Published by DLC Marketing team

It’s time to go back to school… for your finances! The fall is the perfect time for a credit clean-up so that you are ready for the holiday spending season – and anything else the year can throw at you!

When it comes to cleaning up credit, there is no better time than now to recognize the importance of your credit score and check if you are on track with your habits. To get started with your credit clean-up, there are a few things you can do:

Pull Your Credit Report: For most of us, our credit score is something we only think about when we need it. However, if you are unsure of where you stand, this is a great time to find out! The Fair Credit Reporting Act lets you get one free credit report every year through Equifax or TransUnion. Pulling your own credit report results in a “soft” inquiry on your report and will not affect your credit score. Click here to get your free credit report today!
If You Find Errors, Dispute Them: When doing your annual credit score review, it is a good idea to go through line-by-line and confirm no errors. If you find any errors, report and dispute them immediately as they could be affecting your score.
Consolidate Your Loans: One of the best tips for managing your credit and working towards future financial success, is to consolidate your debt. Consolidating debt means reducing multiple loans to a single monthly payment, which typically has a lower interest rate allowing you to maximize spend on the principal amount.
Once you have put the effort into cleaning up your credit, you will want to keep it that way! A few tips for maintaining your credit and maximizing your financial future include:

Pay Your Bills: This seems pretty straight forward, but it is not that simple. You not only have to pay the bills, but you have to do so in full AND on time whenever possible. Paying bills on time is one of the key behaviours lenders and creditors look for when deciding to grant you a loan or mortgage. If you are unable to afford the full amount, a good tip is to at least pay the minimum required as shown on your monthly statement to prevent any flags on your account.
Pay Your Debts: Whether you have credit card debt, a car loan, line of credit or a mortgage, the goal should be to pay your debt off as quickly as possible. To make the most impact, start by paying the lowest debt items first and then work towards the larger amounts. By removing the low debt items, you also remove the interest payments on those loans which frees up money that can be put towards paying off larger items.
Stay Within Your Limit: This is key when it comes to managing debt and maintaining a good credit score. Using all or most of your available credit is not advised. Your goal should be to use 30% or less of your available credit. For instance, if you have a limit of $1000 on your credit card, you should never go over $700.

NOTE: If you find you need more credit, it is better to increase the limit versus utilizing more than 70% of what is available each month.

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). If you are ready to start your home-buying journey, or are looking to refinance your existing mortgage, a DLC Mortgage Expert can help you review your credit score and financial information to help you get the most from your money.

Published by DLC Marketing team

When it comes to shopping for a mortgage, it is important to know what you need to qualify – but it is just as important to understand some of the reasons why you DON’T qualify so that you can make some changes and budget accordingly for when the time is right.

If you are in the market for a home, make sure you know the 5 major reasons you may not qualify for a mortgage:

1. Too Much Debt

One of the biggest reasons that individuals fail to qualify for a mortgage is that they are carrying too much debt already. This debt can be in the form of credit cards, lines of credit or other loans. Regardless of where the debt comes from, it all contributes to your Total Debt Servicing ratio (TDS), which is one of the qualifiers for a mortgage loan. The goal is for your monthly debt payments to NOT exceed 40% of your gross monthly income.

PRO TIP: Find ways to lessen your expenses, budget or consolidate debt where possible.

2. Credit History

Another indicator of not qualifying for a mortgage can be your credit history. It is always important to pull your credit score before you start house hunting so that you can understand what your credit rating is to help determine what you qualify for. Your credit score is a direct reflection of your potential risk and, if you have a poor credit history then it makes it harder to secure a mortgage loan.

PRO TIP: To improve your credit score, be sure to avoid late or missed payments, exceeding your credit card limit or applying for multiple new credit cards.

3. Insufficient Assets or Income

With rising housing prices and stagnant income levels, one roadblock for mortgage approval can be lacking sufficient income or assets to put against your loan. For some buyers, the only option is to save up more money for your down payment to reduce the overall mortgage or look at suite income or alternative lenders.

4. Not Enough Down Payment

Another reason you may not qualify for a mortgage could be that you do not have enough of a down payment. In Canada, a 20% down payment is required to avoid mortgage default insurance BUT you can still purchase a home with less than 20%; you simply need to account for the insurance premiums, which are calculated as a percentage of the loan and is based on the size of your down payment.

5. Inadequate Employment History

Lastly, employment history can have a big impact on mortgage approval. Most lenders prefer a 2-year consistent employment history. If you do not have an adequate employment history, have been at your job for a short time or do not have a record of long-term positions, you might find it harder to get a mortgage loan.

Whether you’re looking to get your first mortgage, are ready to move or are simply shopping around, understanding what can impact your mortgage application will help ensure you have greater success!

If you are struggling currently with your mortgage approval or have recently been denied – that’s okay! Don’t be deterred. With a little effort and patience, as well as the support of your trusted Dominion Lending Centres mortgage expert, you will be able to put yourself in a better position to reapply in the future!  If you’re ready, contact one of our experts today to discuss your options.

Published. by DLC Marketing team

Thinking about taking a holiday this year but not sure where to go? How about checking out our own backyard! Canada has some incredible vacation locations and parks that are worth checking out:

Sunshine Coast, British Columbia: Considered a local paradise, the Sunshine Coast is a gorgeous and laidback area northwest of Vancouver with dozens of beaches. Home to several resorts and hotels, the Sunshine Coast is the perfect getaway spot! Learn more at sunshinecoastcanada.com

Whistler, British Columbia: It is not surprising Whistler would be on our list. As Canada’s most famous ski resort and a great destination, it’s a popular location! Perfect for outdoor and nature lovers, bikers and hikers and general vacationers, this is the perfect spot to adventure or relax. With dozens of hotel options, you can stay right in Whistler Village and close to the action! Learn more at www.whistler.com

The Canadian Rockies World Heritage Site: Of course, Canada is well-known for our Canadian Rocky Mountain Parks. Complete with Kootenay and Yoho National Parks, the World Heritage Site is an incredible destination. Stay in Banff, Golden, Canmore and explore the world around you! Learn more at www.worldheritagesite.org/list/Canadian+Rocky+Mountain+Parks

Banff and Lake Louise, Alberta: As some of Canada’s most awe-inspiring mountain destinations, Banff National Park and Lake Louise were sure to make their way onto our list! Enjoy electric blue glacial lakes, wildlife, waterfalls and more during your trip. With several hotels and resorts in Banff, you’re sure to find a great spot to hang your coat after your day of adventures! Learn more at www.banfflakelouise.com

Drumheller And The Alberta Badlands: If you haven’t been before, Drumheller and The Alberta Badlands are worth a visit to experience unearthly landscapes and dinosaurs!? Home of The Royal Tyrrel Museum of Paleontology, Drumheller is like stepping into the past. Stay in Drumheller and experience the incredible landscapes that the badlands have to offer! Learn more at https://traveldrumheller.com/hiking-in-the-badlands

Niagara Falls, Ontario: A jewel of Canada, Niagara Falls are very well-known and should be on every traveler’s list! With various attractions including water cruises, wineries, casinos, and more, there is always something fun to do in Niagara Falls. From entertainment and romance, this is a sure win for any traveller! Learn more at niagarafalls.ca

The Muskoka Lakes, Ontario: The Muskoka Lakes were once given the title of “Best Trips” by National Geographic and continue to remain a top destination for anyone wanting to get away! With some newly added accommodations, this once closed in location has been opened up for anyone to enjoy! From basking and boating on the lake to shopping and eating in the various villages around the area, this is sure to make for a great vacation! Learn more at www.muskokalakes.ca/en/index.aspx

Quebec City, Quebec: A beautiful location filled with our heritage, Quebec City is marked by French-Canadian character and European sophistication with incredible architecture and rich history. Famous for their delish poutine and iconic Chateau Frontenac, Quebec City is a world-famous destination for anyone wanting to soak in some culture. Learn more at www.quebec-cite.com/en

Fundy National Park, New Brunswick: We couldn’t have a top vacation locations list without including the beautiful Fundy National Park. Nestled in the beautiful Canadian Atlantic of New Brunswick, this park offers incredible outdoor opportunities from kayaking to camping. With several additional historic sites dotted around the park, there is tons to see! Stay in the Village of Alma or along the coast to maximize your experience. Learn more at www.bayoffundy.com

Cavendish Beach, Prince Edward Island: Backed by dunes and rolling hills, Cavendish Beach is the last stop on our list. With beautiful beaches and the historic Green Gables Heritage Place, Cavendish Beach is one of the best places to visit in Canada. Linger by the water and explore the town of Cavendish! Learn more at cavendishbeachpei.com

Now that you know of some of the most beautiful locations in Canada, it’s time to pack your bags and get travelling! Enjoy!

Published by DLC Marketing Team

The worst financial mistake you can make is believing that a Registered Retirement Savings Plan (RRSP) or Tax-Free Savings Account (TFSA) is something to look into when you are a little older and more able to set some money aside. The fact is, you don’t use these accounts for saving at all, you use them for investing. Your retirement fund could grow to seven figures, even if you only contribute a fraction of the allowable yearly maximums. They also come with huge tax-saving benefits.

A lot of people get discouraged by the sheer amount that you are allowed to contribute to these registered accounts and the mere pittance they may be able to come up with — don’t fall into that mindset!

If you make 60,000/year from your job, you could contribute over $10,000 to your RRSP and another $6000 to your TFSA every year. Considering you are only going to have about $45K in your jeans after taxes, finding a spare $16K would require more than 30% of your take-home pay!

The good news is that your yearly contribution limits can be carried over and as you grow older (and theoretically have more disposable income) you can catch up. The bad news is that playing catch up isn’t going to happen unless you are very disciplined with your spending. Sure, you may earn more, but you will spend more… kids, cars, vacations, even the cat is going to cost you $800/year!

That extra disposable income you were envisioning may not materialize until you are in your mid 50’s, if ever! You need to scrape together whatever investment savings you can now, even saving just 5% ($200/month) of a $60K salary would make a huge impact.

Putting off getting started is going to cost you way more than you ever imagined in lost investment returns. Ignore the pitiful interest rates you see on bank savings accounts, holding cash will actually cost you money at current interest and inflation rates. However, the average annual return on many stock indexes (S&P, TSX, DSJ) over the past 40 years is around 7%. If you do a little math, you are soon going to realize that even on a relatively small investment of $200 month, the difference between starting when you are 18 versus starting at age 28 is jaw dropping.

Investing $200/month from age 18 to 65 at 7% would give you $790,139. The same $200 at the same rate from age 28 to 65 would yield just $384,810. Sure, you would be contributing $24,000 more over that extra 10 years, but your nest egg at 65 would be double — more than enough to keep you poolside at a nice resort every winter while those late starters are stuck in the snow!

There are plenty of rules, regulations and strategies to consider and every angle of the TFSA vs RRSP debate has been extensively written about. While you do need to understand the basics of how they work, the simple goal for the vast majority of us should be to put something, anything, into one (or both) of these accounts on a regular basis and start investing — you can’t go wrong!

Published by DLC Marketing team.

It can get pretty exciting to see campaigns around “cash-back mortgages” but, before you get too far along, here are three things you might not know about these types of mortgages:

1. Occasionally you will see campaigns on cash-back mortgages, so don’t jump at the first one you see! These types of mortgages are available through a few major lenders so it can be helpful to shop around to see what different terms and conditions are available, as this will affect the overall loan.
2. When it comes to cash-back mortgages, you’re really getting a loan on top of your mortgage. The interest rates are calculated to ensure that, by the end of your term, you will have paid the lender back the money they gave you (and perhaps a bit extra!). Be mindful that these loans can come with higher interest rates and, in some cases, the extra is more than you got in cash-back.
3. The average cash-back mortgage operates on a 5-year term. While you may not be planning to move before your term is up, sometimes things happen and it is important to be aware that if you break a cash-back mortgage, you have to pay the standard penalty but you will also have to pay back a portion of the loan you were given. For example, if you are 3 years into a 5-year term, you would have to pay back 2 years or 40% worth of the cash-back. Combined with the standard mortgage penalties for breaking your term, this can add up if you’re not careful!

Before signing for a cash-back mortgage it’s better to discuss your needs with your local Dominion Lending Centres mortgage expert. They can advise regarding all cash-back mortgage availability, lines of credit, purchase plus improvement loans or also flex down mortgages that may be better for your situation.

Published by DLC Marketing team.

An investment (or rental) property, can be a great option for generating additional monthly income and growing your wealth over time, if done properly.

This strategy has multiple options and outcomes that can benefit Canadians such as:

• Supplementing income now and boosting pension in the future creating more financial freedom
• Allowing you to buy your dream retirement home now and rent it out until you’re ready to use it
• Increase monthly cash flow for potential expenses beyond retirement savings
• Utilize a multi-unit home (such as a duplex) by renting out one of the units

However, before you buy an investment property, there are a few things to know. Firstly, buying a property for the purpose of renting it out to someone else comes with different qualifying criteria and mortgage product options than traditional home purchases.

Before you look at purchasing a rental property, be aware that:

1. The minimum down payment required is 20% of the purchase price, and the funds must come from your own savings; you cannot use a gift from someone else. Another option is to utilize existing equity in your primary residence and refinance for the cash to purchase your rental or investment property. Be sure to factor in funds for closing costs, potential repairs and maintenance in your amount.
2. Only a portion of the rental income can be used to qualify and determine how much you can afford to borrow. Some lenders will only allow you to use 50% of the income added to yours, while other lenders may allow up to 80% of the rental income and subtract your expenses.
3. Interest rates usually have a premium when the mortgage is for a rental property versus a mortgage for a home someone intends on living in. The premium can be anywhere from 0.10% to 0.20% on a regular 5-year fixed rate.

With the right purchase price and rental costs per month, this can be a great way to supplement income and make the most out of your retirement. Not only does it offer monthly cashflow, but you also will have the ability to sell the property down the line if you so choose. However, bear in mind, the sale will be subject to capital gains tax. Your accountant will be able to help you with that aspect if you do decide to sell in the future.

Before getting started, it is important to calculate the cost of your investment (purchase price and closing costs), as well as consider maintenance amounts (approximately 1% of the property value for the year) and compare to current rental prices to be sure it is a profitable investment before purchasing.

If you’re looking to purchase an investment property, be sure to reach out to a Dominion Lending Centres mortgage expert to discuss your options and understand what is required.

Published by HomeEquity Bank

If you are a Canadian living in debt, you are not alone. According to Statistics Canada, household debt grew faster than income last year, with Canadians owing $1.83 for every dollar of household disposable income to debt(1).

• Canadian households use almost 13.48% of income for debt re-payment(2).

• Rising inflation and interest rates (1).

• The cost of living is projected to increase in 2022 (2)

So how can one ever get out of debt? Debt consolidation.

What is debt consolidation?

Debt consolidation means paying off smaller loans with a larger loan at a lower interest rate. For example, a credit card bill debt with interest of 19.99% can be paid off by a 5-year Reverse Mortgage with an interest rate of 7.70%* from HomeEquity Bank. (*5 year fixed rate as of June 28 , 2022. For current rates, please contact your DLC Mortgage Broker).

A lot of confusion surrounds debt consolidation; many of us just don’t know enough about it. Consider the two sides:

The pros

• The lower the interest rate, the sooner you get out of debt. A lower monthly interest allows you to pay more towards your actual loan, getting you debt-free faster.

• You only have to make one monthly debt payment. This is more manageable than keeping track of multiple debt payments with different interest rates.

• Your credit score remains untarnished because your higher interest loans, such as a credit card, are paid off.

The cons

• Consolidating your debt doesn’t give you the green light to continue spending.

Consolidating helps you get out of debt; continuing to spend as you did before puts you even further into debt.

• A larger loan with a financial institution will require prompt payments. If you were struggling to pay your debts before, you may still be challenged with payments. The CHIP Reverse Mortgage may be a better option; it doesn’t require any payments until you decide to move or sell your home.

• You may require a co-signer who will have to pay the loan, if you’re unable. Note that the CHIP Reverse Mortgage does not require a co-signer, as long as you qualify for it and are on the property title.

So how do you know if debt consolidation is the option for you? Start by contacting your DLC mortgage broker and ask if the CHIP Reverse Mortgage could be the right solution for you.

SOURCES:

1 Debt-to-disposable-income ratio eases down from record 185% | CBC News

2 Key household debt-to-income ratio down in Q1 as income rises faster than debt | The Star

Let’s talk about interest rates.  Like most things in life, seldom do they stay the same. Since roughly 2009, if your mortgage was variable you had the benefit of very low borrowing costs.  Back in the early 2000’s my first mortgage was $86k.  The payments were roughly $130 principal and $400 interest per month with roughly a 5.69% fixed interest rate. This was the norm before 2009.    Since then rates have been so low, that over time I have forgotten I used to pay more to interest than principal.

According to the source tradingeconomics.com,  the interest rates in Canada averaged 5.79% between 1990 until 2022 from a high of 16% in February of 1991 till a record low of .25% in April of 2009.  If you had a variable mortgage you have enjoyed extremely low rates and ultimately more money to spend on other things.

Starting in April/May of 2022 most of the real estate demand disappeared.  Realtors are back to holding open houses, and for sale signs are up for longer.    Depending on the products, fixed mortgage rates are pushing 5% +. Home prices have never been higher in most areas of Canada, and people are unsure of whats next.

Time for some perspective.  Interest rates, although high compared to the last few years.  Are actually just below the average of the last 30+ years. Gone are the unconditional and blind bids.  Once again you have time to actually look at the house before purchasing.  More selection.  Overall, a better buying experience.  The interest rates are always going to fluctuate, and we have to prepare for it. Talking to your mortgage agent will set you up for success for the long term.

Written by Derek Cole DLC Canuck Mortgage group Lic#12503

Published by FCT.

The right real estate agent will help you through every step of buying or selling your home. Like any relationship, you want to ask questions, get to know your agent before agreeing to have them work with you.  Let’s take a look at some of the things you should consider when looking for an agent.

Where to begin when buying a home

When looking for an agent, you want to find an individual who you are confident will listen to your needs and help find a property within your budget.

Before you start your search, you’ll want to determine the maximum price you want to pay.  Keep in mind that there are additional fees when purchasing a home that aren’t included in the home’s price.  These include lawyer fees, moving expenses, and land transfer taxes.

Be Aware: if you put less than a 20% down payment on a home, you will have to purchase mortgage insurance.  Determine the amount you can afford as a down payment, then add in the cost of insurance if necessary when budgeting.

Next, consider where you want to live. Look at property listings within that area and see what real estate companies and agents are present.  While agents can help you buy a property in any neighbourhood, they will be more knowledgeable in the areas in which they are actively selling properties.

Talk To Prospective Agents

Now that you’ve figured out where you want to live and what you can afford, speak to agents to get a better idea of how they work.  How many years experience do they have? Are you able to contact them directly or do they have a team that works for them?  How often will they send you listings?

It’s a hot market, so you want to be confident your agent is getting you in to see properties as soon as possible.  The window for making offers on houses is usually tight, so you want to ensure that your agent can get you the appointment.

Tip: Regularly check real estate listings yourself. You might find a gem that your agent overlooked.

Where to begin when selling a home

If you were happy with the agent you used when buying your home, you’re off to a good start.

If you’re seeking a new agent, start by looking at local properties for sale.  Take a walk or drive around, and check out online sales listings.  Pay attention to whose name keeps appearing, and what companies have good representation.  An individual with multiple listings in a community is probably familiar with the neighbourhood, and most likely getting good deals for their clients.

Be bold in your search: knock on the doors of houses that have for sale signs, and ask the homeowner how their experience has been with the agent.  Most people are more than happy to share their opinions.

Next Steps

Once you’ve found the name of a few reputable agents, take a look at some of their listings online.  Are the pictures attractive? How do they describe the properties? Consider the listings from the perspective of the buyer.  Are they attractive, or would you skip over them? This is the same agent who could be representing you, so you want to feel confident that your home will be presented in the best possible light.

TIP: Pay attention to how long properties have been listed for. If the agent’s properties have been on the market for quite some time, chances are that something they are doing isn’t effective.

Ask prospective agents the same questions you would ask when buying a home. You’ll also want to consider things such as whether or not they like to list the property at a fair market value, or price it under market in hopes of setting up a bidding war?  Do they offer one open house, or multiple times and days? While it’s ultimately up to you to decide which approach works best, it’s good to have an idea of what you’ll be in store for.

Be Advised: When you’ve found an agent, they will require you to sign a listing agreement.  This is a contract that allows the agent a certain number of days to sell your home. If you break this contract by deciding to go with another agent, you will most likely have to pay penalties.

When you’re selling your home, you have a lot of things to consider.  Finding the right agent – one who works both with and for you – can help ease the stress of the experience.

Published by DLC marketing team.

A few simple steps to healthy credit…

Just like you should have a physical every year to make sure you’re healthy, you should do the same for your credit report and score.

Don’t wait until you go to buy something and you are turned down. And don’t worry… chequing your own credit does not affect it. So, what should you be looking for?

MISTAKES

Make sure your personal information is correct and up to- date. Also check that your date of birth and any other identifying information is correct as well.

ERRORS

Even creditors make mistakes sometimes so carefully look over any negative information appearing on your credit that isn’t true. Creditors are required to change any errors that you find on your report.

HINT: Send a letter to the credit bureaus, as well, to let them know there was an error and send a copy to the credit agency who incorrectly reported to motivate them to take care of it in a timely manner.

OUTDATED INFORMATION

Credit agencies are required to remove certain information from your credit after a certain number of years. For example, if you got behind on your payments but then went back to your normal payment schedule, that late history is to be removed after 6-7 years. Don’t assume it will be. Be proactive and follow up to make sure it was done.

FRAUD

We all know someone who has had their identity stolen and nothing wrecks a credit score and report more than someone hijacking it. It doesn’t necessarily have to be a stranger either. Family and friends have been known to “borrow” someone’s credit. Be smart and make sure to protect your credit from the known and the unknown.

WHY DO ERRORS MATTER?

Even minor errors like a misspelled name or a wrong address can keep you from getting a loan or even lower your credit score. Keep your credit as healthy as possible by checking it every year. Choose a day that will be easy to remember like your birthday or the day you file your taxes.