Buying a house is a really stressful process. Add finding a great mortgage on top of all that and it may seem impossible. That’s exactly why mortgage brokers exist...

With summer here, lots of families have renovations on their minds. Here is a list of design and planning advice most often given to clients by professional renovators:

• Know why you want to renovate. What problems are you trying to solve? Most renovations begin with practical issues. For instance, your bathroom may be cramped, you need more storage space in the kitchen, or there is nowhere for the children to play or do homework under your supervision.
  

Having problems finding your dream home?  Have you said, "great home, great location, too bad the kitchen is so outdated?"  Don't overlook these properties, as there are mortgage programs available that can help you get into the home with the dream kitchen or hardwood floors you so badly want.  These programs save you the inconvenience or hassle of arranging a second loan after closing to do the improvements. 

Both CMHC and Genworth Insurance offer a program called "Purchase Plus Improvements" that allow you to purchase a home, renovate it the way you like and...