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
Renting vs Buying a Home in Halifax: Which is the Better Choice?
Deciding whether to rent or buy a home in Halifax ...
The Smith Maneuver in Canada: A Smart Mortgage Strategy or Too Risky?
The Smith Maneuver is a financial strategy that allows Canadian homeowners to convert their mortgage into a tax-deductible investment loan. While this concept sounds appealing, it comes with risks and complexities that need careful consideration. In this guide, we’ll break down what the Smith Maneuver is, how it works, its advantages and risks, and whether ...
Debt Consolidation Using a Mortgage: A Guide for Existing Homeowners
Debt can feel overwhelming, especially when you’re juggling multiple payments with high interest rates. If you’re a homeowner, you may have a powerful tool at your disposal to regain financial control: your home equity. By consolidating debt using a mortgage, you can streamline your payments, lower your interest rates, and focus on paying down what ...
Variable vs. Adjustable-Rate Mortgages (ARM): Understanding the Difference
Choosing the right type of mortgage is a key decision when buying a home, and for many borrowers, the choice between a variable-rate mortgage and an adjustable rate mortgage (ARM) can be confusing. While both are tied to interest rate fluctuations, they work differently in terms of payment structure and financial impact. In this blog, ...
A Guide to The First-Time Home Buyer Programs in Nova Scotia
Hey There, Future Homeowner! Ready to take the leap into buying your first home in Canada? It’s super exciting, but let’s be honest, it can feel like a bit of a maze. Let’s break down the first-time home buyer programs that Canada offers, making your journey to homeownership a bit smoother and definitely more affordable. ...
A Quick Guide to The First-Time Home Buyer Programs in Nova Scotia
Hey There, Future Homeowners! Ready to take the leap into buying your first home in Canada? It’s super exciting, but let’s be honest, it can feel like a bit of a maze. Let’s break down the first-time home buyer programs that Canada offers, making your journey to homeownership a bit smoother and definitely more affordable. ...
How to Get a Mortgage for Renovations as an Existing Homeowner
Renovating your home is an exciting way to increase its value, improve functionality, or make it feel like new again. However, renovations can come with a hefty price tag, leaving many homeowners wondering how to finance them. If you’re an existing homeowner, you have several options for funding your renovation project, including refinancing your mortgage, ...
How to Get a Mortgage Using a Gifted Down Payment
For many Canadians, saving up for a down payment is one of the biggest challenges of purchasing a home. Fortunately, there’s a practical solution that can help make homeownership a reality: a gifted down payment. If you’re lucky enough to have family members who want to support your journey to buying a home, this option ...
3 Ways to Get a Mortgage with No Down Payment in Nova Scotia
In Nova Scotia, homeownership might seem out of reach if you lack immediate funds for a down payment. However, while Canada requires a minimum 5% down payment for residential properties, there are creative ways to source that amount even if you don’t have it saved. These strategies won’t eliminate the need for a down payment ...
Bank of Canada Interest Rate Announcement Dates 2025
The Bank of Canada plays a critical role in shaping the nation’s economy, with its interest rate decisions influencing everything from mortgage rates to business investments. Staying informed about the Bank’s interest rate announcement dates for 2025 is essential for individuals and businesses looking to make sound financial decisions. Below, you’ll find the official dates, ...
Pros and Cons of the New 30-Year Amortization Insured Mortgage in Canada
In recent years, skyrocketing property prices in Canada have made it increasingly challenging for young Canadians—especially Millennials and Gen Z—to enter the housing market. In response, the government has introduced a new policy allowing a 30-year amortization period on insured mortgages. This new policy does have restrictions around it, which are explained in further detail ...