9 Aug

Would Debt Consolidation Simply Your Finances?

General

Posted by: Karli Shih

  If you happen to be carrying extra debt from credit cards or other loans (such as car loans, personal loans, etc.) you may benefit from simplifying and reducing your overall monthly payments, especially given rising costs in the current economic climate.  Rolling extra debt into a mortgage could be a great solution. Consolidating other […]

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2 Aug

Are Your Strata and Individual Unit Insurance Policies Aligned? Avoid Significant Costs

General

Posted by: Karli Shih

  A quick review with your insurance agent can ensure your strata’s insurance policy aligns with your individual unit’s insurance coverage.  This can safeguard you from a potentially overwhelming and unexpected financial expense you shouldn’t have to worry about. Condominium or strata insurance covers the entire building including common areas such as hallways and elevators.  […]

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26 Jul

Budgeting Goals and Staying on Track

General

Posted by: Karli Shih

  One of the quickest ways to take control of your finances is to create a monthly budget.  Creating a snapshot of your income and spending can help you reach your financial goals sooner. Step 1: Calculate Your Income The first step to creating any budget is determining exactly how much money you have available […]

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19 Jul

Seeking The Balance Between Economic Growth and Inflation Control

General

Posted by: Karli Shih

    June inflation data released today by Statistics Canada showed that the Consumer Price Index (CPI) rose 2.8% year-over-year (y/y), slightly below expectations. This was the lowest CPI reading since February 2022. The decline in inflation was mainly due to lower energy prices, which fell by 21.6% y/y. Without this decline, headline CPI inflation […]

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12 Jul

Prime Rate Rises Again with Overnight Policy Rate Increase

General

Posted by: Karli Shih

The Bank of Canada increased the overnight policy rate by 25 basis points this morning to 5.0%, its highest level since March 2001. Never before has a policy action been so widely expected. Still, the Bank’s detailed outlook in the July Monetary Policy Report (MPR) suggests stronger growth and a longer trajectory to reach the 2% […]

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7 Jul

Empowering Aging in Place with the CHIP Reverse Mortgage

General

Posted by: Karli Shih

As we age, maintaining independence and staying in the home we love can be a challenge, especially when faced with reduced mobility and the need for costly home modifications and personal care services. However, with the CHIP Reverse Mortgage by HomeEquity Bank, aging in place becomes more feasible and attainable. Here are three ways in […]

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28 Jun

Buying Property? The Pre-Qualification Process Can Help

General

Posted by: Karli Shih

  A pre-qualification is the first step in uncovering what you can afford when embarking on the search for your next property.  It should outline a realistic budget, including the costs to complete the purchase, including legal fees and applicable taxes, as well as estimated ongoing mortgage payments. To arrive at an accurate budget and […]

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14 Jun

Property Taxes and the Home Owner Grant

General

Posted by: Karli Shih

    Property Taxes are typically due in July in BC, and the Home Owner Grant gives owners a break if eligible. The eligible property value limit increased to $1.975 million in 2022.  Homeowners in Metro Vancouver, the Fraser Valley, and the Captial Regional Districts owning property valued at less than that amount may be […]

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8 Jun

Prime Rate Rises with Quarter Point Overnight Policy Rate Increase

General

Posted by: Karli Shih

With the increase in the Overnight Rate of .25%, the Prime Rate has also risen by this amount in Canada.  If you have a Variable Rate mortgage, please feel free to contact me for strategies to discuss the rate outlook, manage a lengthening amortization, or manage your payment.  Static payment variable mortgage holders may be […]

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