Increase in CMHC Mortgage Loan Insurance Premiums

Mortgage loan insurance helps protect lenders against mortgage default and enables consumers to purchase homes with a minimum down payment of 5% with interest rates comparable to those with a 20% down payment. Mortgage loan insurance is typically required by lenders when homebuyers make a down payment of less than 20% of the purchase price. Effective…

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Asbestos In The Home

What is Asbestos? Asbestos is a mineral fibre that can be positively identified only with a special type of microscope. There are several types of asbestos fibres. In the past, asbestos was added to a variety of products to strengthen them and to provide heat insulation and fire resistance. Potential Health Concerns Breathing in asbestos…

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GTA Realtors® Report Mid-February Sales Figures

TORONTO, February 19, 2014 – Toronto Real Estate Board President Dianne Usher announced that “sales growth has rebounded so far in February after a slow start to the year in January. While new listings were still down in comparison to last year, the annual rate of decline was less than experienced last month. This may…

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Top 5 Real Estate Scams – And How To Avoid Them!

Fraud and investment scams abound at all levels of the real estate market – whether it be a contractor who charges hundreds of dollars for work not done to an “investment agent” who embezzles hundreds of millions – protecting yourself can require a measure of vigilance and legwork, but it can also come down to…

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5 Decorating Trends in 2014

Looking for ways to switch up your style this year? From the right patterns and colours to impressive accents, the latest home design trends will keep your space looking fresh and fabulous in 2014. “Now more than ever, homeowners are willing to experiment with design,” says Taniya Nayak, interior designer and DIY television personality. “The…

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Current Residential Mortgage Rates as of February 12, 2014

Term Rate 6 months 3.95% 1 Year 2.89% 2 Year 2.79% 3 Year 2.89% 4 Year 3.29% 5 Year 2.99% 7 Year 3.99% 10 Year 4.39% Prime = 3.00% Variable Closed (5 yr) = Prime minus 0.55% = 2.45% Variable Open = Prime plus 0.80% = 3.80% Courtesy of John Chrisanthidis, Mortgage Intelligence

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Creative Storage Solutions

Skates, skis, hockey equipment, bulky winter coats, boots … winter gear poses a challenge to even the most organized of homes. It’s a good time to look outside the closet for some creative solutions to your storage needs. With some creative thinking, you can find more storage space in even the smallest of homes. Here…

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5 Quick Winter Energy Saving Tips

As winter settles in and Jack Frost nips at our noses, energy costs tend to climb. But we don’t have to take drastic measures to reduce sky-high energy bills. Take a look at these simple changes that can be made to everyday routines to put money back in your wallet: Unplug Rid your home of…

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5 Renos That Can LOWER Your Home’s Value

For the most part, people make upgrades and renovations to their homes specifically because doing so can increase resale value. It’s one of the best ways to prepare a home for the market – that is, if you take the right route. What often goes overlooked is the fact that certain renovations can actually cause…

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February Home Maintenance Checklist

It’s a winter wonderland outdoors. While you’re out shoveling the snow, here are some tips on keeping your home safe this winter: Avoid piling snow against the house – the moisture could damage the siding and foundation. Periodically check the gas meter at the side of the house for snow and ice build-up. Keep your…

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