Category: Financial and Mortgage Advice (75 posts)
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What are Property Taxes and Why Do We Need to Pay Them?
November 8, 2023 | Posted by: Sherry Corbitt
What are property taxes? Anyone who has owned a real estate property has experienced spending their hard-earned money on property taxes. These fees are due every year, so what are these funds u ... [read more]
October Shut The Front Door - Navigating a tough market
September 25, 2023 | Posted by: Sherry Corbitt
Navigating the Changing Real Estate Landscape: A Year of Challenges and Opportunities The past year has been an unprecedented roller coaster ride for homeowners and homebuyers alike. With flu ... [read more]
What is a Home Equity Line of Credit?
September 22, 2023 | Posted by: Sherry Corbitt
A home equity line of credit (HELOC), is a loan available to homeowners once they purchase a property. Individuals can apply for this loan, by offering collateral of the equity in their home, which if ... [read more]
What is a Mortgage?
September 5, 2023 | Posted by: Sherry Corbitt
A mortgage is a loan offered by a lender to obtain the asset of a property and land. Did you know roughly every 9 in 10 homeowners between the ages of 25 to 44 have a mortgage? With this many Canadian ... [read more]
Building Your Credit Score
April 6, 2023 | Posted by: Sherry Corbitt
Building your credit score is essential for achieving financial success. It allows for opportunities to borrow money at lower interest rates and additionally qualify for larger loans. These are a few ... [read more]
Tips to Lower Household Expenses
March 17, 2023 | Posted by: Sherry Corbitt
Oh, the dreaded payments of household expenses. These bills are necessary for everyday functioning within your home, yet always seem to add up so fast. There is no way to completely eliminate these ex ... [read more]
How to Pay Down Debt Faster
February 24, 2023 | Posted by: Sherry Corbitt
It can feel overwhelming to pay down large amounts of debt. However, with some planning, budgeting can be easy and attainable. These are a few tips to pay off debt faster: Tip 1: Develop a budget&n ... [read more]
How to Spend Less Money in 2023
January 2, 2023 | Posted by: Sherry Corbitt
For the new year, spending less money is one area that most of us will want to focus on. With how prices are skyrocketing, it may seem impossible to save. However, following the proper steps can help ... [read more]
Budgeting Planners You Should be Using in 2023
December 19, 2022 | Posted by: Sherry Corbitt
Are you ready for 2023? The exciting beginning of a new year brings the opportunity to create new goals and plans. Yet a new year also should include coming back to your budget. We should all be adjus ... [read more]
How Are You Creating Your 2023 Year Goals?
December 13, 2022 | Posted by: Sherry Corbitt
Have you begun thinking about your goals for 2023? Creating these goals closer to the new year is common by simply writing them down and making a checklist. Yet by putting in such effort as this, you ... [read more]
How to Get a Month Ahead of Your Bills
December 1, 2022 | Posted by: Sherry Corbitt
Costs are going up today in all areas of life. This includes housing, food, and necessities. Many are worried about how they can cope with such drastic increases in living. One of the best ways to man ... [read more]
Property Tax: What You Should Know
November 17, 2022 | Posted by: Sherry Corbitt
As a homeowner, paying your property taxes is just one of the many responsibilities involved. Paying these taxes is a task which you need to come back to each year. Have you ever wondered what exactly ... [read more]
Personal Finance Hacks You Wish You Knew Sooner
November 9, 2022 | Posted by: Sherry Corbitt
There are so many financial hacks which you may currently be incorporating into your day to day life. Yet there are always new hacks and tricks, which you may not know about. Consider some fantastic h ... [read more]
Nov Shut The Front Door giveaway!
October 31, 2022 | Posted by: Sherry Corbitt
A debate I am being asked often is should you refinance when your current 1st mortgage is at an untouchable good rate. Instead of paying a penalty and losing a potential great rate, lots of lenders ... [read more]
How to Help Your Parents Before Their Retirement
October 27, 2022 | Posted by: Sherry Corbitt
While there is a tremendous amount of focus on ourselves when preparing for our retirement, you should also keep your parents in mind. Although finances are a personal aspect of everyone’s life, ... [read more]
5 Questions to Ask Before Taking on Debt
September 29, 2022 | Posted by: Sherry Corbitt
Debt is a financial aspect that most of us encounter in our life. Although it cannot always be avoided, you can limit how much you take on. Consider five questions to ask yourself before you decide to ... [read more]
Setting SMART Financial Goals
September 8, 2022 | Posted by: Sherry Corbitt
Having financial goals in place is good. However, setting smart goals can take your goals a step further. Within this blog, we will discuss what smart goals are, what type of smart goals you can set, ... [read more]
Financial Planning in September
September 1, 2022 | Posted by: Sherry Corbitt
For many of us, September can feel like a 2nd new year with children returning to school and the season starting fresh. With new beginnings, it can be good to re-evaluate and create unique plans for y ... [read more]
6 Ways to Say No to Overspending
August 25, 2022 | Posted by: Sherry Corbitt
Spending money is a fundamental aspect of everyday life. Yet if you find it difficult to say no to unnecessary expenditures, you may have difficulty balancing your finances. Examining ways to say no t ... [read more]
How to Fix a Failing Budget
August 19, 2022 | Posted by: Sherry Corbitt
There are many reasons why having a budget is vital in our financial life. Yet sometimes, these budgets, unfortunately, do not work out as successfully as we thought they would. They can even fail. Al ... [read more]
Investing Dos and Don'ts
August 11, 2022 | Posted by: Sherry Corbitt
Whether or not you are new to investing, you should be aware of some essential things to do and avoid. Consider a couple dos and don'ts when investing. Do: Educate Yourself on Investments before Inve ... [read more]
How to Avoid Financial Scams
July 28, 2022 | Posted by: Sherry Corbitt
In our day-to-day life, scam occurrences have drastically increased. Sometimes you may not even be able to get through the day without a scammer constantly calling your phone. Although some scams ... [read more]
Easy Ways to Simplify Your Finances
July 21, 2022 | Posted by: Sherry Corbitt
With how inflated prices are right now, it can be difficult to have balance with your finances. Dealing with financial aspects of life can certainly become stressful. Although it seems like there is n ... [read more]
Financial Goals You Should Set
June 1, 2022 | Posted by: Sherry Corbitt
Most people want a stable financial life. To be able to have a stable financial life, it is essential to create goals to work towards. Sometimes creating financial goals can be tricky, especially if y ... [read more]
Your Personal Finance Resource List
May 24, 2022 | Posted by: Sherry Corbitt
Knowing how to manage your finances is an important life skill. Much of our financial knowledge will come from experience, yet there are many resources that can help improve your financial management ... [read more]
How to Keep Your Bank Accounts Protected
May 12, 2022 | Posted by: Sherry Corbitt
With how digitized everyday life is, banking has never been easier. Yet it also raises more alarm to fraud. Many scammers can and will break into your bank accounts if you are not careful. There are m ... [read more]
Credit Score: Habits to Incorporate in Your Life
May 4, 2022 | Posted by: Sherry Corbitt
During our economy right now, everything in price has increased. This includes major financial purchases, such as houses and mortgages. As a result, the process has become more challenging for everyon ... [read more]
What is Your Net Worth?
April 21, 2022 | Posted by: Sherry Corbitt
Many Canadians today do not know what their net worth is. This could be from not staying up to date with their assets and liabilities, or it could even be from not knowing how to calculate your net wo ... [read more]
Tax Reminders 2022
April 14, 2022 | Posted by: Sherry Corbitt
Have you submitted your taxes yet? If not, then you may either be completing them or rushing to get them started. Either way, consider some of the following reminders, which can be helpful as you fini ... [read more]
Why do we Spend Money?
March 24, 2022 | Posted by: Sherry Corbitt
Money is a fundamental aspect of life, which allows us to buy food, a home, and everyday necessities. Yet there are other things outside of our essentials which we are prone to buy. Many people wonder ... [read more]
How Soon After Purchasing Can I Refinance
March 10, 2022 | Posted by: Sherry Corbitt
This is a common question that many homebuyers ask themselves. With the hot housing market right now, some who have just purchased may want to refinance as soon as possible. The following points will ... [read more]
Top Money Saving Apps in 2022
February 24, 2022 | Posted by: Sherry Corbitt
As we are in a new year, you may be planning to create a saving plan. If so, you may be considering using different tools to help you stick to your plan. One of the best tools to use is a money saving ... [read more]
Why You Should be Making a Budget
February 8, 2022 | Posted by: Sherry Corbitt
Do you budget in your day-to-day life? Some people don’t and see no use for it. However, if you apply this statement, you may be surprised how much budgeting can make a difference in your life. ... [read more]
How to Save For Retirement
January 13, 2022 | Posted by: Sherry Corbitt
No matter how old you are, you may be thinking about retirement. You may wonder how you will have enough to live during your retired years. It can be scary to ponder; many people face this thought the ... [read more]
5 Pre-Approval Tips
January 6, 2022 | Posted by: Sherry Corbitt
To get a mortgage, you have to first qualify for one. Getting a pre-approval can assist you in this process and make your buying experience much better. Of course, when you are getting a pre-approval, ... [read more]
Commonly Asked Documents For Lenders
December 29, 2021 | Posted by: Sherry Corbitt
After applying for your mortgage, there are a few documents that you need to provide before you can be approved. The documents that your lender requests ensure that you will be able to pay off this mo ... [read more]
How to Improve Your Money Management Skills
December 21, 2021 | Posted by: Sherry Corbitt
Handling money can be a struggle for many people. This does not just mean spending money on expenses and other items, yet feeling comfortable with your financial situation. If you are stressed about y ... [read more]
How to Wisely Use Your Credit Cards
December 15, 2021 | Posted by: Sherry Corbitt
Credit cards have often been seen in a negative light, based on the consequences that come with them. It is true that they certainly can lead to poor financial issues, based on the decisions you make ... [read more]
5 Ways to Be Mortgage Free Sooner
December 7, 2021 | Posted by: Sherry Corbitt
Having a mortgage can certainly be overwhelming at times. Having to make regular payments and the thought of having to pay off your mortgage for years can also be very intimidating. If you are someone ... [read more]
Saving up For Your Down payment in 1 Year
November 25, 2021 | Posted by: Sherry Corbitt
To get approved for a mortgage, you need to put money down on your down payment. Depending on what type of lender you are with, you will need a down payment of 5% or up to 20% of the purchase price. T ... [read more]
Monoline Lenders Vs. The Bank: How are they Different?
November 23, 2021 | Posted by: Sherry Corbitt
If you are considering buying a house and need a mortgage, you will need to consider whom you will use to get one. To get a mortgage, the two primary avenues are using either a monoline lender or a ba ... [read more]
How to Re-Establish Your Credit Score For Free
November 9, 2021 | Posted by: Sherry Corbitt
Do not worry if you have low credit and need to bring it back up, whether for a loan or mortgage. Although regaining yourself from low credit, there are many steps to do to re-establish it. There are ... [read more]
Teaching Your Children Important Lessons on Money
October 28, 2021 | Posted by: Sherry Corbitt
If you are a parent, you certainly know how important it is to teach your children. One of the most vital lessons that you can teach them is money. Introducing the essential key points of money can he ... [read more]
Ways to Simplify Your Financial Life
October 26, 2021 | Posted by: Sherry Corbitt
For many, finances can take over a large majority of their life. It can also cause unnecessary problems, such as stress and anxiety. Many finances that people have though are can indeed be reduced or ... [read more]
How to Pay Off Your Mortgage in Less than Ten Years
September 28, 2021 | Posted by: Sherry Corbitt
The typical period for a mortgage amortization is thirty years. Yet if you are applying for a mortgage and are hoping to pay off your mortgage in less than ten years, do not feel discouraged. Although ... [read more]
Can You Get A Mortgage After Bankruptcy?
September 14, 2021 | Posted by: Sherry Corbitt
Have you just got out of bankruptcy recently? If so, you may wonder if you can get a mortgage loan. The simple answer is yes. It is possible, yet it may not be an option for some recently in bankruptc ... [read more]
Tips For Renting Out a House
September 8, 2021 | Posted by: Sherry Corbitt
Are you considering renting out one of your homes? Renting out a house can be an excellent investment and can offer great profit. To rent out a house, though, you need first to evaluate the necessary ... [read more]
Mistakes to Avoid When Paying Off Your Debt
September 2, 2021 | Posted by: Sherry Corbitt
Debt is an aspect of life that cannot be avoided. Whether it’s a mortgage, car, or credit card debt, it certainly is inevitable. Dealing with debt can be exhausting and difficult for numerous in ... [read more]
Budgeting Tips: Simple Ways to Save Money
August 31, 2021 | Posted by: Sherry Corbitt
Whether you have a higher or lower budget, it is always good to save when and where you can. You can save in small ways, which can save you a significant amount of money over time. Including such meth ... [read more]
Ways to Keep Your Home Protected
July 21, 2021 | Posted by: Sherry Corbitt
There are many different methods to help protect and ensure the safety of your home. However, having precautions put into place can provide both the security of your home and your family. Install D ... [read more]
How to Tell If Your Rent is Too High
July 15, 2021 | Posted by: Sherry Corbitt
Have you ever wondered why your rent seems so high? There is a possibility that you are paying too much for your rental. Whether you are new to renting or have been renting for a long time, it may be ... [read more]
Closing Costs
July 13, 2021 | Posted by: Sherry Corbitt
With any home loan, there will be some closing costs involved. Of course, there may be fewer or more costs depending on what type of loan you have. Typically though, closing costs will be between 1-5% ... [read more]
Creating an Eco-Friendly Home
June 30, 2021 | Posted by: Sherry Corbitt
There are various things that can make your house non-eco-friendly. Some of these things you may even not be aware of. Such aspects can affect the environment and cost more to pay for. Understanding w ... [read more]
How to Make Extra Money this Summer
June 9, 2021 | Posted by: Sherry Corbitt
Are you looking for ways to make some extra money this summer? Although we are in Covid, there are many different options available to earn some cash. Uber This is a fantastic way to make a good amo ... [read more]
Why I Changed My Career in the Middle of a Global Pandemic
April 20, 2020 | Posted by: Sherry Corbitt
When you find your calling, there is always a catalyst, a reason you ended up where you did. This is mine. Looking back now, many of the events in my life over the past 13 years have steered me towar ... [read more]
Investing in Your Future
April 14, 2020 | Posted by: Sherry Corbitt
Whether you own a home or rent and want to buy an investment property, you have options! Owning an investment property can be a solid financial choice to build your wealth and increase passive income. ... [read more]
Why use a Mortgage Broker?
February 11, 2020 | Posted by: Sherry Corbitt
You may have seen me post about rates or finding you the best product for your needs, but what does that even mean? As a Mortgage Agent, I am licensed to broker mortgages. Meaning I represent you when ... [read more]
Should you renew your mortgage early for a better rate?
November 18, 2019 | Posted by: Sherry Corbitt
The first 3 Steps to do when deciding if an early renewal is worth it It can be an intelligent decision to explore a refinance in today's low-rate environment, even if your maturity date is not up ye ... [read more]
Good Credit Habit Tips #5: Credit History
October 25, 2019 | Posted by: Sherry Corbitt
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Good Credit Habit Tips #2: Credit Limits
October 21, 2019 | Posted by: Sherry Corbitt
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Good Credit Habit Tips #1: Never Let Bill Go Past Due
October 16, 2019 | Posted by: Sherry Corbitt
... [read more]
How Lenders Determine Your Affordability and What You Can Do
July 10, 2019 | Posted by: Sherry Corbitt
In the mortgage world, there is often talk about the debt to income ratio. It is essential that it can make or break your chances of getting a mortgage with an A or B lender. Qualifying for a loan d ... [read more]
Why a Prompt Financial Might be the Better Choice For You
December 17, 2018 | Posted by: Sherry Corbitt
Sometimes you have to think outside the bank to get the best solution for you. A popular choice is a Prompt Loan for up to $40,000. They approve quickly, and usually, funds can be received within two ... [read more]
Tips on Improving Your Credit Score
September 26, 2018 | Posted by: Sherry Corbitt
When you are shopping for a mortgage, there are many things that a lender will look at on your credit report other than what your credit score is. You don’t want to sabotage your chances of gett ... [read more]
Closing costs when purchasing a home
September 24, 2018 | Posted by: Sherry Corbitt
Besides the actual purchase price, you should budget for closing and post-closing costs when purchasing a home. Common Closing Costs: Land Transfer Tax All provinces charge this tax every time a ... [read more]
5 Things Under $200 for a $1000 facelift to the front of your home
September 3, 2018 | Posted by: Sherry Corbitt
Spending a little bit to boost your curbside appeal is straightforward. Here are five quick and affordable ideas: Planters/Urn Reuse the same urns but change up the seasonal look every couple of m ... [read more]
Refinancing: What is it and how can it benefit you?
July 19, 2018 | Posted by: Sherry Corbitt
What is a refinance, and why should you care about it? Refinancing means renegotiating the terms of your mortgage, usually to access equity, and ideally should have lower borrowing costs (IE: lower in ... [read more]
How to Pay Off Your Mortgage Faster
June 18, 2018 | Posted by: Sherry Corbitt
Paying off a mortgage early is not easy. On the one hand, you could save yourself a lot of money on interest, and on the other, you could incur penalty charges for breaking your mortgage contract befo ... [read more]
Did you receive your Property Assessment Notice?
November 6, 2017 | Posted by: Sherry Corbitt
In 2016, the Municipal Property Assessment Corporation (MPAC) mailed a Property Assessment Notice to every property owner in the province. As a result, more than five million properties – reside ... [read more]
Freebie: Free Budgeting Ebook!
October 27, 2017 | Posted by: Sherry Corbitt
Budgeting and Home Ownership go hand and hand You have to believe to achieve! Use this guide and learn budgeting tips, how lenders qualify mortgages, and what a credit score is. Take control of your ... [read more]
Say goodbye to debt with the Snow Ball method of debt repayment!
January 17, 2017 | Posted by: Sherry Corbitt
Each month you sit down with the best of intentions to make a dent into your debts, but you end up frustrated at having too many loans and too many payments to make. Debt can be a sticky web that is h ... [read more]
Save Money By Turning Your Budget Into A Game
August 4, 2016 | Posted by: Sherry Corbitt
Do you have trouble budgeting? Maybe you do better with games or a little competition (even if it's with yourself). If you're struggling to budget, turning your budget into a game might help motivate ... [read more]
Are Canadians Saving Enough for Retirement?
March 27, 2015 | Posted by: Sherry Corbitt
Looking further than just tomorrow with a financial check-up today! As a self-employed person, I am the first to admit that thinking about my retirement is the last thing I think of when planning out ... [read more]
