by Kara Herbeson | Sep 2, 2022 | Blog, Economy
Everyone seems to be talking about inflation more than ever these days. And while Inflation in Canada has come down a little recently, it remains far too high. After rising rapidly to reach 8.1% in June, inflation as measured by the consumer price index (CPI) was 7.6%...
by Kara Herbeson | Aug 19, 2022 | Blog, Homeownership
Toronto recently joined the roster of Canadian cities allowing for garden suites – secondary freestanding backyard homes that tie into a main residence’s services and utilities – which has many people wondering how this could help make housing more affordable. Garden...
by Kara Herbeson | Aug 5, 2022 | Blog, Economy, Finance
As inflation soars to a 40-year high, and with interest rates expected to continue rising, many Canadians are feeling financially stretched. For those with a mortgage up for renewal, the prospect of dealing with higher mortgage payments is very real. That said, there...
by Kara Herbeson | Jul 15, 2022 | Announcements, Blog, Economy, Homeownership
In an effort to stabilize the economy and curtail rising inflation and hot housing markets, the Bank of Canada (BoC) has been steadily increasing interest rates – most recently on July 13th when the overnight rate rose a full percent, which was the fourth consecutive...
by Kara Herbeson | Jul 1, 2022 | Blog, Homeownership
Ottawa has launched the first phase of its Canada Greener Home Loan program, which offers interest-free loans to Canadians planning upgrades that will have a significant impact in reducing their home’s environmental footprint. The program provides interest-free loans...
by Kara Herbeson | Jun 17, 2022 | Blog, Homeownership, Mortgage
As the number of Canadians living alone continues to rise and the average size of households shrinks, the idea of the “nuclear family” as the typical Canadian household isn’t as accurate as it has been in past decades. If you’re buying a home on your own and wish to...
by Kara Herbeson | Jun 3, 2022 | Blog, Economy, Homeownership, Mortgage
Over the past few years, house prices have seen staggering growth, rising significantly faster than average incomes and making the dream of homeownership increasingly difficult. Rising interest rates and relentless competition are also contributing to a sizzling...
by Kara Herbeson | May 20, 2022 | Blog, Homeownership, Mortgage
Buying a home can be challenging, especially when you’re saving up for a down payment based on higher property values in a hot market, as well as budgeting for closing costs, furniture, home improvements and so on. Fortunately, there were a number of new and renewed...
by Kara Herbeson | May 6, 2022 | Blog, Finance, Homeownership
Rather than going it alone, you may want to consider hiring a property manager whose services can be indispensable. If, for instance, you aren’t inclined to dedicate your coveted free time to emergency requests, weekend repairs or filling vacancies, leave the details...
by Kara Herbeson | Apr 22, 2022 | Blog
In recognition of Earth Day on April 22nd, many households plan to get connected with the earth by helping create meaningful change and making the planet a healthier place to live. This is also a great opportunity to show your kids how being a responsible homeowner or...