UncategorizedUncategorizedUncategorized 11 December 2024

A Glimmer of Hope: Emerging from the Shadows

 

The past week has undoubtedly been a challenging one, marked by uncertainty and economic anxiety. The recent announcement from the Bank of Canada has cast a long shadow over many of us. However, as we navigate these turbulent waters, it’s essential to remember that every storm eventually passes, and a brighter day always follows.

While the road ahead may still be uncertain, there are reasons to be hopeful. As we emerge from the shadows of economic turmoil, let’s focus on the opportunities that lie ahead. By fostering a positive mindset, practicing resilience, and supporting one another, we can weather any storm.

Let’s embrace the light at the end of the tunnel and work together to build a brighter future.

11 December 2024

Accelerate Your Learning: The Power of Speeding Up Audio Content

 

 

In today’s fast-paced world, time is a precious commodity. If you’re an avid listener of audiobooks or online lectures, there’s a simple yet powerful technique to boost your learning efficiency: speed up the audio playback.

By increasing the playback speed, you can quickly consume more content without sacrificing comprehension. This can be particularly beneficial for non-fiction audiobooks, educational lectures, and language learning courses.

Here are some tips for effectively using this technique:

  • Start slowly: Begin by increasing the playback speed gradually, perhaps by 10-20%.
  • Experiment with different speeds: Find the optimal speed that allows you to maintain understanding without feeling overwhelmed.
  • Practice active listening: Pay close attention to the content and take notes if necessary.
  • Consider using a variable speed player: Some audio players allow you to adjust the playback speed in real-time, providing greater flexibility.
Share your thoughts and experiences in the comments. Bookmark this tab for more! #WisdomWednesday #ProductivityTips #SkillUp #WisdomWednesday #Productivity #LifelongLearning #ProfessionalDevelopment
10 December 2024

Tune in this Friday for my Up-to-date analysis! 

 

 

Tune in this Friday for my Up-to-date analysis!

Don’t miss my analysis of the Bank of Canada’s rate decision tomorrow. Will they pause, hike, or surprise us?
And how will their decision impact the Fort Erie real estate market and the Niagara region? Be sure to tune in to find out this Friday!
#update #stockmarket #investing #financialfreedom #tuesdaytips #moneymatters #stockmarketnews #investingtips #financialadvice #makemoney #passiveincome #wealthbuilding #financialgoals #stockmarketinvestor #daytrading #swingtrading #bullmarket #bearmarket #economicoutlook #bankofcanada #boc #interestrates #inflation #forterie #niagara
6 December 2024

Niagara MLS Sales Stats to November 30, 2024 vs. Last Year

NOTE: The Niagara Association of REALTORS is transitioning to a new MLS system and is currently working with two different databases. As a result, some information might be missing in the stats below.

The following chart displays the number of sales over12 months to
November, 2024 vs. 12 months prior. The CREA HPI Benchmark Prices are also for 12 months to November 2024 vs.12 months prior.

*The above stats are based in whole or in part on MLS® System data owned by the Niagara Association of REALTORS® and CREA.

Centum Mortgage Rates
at end of November, 2024

Current Variable Mortgage Rate 5.05%

The 5-yr fixed high ratio 4.29% – 6.99%

The 5-yr variable high ratio: 4.95% – 6.55%

The 5-year fixed uninsurable: 4.84% – 8.44%

The Current Prime Rate is 5.95%…

…Next Announcement Dec 11

NOTE: Rates shown are for “A” rated deals only and don’t apply for BFS, rentals, vacation homes, second home purchases, etc.

Stress Test Qualifying RateMortgage lenders use the greater of the qualifying rate (5.25%) or the contract rate plus 2 points.

Rates are Based On Approved Credit

May vary between geographic areas

5 December 2024

Thirsty Thursday this 1st Week of December: Christmas Cookie Cocktail! 🎄🍸

 

Get into the holiday spirit with this festive and delicious Christmas Cookie Cocktail! 🎅🍪 In this episode of Thirsty Thursday, I’m donning my favorite Christmas sweater (a little wrinkled, but still festive!) and whipping up a boozy beverage that tastes just like your favorite holiday cookie.

Don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more festive fun!

5 December 2024

New Mortgage Rules Point to Increased Buying

Though home prices have dropped gradually in Niagara, they continue to be less than affordable for many, especially first-time buyers. Yet with drops in interest rates starting to attract buyers on the sidelines, marginal price increases are possible for 2025.

CREA Predicts

Currently, the Canadian Real Estate Association (CREA) predicts that “home prices in the Niagara Region are expected to increase by 2% in 2025,” and 6.6% nationally.

New Downpayment Rules Effective in December

As of December 14th, the price cap for an insured mortgage will increase from $1,000,000 to $1,500,000. Instead of an uninsured minimum requirement of 20% or $300,000 on 1.5 M, buyers can take advantage of the following new and insured downpayment requirements:

  • 5% down on the first $500,000 or $25,000,
  • 10% down on the next $1,000,000 or $100,000,
  • For a required minimum downpayment of $125,000. That’s $175,000 less than the $300,000 needed at 20% down.

How This Affects Niagara

The regional benchmark price in Niagara as of October is $638,500, a far cry from the new cap. Yet this change will have a positive effect on buying, as it will apply to all buyers and not just first-time buyers.

  • 5% down on the first $500,000 or $25,000,
  • 10% down on the remaining amount of $138,500 or $13,850,
  • For a minimum downpayment of $38,850. That is $88,650 less than the $127,700 needed at 20% down.

To reiterate, this December 14th ruling applies to all buyers that don’t have 20% down. Yes, there is a mortgage insurance charge added to the mortgage but it gets a buyer into home ownership and on the road to building wealth through equity growth over time.

Changes to Amortization on Insured Mortgages

As of August, first-time buyers have been eligible for 30-year amortizations on insured mortgages for the purchase of a brand new home. As of December 15th,

  • First-time home buyers can get an insured 30-year amortization on the purchase of either a new or previously occupied home, and
  • All buyers can get a 30-year amortized mortgage on new builds.

Much-Improved Access to Buying

The changes offer much-improved access to buying for first-time buyers and, yes, even 2nd time buyers and beyond.

But there are downsides.

For instance, a 30-year mortgage will lower the monthly payment but will result in more interest being paid over the life of the mortgage. This could be countered if people take advantage of pre-payment privileges offered in their mortgage. Moreover, it opens the door to more buyer competition potentially increasing home prices. The large inventory of home listings will tone down that possibility.

4 December 2024

No More Stress Test on Mortgage Renewals for Some

 

Can you switch to another lender if your mortgage is up for renewal? Until November 19th, 2024, that depended on the type of mortgage you have. If you have an insured mortgage, yes you can shop around and move to another lender without having to undergo the mortgage stress test. Read on.

About the Stress Test

Under the mortgage stress test, to qualify for a mortgage, a borrower is required to qualify at the interest rate of 5.25% or the contract rate plus 2 points, whichever is greater. So with a mortgage of 4.50%, the borrower’s affordability is based on the higher rate of 6.50%. That is 4.50% plus 2%.

An Uninsured Mortgage Has Required a Stress Test

However, if you have an uninsured mortgage and want to switch lenders you are subject to the stress test. That is, you are treated the same as an individual applying for a mortgage on a home purchase, not a renewal. The only way to avoid the stress test is to stay with your existing lender, a disadvantage compared to people whose mortgages are insured. You worked hard to avoid the added insurance cost on your mortgage when you purchased your home by having a downpayment of at least 20% if not more of the purchase price. Yet on renewal, you do not have the privilege of shopping around without being subjected to the stress test–no more.

Now There Is Flexibility to Switch Between Federally Regulated Lenders

As of November 20th, 2024, uninsured mortgage renewals are no longer subject to the stress test if you switch from one federally regulated lender to another. Though it removes some of the imbalance, it does not apply to provincially regulated credit unions and mortgage finance companies. According to canadianmortgagetrends.com, “The move by OSFI is seen as a win for mortgage borrowers, offering more flexibility to switch lenders in search of better rates or more favourable terms. It also comes at a critical time for Canadian homeowners, with roughly 70% of all outstanding mortgages expected to come up for renewal by the end of 2026.”

It is Though a Straight Switch

The elimination of this rule applies if you are not increasing your loan amount or the amortization. This should create competition among lenders and better rates and terms. The next great step is to eliminate the stress test entirely.

Source: Canadian Mortgage Trends, written by Steve Huebl.

28 November 2024

Snowy Mocha | Thirsty Thursday Holiday Cocktail

Get ready to cozy up this holiday season with our Snowy Mocha! This delightful drink combines rich coffee, creamy hot chocolate, and a touch of holiday magic. Topped with whipped cream, marshmallows, and a sprinkle of Gretzky’s Salted Caramel Cream, it’s the perfect winter warmer.

Ingredients:

  • Strong brewed coffee
  • Hot chocolate
  • Whipped cream
  • Marshmallows
  • Gretzky’s Salted Caramel Cream
  • Almond milk (optional)

Instructions:

  1. Brew a strong pot of coffee.
  2. Prepare a cup of hot chocolate.
  3. Combine the coffee and hot chocolate in a mug.
  4. Top with whipped cream, marshmallows, and a drizzle of Gretzky’s Salted Caramel Cream.
  5. Enjoy!

Sip on winter wonderland with our Snowy Mocha! ❄️☕️ This cozy cocktail is the perfect way to warm up on a chilly night. 🎄 #ThirstyThursday #HolidayCocktails #SnowyMocha #WinterWarmer #HotChocolate #Coffee

22 November 2024

You won’t believe your eyes! 

 

You won’t believe your eyes! 🤯

I was minding my own business when I caught this wild moment on camera. A coyote, right in my front yard, burying a rabbit! 😱

Watch the full video now and share your wildest animal encounter!

#coyote #wildlife #nature #wildlifephotography #animalencounter #unexpected #crazy #viral #trending #share #like #comment #follow #outdoors #naturelover

Uncategorized 22 November 2024

 If you’re Christmas shopping for me, I’m a size 5 bedrooms kind of gal. 

 

 If you’re Christmas shopping for me, I’m a size 5 bedrooms kind of gal. 😉

Indulge in the epitome of luxury living at 14 Brookfield Court! This stunning 5+1 bedroom executive home offers the perfect blend of elegance and functionality.

Imagine waking up to serene mornings in your main floor master suite, complete with heated floors, a soaker tub, and a spacious walk-in closet. The gourmet kitchen, perfect for culinary enthusiasts, features top-of-the-line appliances and ample counter space.

The fully finished basement is an entertainer’s dream, boasting a recreation room, a games room with a media area, and a wet bar.

Don’t miss this opportunity to own a piece of Fonthill’s finest!

Book your private viewing today!

#FonthillLuxury #DreamHome #RealEstate #NiagaraRealEstate #LuxuryLiving #HomeGoals #ForSale #OpenHouse #RealEstateAgent #HomeSweetHome #LuxuryHomes #RealEstateAgent #HomeForSale #HouseHunting #RealEstateTips #HomeDecor #InteriorDesign