Ashton Mortgage Solutions

A popular quote, but oh so true. Dedicate today to making kindness the new norm. Celebrate World Kindness Day by sending an uplifting text to a friend or family member, or go out of your comfort zone to make a stranger smile! We never know what anyone else is going through, take a moment, be kind ... be Canadian.

Anyone who knows me knows I'm an army brat. Living on military bases in Canada and abroad, I am fiercely patriotic and so proud to be Canadian. Remembrance Day is a day where we honour and remember the men and women who have served, and continue to serve Canada during times of war, conflict and peace. Those who made the ultimate sacrifice and those that returned, changed forever by their experiences. Take the time today to reach out to a serving or retired member of our military and say 'thank you'. It's the very least we can do.

It's only been a week since the US Presidential Election, but what a week it's been! Yesterday, to add to confidence in the stock market as a result of Biden's win in the US, Pfizer announced its vaccine candidate's success, which has everyone feeling even more confident. Certainty in the US election makes people feel more certain of their economic futures and likely to spend more and possibly anticipating some future inflation. ... Also, as demand falls for bonds (ie. when people taking money out of bonds to invest in stocks), bond prices go down which makes bond yields go up. As fixed mortgage products are priced off the bond yield, this could mean an increase in fixed rates. Now what part of investor confidence is due to Biden's win and what part is due to the Pfizer announcement? We'll likely not know for sure. @TMGCanada CEO, Mark Kerzner spoke with Benjamin Tal, Deputy Chief Economist with @CIBC yesterday to get his take. Tal confirmed the two factors, Biden and the vaccine, affecting the markets. He said that they are related in terms of expectations (or perhaps hope) of economic recovery and he sees some of these increases as sustainable though he is not expecting any large additional increases. So stay tuned. We'll be watching the markets over the coming days and weeks! See more

I cannot tell you how much it means to me when take the time to leave a review of their experience. I do ask and send a link, but not all take the time. They're so busy with moving, getting unpacked and settling in that I'm the last thing on their mind. That's why when they do, even two months after possession, it hits me right in the feels. I couldn't be happier that I was able to help these clients purchase their dream home! Congrats Fady and Mariam!

Talk about timing! The day after the US Presidential Election and it's 'Stress Awareness Day.' For some many Americans and individuals the world over, this more than any other election has been stressful. It's been a long road and it's not over yet.. Well, it's time to let it go, what will be, will be. Stress Awareness Day identifies the stressors impacting our physical and mental health. Prioritize your mental well-being, go on a walk, ...take some deep breaths, get some exercise, or take a long relaxing bath at the end of the day. Whatever you need to do to let what's stressing you go. For me, that might include pie ... maybe a whole pie. See more

Whether its for a first home, or refinancing to consolidate debt, or simply renewing your existing mortgage with a new lender to take advantage of a lower interest rate, its not all low rates and endless options. It doesnt mean youre shut out of the market completely. It means you have to plan ahead and be careful managing your debt load. COVID-19 has changed the way that lenders look at borrowers.... Check out my recent blog post for details - www. ashtonmortgages.ca/blog/

National Grandparents Day is a day to honor our grandparents and to celebrate the connections between generations. This year, we may not be able to reach out and hug our grandparents or even parents as wed like to thats why its even more important to reach out. Call them, send them a letter, or meet them at least two meters apart .... tell them how much they mean to you and how much you love them. If, like me, you dont have any grandparents on this earth to reach out to, reminisce about their impact.

Miss me? I dont know about you, but summer is my favorite season and rain, shine or snow, I make the most of it. Thats why Ive been a laying low these last couple of months, enjoying my summer. What is summer for me? Getting out into the mountains and the lakes, exploring, spending time with friends who enjoy the same and squeezing every moment out this all too short season.... And now Im exhausted! Work has been incredibly busy - which I am so thankful for - and fitting in play has meant working longer/stranger hours. Happy to be getting back to a routine. What is summer for you? Is September a "new year" of sorts for you too? Time to get back to it ... restart healthy eating regimen, start back to the gym?? Are you resetting this month too? See more

If youve ever watched How I Met Your Mother youll get that Legendary reference. So what so legendary? The Bank of Canada held its overnight rate at 0.25% today meaning that youre not going to see Prime rising in the next month. Again, good news for anyone who already has a deeply discounted variable rate, not so good if youre looking for one now. The discount off Prime has all but disappeared with some lenders only offer a premium on Prime (ie. Prime plus instead of Prime minus). Click the link below to read the summary from Mortgage Professionals Canada - http://ashtonmortgages.ca/blog/

Weve heard it all too often, life is short. In Alberta, the days of sunshine where we can get out and enjoy a bike ride, hiking, camping and water sports are few. Dont wait, get out there! And while youre out there, enjoying what you love to do, Ill look after your mortgage needs. Thats what Im here for. I will help relieve the stress and anxiety that goes along with buying a home. Ill be your advocate and advisor throughout the pr...ocess. After all, I am the expert when it comes to mortgages just as you are the expert when it comes to what you do. If youre looking for someone who will give you unbiased mortgage advice so you can continue to do the things you love, PM me! See more

Summer is here, can you believe it? Lets hope its here to stay for awhile! I love this quote from Dr. Seuss because its how I feel every year, just after summer solstice. But this year feels different. The year has gone quickly, but perhaps its COVID, or the decent weather weve had of late, but I feel like this summer has already felt longer than most.... So excited for the next few months to come! See more

This month CMHC announced new guidelines that will further restrict buyers in the Canadian market. The new rules, going into effect on July 1, 2020 will: Decrease the maximum debt service ratios Increase the minimum credit score for at least one household borrower Eliminating borrowed down payments... The hits just keep coming to Albertans. First the economy, then the new qualification rules, now COVID-19, deflated oil prices and further restrictions? How will these new changes affect homebuyers in Alberta? Check out my latest blog post to find out - http://ow.ly/C1Z150A9Nq6

Yep, thats me, my dad and my brother when I was only three months old. Love this picture! Happy Fathers Day to my dad! He taught me right from wrong, all about hard work, and to laugh. It wasnt always easy ... but enough about my brother. Seriously though, were a lot alike and while weve certainly had our share of difficulties over the years, I wouldnt choose anyone else to be my dad. Love you Dad! ... To all the other dads out there, whether your kids are human, furry, feathery or scaly, have a great day! See more

And summer is finally here! The days are getting shorter but dont let that slow you down, enjoy it while its here. Get out, but stay safe and physical distance. If you see me out for a ride or a hike, make sure you wave and say hi!... Photo Credit: @vimarovi See more

Its not even summer yet but its International Picnic Day! I, for one, am getting on my bike today - ok maybe on the weekend - and going to find a place - preferably one that is ant free - and having a picnic! I might even grab some take out to support a local business. Two birds, one stone as they say. Fingers crossed for no rain!... Happy International Picnic Day! See more

In all seriousness ... Did you know that mortgages report on your credit bureau? They also contribute to your credit score. Missing a mortgage payment can be detrimental to not only your credit, but your chances of switching lenders or getting approved for a new mortgage in the future.... Its imperative that you pay all your bills on time, but especially your mortgage! See more

This is down from 56% in 2018. This was likely, at least in part, due to the introduction of the new qualification rules. With the benchmark qualifying rate on the decline, maybe its time to relook at whether you qualify for your first home? Id be happy to provide a free, no obligation consultation. PM me or give me a call at 403-804-7002!

Today is the 76th anniversary of D-Day. Juno Beach was the Allied code name for a 10 km stretch of French coastline assaulted by Canadian soldiers on D-Day, 6 June 1944, during the Second World War. The Canadian Armys 3rd Infantry Division and 2nd Armoured Brigade seized the beach and its seaside villages while under intense fire from German defenders an extraordinary example of military skill, reinforced by countless acts of personal courage. ... The 3rd Infantry Division took heavy casualties in its first wave of attack but took control of the beach by the end of the day. More than 14,000 Canadian soldiers landed or parachuted into France on D-Day. The Royal Canadian Navy contributed 110 warships and 10,000 sailors and the RCAF contributed 15 fighter and fighter-bomber squadrons to the assault. There were 1,074 Canadian casualties, including 359 killed. Lest we forget that we and countless others worldwide have freedom because of their sacrifice. See more

What better day to introduce my newest addition to the world! This is my birthday present from Eppo - a Dutch Bike. After biking in Holland you realize that a Dutch Bike is different than a cruiser - comfortable, efficient, meant for commuting and being your main mode of transportation. So excited!! So why celebrate the bicycle? I had to wonder too when I saw it on the calendar.... The bicycle is a simple, affordable, reliable, clean and environmentally fit sustainable means of transportation. The bicycle can serve as a tool for development and as a means not just of transportation but also of access to education, health care and sport. The synergy between the bicycle and the user fosters creativity and social engagement and gives the user an immediate awareness of the local environment. The bicycle is a symbol of sustainable transportation and conveys a positive message to foster sustainable consumption and production, and has a positive impact on climate. Acknowledging the uniqueness, longevity and versatility of the bicycle, which has been in use for two centuries, and that it is a simple, affordable, reliable, clean and environmentally fit sustainable means of transportation, fostering environmental stewardship and health, happy world bicycle day! See more

Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender and Queer (LGBTQ) Pride Month is currently celebrated each year in the month of June to honour the 1969 Stonewall Uprising in Manhattan. The Stonewall Uprising was a tipping point for the Gay Liberation Movement in the United States. When I hear that in 2020 were only just banning conversion therapy in Calgary, I am shocked and embarrassed. Embarrassed that not only was this ever a thing, but that its taken until now to... ban it. I can only shake my head that the Alberta Government hasnt done the same. I long for the day that people are people and sexual orientation, race, religion etc. are irrelevant. Take time this month to think about all those in your network that have struggled to feel comfortable in their communities and in their bodies. When I think of my "struggles" in youth, they pale in comparison to what my peers experienced. Weve come so far, but we still have a long way to go. Photo Credit: @trfotos See more

Everything good in life takes work. Whether you want to get in the best shape of your life, achieve the next level in your education, or buy the home of your dreams. When it comes to a home you have to save for a down payment, do a budget so you know what you can realistically afford each month for housing expenses, provide documents and information to get approved for financing and last, but not least, shop for that home that ticks all the "must have" boxe...s and fits your budget. Sounds like a lot of work, right? No surprise to hear that it is, but isnt everything thats worth doing? As Theodore Roosevelt said, "work hard at work worth doing". Reach out if you want to understand what you need to do to achieve homeownership! See more

Your timeline, your goals, your choice, your home, your dreams, your life. Im here for support, education, and advice. My job is to guide you through the process, making sure you have all the information you need to make informed decisions about your mortgage. To get started on your learning, sign up for my monthly newsletter!... Photo Credit: @chandrashekharachary See more

So, is real estate a good long-term investment? Like anything, its good to diversify and not put all your eggs in one basket. That being said, investing with debt (ie. a mortgage) is safer in real estate than the stock market. This is where doing your research and having a licensed REALTOR on your team is a must. As long as you are buying property at the right price in an area where the value is sure to rise over the long-term, and you ...stick within your budget, real estate is safe and lucrative. Dont let the current market deter you. This too shall pass and well be back to thriving. See more

Whether its for emergency maintenance, routine maintenance or a reno, should you be letting a contractor into your home when we should be physical distancing? While things are starting to open back up, physical distancing rules still apply. We can all agree that these are some of the craziest months weve experienced in our lifetimes thus far. Were also figuring things out as we go along in a world where the rules and information are changing constantly. We are physical dis...tancing but trying to create a new normal and keep our minds and bodies occupied with the tasks we CAN do. Ive been talking to a number of people who are taking this time to complete some projects around the house. Some a full scale renos and others are smaller jobs that they just need to tick off the honey do list. But, before you dive head on into the project, think about whether youll need a professionals help at some point. If you do need to hire a contractor or service technician, Ive got some great tips to keep you and your family safe. Check out my recent blog post!

How long? MAY LONG! While this certainly wont be the most fun weekend on record, it might be one of the more memorable ones. You may not be with as many people, be able to camp in the snow, or grill food over an open fire, but it doesnt mean that you cant connect with friends and family and make some fun memories with people near and far.... It wont be the same, I know, but its not forever. Well be back to camping and long weekend shenanigans in no time. Enjoy! See more

A celebratory cocktail wouldnt go amiss! We have to continue to celebrate the little things in these trying times. Just one, it is a school night after all.

Today is International Nurses Day - FYI, the anniversary of Florence Nightingales birth! These brave and selfless men and women make up the largest group of frontline health professionals caring for the health needs of individuals and communities the world over. If we could give all those men and women on the frontlines a squeeze, we certainly would! ... Celebrate those nurses in your life that deserve our love, admiration and praise, not just due to COVID-19, but what they do every day of every year. We cant thank you enough! See more

First, Id like to celebrate my mom. The most loving, strong and patient woman I know, and my hero. She had to be patient to put up with my brother! I am one of the lucky ones who can say that my mom is my best friend. To all the other moms out there - whether you have human kids, step-kids, foster kids, grandkids or, like me, youre a mom to a fur kid - I hope youre being celebrated and loved too! Maybe not in the traditional Mothers Day fashion, but loved and celebrated none the less. Love, hugs and kisses - we would be nothing without you!

You can thank me now that you have the LMFAO anthem stuck in your head. This is what physical distancing and self isolation are doing to me. I can only watch so much Netflix, Crave and Prime Video and was looking for something else to pass the time. No, I dont actually puzzle everyday, but my husband and I have been doing one a weekend for the last few. The time passes so fast and I feel like Ive accomplished something.... Thank goodness for the warm weekend days when we can get outside and clean up the yard, trim trees and take the dogs on long leisurely walks. But if we cant, we have a few more puzzles up our sleeves. See more

Yep, you read it hear folks. When you bank tells you youre pre-approved, its really just a rate hold. They dont underwrite you file or review your documents, they simply hold a rate for a period of time say 90 to 120 days. So why do they call it a pre-approval? To give you a false sense of security?? Only 10% of "pre-approvals" actually turn into live files that fund so lenders dont but the time into them that the customer thinks they... do. Thats where I go above and beyond. Not only will I submit your file to a lender to get a rate hold, Ill review all your pertinent documents so that when I say that you are pre-approved for a purchase of $400,000 with a down payment of 5%, Im 110% sure thats what youll be approved for. Even better, Ill watch rates for you to ensure Im submitting your file again if rates drop, securing you the best rate while youre looking for your new home. I know, it sounds like everyone is doing just that, but theyre really not. PM me if you want to start the pre-approval process! See more

Monitor your credit! I recently had a client who had closed a mobile phone account because they got offered a phone through work. They paid out the contract, or so they were told. Fast forward 18 months. Their existing property is sold and they have an offer on a new home. I pull their credit and their score has taken a huge hit. The only reason: an $80 mobile phone charge that had gone to collections. ... To make a long story short, we were able to get it fixed but it added stress, at a time when there was already plenty of that. If you dont know how to monitor your credit, reach out. Im happy to help! See more

One thing you probably didnt know about me is that I am a Star Wars geek! For me its all about nostalgia. I was seven when A New Hope was release, nine for The Empire Strikes back and twelve for Return of the Jedi. While generally not a sci-fi fan, theres just something about Star Wars that I loved as a kid and even now. Four, five and six are definitely my favourites, again for nostalgic reasons, but seven, eight and nine had much bet...ter character development and cinematography. May the fourth makes me smile every year with all the funny posts. This year, maybe Ill watch A New Hope, to celebrate. Have a great day! See more

Thank you to all the people on the front lines who continue to keep us healthy, safe and fed. Regardless of your industry, we say a collective thank you. Cheers to each and every one of you!

Duck! Seriously though, Ive got some French blood in me and probably couldnt speak with my hands tied behind my back. While Ive never accidentally hit anyone, I have knock over plenty glasses of wine and even a servers tray at a restaurant. Yep, how embarrassing is that??... When we meet, either in person or in a virtual meeting, this is the first thing youll notice about me - besides my sparkling personality! Im passionate, I love what I do and I love educating homebuyers, I cant help it. See more

In a recent consumer survey, only 6% of Canadians polled wanted a turnkey home - one that was move in ready. 63% wanted a fixer upper - a home that they could make fit their lifestyle and personality. If youre one of those people looking for a fixer upper, did you know that you can include the cost of improvements into the new mortgage with as little as 5% down?... When youre ready to start looking for that fixer upper, give me a call and Ill talk you through the program to see if it is right for you!

Thanks to Canadas early action, we are seeing the curve flatten in Canada. Putting restrictions, policies and programs in place so that people could work from home, only essential services would remain "open", employers were able to get subsidies to pay staff and mortgage and rent payments were able to deferred has helped our plight. Its not over yet but seeing that each and everyone of us is helping to make a difference is encouraging. ... Thank you to the front line workers who are doing their jobs so that we can stay home. You continue to put your health at risk for us, and we thank you. Were in this together! See more

I would agree, now might not seem like the best time to think about buying a home. But if home buying is your future, once we are allowed out in public again, and youve just put those plans on hold temporarily then getting pre-approved may be a good idea. Rates are all over the place right now but with a pre-approval we can secure rates for up to 120 days. This gives you almost four months of rate certainty. The other advantage? If rate...s drop, we can resubmit a pre-approval and lower the rate. in March I saw rates from 2.29% to 3.19% and everywhere in between. Ill watch rates and make sure Im resubmitting pre-approvals when rates decrease. Every time I resubmit, it also starts that 120 day clock again! If you want to be home buying ready when physical distancing is over, give me a call! Photo Credit: @austindistel on @unsplash See more

Theres a lot of information on the internet. We all know that there is also a lot of misinformation. COVID-19 or not. Now think about the amount of information out there about mortgages. How long would it take you to understand EVERYTHING? Then, how long would it take to stay current in a world that is constantly changing? Who has time for that? You want to be out there living your life, not learning ALL the nuances of the mortgage world.... This is where I can help! Ill educate, Ill advise and Ill give you options. You do you, and rely on me for the rest. See more

If you havent been in contact with your bank, whether its a credit card, a line of credit or a loan, make sure you make at least the minimum required payment! Despite everything thats going on, lenders will still be reporting late payments to the credit reporting agencies and this WILL affect your credit. Not only will it record any missed payments, but your score will also drop. This will impact your ability to get credit in the future. Create yourself a reminder each monthly so you dont miss any payments!

Riding the interest rate roller coaster! How can it be that interest rates are falling but mortgage rates are on the rise?? Yep, you heard me correctly, mortgage rates are higher now than they were before March when things in Canada were "normal". Im constantly hearing from clients about doing an early renewal or refinancing to access these "ultra-low rates" when, in truth, those rates were here for about a week.... Those who already had applications in the queue were likely to be able to lock in at those rates. Today is a much different story. I decided to write a blog on the topic to spread the word that rates arent low, and wont be until there is some certainty about COVID-19 and when things will return to "normal". Check out my recent blog to get the deets - http://ashtonmortgages.ca/blog/

The Easter Bunny will certainly know where to find you this year. Happy Easter to all. Enjoy the chocolate!

It is certainly not business as usual not is it life as usual but were in it together. Mortgage Brokers and Financial Institutions are deemed essential services so were still here and ready to help. The great thing about me is that Im set up to do virtual meetings and most signings can be done digitally so no need to risk anyones health AND adhere to the physical distancing rules put in place by federal and provincial governments.... Realtors are also an essential service and many are offering virtual tours and open houses so that you can narrow down your search from the comfort and safety of your home. If you have questions, want to get pre-approved while rates are low or have already found the home of your dreams, Im here for you! Photo Credit: @mikepetrucci on @unsplash See more