18 Mar

Five Great Reasons to Use a Mortgage Professional….

General

Posted by: Jim Graszat

If you’re considering buying a home in Canada, working with a mortgage professional can provide valuable benefits and help you secure the best possible mortgage option for your needs. Here are some reasons why you should consider using a mortgage professional in Canada:

Access to a Wide Range of Mortgage Options.

A mortgage professional has access to a variety of mortgage options from multiple lenders, including banks, credit unions, and private lenders. This allows us to compare rates and terms to find the best mortgage option for your specific financial situation and goals.

Expertise and Advice.

A mortgage professional can provide expert advice and guidance throughout the mortgage application process. They can help you understand the various mortgage options available to you, answer your questions, and provide valuable insights into the current real estate market.  You likely only deal with mortgages once every 3-5 years, we deal with them everyday.

Convenience and Time-Saving.

Applying for a mortgage can be a time-consuming process, and working with a mortgage professional can save you time and effort. They can help you gather the necessary documentation, complete the application process, and follow up with lenders on your behalf, saving you valuable time and stress.

Help with Credit Improvement.

If you have a low credit score or other credit issues, a mortgage professional can provide advice on how to improve your credit score and address any credit issues that may negatively impact your ability to secure a mortgage. This can help you qualify for better mortgage rates and terms, and save you money in the long run.

Negotiation and Advocacy.

A mortgage professional can act as your advocate and negotiate on your behalf to secure the best possible mortgage rates and terms. They can also help you navigate any issues or challenges that arise during the mortgage application process.

In summary, working with a mortgage professional in Canada can provide valuable benefits, including access to a wide range of mortgage options, expert advice, time-saving convenience, help with credit improvement, and negotiation and advocacy. By working with a mortgage professional, you can navigate the mortgage application process with confidence and secure the best possible mortgage option for your needs.

Please contact me for all your mortgage needs.  Remember, my services are at no cost to you in most circumstances.

5 Mar

Interest Rates – A Brief Explanation.

General

Posted by: Jim Graszat

Interest rates are a key factor in determining the cost of borrowing money for a mortgage. In Canada, interest rates are set by the Bank of Canada, and they can have a significant impact on a borrower’s mortgage payments and home affordability. Here’s a breakdown of how interest rates work and how they can affect borrowers in Canada.

How Interest Rates Work.

Interest rates are the cost of borrowing money. When you take out a mortgage, the lender will charge you interest on the amount you borrow. The interest rate is expressed as a percentage, and it represents the amount you’ll pay in addition to the principal balance of the loan. For example, if you have a $300,000 mortgage with a 3% interest rate, you’ll pay $9,000 per year in interest.

Interest rates are set by the Bank of Canada, which is responsible for maintaining the stability and growth of the Canadian economy. The Bank of Canada sets a target for the overnight lending rate, which is the interest rate that banks use to borrow money from each other. Banks then set their own prime rates based on the overnight lending rate. These prime rates are used to determine the interest rates that borrowers pay on their mortgages.

How Interest Rates Affect Borrowers.

Interest rates can have a significant impact on a borrower’s mortgage payments and home affordability. When interest rates are low, borrowing money is less expensive, which can make it easier for people to buy homes. Low interest rates can also make it easier for homeowners to refinance their mortgages or take out home equity loans.

On the other hand, when interest rates are high, borrowing money is more expensive, which can make it harder for people to afford homes. High interest rates can also make it more expensive for homeowners to refinance their mortgages or take out home equity loans. In addition, high interest rates can lead to higher monthly mortgage payments, which can strain a borrower’s budget and limit their homebuying options.

Be Informed and Well Advised.

Overall, interest rates play a significant role in the Canadian housing market, and they can have a major impact on a borrower’s ability to afford a home. By staying informed about current interest rates and working with a trusted lender or mortgage professional, borrowers can make informed decisions about their home financing options. It’s important to consider interest rates when budgeting for a home and to be prepared for potential changes in interest rates over time.