It’s one thing to understand the particulars of interest rates, amortization periods, and open versus closed mortgages. It’s another to keep up with the latest lender trends, government changes and exceptions to the “general rules”. A common generalization that many seasoned buyers have, even many mortgage agents, is that variable open mortgages are best suited [...]
March 1, 2011
As we're sure you have heard by now, the Federal government has introduced two key changes to the mortgage industry that will be in effect on Friday, March 18, 2011. With the date approaching quickly, we want to ensure you are aware of the new rules and what they mean to you.
February 28, 2011
In today’s mortgage rate environment, many clients are eager to purchase because the rates are low. At the same time, we frequently get calls about clients that have high rates from a few years ago and they want to refinance or sell. Their largest stumbling block? Payout penalties.
January 31, 2011
For new home buyers that are searching for down payment options, they may not need to look too far. The First Time Home Buyers’ Plan (HBP) is a government program that uses funds from an RRSP to purchase or build a home.
January 24, 2011
There are some definate misunderstandings and misrepresentations floating around in the media: we have designed the below information to help you clarify the information for youself. As always we welcome your calls, please feel free to contact us with any questions.
January 18, 2011
With the new changes to the mortgage rules over the past few days, the Bank of Canada has decided to leave the overnight lending rate - and therefore mortgage rates - where they are for the time being. This will help balance the cooling effect that the new mortgage qualifying terms will bring about. More here from ATB's daily economic comment
January 17, 2011
2011 brings about more mortgage rule changes - here's a Financial Post article reviewing what's on the horizon for us as of March 2011.
December 7, 2010
Fromm ATB Financial's morning economic comment: Attention turned to the Bank of Canada this morning. As the only central bank within the G7 countries to have raised interest rates in 2010 (and raising them three times over the summer), Canada’s central bank now appears to be putting rate increases on hold...
December 6, 2010
Three changes take place Jan 1, 2011 that will affect your ability to obtain and retain your Accredited Mortgage Professional (AMP) designation:
December 2, 2010
Housing has been a leading indicator of Alberta’s economy recently – in 2009 it was one of the first to rise from the ashes of the recession and this year it was one of the first to slow down after the initial recovery. And, if housing figures for Calgary in November are a sign, the economic situation could be looking fairly ‘middle of the road’ as we move into 2011.
March 14, 2011