Information vs advice. Why is it free?

The internet is great for researching information, ratings and even advice. With so much available data, it’s hard to decide which is accurate, reliable or even truthful.

Take this site for example. If this is your first visit then you may not be aware of all my credentials nor how accurate my information or recommendations are.

You’re probably making a decision right now. That’s how fast we decide today. I’ve either got your attention or I don’t. Hello to those that continue, or farewell and thanks for stopping by to those that are leaving. (By the way, stick around, you may find this useful).

I created this site in 2009 out of pure frustration. I was seeing new mortgage information sites pop up that were giving horrible, inaccurate advice. This was at a time when mortgage information sites were just being introduced. Publications like The Globe and Mail and the National Post began quoting a few of these sites. Yet, these jokers had little to no experience in the mortgage or financial services fields; they were fresh out of school or coming out of some technical business. Seriously! I thought, these clowns are actually getting popular. It’s like going to your plumber for a root canal. They were giving terrible recommendations to consumers.

I decided to either shut up or speak out. This site is the result of that decision.

Information is important as it is the basis of our decisions. We need precise and relevant information in order to make accurate decisions. Be careful where you obtain this data from.

Advice should only be requested and accepted from qualified and proven experts. Be even more careful where and who you obtain this from.

Do you want a rookie doing open-heart surgery on you or do you want the 20-year veteran? Your mortgage is probably the biggest debt you will incur during your lifetime.  Don’t try to figure it out on your own. Seek out an experienced professional and you won’t go wrong.

I admit to checking out consumer ratings when looking for products, restaurants, hotels, etc. Acquiring back up information is important. But ratings aren’t always accurate as I found out recently during a trip to Greece.

Great room. Modern. Near the water. It was beautiful. We were puzzled as to why they gave us earplugs… until about 2 a.m. when the local party-goers gathered for the after-party next door. The music went on until 5 a.m. Lucky us! And these accommodations were rated 4 stars. (I’m guessing by the 20 to 24-year-old party crowd).

The point is, you need to check things out thoroughly.  If you have a trusted friend, relative or someone that you truly respect, ask them for a recommendation. Then follow through and use your own judgement. If a certain professional doesn’t feel like the right fit for you then move on.

Info is good. It helps us to understand. Advice is even more important and should be sought out and listened to only from qualified professionals.

Your best interest is my only interest.   I reply to all questions and I welcome your comments.  Like this article?  Share with a friend.

Steve Garganis 416 224 0114 steve@canadamortgagenews.ca