The Blog
Real Estate Advice for Coquitlam & the Lower Mainland
Practical guides for buyers and sellers in the Tri-Cities and Fraser Valley, from mortgage pre-approval to choosing the right neighbourhood.
Renewing Your Mortgage: What to Do Before Your Term Ends
Your mortgage term ends long before your mortgage does, and every renewal is a chance to get a better deal or change direction. Here is what to expect as your renewal date approaches, and how to make the most of it. The short version A federally regulated lender must send your renewal statement at
Closing Costs in BC: What to Budget Beyond Your Down Payment
Your down payment is the biggest cheque you write when you buy a home, but it is not the only one. Here is what else to budget for when you buy in BC, from property transfer tax to the adjustments on your lawyer's statement, so you can plan for each one well before completion. The short version Pl
Gifted Down Payments in Canada: What Lenders Need to See
Many first-time buyers in the Lower Mainland get help from family with their down payment. A gift can make all the difference, but lenders and mortgage insurers have rules about who can give it, how it is documented and how the money is traced. Here is what to plan for, so the gift helps your applic
Buying a Home with a Suite: How a Mortgage Helper Works in BC
A suite can make a house in the Lower Mainland more affordable. The rent helps with the mortgage payments, and lenders can count it when you qualify. Here is how lenders treat suite income, what makes a suite legal, and the tenancy, insurance and tax details to know before you buy. The short version
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