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
5 Critical Things You Need to Know Before Buying a Home in Halifax (2026)
Buying a home in Halifax is still a smart move, ...
Navigating Mortgage Portability in Canada: Pros and Cons
When it comes to mortgages, flexibility can be just as important as the interest rate or payment terms. One feature that offers flexibility for homeowners is mortgage portability. This option allows you to transfer your existing mortgage from one property to another, which can be a significant advantage if you’re considering moving before your mortgage ...
Deciding Between a Fixed or Variable Mortgage: What You Need to Know
Choosing between a fixed or variable mortgage is a very important decision you’ll need to make when buying a home. Each option has its benefits and drawbacks, and understanding these can help you make an informed choice that aligns with your financial situation and goals. In this guide, we’ll explore the key differences between fixed ...
Reverse Mortgages in Canada: What You Need to Know Before You Decide
If you’re 55 or older and thinking about tapping into the equity in your home during retirement, you’ve likely come across the idea of a reverse mortgage. But how do reverse mortgages work in Canada? Are they a good idea, or a financial trap? This guide breaks it all down in plain language, using insights ...
What Does it Mean to Refinance a Mortgage?
Many Canadians wonder what it means to refinance a mortgage. Alex Lavender – Mortgage Broker will tell you exactly what a mortgage refinance means, the penalties involved, and the pros and cons. What is a Mortgage Refinance? A refinance is when you obtain a new mortgage for a higher amount to pay off your existing ...
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 ...
Property Transfer Tax (Nova Scotia) – How It’s Calculated
If you’re buying a home in Nova Scotia, one of the most important, and often surprising, closing costs is the property transfer tax, officially known as the Deed Transfer Tax (DTT). Unlike other provinces where property transfer tax is provincial, in Nova Scotia, it’s set and collected by each municipality, and it’s based on your ...
What Is CMHC Mortgage Insurance: Do You Really Need It?
If you’re planning to buy a home in Canada with less than a 20% down payment, chances are you’ll come across CMHC mortgage insurance. But what is it exactly, who needs it, how much does it cost, and is it worth paying for? In this article, Halifax mortgage expert Alex Lavender explains everything you need ...
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 ...
Fixed Mortgage Rates in Nova Scotia: What You Need to Know
Fixed mortgage rates are the most common type of mortgage in Nova Scotia, and for good reason. They offer payment stability, protection from rising rates, and peace of mind for long-term homeowners. But they’re not always the best fit for every situation. In this article, we’ll break down how fixed rates work, the different term ...
The Ultimate Guide to Buying a Condo in Halifax: 5 Things You Must Know
Thinking about buying a condo in Halifax? Whether it’s for your primary home, a vacation spot, or an investment property, purchasing a condo comes with its own set of challenges and opportunities. Halifax mortgage expert Alex Lavender breaks down the five essential things you need to know before buying a condo in Halifax so you ...