5 May

Have Your Paperwork in Order

General

Posted by: Jennifer Koop

Questions about the mortgage process, paperwork

Jennifer Koop & Susan Bloom, Mortgage Agents Huntsville, Muskoka

Planning For A Mortgage…

Have Your Paperwork in Order

When you apply for a mortgage you will typically need to provide a standard package of documents, which almost always includes:

  • Your government-issued personal identification
  • One month of recent pay stubs from any applicants who will be listed on the loan
  • Letter of employment
  • Your most recent two years’ worth of personal CRA tax filings and financials (if incorporated)
  • Three months of bank account statements
  • Your down payment (minimum 5%)
  • Documentation to explain any unusual (generally non-payroll) large deposits or withdrawals

Published by DLC Marketing

For all your mortgage needs contact us today 705-349-0502

Jennifer Koop & Susan Bloom, Mortgage Agents Huntsville, Muskoka
Dominion Lending Centres, Mortgage Brokers Huntsville, Muskoka

Up Next:  Understanding Your Mortgage Options

28 Apr

Understanding Your Mortgage Options

General

Posted by: Jennifer Koop

Understanding Your Mortgage Options, Mortgage Expert

Jennifer Koop & Susan Bloom, Mortgage Agents Huntsville, Muskoka

Planning For A Mortgage…

Understand Your Mortgage Options

When it comes to mortgages, there can be a lot to know! Do you go with a fixed-rate mortgage or a variable-rate? What are the terms? What are the penalties? Which is the best payment frequency? With so many questions and so many lender options, it can be hard to find the best solution for you. That is where we come in, your DLC Mortgage Professionals and we can help.

Rate is only ONE of the many features in selecting the best mortgage product that meets your financial goals. With access to hundreds of lending institutions, we are familiar with a variety of mortgage products allowing us to help find the best mortgage for YOU! Plus, unlike banks, mortgage agents are a third-party service focused on YOUR needs. This means that you can get the best rates and unbiased advice all for FREE from someone whose only goal is helping you achieve your dream of home ownership.  Talk to us today 705-349-0502.

Published by DLC Marketing Team

For all your mortgage needs contact us today 705-349-0502

Jennifer Koop & Susan Bloom, Mortgage Agents Huntsville, Muskoka
Dominion Lending Centres, Mortgage Brokers Huntsville, Muskoka

Up Next: Secure Your Down Payment 

24 Apr

Secure Your Down Payment

General

Posted by: Jennifer Koop

Secure Your Down Payment

Jennifer Koop & Susan Bloom, Mortgage Agents Huntsville, Muskoka

Planning For A Mortgage…

Secure Your Down Payment

For those of you who don’t know, your down payment is the amount of money you need to put down on your new home. Once you have determined your budget, you will have an accurate idea of the final cost of the home you can afford and what you will be intending to spend. This will allow you to estimate your down payment and start saving!

The ideal down payment for purchasing a home is 20%. However, we understand in today’s market that is not always possible. Therefore, it is important to note that any potential home buyer with less than a 20% down payment MUST purchase default insurance on the mortgage, and they must have a minimum down payment of 5%. For example: If your budget for purchasing a home is $500,000 then you would be looking to produce a down payment of $100,000 ideally or $25,000 minimum with insurance.

If your budget is over $500,000, keep in mind the minimum down payment will be 5% for the first $500,000 and 10% for the remaining portion. If you end up purchasing a home that is over $1 million, you will be required to put 20% down.

Sources of Down Payment

The down payment on your home could come from your own savings such as a savings account or RRSPs. Thanks to the federal government’s Home Buyers’ Plan, potential first-time home owners are able to leverage up to $35,000 of your RRSP savings ($70,000 for a couple) to help finance the down payment. A gift of a down payment from an immediate relative is also acceptable.

Quick Tip: If your down payment comes from TFSA or RRSP, the bank will want 90 days of statements to ensure the funds are accounted for. Gifted funds rarely require 90 days of proof.

It is always a good idea to check with a Mortgage Professional for qualifying criteria and availability to ensure your source of down payment is eligible.

Closing Costs

After you have secured your down payment, it is also important to mention that you will need to have the closing costs available upon finalizing the purchase of your new home. These costs can range between 1 – 4% of the purchase price.

Published by DLC Marketing Team

For all your mortgage needs contact us today 705-349-0502

Jennifer Koop & Susan Bloom, Mortgage Agents Huntsville, Muskoka
Dominion Lending Centres, Mortgage Brokers Huntsville, Muskoka

Up Next:  Determine Your Budget

9 Apr

Determine Your Budget

General

Posted by: Jennifer Koop

Determine Your Budget

Jennifer Koop & Susan Bloom, Mortgage Agents Huntsville, Muskoka

Planning For A Mortgage…

Determine Your Budget

Now that we have talked credit, it is time to consider budget! We know, we know… but we promise, you’re almost there!

When talking budget, it is important to consider the purchase price budget, as well as your cash flow budget. Being house rich and cash poor makes for a no-fun home! The home price based on your cash flow budget may be dramatically different than the budget home price you qualify for.

The benefit of a budget is two-fold. Not only does it help you to understand your purchase price range and help you to find an affordable home, but it can also help you to see any gaps in your budget or opportunities for future savings. This will be instrumental when you become responsible for mortgage payments.

To help determine your budget, we suggest checking out the My Mortgage Toolbox app on Google Play and the Apple iStore. This handy, consumer-friendly tool will help you determine your mortgage payments, affordability, income required to qualify and even the closing costs!

Published by DLC Marketing Team

For all your mortgage needs contact us today 705-349-0502

Jennifer Koop & Susan Bloom, Mortgage Agents Huntsville, Muskoka
Dominion Lending Centres, Mortgage Brokers Huntsville, Muskoka

Up Next: Understanding Your Credit Score  

8 Apr

Understanding Your Credit Score

General

Posted by: Jennifer Koop

Understanding Your Credit Score

Jennifer Koop & Susan Bloom, Mortgage Agents Huntsville, Muskoka

Planning For A Mortgage…

Understanding Your Credit Score

One of the important factors in home ownership is understanding things like your credit score.  Some people don’t pay much attention to this metric until they begin the mortgage discussion! However, you will find that your credit score is one of the most important factors when it comes to qualifying for a mortgage at the best rate – and with the most purchasing power.

Whether you qualify for a mortgage through a bank, credit union or other financial institution, you should be aiming for a credit score of 680 for at least one borrower (or guarantor), especially if you are putting under 20% down. If you are able to make a larger down payment of 20% or more, then a score of 680 is not required.

If you are not sure what your current credit score is, you can find out through Canada’s two credit-reporting agencies: Equifax Canada and TransUnion Canada. Once you have your credit score, always double check that there are no mistakes and ensure you dispute any problems if applicable.

What If I Don’t Meet the Minimum Credit Score?

If your credit score is accurate, but does not meet the minimum requirements, you will want to look at your current debt. Home ownership is an incredible investment, but it is also costly. Fortunately, there are a number of things you can do to improve your credit score as well as your future financial success, including:

  • Paying your bills in full and on time. If you cannot afford the full amount, try paying at least the minimum required as shown on your monthly statement.
  • Pay off your debts (such as loans, credit cards, lines of credit, etc.) as quickly as possible. Work on paying the ones with the smallest amount owing first and work your way towards the larger amounts.
  • Stay within the limit on your credit cards and try to keep your balances as low as possible.
  • Reduce the number of credit card or loan applications you submit.

There is also the option of going with an Alternative Lender (or B Lender) if you are struggling with credit issues. We can help review your credit score and provide you with options for your mortgage needs.

Published by DLC Marketing Team

For all your mortgage needs contact us today 705-349-0502

Jennifer Koop & Susan Bloom, Mortgage Agents Huntsville, Muskoka
Dominion Lending Centres, Mortgage Brokers Huntsville, Muskoka

Up Next:  How To Afford that Home Renovation

27 Feb

How to Afford that Home Renovation!

General

Posted by: Jennifer Koop

Dreaming of home renovationHow to Afford that Home Renovation!

Is your home in desperate need of an upgrade? Are you dying to renovate your bathroom, kitchen or other space but not sure how to fund this renovation project? Did you find a home you’d like to buy but it needs work?

We’ve got good news! When it comes to covering the costs of renovating, there are some options available to you outside of some good ole savings!

Mortgage Refinancing
One option for funding a renovation could be through mortgage refinancing. Keep in mind, you’ll want to do this at the end of the mortgage term to avoid breaking your mortgage and owing penalties. Some mortgage products may allow you to refinance outside of that, but you will want to check with your mortgage professional. Refinancing will allow you to borrow up to 80% of your home’s appraised value (less any outstanding mortgage balance). Refinancing your mortgage (if approved) will allow you to access funds immediately and tends to have lower interest rates than a standard credit card or personal loan. This is best suited to larger scale renovations or remodels.

Purchase Plus Improvements (PPI) Mortgage
If you haven’t yet bought that home, financing your renovation at the time of purchase with a purchase plus improvements mortgage can save you some hassle down the line. This type of mortgage is available to assist buyers with making simple upgrades, not conduct a major renovation where structural modifications are made. Simple renovations include paint, flooring, windows, hot-water tank, new furnace, kitchen updates, bathroom updates, new roof, basement finishing, and more. Depending on whether you have a conventional or highratio mortgage, if it is insured or uninsurable, and which insurer you use, the Purchase Plus Improvements (PPI) product can allow you to borrow between 10% and 20% of the initial property value for renovations.

Financing Improvements Upon Purchase
Similarly to the PPI mortgage solution above, there is another option allowing you to finance your renovation project at the time of a new purchase by adding the estimated costs to your mortgage with CMHC Mortgage Loan Insurance. You can obtain financing with only 5% down payment for both the purchase of your home and the renovations for up to 95% of the value after renovations! Plus, there are no additional fees or premiums and you can earn added rebates for energy-saving renos.

Line of Credit or Home Equity Loans
Lastly, you always have the option of utilizing a secured line of credit or home equity loan to pay for your renovation. Securing your renovation loan against the equity in your home can typically be up to 80% of the property value; accessible at any time. This will typically provide lower interest than non-secured financing and allows you to access funds at any time.

Published by DLC Marketing Team

For all your mortgage needs contact us today 705-349-0502

Jennifer Koop & Susan Bloom, Mortgage Agents Huntsville, Muskoka
Dominion Lending Centres, Mortgage Brokers Huntsville, Muskoka

Up Next:  5 Approval Roadblocks

 

15 Jan

5 Approval Roadblocks

General

Posted by: Jennifer Koop

5 Approval Roadblocks

Jennifer Koop & Susan Bloom – Mortgage Agents in Huntsville, Muskoka.

5 Approval Roadblocks.

When in the process of buying a home, there is nothing worse than having your mortgage broker or lawyer call and say “there is a problem”.

If you have found your dream home and negotiated a fair price, which was accepted, and you have supplied all the documentation to your broker, you probably assume everything is fine. The reality is that your financing approval is based on the information the lender was provided at the time of the application. If there have been any changes to your financial situation, the lender is within their rights to cancel your mortgage approval.

To ensure that you don’t encounter any last-minute issues on your home buying journey, there are five major approval roadblocks to be aware of and avoid for a smooth transaction:

EMPLOYMENT

When submitting a request for financing, whether a mortgage or car loan or to handle personal debt, one of the most important aspects the lender looks at is employment. If you were working at Company X for five years at $50,000 a year and – just before your deal is finalized – you change jobs, the lender will now require proof from the new job. This can include proof that probation for this new job is waived, or new job letters and pay stubs at the very least. If you change industries, they will want to see more proof that you are capable of keeping this job. For any employment involving overtime or bonuses, the lender often requests a two-year average, which you would not be able to provide at a new position. Another employment change that could hurt your financing approval would be if you decide to change from an employee to a self-employed contractor.

When it comes to financing, it is best to wait to make any major employment or life changes until after the deal has gone through.

DOWN PAYMENT SOURCE

As mortgage financing is based on the initial information provided, you will most likely need to do a final verification of the down payment source. If it is different than what the lender has approved, it could spell trouble for your financing approval. Even if you said that your down payment was coming from savings and, at the last minute, mom and dad offer  you the funds as a gift, it could affect your approval. This is an acceptable source of down payment, but only if the lender knows about it in advance and has included this in their risk assessment, but it can end a deal.

DEBT

A week or two before your possession date, the lender will obtain a copy of your credit report and look for any changes to your debt load. Since mortgage approval is based on how much you owed on that particular date, it is important not to increase your debt before the deal is finalized. Buying a new car or items for the new home must be postponed until after possession; even if they are “do not pay for 12 months” campaigns because you will need to fulfil those payments, regardless of when they start.

BAD CREDIT

One of the biggest roadblocks to mortgage approvals is credit card payments. When you enter the financing process, it is important that your credit score remains positive. If your credit score falls due to late payments, this can cause major issues with your financing. Even if you have a high-ratio mortgage in place which requires CMHC insurance, a lower credit score could mean a withdrawal of the insurance and removal of any financing approval.

MISSING IDENTITY DOCUMENTS

Before a deal is finalized, the lawyer must verify your identity documents and see that they match the mortgage documents. You may not think it needs to be said, but it is important to use your legal name when you apply for a mortgage. Even if you go by your middle name or a nickname, all legal documents should match.

Keep in touch with us, your Dominion Lending Centres mortgage professional, right up to possession day. Make this a happy experience rather than a heartbreaking one.

Published by DLC Marketing Team

For all your mortgage needs contact us today 705-349-0502

Jennifer Koop & Susan Bloom, Mortgage Agents Huntsville, Muskoka
Dominion Lending Centres, Mortgage Brokers Huntsville, Muskoka

Up Next: Sugar Free & Dairy Free Fudgesicles

8 Jan

Sugar Free & Dairy Free Fudgesicles

General

Posted by: Jennifer Koop

Fudgesicles

Jennifer Koop & Susan Bloom – Mortgage Agents in Huntsville, Muskoka.

Sugar Free & Dairy Free Fudgesicles.

“These are so lusciously creamy, sinfully rich-tasting – the kind of thing you put in your mouth and kind of can’t believe what’s happening. Vegan, almost raw, and full of whole food ingredients, they are also downright filling! They make a fabulous mid-morning or afternoon pick-me-up, especially with the raw cacao component, a deliciously effective, energy-boosting food. Dress them up with your favourite add-ins, or keep it simple and enjoy them as the five-ingredient bliss bars that they are!”

See more on www.mynewroots.org

5-INGREDIENT VEGAN MAGICAL FUDGESICLES

Makes 4 cups / 1 Liter / 10 fudgesicles

INGREDIENTS:

  • 1/2 cup / 75g unroasted, unsalted cashews
  • 1 14-oz can / 400ml full-fat coconut milk
  • 1 large, ripe avocado
  • 1 cup / 250g pitted, packed soft dates
  • 1/2 cup / 55g raw cacao powder (cocoa powder will also work)

DIRECTIONS:

  1. Place cashews in lightly salted water and let soak for 4-8 hours (overnight is fine).
  2. Drain the cashews and rinse well. Add to a blender (a high-speed blender is highly recommended) with the remaining ingredients (and any flavourings, if using) and blend on high until as smooth as possible. Add water only if necessary – you want to mixture to remain quite thick.
  3. Spoon the mixture in popsicle molds. Firmly knock the molds on the counter a few times to remove any air bubbles. Insert a popsicle stick into each mold and place in the freezer until set – at least 6 hours. To remove popsicles, run the mold under hot water until you can easily pull a fudgesicle out.
  4. If you want to decorate your fudgesicles, dip or drizzle them with melted chocolate and sprinkle with desired toppings. Eat immediately, or place back in the freezer to set until ready to enjoy.

OPTIONAL ADD-INS

  • A pinch of Sea Salt
  • Vanilla (seeds from 1 pod, powder, or extract)
  • Food grade essential oils (a few drops of peppermint, orange, almond etc.)
  • A pinch Cayenne Pepper
  • Espresso powder
  • Finely chopped toasted nuts (cashews, hazelnuts, almonds, pistachios etc.)

OPTIONAL TOPPINGS (as seen in photo)

  • Melted Dark Chocolate
  • Cacao Nibs
  • Finely Chopped Toasted Nuts (Cashews, Hazelnuts, Almonds, Pistachios Etc.)
  • Dried Fruit
  • Citrus Zest (Lemon, Orange, Lime)
  • Hemp Seeds
  • Unsweetened Desiccated Coconut
  • Bee Pollen

Published by DLC Marketing Team

For all your mortgage needs contact us today 705-349-0502

Jennifer Koop & Susan Bloom, Mortgage Agents Huntsville, Muskoka
Dominion Lending Centres, Mortgage Brokers Huntsville, Muskoka

Up Next:  Budgeting for the Year Ahead

6 Jan

Budgeting for the Year Ahead

General

Posted by: Jennifer Koop

Budgeting for the Year Ahead

Jennifer Koop & Susan Bloom, Mortgage Agents Huntsville, Muskoka

Budgeting for the Year Ahead!

With the recent inflation and rising prices occurring across the country, it is time to take control of your finances. One of the quickest ways to understand where your money is going and where you can make changes, is to create a monthly budget. This will help you get a snapshot of your income compared to your spending, and provides an avenue to review all of your outgoing costs and helps you make changes to increase your monthly cashflow – or just feel less stressed!

Step 1: Calculate Your Income

The very first step to creating any budget is determining your income – knowing exactly how much money you bring in is important to understanding what you have available to spend. Remember to focus on NET INCOME versus gross salary, as budgeting for more than you can afford will lead to overspending.

Step 2: Track Your Spending

Once you have determined your income, you will want to take a look at your spending. Reviewing and categorizing all your monthly bills can help you breakdown exactly where your money goes and make some priorities to mark where changes can be made. To start, first list out your fixed expenses – these are things like car payments, loans, rent or mortgage costs that do not change on a monthly basis. Next, you will want to take a look at your variable expenses – things like groceries, gas, entertainment, etc. and determine your average spend. This is typically the area where people are able to cut back.

Step 3: Set Realistic Goals

Realistic goals are vital for long-lasting financial health. It is important to determine what you cannot live without and where you can cut costs or scale back on spending. Ideally, when it comes to your monthly budget, you want to consider the 50/30/20 rule, which applies the following:

  • 50% of your spending is for NEEDS such as rent or mortgage payments, car payments, utilities and groceries
  • 30% of your income goes to WANTS such as shopping, vacations, streaming services, etc.
  • 20% of your income goes to SAVINGS OR DEBT such as emergency funds, retirement, child’s education and/or credit card payments

Step 4: Make a Plan

Once you have your goals set, you can now make a plan to tackle your financial position and ensure a healthy cashflow each month. For some, setting realistic spending limits for each category works well. For others, taking a look at the importance of their expenses and re-prioritizing can free up funds.

Step 5: Adjust Your Spending

Now that you have determined how much money you bring in per month and what you spend it on, you can take a look at adjusting your spending to ensure you remain on budget. Taking a realistic look at your wants is a great place to cut out frivolous spending beyond a reasonable amount. This is also a great time to review your fixed expenses. Perhaps you can save money by getting a better interest rate on your mortgage or changing the payment schedule for your loan. Be sure to connect with a me before making any changes to your mortgage!

Step 6: Stay on Track

Tracking your budget on a monthly basis is important to catch any changes in your spending habits. As well, it is a good idea to conduct an annual review and take into account any increase in expenses or wages that may require shifts in your overall plan.

The Government of Canada has an online budget planner tool available as well if you need further assistance! You can find it here.

Remember: A healthy budget is key to financial freedom and comfort.

Published by DLC Marketing Team

For all your mortgage needs contact us today 705-349-0502

Jennifer Koop & Susan Bloom, Mortgage Agents Huntsville, Muskoka
Dominion Lending Centres, Mortgage Brokers Huntsville, Muskoka

Up Next: Refinancing Your Mortgage in 2025

18 Dec

Refinancing Your Mortgage in 2025

General

Posted by: Jennifer Koop

Refinancing Your Mortgage in 2025

Jennifer Koop & Susan Bloom, Mortgage Agents Huntsville, Muskoka

Refinancing Your Mortgage in 2025.

Refinancing your mortgage can be a smart financial move for many reasons, and as your trusted mortgage advisor, I’ve seen how much it can benefit homeowners!

Ideally, refinancing is done at the end of your mortgage term to avoid penalties, but the timing can vary depending on your goals. For some, it’s about unlocking the equity in their home to fund renovations or cover big expenses like college tuition. For others, it’s an opportunity to consolidate debt, lower their interest rate, or change up their mortgage product.

Let’s take a closer look at some of the ways refinancing your mortgage can help!

  • Get a Better Rate: As interest rates have continued to decrease with the Bank of Canada updates these past few months, now is a great time to consider refinancing for a better rate and lower overall mortgage payments!  Experts anticipate the Bank of Canada will move to have the overnight rate down to 4.0% at year-end and potentially down to 2.75% for 2025.
  • Consolidate Debt: When it comes to renewal season and considering a refinance, this is a great time to review your existing debt and determine whether or not you want to consolidate it onto your mortgage. In most cases, the interest rate on your mortgage is less than you would be charged with credit card companies or other forms of financing you may have. Plus, having all your debt consolidated into a single payment can keep you on track!
  • Unlock Your Home Equity: Do you have projects around the house you’ve been dying to get started on? Need funds for a large purchase such as a new vehicle or post-secondary education? When you are looking to renew your mortgage, it is a great opportunity to consider refinancing in order to take advantage of the home equity you have built up to help with these larger changes in your life!
  • Change Your Mortgage Product: Are you unhappy with your existing mortgage product? If you have a variable-rate or adjustable-rate mortgage, you may be considering locking it in at the lower rates. Alternatively, you may want to switch your current fixed-rate mortgage to a variable option with the interest rates expected to continue decreasing into 2025. You can also utilize your refinance to take advantage of a different payment or amortization schedule to help pay off your mortgage faster!

PLUS! Some latest changes by the Government of Canada will make it even easier for you when it comes to your renewal and refinancing options:

  • Those of you who may have an uninsured mortgage will no longer have to pass the stress test as of November 21st. This means that you have more flexibility when it comes to rates and mortgage products in renewal cases where you wish to switch lenders without adding additional funds to your mortgage!
  • Beginning January 15, the federal government will allow default-insured mortgages to be refinanced to build a secondary suite. If you’ve been considering adding a suite to your property, you may be eligible to access up to 90% of your home’s equity for this purpose.

No matter your plans or situation, please don’t hesitate to reach out to us, your DLC Mortgage Experts!

Published by DLC Marketing Team

For all your mortgage needs contact us today 705-349-0502

Jennifer Koop & Susan Bloom, Mortgage Agents Huntsville, Muskoka
Dominion Lending Centres, Mortgage Brokers Huntsville, Muskoka

Up Next: DIY Holiday Gifting Ideas