Durham Region Mortgage Blog

Real mortgage solutions, not just rates.

Category: Buying a Home (54 posts)

Pros and Cons of New Build Homes

Pros and Cons of New Build Homes

June 15, 2023 | Posted by: Sherry Corbitt

When deciding to purchase an older home vs a new build there are many considerations. Often this decision may be influenced by your overall budget and timeline but will vary for every buyer. To see wh ... [read more]

Tips When Moving to a New City

Tips When Moving to a New City

March 3, 2023 | Posted by: Sherry Corbitt

Moving to a new city can feel very overwhelming with all the unfamiliarities. Although, it can also be viewed that this change can be a fun and exciting adventure. These are some tips to help ease the ... [read more]

Bridge Financing

Bridge Financing

January 5, 2023 | Posted by: Sherry Corbitt

Considering a move in 2023? Take the stress out of mathcing up closing dates by considering bridge finacning.  Bridge financing means you have sold your current home with a firm offer in place ... [read more]

What is a Bridge Loan?

What is a Bridge Loan?

December 7, 2022 | Posted by: Sherry Corbitt

When applying for your first mortgage, then you most certainly are hearing many new terms. One such term that you may have come across is a bridge loan. You may be wondering what a bridge loan is and ... [read more]

Buying a House and Planning a Wedding at the Same Time: What You Should Know

Buying a House and Planning a Wedding at the Same Time: What You Should Know

October 13, 2022 | Posted by: Sherry Corbitt

Can you buy a house and plan a wedding at the same time? This is an underrated question that many first-time buyers ask themselves. Getting ready for your marriage is an exciting time, yet you must co ... [read more]

Building Your Dream Home: Securing a Construction Loan

Building Your Dream Home: Securing a Construction Loan

September 22, 2022 | Posted by: Sherry Corbitt

Previously, we examined some important ways to prepare for a construction loan. Now that your preparation is complete, it is time to dive into securing your loan. This stage can be overwhelming, espec ... [read more]

Building Your Dream Home: Preparing For a Construction Loan

Building Your Dream Home: Preparing For a Construction Loan

September 15, 2022 | Posted by: Sherry Corbitt

Have you been thinking about your dream home recently? For some people, they are able to find and purchase their dream home. Yet for others, it could also inlcude building it. Although it is not the m ... [read more]

Top Buyer Questions in 2022

Top Buyer Questions in 2022

June 30, 2022 | Posted by: Sherry Corbitt

Being a first-time home buyer can be overwhelming, especially when you have questions about your first purchase. With how the market has changed within the past few years, it may even be more confusin ... [read more]

Common First Time Home Buyer Mistakes

Common First Time Home Buyer Mistakes

June 16, 2022 | Posted by: Sherry Corbitt

This is a frequently discussed topic, which is answered quite often. Yet with how high the housing market is right now, going over this topic is essential for first-time buyers. Having up-to-date info ... [read more]

Buying What You Can Afford in 2022

Buying What You Can Afford in 2022

May 20, 2022 | Posted by: Sherry Corbitt

As rates and the housing market continue to rise, many homebuyers question what they can realistically afford. Not only have home-buying prices gone up, yet everyday living has as well. So for many, e ... [read more]

Should I Purchase a Fixer-Upper

Should I Purchase a Fixer-Upper

March 2, 2022 | Posted by: Sherry Corbitt

Many people are skeptical when it comes to fixer-upper houses. However, purchasing a fixer-upper may become your dream home, depending on your preferences and financial situation. Before you can answe ... [read more]

Pros and Cons of Buying a Newly Constructed House

Pros and Cons of Buying a Newly Constructed House

February 16, 2022 | Posted by: Sherry Corbitt

With the house market right now, there is a large shortage of houses. For every single home that is for sale, there typically are dozens of other buyers who are putting bids down. If you are trying to ... [read more]

How to Sell and Move Safely During Covid-19

How to Sell and Move Safely During Covid-19

January 26, 2022 | Posted by: Sherry Corbitt

The past two years have been very unprecedented times for people worldwide. It has undoubtedly been a challenge to adjust to everyday life and tasks. The pandemic has affected thousands of people from ... [read more]

What Will the Housing Market Look Like in 2022

What Will the Housing Market Look Like in 2022

January 18, 2022 | Posted by: Sherry Corbitt

Now that we are in a new year, change is bound to happen. Many people are curious as to how much change there will be in the housing market. Although we have just started 2022, some clear factors can ... [read more]

Most Common Mistakes That First-Time Home Buyers Make

Most Common Mistakes That First-Time Home Buyers Make

December 1, 2021 | Posted by: Sherry Corbitt

If you are a first-time home buyer, this certainly is a whole new process for you. It is easy for you to make mistakes as this is all new for you. To ensure that you have the smoothest experience poss ... [read more]

Tips on Choosing a Home Inspector

Tips on Choosing a Home Inspector

November 17, 2021 | Posted by: Sherry Corbitt

If you are purchasing a home, you most likely will need to have a home inspection booked. The purpose of a home inspection is to examine the house's condition and ensure that there are no severe probl ... [read more]

Things That May Not be Included in Your Purchase

Things That May Not be Included in Your Purchase

November 11, 2021 | Posted by: Sherry Corbitt

When purchasing a home, there are many factors involved. One crucial aspect to examine is seeing what is included in your purchase. Unfortunately, many buyers overlook this and expect some things to b ... [read more]

Tips When Moving With Pets

Tips When Moving With Pets

October 20, 2021 | Posted by: Sherry Corbitt

If you are moving, a factor that you must consider is your pets. Many movers may become anxious considering how they are to make their move with their pets. Every pet is different, so different method ... [read more]

Houses With Unique Features: How They Increase the Sale Amount

Houses With Unique Features: How They Increase the Sale Amount

October 12, 2021 | Posted by: Sherry Corbitt

Most houses located nearby will be similar in price, especially if they are around the same size. Yet, there are some exceptions when it comes to houses with unique features. It is a commonly debated ... [read more]

How to Safely Search For Houses Online

How to Safely Search For Houses Online

September 27, 2021 | Posted by: Sherry Corbitt

Finding a house online can be a lot easier than looking at listings in person. Yet, it can be challenging to find safe websites that list real and suitable houses. However, there are some practical gu ... [read more]

Why the Fall is a Great Season to Buy in

Why the Fall is a Great Season to Buy in

September 22, 2021 | Posted by: Sherry Corbitt

If you are thinking of buying a house, you definitely will be considering when you should do so. Many factors can contribute to making a move, such as your circumstance with work and your family. Howe ... [read more]

Living in the Country Vs the City

Living in the Country Vs the City

September 2, 2021 | Posted by: Sherry Corbitt

If you are a homebuyer, you need to consider what environment you want to live in. The main two categories are the city and the country. These two environments both have advantages, yet both do not al ... [read more]

Steps to Make When Moving to Another Province

Steps to Make When Moving to Another Province

August 25, 2021 | Posted by: Sherry Corbitt

A regular move can be overwhelming enough, let alone moving across the country. If you are moving to another Province, rest assured that you are not alone. Many have made a move from one Province to a ... [read more]

Should I Host an Open House?

Should I Host an Open House?

August 17, 2021 | Posted by: Sherry Corbitt

An open house is when potential buyers come into your home to view it when you are selling. When you are ready to list your house, one of the first things you need to decide is to have an open house. ... [read more]

Why You Should Not Sell Yet

Why You Should Not Sell Yet

August 11, 2021 | Posted by: Sherry Corbitt

Currently, in 2021, the housing market has been extremely hot. Being able to sell a house at a higher rate is a great benefit that sellers are taking advantage of. Although this is a perfect time to s ... [read more]

Adapting to A New Area After You Move

Adapting to A New Area After You Move

August 9, 2021 | Posted by: Sherry Corbitt

You have successfully sold your property and have bought a new home. Everything seems well until you get to your new home. Moving to a new area can certainly be a significant change for everyone. You ... [read more]

Why Listing Videos and Photos Matter

Why Listing Videos and Photos Matter

August 3, 2021 | Posted by: Sherry Corbitt

When listing your home, there are a few fundamental aspects that you need to be prepared for. First, videos and photos must be taken of the property to sell your home quickly and at a reasonable rate. ... [read more]

How to Win a Bidding War on a Property

How to Win a Bidding War on a Property

July 29, 2021 | Posted by: Sherry Corbitt

Are you currently looking at a house that you are set on buying? If so, are you overwhelmed by other bidders? As a buyer, you may think that there are limited options for winning the house. Yet, there ... [read more]

Buying and Owning a Timeshare: Pros and Cons

Buying and Owning a Timeshare: Pros and Cons

July 27, 2021 | Posted by: Sherry Corbitt

Timeshares have been around for many decades now and have been a wise option. They can be accessible for younger and older ones in many different locations and with many companies. What is a timesh ... [read more]

How to Identify an Overpriced House

How to Identify an Overpriced House

July 6, 2021 | Posted by: Sherry Corbitt

As a buyer, knowing how much a house is truly worth is vital. With how high the market is right now, many sellers are raising their prices to significant degrees. Knowing if a house is overpriced can ... [read more]

Repairs to Help Your Home Sell Faster

Repairs to Help Your Home Sell Faster

May 17, 2021 | Posted by: Sherry Corbitt

If you are thinking of selling your home, it may be wise to see if any repairs can be made. Many buyers will be more inclined to purchase when knowing that recent repairs have been made around a home. ... [read more]

Tips For Buying a Condo

Tips For Buying a Condo

May 3, 2021 | Posted by: Sherry Corbitt

If you are thinking of buying a condo, it can undoubtedly be an anxious process. Yet, some tips can help you be the most successful in finding and buying your condo. Analyze your Finances Before e ... [read more]

Renting Vs Owning?

Renting Vs Owning?

April 26, 2021 | Posted by: Sherry Corbitt

This is a question that everyone has to ask themselves when choosing to find their place. Both options can work well, yet it mainly depends on the individual. If you are planning on moving out and con ... [read more]

Tips for an Easier Move

Tips for an Easier Move

April 22, 2021 | Posted by: Sherry Corbitt

Making a move can be a very long and tiring process. In addition, it can cause stress and anxiety, which can make the moving process even more difficult. There are some tips though that can help reduc ... [read more]

What is a Flex Down Mortgage and How Does It Work?

What is a Flex Down Mortgage and How Does It Work?

June 11, 2020 | Posted by: Sherry Corbitt

In typical mortgage rules, buyers must come up with their down payment, whether it is from their savings or it is “gifted.” Gifted down payments are non-refundable, given to the buyer from ... [read more]

First Time Buyers Week : Part 4

First Time Buyers Week : Part 4

May 14, 2020 | Posted by: Sherry Corbitt

Let’s talk money: Down payment and Closing costs The minimum down payment needed is 5%, but you will also need to have enough money aside for closing costs. The closing costs are typicall ... [read more]

First Time Buyers Week: Part 3

First Time Buyers Week: Part 3

May 12, 2020 | Posted by: Sherry Corbitt

Financing in place: check! Have team members: check! Found the perfect home and placed an offer that was accepted: check! What's next? SHOW ME THE PAPERWORK! Now it is the paperwork time to prov ... [read more]

First Time Buyers Week: Part 2

First Time Buyers Week: Part 2

May 8, 2020 | Posted by: Sherry Corbitt

  So now that we have reviewed your financing and know what your pre-approved amount is to buy…let’s meet your team that will get you do the day of closing and keys in your hand! ... [read more]

First Time Buyers Week: Part 1

First Time Buyers Week: Part 1

May 5, 2020 | Posted by: Sherry Corbitt

A first-time buyer having a road map of what each step is along the home buying process can make the whole experience less stressful. This week there will be articles posted about financing, budgeti ... [read more]

10 Mistakes First-Time Homebuyers Make in Whitby and Durham, ON

10 Mistakes First-Time Homebuyers Make in Whitby and Durham, ON

November 18, 2019 | Posted by: Sherry Corbitt

Buying your first house in Whitby and Durham, ON can be an exciting and stressful time. There are so many things to consider that you can find yourself getting overwhelmed. Here are some common mistak ... [read more]

What is the difference between Alternative Lenders vs Private Lenders?

What is the difference between Alternative Lenders vs Private Lenders?

October 2, 2019 | Posted by: Sherry Corbitt

If you are being offered a mortgage and the term Alternative lender is being said, what does that mean? We commonly break a mortgage into three levels dependent on credit, equity, ability to repay the ... [read more]

Shut the Front Door...To Your New Home

Shut the Front Door...To Your New Home

March 11, 2019 | Posted by: Sherry Corbitt

Are you struggling with buying a home because you don't have the down payment? We have an option for you that will get you one step closer to your dream home for a limited time. For more infor ... [read more]

Mortgage Documentation - Do you need to supply it?

Mortgage Documentation - Do you need to supply it?

January 8, 2019 | Posted by: Sherry Corbitt

Ever wonder why a mortgage lender needs so much paperwork? You may feel overwhelmed at the thought of having to provide so much personal paperwork, but it isn’t meant to frustrate you. Instead, ... [read more]

Mortgage Loan Insurance Premium? Home Insurance? Life Insurance vs Mortgage Protection Insurance?

Mortgage Loan Insurance Premium? Home Insurance? Life Insurance vs Mortgage Protection Insurance?

December 10, 2018 | Posted by: Sherry Corbitt

I'm confused…which one do I need? When purchasing a home, four types of insurances need to be addressed, so let's review each one so you are prepared. 1. CMHC/Genworth/Canada Guaranty insur ... [read more]

The Buddy Mortgage - What You Need To Know

The Buddy Mortgage - What You Need To Know

March 15, 2018 | Posted by: Sherry Corbitt

The Buddy Mortgage: When does it make sense to purchase a home with a friend or family member? It can be hard to purchase your first home in today's hot real estate market due to affordability a ... [read more]

'Conditional on financing':  the most important part of your offer

'Conditional on financing': the most important part of your offer

June 2, 2017 | Posted by: Sherry Corbitt

When you find the condo or house of your dreams and want to make an offer, do you need a financing condition? Unless you can pay cash for the home, then yes, you do. So that little phrase – &ldq ... [read more]

Considering buying your first home in Durham?

Considering buying your first home in Durham?

May 25, 2017 | Posted by: Sherry Corbitt

Considering buying your first home in Durham? You most likely have questions about down payment, what you can afford, who the professionals on your team are, how to get the best mortgage for your nee ... [read more]

Bridge Financing - What You Need to Know

Bridge Financing - What You Need to Know

May 12, 2017 | Posted by: Sherry Corbitt

Do you know what Bridge financing is? Have a home to sell and buy another home? A bridge loan is a short-term financing tool that helps you “bridge” the gap between old and new mortgages ... [read more]

Mortgage rule changes heighten need for brokers

Mortgage rule changes heighten need for brokers

December 14, 2016 | Posted by: Sherry Corbitt

In light of the federal government’s recent changes to mortgage insurance and qualifications, it is now more critical than ever for Canadian homebuyers to use the services of a mortgage broker a ... [read more]

Which renovations go right to your bottom line?

Which renovations go right to your bottom line?

November 3, 2016 | Posted by: Sherry Corbitt

Whether you are looking to buy a fixer-upper or renovate your existing home to improve the quality of life for you and your family, it's worthwhile to understand which home renovations can help boos ... [read more]

Does No Down Payment mortgages still exist?

Does No Down Payment mortgages still exist?

July 7, 2016 | Posted by: Sherry Corbitt

Does “No Down Payment” mortgages still exist? YES! Have you been curious about how the no-down-payment mortgages work when you don’t have the savings but want to get into a home? He ... [read more]

5 Big Mistakes Homebuyers Make in a Sellers Market

5 Big Mistakes Homebuyers Make in a Sellers Market

June 22, 2016 | Posted by: Sherry Corbitt

The one thing that most would be home buyers understand is that the real estate markets and climates fluctuate and can do so rather often. And while they may have the upper hand sometimes if a call is ... [read more]

Bigger down payment needed for homes over $500,000.

Bigger down payment needed for homes over $500,000.

December 15, 2015 | Posted by: Sherry Corbitt

On December 10th, the Finance Minister announced that any home purchases over $500,000 would need 10% as a down payment instead of just 5%. The extra down payment is only needed for the portion that i ... [read more]

Home Buyer's Program: What do you need to know about it?

Home Buyer's Program: What do you need to know about it?

April 23, 2015 | Posted by: Sherry Corbitt

Are you a first-time buyer thinking about buying this year? Do you have your down payment set aside and are just waiting to take that big step? You may have a minimal opportunity that is time-sens ... [read more]

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Sherry Corbitt
Sherry Corbitt
Whitby, Mortgage Broker, Team Lead
Strategist of Awesome Mortgages
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