While interest rates remain low, there have been a few changes in recent months and some even bigger changes in recent years that have made purchasing a home tougher for first-time buyers. Prices across most of the country are on the rise and housing stock is low in many areas, creating a fast-paced, red-hot real estate market that is leaving some in the dust. Here are three things you should consider before you start the hunt for your first home: Can you afford it? Without a doubt, this... [read more]

If you're thinking of selling or are simply trying to create a cozy ambiance in your brand new home, lighting is an important factor to consider. Lighting, or lack thereof, has the power to affect the mood and atmosphere of any given space. A good home lighting strategy begins outside. Smart outdoor lighting is your first opportunity to wow potential buyers and houseguests. Greeting them the moment they arrive, strategically placed lights create a safe, lavish feel. If you have a... [read more]

Be aware of what you have to pay for, so you can work it into your budget ahead of time!🏡 You can read this all in my blog. Link in bio BEFORE CLOSING ✔️Deposit- typically 5% or purchase price ✔️Home Inspection- $300-$500 ON CLOSING ✔️Balance of the purchase price- purchase price minus deposit amount. (This will come from your lender and become your mortgage🙌🏻) ✔️Legal Fees- usually budget around $1,100-1,800 ✔️Title Insurance (sometimes included in your... [read more]

Buying a home is a big investment – likely the largest one you will ever make. The cost to buy a home should be carefully considered to avoid the risk of financial difficulty in the future. Since this decision has a large impact on your wallet, we want to take some time to explore the many costs associated with buying a home. Doing your homework and knowing the average cost of these services in your neighbourhood will help you choose a home within a realistic price... [read more]

Minimum down payment A down payment is the amount of money that you put towards the purchase of a home. The down payment is deducted from the purchase price of your home. Your mortgage loan will cover the rest of the price of the home. The minimum amount you'll need for your down payment depends on the purchase price of the home you'd like to buy. Table 1: The minimum amount you'll need for your down payment based on the purchase price of your... [read more]