Josh
New Years Resolutions
So, you’ve decided that 2012 will be the year you finally get your finances in order and start saving. But with so many things to save for, where should you start? Well, here’s a list of proposed New Year’s Savings Resolutions:
Protect Yourself from the Global Real Estate Bubble
With our country’s real estate boom approaching the 15-year mark in some areas, it’s understandable that doom-and-gloom stories are going to make an appearance in the media. When numerous housing markets across the world are experiencing similar good fortune, it’s not a surprise that talk of a global housing bubble is going to emerge.
Real Estate Boom or Bust?
If it feels like this real estate upswing has gone on forever, that’s because it has. Well, almost. A recent report by Bank of Nova Scotia reveals that Canada’s housing boom is one of the longest in the Western world, sitting at 13 years. In that time, the average house has increased in value by 85%. [...]
Fort McMurray Set to Double in Next 20 Years
The Regional Municipality of Wood Buffalo (most commonly known for Fort McMurray) is an exciting place to be. Located in Northern Alberta, this economic engine is one of the fastest growing regions in Canada and has a diverse population of more than 104,000. The Fort McMurray region has abundant natural resources, a rich heritage and [...]
Mortgage Payments too High? Consider Boarders
Many people have returned to renting out rooms in order to help them pay the bills, but is it the right thing to do for you? You don’t hear too much about boarding houses anymore, but many home owners have turned to having a boarder or roommate to help with the bills.
Alberta Real Estate Market Heading Up in 2012
Alberta housing starts are expected to increase by 15% in 2012 to 29,200 which is the highest level since the peak in 2007. At the same time, MLS resale home are expected to increase by nearly 6% this year and another 2% to nearly 53,900 units next year.
Factors influencing this forecast are a strong domestic economy and immigration at a level that is 40% higher than the past 20 year average. Not to mention mortgage rates at an all time low.
Prime Rate to Drop by July: Economists
Economists from several financial institutions including Bank of America-Merrill Lynch, Capital Economics and ING Financial Markets are predicting a 0.25% rate cut in Canada by July 2012 according to a November 2011 Reuters survey. Overnight index swaps have for some time been pricing in the 25 basis point drop.
Calgary may see 10% price increases in 2013
One opinion is that Real Estate prices will increase in the Calgary market in 2013 by as much as 10%. That is according to the president of the Real Estate Investment Network in Canada. Read this article for more details.
Could Prime Go Down? Probably!
With growth expectations for Canada in 2012 now reduced there is an increased likelihood of further economic stimulus by both the Bank of Canada and the Federal Government. Don’t be too surprised to see Prime rate drop a few notches in the coming months.
Your Mortgage is the Key to a Happy Retirement
When planning for retirement, which vehicles offer the best return on your investment – investing in RRSPs, Tax Free Savings Accounts (TFSAs), financial assets that generate capital outside of registered plans, or making accelerated payments on your mortgage?
