First off, I would like to take this opportunity to wish everyone a healthy, happy and prosperous New Year and to thank all of my amazing clients for their support!
With the holiday season now behind us and the new year under way, this is traditionally the time we review our investment portfolio and start preparing for tax time. This may also be a good opportunity to review your existing mortgage details and see if any changes or restructuring are in order.
From an interest rate perspective…what a difference a year makes. We have seen a dramatic increase in the interest rate market due mostly to inflation, and until we see inflation numbers that are in line with the Bank of Canada’s strategic outlook, we may continue to see further increases well into this year. With that said, there is renewed optimism that rates will stabilize and likely start to fall by the third quarter of 2023. To what extent, only time will tell. The reality is, if you ask most economists, they will likely tell you that the interest rates we are seeing currently are in line with a healthy functioning economy. I’m guessing that most consumers don’t share this same outlook.
Having not seen interest rates at this level for well over 6 years, early indications are that many homeowners are looking to increase their cash flow whether it’s now or down the road once renewal time comes around. With the current interest rate market, the obvious question is how can this be done?
Whether you consider a temporary increase in amortization, perhaps consolidating some non-mortgage debt, downsizing, or extracting some of your home’s equity, these are among some of the options for increasing cash flow.
If you are looking to increase your residual income, I would suggest we sit down and examine all of the options that are available and determine what the best solution is for you moving forward, whether it be right away or preparing for the future.
If you are looking for sound mortgage advice and solutions, and/or would like to experience the convenience and value of working with a dedicated, licensed mortgage professional who is committed to and working for you, I have been a mortgage solutions specialist working with Axiom Mortgage Solutions for over 20 years, and I am governed by the Alberta Mortgage Brokers Association(AMBA), the Real Estate Council of Alberta(RECA) and Mortgage Professionals Canada(MPC).
Thank you for taking the time to read my article. I hope you found it to be informative and helpful. As always, I welcome any questions or comments you may have. Until next month…
Jason Eldridge
Axiom Mortgage Solutions