbeson | Jul 4, 2025 | Blog, Finance
When most people think about accessing their home equity, it’s usually during times of financial stress such as unexpected expenses, job loss or the need for major home repairs. But your equity isn’t just a safety net. It’s also a powerful tool for growth. In other...
by Kara Herbeson | Jun 20, 2025 | Blog, Homeownership
There’s good news for first-time homebuyers! On May 27th, 2025, the federal government introduced legislation to provide a 100% rebate on the 5% GST (federal portion of HST) for first-time buyers of new or substantially renovated homes up to $1 million – potentially...
by Kara Herbeson | Jun 6, 2025 | Blog, Homeownership
If you’re buying your first home in 2025, you’re not alone in feeling the weight of the process. According to the latest Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation (CMHC) Mortgage Consumer Survey, first-time buyers are taking a thoughtful, long-term approach – and...
by Kara Herbeson | May 16, 2025 | Blog, Mortgage
When buying a home – especially in competitive markets – it can be tempting to make a “clean” offer (one without conditions) to appeal to the seller. But, be sure to listen to your mortgage agent and always thinking twice before waiving key conditions. These clauses...
by Kara Herbeson | May 2, 2025 | Blog, Homeownership
Applying for a mortgage can feel overwhelming, especially if you’re a first-time homebuyer, but being prepared helps ensure a much smoother and faster process. Just one missing document can add a lot of time and stress to your homebuying journey. One of the best ways...
by Kara Herbeson | Apr 21, 2025 | Blog, Homeownership
Young Canadians are jumping on first home savings accounts (FHSAs) as a way to help finance their homeownership dreams. In its debut year, nearly half a million Canadians opened an FHSA, according to fresh tax filing data from Statistics Canada. And it’s not...
by Kara Herbeson | Apr 5, 2025 | Blog, Mortgage
In today’s economic climate, many Canadians are feeling the pinch of rising mortgage payments and overall affordability. If you’re finding it hard to keep up with your mortgage, rest assured, you’re not alone. The good news is that there are several steps you can take...
by Kara Herbeson | Mar 21, 2025 | Blog, Mortgage
A portable mortgage can be a game-changer for homebuyers and homeowners, particularly if you’re anticipating changes in your housing needs and require extra flexibility before your term is up. It’s important to be aware that not all mortgages come equipped with this...
by Kara Herbeson | Mar 7, 2025 | Blog, Homeownership, Mortgage
With rising home prices and increased costs of living, more Canadians are relying on assistance from family and friends to help make homeownership a reality. A recent report from CIBC says that 31% of first-time homebuyers received financial support from family...
by Kara Herbeson | Feb 21, 2025 | Blog, Homeownership
Planning renovations that make your home more user-friendly and comfortable for your family is exciting. Using home equity to fund these projects may be an excellent financial strategy as you won’t have to tap into savings or take on high-interest debt. Home equity is...
