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Posted 5 Comments on Variable rate is out, Fixed rates are in…. But, which term…? Interest rates

Variable rate is out, Fixed rates are in…. But, which term…?

Variable rate mortgageFor more than a decade, I’ve been recommending Variable rate mortgages, as the product of choice. My clients have saved $thousands.  It’s been a great 11 year run..   But now, the strategy has changed slightly.   Read on, to see my newest recommendations..

QUICK VARIABLE RATE HISTORY.

First, you need to understand the history..  Variable rate had lots of pluses.   It had a lower rate of interest, the penalty can never go over 3 months interest, and you have the option to lock into a Fixed rate at any time.

Being in a Variable meant paying lower rates.  In fact, the difference, compared with Fixed rates, ranged between 1.00% and 3.00%.  This translated to several $$thousand in less interest each year. Continue reading “Variable rate is out, Fixed rates are in…. But, which term…?”

Posted 1 Comment on Attn: Firstline mortgage clients… beware CIBC brand renewal offer! Bank News

Attn: Firstline mortgage clients… beware CIBC brand renewal offer!

FirstlinecibcIn June 2012, CIBC announced they would close Firstline Mortgages. All existing Firstline mortgage clients would be offered a CIBC brand mortgage renewal.

Hey, did anybody catch that?  “…..offered a CIBC brand mortgage renewal.”   This means your Firstline mortgage CANNOT be renewed into a Firstline brand because the brand is being discontinued.

In fact, in 2015, CIBC was sending all upcoming renewals a ‘Special CIBC Early Renewal Rate Offer’.  My first piece of advice…If you get this, don’t sign it without reviewing with your Mortgage Broker.   Continue reading “Attn: Firstline mortgage clients… beware CIBC brand renewal offer!”

Posted 3 Comments on US Fed rate hike doesn’t mean Bank of Cda rate hike! Mortgage Rates

US Fed rate hike doesn’t mean Bank of Cda rate hike!

Janet YellenLast month, the US Fed Reserve Bank Chairperson, Janet Yellen, raised rates for the first time since 2006.    Historically, Canada follows the US with rate movement..  However, times are changing…Don’t expect Canada to follow the US move anytime soon.

stephen polozDivergence.  That’s the new buzz-word.  Bank of Cda Govr, Stephen Poloz said, “Usually you think of the Canadian economy following the U.S. economy fairly closely. This will be one of those places where it really doesn’t.”   “But as a macro statement, there will a divergence there. We’re already seeing it, and so you should expect a divergence in policy too,” he said. Continue reading “US Fed rate hike doesn’t mean Bank of Cda rate hike!”