Mortgages Explained - Latest Posts
Alex Lavender helps Nova Scotians get the best mortgage for your dream home. Whether you need a self employed mortgage or are looking to do construction with a mortgage plus improvements program, Alex can help. Or if you’re just looking for more information on mortgages checkout these blog posts for helpful tips. Alex is one of Halifax and Dartmouth's top rated mortgage brokers. Known for his kindness and flexibility he provides you with all the info you need to get the best rates!
Featured Article
Guide to Deed Transfer Tax Nova Scotia: Avoid This Closing Cost Surprise
When you are purchasing a home in Nova Scotia, there ...
Secure Mortgage Approval During a Probationary Period
Securing a mortgage while navigating a probationary period at a new job adds a distinct layer of complexity to the home-buying journey. Many Canadians assume that starting a new position automatically disqualifies them from buying a home, while others believe a pre-approval guarantees smooth sailing. The reality lies somewhere in the middle. Understanding how Canadian ...
How to Secure a Newcomer Mortgage in Canada: An Expert Guide
Moving to a new country comes with endless to-do lists, but establishing a permanent place to call home shouldn’t feel out of reach. If you have recently relocated to Nova Scotia or anywhere else across the country, you are likely wondering: Is it actually possible to secure a newcomer mortgage in Canada? The short answer ...
Your Guide to Nova Scotia’s Down Payment Assistance Program (DPAP)
Taking the first step into homeownership is thrilling, but let’s be honest: coming up with that upfront cash can feel like an insurmountable hurdle. If you’re a first-time home buyer in Nova Scotia, you might feel like you’re stuck renting for years just trying to scrape together a nest egg. Fortunately, the provincial government offers ...
Navigating the Mortgage Process While on Maternity Leave in Canada
Securing a mortgage can feel like a complex puzzle at the best of times. When you introduce maternity leave into the mix, many growing families worry they will have to put their dreams of buying a first home or upgrading to a forever home on hold. The common misconception is that a temporary drop in ...
Mortgage Renewal vs Refinance Guide
Navigating the differences between a mortgage renewal and a refinance can be a complicated process for many homeowners. Tackling this monetary conundrum is no mean feat, especially when attempting to make the most financially astute choice. The terms mortgage renewal and refinance often get tossed around interchangeably. However, they are distinct processes with different implications ...
Should You Renew Your Mortgage Early?
Mortgages in Canada are commonly issued on five-year fixed terms. When that term ends, you’ll need to renew. However, staying “on the ball” often means looking at your options long before that maturity date hits. In this guide, we’ll break down the pros and cons of early mortgage renewals and, more importantly, how to tell ...
Getting to Know the Home Buyers’ Tax Credit: A Perk for First-Time Buyers in Canada
Stepping into your very first home is a moment full of excitement and a bit of nervous energy. To help ease the transition, the Canadian government offers the Home Buyers’ Tax Credit (HBTC). While it’s often called a “drop in the bucket” compared to the total cost of a house in Halifax, it’s a one-off ...
GST/HST New Housing Rebate for First-Time Homebuyers in Canada
Buying or building a new construction home in Canada is a big milestone, but it often comes with an equally big tax bill. Fortunately, there’s a little-known rebate that could help put thousands of dollars back in your pocket: the GST/HST New Housing Rebate. If you’re wondering how much you can save, who qualifies, or ...
A Guide to Credit Scores for A Mortgage Approval
Navigating the world of mortgages can often feel like decoding a secret language, especially when it comes to understanding credit scores. If you’ve been wondering about the intricacies of credit scores and how they impact your mortgage approval, you’re in the right place. Let’s dive deep into the world of credit scores and how they ...
Nova Scotia First-Time Home Buyers: New 2% Down Payment Pilot
There’s positive news for first-time home buyers in Nova Scotia. The provincial government has announced a new First-Time Homebuyers Pilot Program that reduces the minimum down payment required to purchase a home to as low as 2%. For many buyers, saving a down payment has been the single biggest barrier to homeownership. This new pilot ...