Mortgage Research

The Government of Canada has introduced major mortgage reforms to make homeownership more accessible and affordable for Canadians. In this blog, we're talking about what is changing and how this impacts our community.

Changes include:

• Borrowers switching lenders at renewal will not need to complete the Stress Test
  • Canada’s banking regulator, OSFI, is poised to ease mortgage rules for homeowners looking to switch lenders during mortgage renewal. Effective November 21, borrowers renewing with a different lender will no longer need to complete the mortgage stress test, simplifying the process for those with uninsured mortgages. In the past, even a straightforward renewal switch required borrowers to demonstrate their ability to manage payments at a rate 2% higher than the new mortgage contract rate. This posed significant challenges as rates climbed to 6%, bringing the stress test rate to 8%. While insured mortgages were already exempt from this requirement, uninsured borrowers will now receive similar treatment.
• Higher Insured-Mortgage Cap
  • Starting December 15, 2024, the insured mortgage cap will increase from $1 million to $1.5 million—the first adjustment since 2012! This update better aligns with today’s housing market, allowing more Canadians to qualify for a mortgage with less than a 20% down payment.
• Extended 30-Year Amortization
  • Also coming into effect December 15, 2024, first-time homebuyers and new-build purchasers will be eligible for 30-year mortgage amortizations (previously capped at 25 years) on insured mortgages. The longer amortization period will help make home ownership more affordable by lowering monthly mortgage payments. The change should also encourage new home construction to help ease the housing shortage.

These reforms build on earlier initiatives from 2024, including:

• RRSP Home Buyer’s Plan
  • The limit was raised from $35,000 to $60,000, offering Canadians more flexibility when using their savings for a home purchase.
• Permanent Amortization Relief
  • Homeowners facing rising mortgage payments now have long-term support through this measure.

As more details are announced we will keep you informed, but these updates are designed to create new pathways to homeownership. Whether you're considering a move, or nearing mortgage renewal, now’s the perfect time to explore your options!

If you have any questions or need personalized advice on how these changes impact you, The House Team is here to help. Call our team at (613) 962-1388 or request a free appointment HERE. We are here to make the process as smooth and stress-free as possible.

Recent data from Mortgage Professionals Canada shows that 23% of all Canadian mortgage holders will renew their mortgage within the next year, and a staggering 50% will renew within two years.
 
So chances are, you are looking at a mortgage renewal within the next two years and if not, unless you are in the enviable position of being able to pay off your mortgage at the end of your current term, a mortgage renewal will be on the horizon for you.
 
When it comes to renewing your mortgage, whether you’re looking to lower your monthly payments, tap into home equity, or take advantage of the latest mortgage trends, preparing for your renewal can unlock new opportunities.

Here are a few tips to put yourself in the most advantageous position possible at renewal time:

1. Start early.

Begin by reaching out to a mortgage broker four to six months before your renewal date. We’ll review your current mortgage and start exploring options. It’s smart to get a 120-day rate hold so you’re protected against any rate increases while we shop around or, perhaps we’ll explore a more flexible solution that fits your evolving financial goals.

2. Review your financial goals.

Is your financial situation the same as when we last negotiated your mortgage? Whether you're planning to pay off your mortgage faster or want to access home equity for renovations or investments, this is the time to re-evaluate your priorities and make any necessary adjustments to your mortgage.

3. Consider variable rates.

With the Bank of Canada’s recent rate cuts, and more expected, variable rate mortgages are regaining some of their former popularity. Many homeowners are turning to this option for potential cost savings. If you’ve been locked into a fixed-rate mortgage, it might be worth discussing a switch to a variable rate at renewal with your mortgage broker. 

4. Leverage your home equity.

If you've built up equity in your home, you can use this to consolidate debt, invest, or cover significant expenses like home renovations. Together, we can explore options that allow you to access equity while keeping your payments manageable. 
            
Note: This option can also be explored outside of mortgage renewal time. If you want to discuss how you can leverage your home equity at any point during your mortgage term, get in touch with our team for a review of your situation.

5. Shop around for the best rate.

Don’t assume your current lender offers the best deal. Shopping around can help you secure a better interest rate or more favourable terms. Reach out and we can do the heavy lifting for you, comparing multiple lenders and options to find what suits you best. 

6. Get pre-approved.

If you're considering switching lenders or mortgage products, getting pre-approved ensures you're ready when it’s time to renew. Pre-approval locks in a rate, so you’re protected if rates rise. 

7. Plan for the future.

Your mortgage renewal is a great time to reassess your financial plans. Will you need a mortgage that's flexible with prepayment options, or are you focused on paying it off quickly? Plan with both short-term needs and long-term goals in mind. 
 
Taking a proactive approach to your mortgage renewal could save you thousands of dollars and set you up for long-term financial success. The House Team is here to help you navigate the renewal process and find the best solution for your needs. 

If you have any questions or need personalized advice on your mortgage needs, The House Team is here to help. Call our team at (613) 962-1388 or request a free appointment HERE. We are here to make the process as smooth and stress-free as possible.
 
 

Learn how external financial factors can influence your mortgage rates 

In the ever-evolving landscape of mortgage financing, it’s crucial to understand how external financial factors can influence your mortgage rates. One significant factor is the bond yield market, both in Canada and the US. Here’s a breakdown of how bond yields impact mortgage rates and why staying informed matters for your financial decisions. 

What Are Bond Yields? 

Bond yields are essentially the return on investment for bondholders. When investors buy bonds, they are lending money to the government or corporations in exchange for periodic interest payments and the return of the principal amount upon maturity. The yield represents the annual return on these bonds, expressed as a percentage of the bond’s current market price. 

How Bond Yields Affect Mortgage Rates 

1. The correlation between bond yields and mortgage rates: Mortgage rates are closely linked to government bond yields, particularly the 10-year bond yields in Canada and the US. This is because mortgage lenders often use the yields on these bonds as a benchmark to set their interest rates. When bond yields rise, the cost of borrowing for lenders increases, which in turn raises mortgage rates. Conversely, when bond yields fall, borrowing costs decrease, leading to lower mortgage rates. 
2. Economic indicators: Bond yields are influenced by various economic indicators such as inflation rates, economic growth, and central bank policies. For example, if inflation expectations rise, bond yields may increase as investors demand higher returns to compensate for the eroding purchasing power. This rise in yields usually translates into higher mortgage rates. Similarly, if the central bank signals that it will raise interest rates to combat inflation, bond yields may increase, leading to higher mortgage rates.
3. Market sentiment and risk: Bond yields can also be affected by investor sentiment and risk appetite. During times of economic uncertainty or financial market turbulence, investors may flock to safer assets like government bonds, driving up bond prices and pushing down yields. In such scenarios, mortgage rates may decrease as the lower bond yields make borrowing cheaper for lenders. Conversely, in a booming economy, investors might seek higher returns from riskier assets, pushing bond yields up and causing mortgage rates to rise. 

The Canadian and US Bond Yield Dynamic 

While Canadian and US bond yields often move in tandem due to the interconnected nature of the global economy, differences in economic conditions and central bank policies can lead to variations between the two countries. For instance, if the US Federal Reserve raises interest rates more aggressively than the Bank of Canada, US bond yields may rise relative to Canadian yields, potentially leading to a wider spread between US and Canadian mortgage rates. 

What does it mean for you? 

Understanding these dynamics can help you make informed decisions about your mortgage. If you’re considering a new mortgage or refinancing, keeping an eye on bond yields and related economic news can provide insight into future rate trends. It’s also advisable to work closely with your mortgage professional to navigate these fluctuations and secure the best possible rate for your situation. 

Bond yields play a pivotal role in shaping mortgage rates. By staying informed about bond market trends and their implications, you can better manage your mortgage strategy and make decisions that align with your financial goals. If you have any questions or need personalized advice on your mortgage needs, The House Team is here to help. Call our team at (613) 962-1388 or request a free appointment at https://www.thehouseteam.ca/request-an-appointment.

Understanding the real facts about mortgages is crucial for making informed decisions that can save you time, money, and stress.

There are many myths out there about mortgages that can lead to confusion or missed opportunities. Today, we’ll debunk some of the most common mortgage myths.

Myth #1: You Need a 20% Down Payment

While it's true that a 20% down payment can help you avoid mortgage loan insurance and reduce your monthly payments, it's not a hard and fast rule. There are several loan options available that require much lower down payments as long as you have insurance.

For example, Canada has three mortgage insurance companies CMHC, Sagen, and Canada Guaranty which allow you to put down as little as 5% if the house is under one million dollars. If the home you are looking to purchase is over one million dollars, the minimum down is 20%. Don't let the 20% myth hold you back from exploring your options!

Myth #2: Prequalification and Preapproval Are the Same

It’s easy to confuse prequalification with preapproval, but they serve different purposes. Prequalification is an initial estimate of how much you might be able to borrow, based on self-reported information. It's a useful starting point but not a guarantee. Preapproval, on the other hand, involves a thorough credit and financial check, providing a more accurate and reliable estimate of your borrowing power. This can make a significant difference when you're ready to make an offer on a home.

Myth #3: You Can’t Get a Mortgage with Student Loans

Many people believe that having student loans automatically disqualifies them from getting a mortgage. However, if you meet the required ratios and have a good credit history, student loans do not have to be a barrier to homeownership. Lenders consider several factors, including your debt-to-income ratio, credit score, and employment history. To improve your chances, focus on reducing existing debt and avoiding new loans. Maintaining a good credit score by making timely payments on your student loans will enhance your mortgage application. With diligence and the right strategy, balancing student loan payments and securing a mortgage is within reach.

Myth #4: The Lowest Rate Is Always the Best Option

While securing the lowest mortgage interest rate may seem like the best option, it's essential to consider the bigger picture. A lower rate can be enticing, but it often comes with trade-offs such as higher fees, or less favourable loan terms. It's crucial to evaluate the overall cost of the mortgage, including closing costs, fees, and the loan's duration. Sometimes, a slightly higher interest rate might come with better terms, such as lower closing costs or more favourable repayment options, which could be more beneficial in the long run. 

Myth #5: You Should Always Choose a 30-Year Fixed Mortgage

The 30-year fixed mortgage is popular for its stability and predictability, but it’s not the only option. Depending on your financial situation and goals, a 15-year fixed mortgage or an adjustable-rate mortgage (ARM) might be more beneficial. For example, a 15-year mortgage can save you money on interest and help you build equity faster, while an ARM might be advantageous if you plan to move or refinance within a few years.

Understanding the realities behind these common mortgage myths can empower you to make better decisions and take advantage of the opportunities available to you. If you have any questions or need personalized advice on your mortgage needs, The House Team is here to help. Call our team at (613) 962-1388 or request a free appointment at https://www.thehouseteam.ca/request-an-appointment.

Find out which home improvement projects offer the highest return on investment

For many homeowners, home improvements aren't just about creating a more comfortable living space—they're also key to boosting property value. Here are the home improvement projects that offer the highest return on investment (ROI), and some helpful tips on balancing costs and benefits.

High-ROI Home Improvement Projects

• Kitchen Renovations: Upgrading your kitchen can have a significant impact on your property's value. New cabinets, countertops, and appliances can refresh the space, making it more appealing to potential buyers. Kitchen renovations offer an average ROI of up to 70-80%. For cost-effective upgrades, consider minor changes such as replacing hardware or painting cabinets, which can still create a substantial visual impact.

• Bathroom Upgrades: Modernizing bathrooms, including fixtures, lighting, and tiling, can significantly boost value. Such projects can offer an ROI of up to 60-70%. To balance costs, consider reglazing tubs or replacing faucets, which provide an immediate facelift at a fraction of the cost.

• Energy-Efficient Upgrades: Installing energy-efficient windows, doors, and appliances not only increases the immediate value of your home but also leads to long-term savings through lower energy bills. The ROI of these upgrades can be measured both in terms of immediate value increase and long-term savings.

• Curb Appeal Enhancements: Enhancing the exterior of your home through landscaping, painting, or installing new doors can significantly improve its curb appeal, offering an immediate visual impact. Such projects can yield an ROI of up to 90-100%.

Balancing Costs and Benefits

• DIY vs. Professional Help: Deciding whether to take on a renovation yourself or hire a professional requires careful consideration of several factors. First, evaluate the complexity of the project. If it involves specialized skills, such as electrical or plumbing work, or significant structural changes, it may be safer and more efficient to hire a professional. Next, assess your own skills, time, and resources. Consider the potential for mistakes that could lead to higher repair costs down the line. You will also want to examine your budget; professional help may increase initial expenses, but can ensure quality work that adds lasting value to your home. 
• Budgeting: Start by setting a clear budget that reflects your goals, project scope, and current financial situation. Consider breaking down costs into categories, such as materials, labour, permits, and contingency funds for unforeseen expenses. 

For financing, explore options such as home equity loans or lines of credit, which leverage your home's existing equity for funds. Personal loans are another alternative, offering fixed interest rates and repayment terms. Comparing different financing options, understanding their terms, and aligning them with your renovation goals will ensure your project stays on track and within budget.

• Future-Proofing: Choosing renovations that will add value to your home now and for years to come requires a strategic approach. Focus on projects that enhance both functionality and aesthetics. For instance, modernizing kitchens and bathrooms can create immediate appeal while remaining relevant over time. Additionally, consider energy-efficient upgrades, such as improved insulation, windows, and appliances, which not only lower energy bills now but also attract environmentally conscious buyers in the future. Curb appeal enhancements, like landscaping and exterior improvements, offer immediate visual impact and contribute to long-term value. 

This strategic combination of current appeal and enduring functionality can yield substantial returns for years to come.

Focusing on high-ROI projects, balancing costs, and making informed decisions are key to successful home improvements. If you have any questions or are considering exploring mortgage options to fund your upgrades, contact The House Team. We are here to help! Call our team at (613) 962-1388 or request a free appointment at https://www.thehouseteam.ca/request-an-appointment.

The Government of Canada unveiled its federal budget on April 16th, 2024

As your trusted mortgage broker, we’re always on the lookout for developments that can impact your homeownership journey. This blog brings hopeful news on the housing front that we're eager to share with you.

Federal Budget & Housing Investments

On April 16th, 2024, the Government of Canada unveiled its federal that lays out the government’s bold strategy for those looking to buy a home or struggling with housing affordability. The budget is allocating billions of dollars toward the construction of new homes and supporting low-cost housing programs.

This commitment to substantial investments in housing comes at a crucial time. Canada's housing affordability crisis has been exacerbated by a rapidly increasing population and economic pressures like high inflation and interest rates — the highest we've seen in 22 years. These factors have made it more challenging for many

Canadians to find affordable homes or keep up with rent and mortgage costs.

What This Means for You

The upcoming investments aim to ease these pressures by increasing the supply of homes and making housing more accessible to everyone. This includes significant support for the construction of new homes and enhancing low-cost housing programs. 

This strategy is set to unlock 3.87 million new homes by 2031, which includes a minimum of 2 million net new homes on top of the 1.87 million homes expected to be built anyway by 2031. 

This budget also announced the new Tax-Free Home Savings Account, which is a registered savings account that allows Canadians to contribute up to $8,000 per year (up to a lifetime limit of $40,000) for their first down payment. 

To learn more about the full extent of these plans, visit The Government of Canada’s 2024 Federal Budget Report. 

Looking Ahead

It's important to note that while these investments are a step in the right direction, the impact won't be immediate. Canada needs to build 315,000 new residences annually through 2030 to keep pace with population growth — a challenging but necessary target to ensure a future where everyone can afford a place to call home.

Our Commitment to You

We understand that navigating the housing market, especially in times of change, can be overwhelming. We are here to help you understand what these developments mean for your individual situation and how you can leverage them to your advantage. Whether you're buying your first home, looking to invest, or exploring refinancing options, we are here to provide you with expert advice and solutions tailored to your needs.

Please reach out with any questions or for a personalized consultation. Remember, we’re more than just your mortgage broker; we are YOUR partner in making homeownership dreams come true. 

You can call (613) 962-1388 or request a free appointment at https://www.thehouseteam.ca/request-an-appointment.
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Canada's banking regulator, The Office of the Superintendent of Financial Institutions (OSFI), is introducing a new portfolio test to manage the risk associated with highly indebted borrowers, especially as mortgage rates are set to potentially decrease which may make it easier for individuals to qualify for larger loans. This test will monitor banks' quarterly loan-to-income ratios, specifically focusing on ensuring that the portion of a bank’s uninsured mortgage loans exceeding 4.5 times a borrower's income remains under a certain threshold. This initiative stems from concerns that loans exceeding 4.5 times borrower income significantly increase the likelihood of default, especially in the context of the recent trend of low interest rates followed by sharp increases since spring 2022.

The portfolio test is not designed to directly impact individual borrowers' ability to secure mortgage loans. Unlike the mortgage stress test, this measure targets banks' uninsured mortgage loan portfolios as a whole rather than imposing additional requirements on homebuyers. This regulatory move is part of a series of anticipated adjustments to mortgage guidelines aimed at preventing the build-up of high-risk loans during low-interest-rate periods.

Imagine this: you've come across the perfect home, and you're thrilled to make an offer. But, here's the key question—should you include a financing condition? The simple answer, especially in today's environment of rising interest rates, is a categorical yes!

When you submit an offer to purchase with a financing condition, you're granting yourself a vital window of time, typically three to five days. This timeframe is essential to ensure that you receive full approval. Your lender, much like you, wants to feel confident about the property's value and suitability. They will perform an assessment because, ultimately, the property serves as their collateral in case of any unforeseen issues. 

A mortgage preapproval does not automatically guarantee that the lender will accept the property. In today's dynamic market, there are various factors at play: 

1. Impact of rising interest rates: The recent surge in interest rates could alter the affordability of the property. Your lender may need to reassess your mortgage considering these changes.  
2. Location: The property's address may no longer align with the lender's preferred location due to changes in market dynamics. 
3. Historical factors: Concerns over the property's history, such as former grow-ops, environmental issues, or zoning complications, can raise red flags. 
4. Appraisal adjustments: Given the shifting market, the property's appraised value might not correspond with the offer you've made. 

It's crucial not to let the excitement of homebuying cloud your judgment. While a mortgage preapproval serves as a useful guideline, it isn't set in stone. Lenders may reassess your eligibility, particularly if your financial circumstances or income have evolved since the preapproval. Including that 'conditional on financing' clause empowers you to revisit your lender and, if necessary, withdraw your offer. 

Submitting an offer without conditions can expose you to substantial risk. If financing unexpectedly falls through, you could lose your deposit and potentially face legal action from the seller. However, if you're determined to submit an offer without a financing condition, our team can help you navigate this risky path. This involves conducting a review of all related documents, listing information, and reaching out to the lender and insurer before drafting your offer. While this approach can alleviate some risk, it's important to remember that there are no 100% guarantees.

Contact The House Team now to guide you through your home-buying journey to ensure it ends on a positive note, even in the face of rising interest rates! You can call (613) 962-1388 or request a free appointment at https://www.thehouseteam.ca/request-an-appointment.

These days, like so many things, your credit score is easily accessible and free. Not so long ago, the only way to see your credit score was to obtain a copy of your credit report, which involved submitting a request and paying for the privilege. 

In 2014, however, legislation was passed that transformed the credit reporting landscape and Canadian consumers now enjoy the convenience of instant access to their credit score. While it can be an incredibly useful tool to give you a general idea of your financial standing and to protect yourself against identity theft or fraud, it’s important to understand that your free credit score (often referred to as a “consumer credit score” or “educational credit score”) isn’t what lenders use to make lending decisions.

In Canada, there are two credit bureaus – Equifax and TransUnion – that collect information from various sources (banks, lending institutions, government agencies, landlords, utility companies, telecom companies, etc.) to build your credit file. Your file contains a lot of detail about you such as employment history, payment history, outstanding debts, credit inquiries, plus any public records pertaining to finances. The credit bureaus use various complex scoring models to interpret the data and assign you a 3-digit credit score ranging from the lowest (300) to the highest (900). The higher the score, the better. 

While most people think their credit score and their credit report are the same thing, they are not. Think of your credit report as your financial report card and your credit score as your overall grade. Your credit score does carry some weight with lenders, but it’s just a starting point. To determine what kind of risk you are likely to be as a borrower, they must delve a little deeper into your file to get the complete picture.

Some Of The Key Areas That Lenders Take Into Consideration Include:

• PAYMENT HISTORY: It’s simple but extremely important. Do you consistently pay your bills on time? This is a key behaviour that lenders are looking for and one of the strongest predictors that you are likely to meet your financial obligations in future. It is generally the most heavily weighted factor in most credit scoring models.

• CREDIT UTILIZATION: Creditors and lenders look favourably at someone who isn’t maxing out their available credit. Even if you’re not missing payments, keeping your accounts near their maximum limit can be interpreted by lenders as a sign that you’re not able to manage your spending.

• CREDIT MIX: It’s generally preferred by lenders to have a diverse mix of credit in your file. For example, someone with a credit card, loan and mortgage might be viewed more positively than someone with three credit cards.

• RECENT CREDIT INQUIRIES: If lenders see that you’ve opened or applied for multiple credit accounts recently, they might be concerned as this may suggest an increased borrowing risk. One of the advantages of working with a mortgage broker is that we can submit your mortgage application to multiple lenders with only one credit inquiry.

• CREDIT HISTORY: Lenders look at your credit history to understand your financial behaviour over time. A well-documented history of responsible credit behaviour is usually a very good indication that you will be able to manage debt in future.

• PUBLIC RECORDS AND COLLECTIONS: Bankruptcies, liens, judgments, and accounts in collections are red flags for lenders as they indicate potential financial difficulties.

So, What Does This Mean?

So while that free credit score you got likely included some basic information such as current balances, recent credit inquiries, any missed payments, etc., it's nowhere near the amount of detail that lenders see when they pull your credit bureau. 

As your mortgage broker, our team possesses extensive knowledge and experience in the mortgage industry. We can review your credit together in a stress-free environment to provide a comprehensive understanding of your creditworthiness from a mortgage lender's perspective, help you gain valuable insights into how lenders perceive your financial profile and help you understand your mortgage eligibility. 

The House Team can also provide guidance on improving your creditworthiness, if necessary. If your mortgage renewal date is approaching, if you're contemplating a move or if you'd just like a mortgage review, please feel free to get in touch with us! You can call (613) 962-1388 or request a free appointment at https://www.thehouseteam.ca/request-an-appointment.

Bridge financing provides a smooth transition between mortgages

Summer is officially in full swing which means vacation time, backyard barbecues, pool parties, etc., but summer is also “moving season”. If you’re one of the many Canadians who will be moving this summer, we want to talk about a topic that could be very useful for you: bridge financing.

As the name implies, bridge financing is a type of short-term loan that can help you cover the gap between buying a new home and selling your current one. It can provide you with the funds you need to make a down payment on your new home, pay for closing costs, or cover any other expenses related to your move.

Bridge financing offers certain advantages that can make your move easier and more affordable.

Here are a few:

Flexibility – You have more control over the timing of your move. You don't have to worry about selling your home before you can buy a new one or finding a temporary place to stay while you wait for your closing date. You can move into your new home as soon as it's available and pay off your bridge loan when you sell your old one.

Confidence – You can avoid some costly mistakes that might arise when buying and selling in a competitive market. For example, you don't have to accept a low offer on your home just because you need the money quickly or settle for a less-than-ideal home just because it's available. You can take some time to find the best deal for both transactions and negotiate with confidence.

Savings – You can save money in the long run. Depending on your situation, you might be able to avoid paying for two mortgages at the same time or paying rent while you wait for your new home. You might also be able to avoid paying for mortgage insurance or higher interest rates if you have a larger down payment thanks to your bridge loan.

Of course, bridge financing is not for everyone. It has some drawbacks and challenges that you should be aware of before you apply for it. For example, bridge financing can be more expensive than other types of loans, as it usually comes with higher interest rates and fees. It can also be harder to qualify for, as lenders will look at your income, credit history, and equity in both homes. And it can add more stress and uncertainty to your move, as you will have two loans to repay and two properties to manage.

So, before you decide if bridge financing is or isn't right for you, let's have a conversation. Working with a trusted mortgage professional means you have access to many options. We can assess your financial situation and find the best lender and loan for your needs. If it's determined that bridge financing is a smart move for you, a trusted mortgage professional will guide you through the process, answer any questions you have, and help you avoid any potential pitfalls along the way.

If you are interested in learning more about bridge financing, or if you have any other questions pertaining to your mortgage, reach out to The House Team! Whether you're making a move in the near future, renewing your mortgage, if you're feeling stifled by your debt load, or if you have a large expense coming up and want to explore some financing solutions, let's talk about ways to help you achieve your goals.

Schedule a free, no-obligation review of your situation at https://www.thehouseteam.ca/request-an-appointment

Learn more about this registered program for new homeowners in Canada

As the market begins to stabilize and we're seeing housing prices rising again in different areas, many individuals are looking at purchasing their first home before home prices rise too much. Canadians are realizing that we are unlikely to ever see interest rates like we did during COVID and that the housing market is unlikely to correct much further given Canada’s current economic forecasts, which has given buyers the nudge they need to re-enter the market.

If you or someone you know is considering this, there’s some good news. The federal government has recently introduced a new program to help first-time home buyers save for their dream home: the First Home Savings Account (FHSA).

About The FHSA

The FHSA is a registered plan that allows you to save up to $40,000 in a tax-free account for your first home purchase. The plan allows you to contribute up to $8,000 per year and deduct your contributions from your taxable income, just like an RRSP. You can also carry forward unused contribution room into the following year, just like an RRSP.

Any interest accumulated inside the plan is tax-free and when you are ready to buy your first home, you can withdraw your savings tax-free, just like a TFSA. While $40,000 may not seem like nearly enough for a downpayment in many markets, there are also additional programs that you can leverage – and every penny counts towards getting you that first home.

The FHSA can complement the existing Home Buyers' Plan (HBP), which allows you to withdraw up to $35,000 from your RRSPs to buy or build a qualifying home. You can use both programs together to boost your savings and reduce your taxes. The reduction in taxes can make saving to max out these programs easier and is an important part of the program.

Eligibility

To be eligible for the FHSA, you must meet the following conditions:

• You must be a resident of Canada and at least 18 years old.
• You must not have owned a home or lived in a home owned by your spouse or common-law partner in the past four years.
• You must have a written agreement to buy or build a qualifying home for yourself or for a related person with a disability.
• You must intend to occupy the qualifying home as your principal residence within one year of buying or building it.

If you or someone you know are a first-time home buyer, give The House Team a call! We can answer any questions you have, review your financial situation, and discuss which options are the best for you. Individuals can call us at (613) 962-1388 or request a free appointment at https://www.thehouseteam.ca/request-an-appointment.

Spring cleaning? Don’t forget to give your finances a polish.

As the weather gets warmer and spring blooms around us, it's the perfect time to refresh your finances and give them a good spring cleaning. As your trusted mortgage professionals, we are here to help you get started with some tips and insights on how you can get your finances in order and prepare for a brighter financial future.

Review your credit report

The best possible starting point for any review of your finances. Your credit report is a crucial component of your financial health, and it's essential that you check to make sure it’s accurate and up to date. You can obtain a free credit report from each of the major credit reporting agencies once a year, and you can also use a variety of services to get a rough update as well, so take advantage of this opportunity to review your report and ensure everything is correct.

Consolidate high-interest debt

While mortgage rates have gone up over the last year, they’re still considerably lower than other high-interest forms of debt, such as credit cards for example. Consolidating multiple high-interest debts into a single lower-interest mortgage can help you save money on interest and simplify your payments. By consolidating your debts, you can streamline your finances, reduce your overall payments, and focus on paying off your debt more quickly.

Review your subscriptions and cancel unnecessary ones

Many of us subscribe to various services, such as streaming platforms, subscription boxes, or gym memberships, and over time, we stop using them or no longer need them. Review your subscriptions and cancel any that you no longer use to free up some extra cash each month. 

Create a budget and manage your expenses

With higher interest rates affecting those with variable mortgages, creating a new and updated family budget is crucial to your finances in 2023. If you have a mortgage renewal coming up, it’s a great time for us to touch base so you get an idea of what your new mortgage payments will be. Adjusting to these new costs and developing a new budget will help you identify ways that you can reduce your expenses, and more importantly can reduce the chance of going into debt, and then adding interest and repayment to your monthly costs. 

Build an emergency fund

After doing the above steps, if you’re able to increase your cash flow, and reduce your expenses, building an emergency fund is crucial to helping cope with unexpected expenses and financial hardships. This can include job changes, medical emergencies, or even an unaccounted bill. Work towards building up a reserve of 6 months salary before starting to spend freely on things like expensive vacations or major non-essential purchases. 

Spring Into A New Mortgage

Looking to renew or refinance your mortgage this spring? Get in touch with your knowledgeable mortgage broker from The House Team today. Call our team now at (866) 559-5016!

If you’re struggling financially as a result of increased living expenses and interest rates, you are not alone.

A lot of Canadians are feeling a little helpless these days, with talk of rising interest rates and inflation dominating news headlines. The good news is that there are still ways to save money and increase your monthly cash flow even in an atmosphere with higher interest rates than we’ve been used to over the last few years. Here are a few proactive things you can do to take control of your financial situation:
 

Anytime is a good time for a mortgage review

An analysis of your current mortgage terms may reveal opportunities to improve your situation. For example, you might be able to refinance your mortgage and consolidate any other high-interest debt to cut your overall monthly payments or you may want to consider increasing your amortization or possibly changing your payment frequency to lower your mortgage payment. 

Don’t sleepwalk through your mortgage renewal

If your mortgage is renewing this year, you may be receiving (or have already received) an automatic renewal notice from your lender. Don’t accept their renewal offer without talking to a mortgage professional first! In most cases, we can shop around and negotiate a better rate than what you’re being offered. 

Plug the Money Leaks

Take a very hard look at your spending and challenge yourself to find ways to save. Every little bit helps – cancel one (or more) streaming services, cut any impulse spending, dine out less, consider carpooling, take advantage of price matching at your local grocery store …the list goes on and on. 

PRO TIP: Print off your credit card statements, highlight the items you didn't realize were still active or you aren't using anymore, and cancel these services.

Supplement your income

Tap into your talent or skills and consider turning that into a money-making side gig. Or if it’s feasible, consider building a rental unit in your home and let renters help you pay your mortgage. Any extra income can be put toward paying off debt, paying down your mortgage or just providing the much-needed breathing room every month.

Even in a higher-interest rate situation like the one we're in right now, there are still options available to reduce monthly spending and increase cash flow. You may make a more financially secure future for yourself and your family by examining the conditions of your mortgage, making cost reductions, and increasing your income. And although some of these choices may not be the most comfortable in the short term, the long-term payoff is well worth it.

Whether it’s managing your current situation, or looking to your future situation in regard to your home, building a plan is the best way to help you take charge of your financial destiny.

Let's Start Building Your Plan

Are you ready to reach your financial goals, including owning your own home? Let's talk! The House Team can help you maximize your financial fitness, build wealth, and reach your goals.

Get in touch with your knowledgeable mortgage broker from The House Team today and learn how you can start working out your finances and attaining your financial goals. Call us today at (866) 559-5016!