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Locality: Prince George, British Columbia

Phone: +1 250-649-8159



Address: 1550 4th Ave V2L5L7 Prince George, BC, Canada

Website: www.pgmortgagebroker.com/

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Michelle McCullough 12.01.2021

In the past we've taken the time to mail our clients, colleagues and lending partners a Christmas card to send well wishes and thank them for their support. However this year, like 2019, we wanted to do something a little different and give back to the community. Today we donated $1000 to Crisis Centre for Northern BC instead of sending out our Christmas cards. A society that is near and dear to our hearts. 2020 has been a different year for all of us and if you're ever feeling overwhelmed, depressed, confused or just need someone to listen; they are available 24/7 at 1-888-562-1214. We truly can't thank everyone enough for your support in 2020 and throughout the previous years. This donation was made possible because of all of you! Wishing everyone a healthy and happy holiday season

Michelle McCullough 05.01.2021

Given the large financial commitment of a mortgage, it's surprising that so many homeowners sleepwalk through the mortgage renewal process and don't look at all their options in the marketplace. Many accept whatever their lender offers or just have a short negotiation to shave a few points off. While it's tempting to choose what is easiest, it's so important to have a mortgage expert give you a second opinion and start working for you as early as 6 months prior to renewal. ...Here's why: - With access to many lenders and mortgage options, I can make sure you are being offered the best rate and mortgage possible. - If you have enough equity in your home, you may be able to move high-interest debt to your lower-rate mortgage, improving cash flow and saving on interest. Renewal is the perfect time to do this. I can run the numbers to see if this strategy makes sense for you. - Having a good credit score is important if you want to switch your mortgage to a new lender for a better deal. You have control over your credit score, and may want to discuss credit improvement strategies. - Taking on new debt or an employment change prior to renewal can affect your ability to move your mortgage to another lender. We can discuss the potential impact of changes to your personal situation. - If you need to free up cash flow for specific needs or life situation, a 30-year amortization might be an option for you to consider (20% or more in equity required). At renewal, you can renegotiate everything pertaining to your mortgage with no penalties which means this is an important moment of opportunity. So as soon as you hear from your lender about your mortgage renewal, get in touch for an important second opinion!

Michelle McCullough 26.12.2020

Do you have questions about a potential purchase, refinance, switch or even spousal buyout however aren't ready to reach out to us? Our website includes a blog with lots of great information. Check it out at www.pgmortgagebroker.com

Michelle McCullough 19.12.2020

In memory of many. In honour of all.

Michelle McCullough 21.11.2020

There has been a flurry of refinance activity this year given our rock bottom interest rates, providing homeowners with access to today’s low rates and the most cost-effective way to get needed funds. Refinancing means getting out of your current mortgage and replacing it with a new one. A minimum of 20% home equity is required to complete a refinance. There are several compelling reasons why homeowners refinance their mortgage: To get a lower interest rate. Refinancing to... get a lower rate makes sense if the savings you achieve with the lower rate are greater than the cost of getting out of your existing mortgage. A much-needed financial reset. Debt restructuring is one of the primary reasons homeowners refinance. If you have too much high-interest debt that is strangling your monthly cash flow, you may be able to get the breathing room you need by rolling that debt into a new low-interest mortgage. You’ll get one manageable monthly payment, immediate cash-flow relief, and long-term interest savings. It is also a great way to improve and protect your credit score. Renovate. Homeowners are renovating to adapt to their new covid lifestyles, whether it’s to improve the quality of their lives, or for functionality like a new home office. At the same time, your renovations can increase the value of your home, a nice added benefit. Invest in the future. If you’ve found the perfect cottage or the retirement home of your dreams, refinancing may be the way to make that purchase happen if you’re not quite ready to sell your primary residence. Or perhaps you are thinking rental property for a long-term wealth building opportunity and a source of retirement income. You need funds. You may be able to get the funds you need for major expenses, like a new business, tuition, or wedding, often a better strategy than loading it all onto high-interest credit cards or an unsecured line of credit. Since breaking your current mortgage comes with a fee, I would be happy to complete a personalized cost/benefit analysis so you can determine whether refinancing makes sense. The fee to break your mortgage depends on several factors so it’s best to get in touch to discuss. It is not expected that rates will go much lower so there may not be any benefit to waiting to see if you can get a better deal later. Get in touch at any time. It’s my job to help you create financial security and enjoy life to the fullest!

Michelle McCullough 16.11.2020

Thank you to everyone to voted in the Prince George Citizen’s Readers Choice. We’re very humbled to be recognized by the people of Prince George. PG Mortgage Broker - Jamie Cunningham

Michelle McCullough 28.10.2020

The Bank of Canada announced today that it is keeping the overnight rate steady at 0.25%. It is expected the Bank will keep this target unchanged until well int...o 2023 to aid our economic recovery. The Canadian economy is in recession with negative GDP growth, inflation is at zero, the Canadian dollar relative to the U.S. is stable at around $.76, oil prices are hovering around $40 - $43 U.S./barrel and unemployment is currently at 9%, another marked improvement from last month. According to StatsCan and CMHC, 75% of the almost $200 Billion of mortgages that were deferred were from Canadians that are still working and took the deferral as a precautionary measure. This would support the argument that the massive wave of defaults on mortgages previously expected is likely to be avoided this winter. In addition, unemployment has been forecasted to rebound to 7.5% by the end of 2021. Cam Strong, CEO of Invis Mortgage Intelligence stated Most economists agree personal debt levels will likely worsen in 2021 and the hospitality sector will face record bankruptcies or closures. However, record low mortgage rates should continue to support our housing industry along with an improving employment outcome in 2021. Canadians have record high mortgage and consumer credit debt of $2.5 trillion according to Statistics Canada as of September, 2020 however, thanks to the Bank of Canada, the servicing costs on this debt is very low. The next rate-setting day is Wednesday, December 9th. With this stable, low interest environment it’s never been a better time for qualifying homeowners to refinance to consolidate debt to improve cash flow, save interest costs and protect their credit scores. Always get advice and a personal assessment of your situation if you need a new mortgage or want to change your current mortgage strategy.

Michelle McCullough 15.10.2020

Such kind words from a great realtor

Michelle McCullough 07.10.2020

Thank you to everyone who commented on my Thanksgiving dinner giveaway. Reading all the comments warmed my heart My assistants just completed the draw and the winner is Meagan Arseneau!

Michelle McCullough 14.09.2020

Couldnt be more proud! Katy Livingstone was nominated for a Business Excellence Award with Prince George Chamber of Commerce. She goes above and beyond for all... of her clients and its so nice to see that shes been recognized for this. We are so lucky to have her as a partner on our team. See more

Michelle McCullough 08.09.2020

What a great way to start our morning! Thank you to everyone who donated to the Spirit of the North Healthcare Foundation's Spirit Day! We exceeded our goal thanks to you

Michelle McCullough 06.09.2020

The Bank of Canada announced today that it is keeping its benchmark rate at 0.25%. It is expected that the Bank will keep this rate unchanged well into 2022 to ...aid our economic recovery. The Canadian economy is in recession with negative GDP growth (although forecasted to be positive in 2021), inflation is at zero, the Canadian dollar relative to the U.S. is stabilizing around $.76, oil prices are hovering around $43 U.S./barrel and unemployment is currently at 10.9%, a marked improvement from last month. Low interest rates, tightened housing supply, immigration of approximately 250,000 in 2020 despite Covid-19, and pent up demand for housing have, in the last several months, boosted both unit sales and the average home selling prices in the Greater Toronto Area, Vancouver, Ottawa and Montreal areas but showed a slight decline in Calgary. Cam Strong, CEO of Invis Mortgage Intelligence says The service sector principally tourism, accommodation, food services, arts and entertainment will continue to face many hardships. Canada, being an oil producing country, will be slower to recover economically than other G7 countries from the Covid crisis due to low oil prices and a drop in demand with the decline in commuting and airline transportation. The good news is that a vaccine, already pre-ordered, could be available as early as spring 2021 and our technology, financial, housing, public sector infrastructure projects and manufacturing sectors are performing well and leading the way to recovery. Unemployment has been forecast to rebound to 7.5% by end of 2021. Canadians have record high mortgage and consumer credit debt of $2.5 trillion according to Statistics Canada as of August, 2020 however, thanks to the Bank of Canada, the servicing costs on this debt is now lower. The next rate-setting day is Wednesday, October 28th. With this stable, low interest environment its never been a better time for qualifying homeowners to refinance to save interest costs and protect their credit scores if they have fallen behind on payments during COVID. Always get advice and a personal assessment of your situation if you need a new mortgage or want to change your current mortgage strategy.

Michelle McCullough 27.08.2020

Could an investment property be your pension? The recent shock to the economy has had many Canadians thinking seriously about what their life might look like after their paycheques stop. Even if you have a workplace pension plan to look forward to, you may find it falls short of the income youd like to live on. Is it possible to take your pension into your own hands and create sustainable long-term income? An investment property has the potential to provide a monthly income ...and grow your wealth over time. Property values have a good track record of appreciation, and often outperform stocks and bonds over the long term. And, with interest rates so low, this is a wealth-building strategy that is within reach of ordinary Canadians - - Most Canadians look for a way to transition into their retirement years, even more so as COVID changes their prospects and priorities. An investment property can supplement income now and boost pension income later: potentially giving more freedom, sooner. - Many working Canadians who have found their dream retirement property have decided to buy now and lock in the price, renting for income until its time to use it themselves. - Some first-time buyers want to skip a starter condo and go directly to a single-family home in a neighbourhood they love - by using income from a rental suite to help them pay the mortgage. Or when their first home becomes too small, they move to a bigger home but keep the first as a rental property, a great long-term wealth strategy. - Parents often realize that the monthly cost of housing for their college or university student might as well support their own mortgage - and not someone elses, while also gaining a sound investment. So, what kind of downpayment will you need to get started as a property investor? If you will be living in one of the units, then the property is considered owner occupied. If youre not living there yourself, youll need a larger downpayment: Owner Occupied: 5% down for 1-2 units on the first $500,000 and 10% on any amount over $500,000 10% down for 3-4 units Non-Owner Occupied: 20% downpayment is required, and the funds must come from your own savings (you cannot use gifted funds). Another option if you already have equity in your primary residence - is to refinance your home to generate the cash for the investment property. Ideally you want it to be cash flow positive right from the start, so be sure to think about closing costs, needed repairs, and whether you can cover the costs for this and your own property. If you are thinking about an investment property, get in touch to have all your questions answered. I can help you determine your downpayment options and run the financial calculations that you will want to see for cash flow and capital appreciation. Be safe. Be well. Be happy.

Michelle McCullough 19.08.2020

Current real estate market in Prince George

Michelle McCullough 15.08.2020

With the major Banks lowering their posted 5-year fixed rates, the qualifying rate will drop to 4.79%, which makes it slightly easier to qualify for a mortgage!... The qualifying rate is used in stress tests for both insured and uninsured mortgages, and a lower rate is good news for anyone who needs a new mortgage homebuyers, those looking to refinance or renew their mortgage at a different lender for a better deal. Get in touch to see how much you qualify for!

Michelle McCullough 02.08.2020

Im often asked about monoline lenders - who are they, what benefits do they offer, and how do you get access to a monoline lender anyway? Good questions. Mono means one. So its a one-line lender that doesnt do anything else except mortgage lending. They wont be asking you to do your banking with them, or try to cross-sell you investments. They do one thing: mortgage lending. Theyre an important factor in the mortgage market here in Canada because they improve con...sumer choice and ensure that our Banks remain competitive! How do you access a monoline lender? My only job is to get you the perfect mortgage a combination of rate and features that allows you to live comfortably with your mortgage and save money in the long term. To do that, I work with most of the major banks and credit unions, private lenders, and I work with several monoline lenders. There are a few reasons why a monoline lender might be the perfect option for you. Lower penalties: A monoline lenders penalty to break a fixed-rate mortgage is typically much less than what Banks charge. If your circumstances change and you need to get out of your mortgage, this could save you thousands. Easier to transfer: A mortgage with a monoline lender is registered on title as a standard charge rather than a collateral charge. That means it can be easier and cheaper to transfer your mortgage to another lender at renewal for a better deal. Great rates: Monoline lenders do not have bricks and mortar branches so they can keep their overhead costs low and focus on competitive interest rates. Most monoline lenders are only available through mortgage brokers, which is one of the reasons so many Canadians are turning to mortgage brokers for their purchases, refinances and renewals. Get in touch for a review of all your lender options for your next mortgage. Some of the monoline lenders we deal with Merix, First National, MCAP, RMG, CMLS See more

Michelle McCullough 13.07.2020

The Bank of Canada is holding its key interest rate at 0.25 per cent in response to what it calls the extremely uncertain economic outlook from the COVID-19 pandemic, and plans to keep it there until the picture improves.

Michelle McCullough 29.06.2020

Credit: Dictates our future if we want to purchase a home, vehicle, even get a cell phone or set up utilities. It's truly something that should be taught in school. A credit report is the primary tool that lenders use to establish a borrowers creditworthiness. An individuals credit report includes personal identification information as well as financial information such as a record of payment history on all credit facilities, on cell phones, and if there have been any coll...ections or past bankruptcies. It also reflects current outstanding balances and maximum credit limits. Additionally, the credit report shows how many times the borrower has applied for new credit. All this information influences a borrowers credit score. In Canada, there are two credit reporting agencies, Equifax and TransUnion; however, not all credit providers report to both agencies and the details between reports can vary. See more

Michelle McCullough 26.06.2020

No need to panic over new mortgage rules No one has a crystal ball to see what the next few months - or years - will bring, but its likely that some Canadians will have trouble with their debt in the wake of COVID. With that possibility in mind, the Canadian Mortgage and Housing Corporation (CMHC) recently announced that it is tightening the rules for Canadian homebuyers looking for insured mortgages. Homebuyers with less than 20% downpayment require mortgage default insur...ance: an important protection for Canadian lenders. Summary of the new CMHC rules (effective July 1): 1. Reduced buying power. Previously, CMHC allowed 44% of total income to service all your debt and up to 39% of total monthly income to service housing payments (principal, interest, taxes, heat, condo fees). They have now tightened this back to 42% of total income can now go to service all your debt, and 35% of total monthly income to service housing costs. This reduces a homebuyers purchasing power by anywhere from 9 to 11%. As an example, someone qualifying for a $500,000 home now, will see that decrease to approximately $445,000. 2. Higher minimum credit score. At least one applicants credit score must now be a minimum of 680, up from 600. Find out your own score - free - through Equifax or TransUnion. 3. Downpayment funds can no longer include most borrowed down payment sources. Very few buyers used this option so this will have a minimal impact. Alternative options available This is a great time to work with a mortgage broker! I work with dozens of lenders and private mortgage insurers Genworth Canada and Canada Guaranty - that are an alternative to CMHC. Neither have announced new underwriting guidelines, which means I expect to be guiding many new homebuyers through these alternate insurance channels. Get in touch at anytime Having trouble keeping up with all the changes lately? Thats why Im here. My only focus is mortgages and I am always up to date on the changing mortgage marketplace. If you or someone you know is looking to buy, its important to get in touch early so we can put a solid plan in place. Or, if you have concerns about your current mortgage strategy, lets talk, especially if you want to find out if you can renegotiate your mortgage to take advantage of todays low rates, or refinance to consolidate troubling high-interest debt.

Michelle McCullough 11.06.2020

Good news to start your Monday morning. Genworth (1 of the 3 mortgage insurers) confirms, at this time, they will not be following CMHCs guideline changes when qualifying for a mortgage.

Michelle McCullough 05.06.2020

CMHCs changes will effectively reduce homebuyers purchasing power by up to 11%, according to RateSpy.com. ''Someone earning $60,000 with no other debt and 5% down could afford approximately 10.9% less home under CMHCs new rules, the site noted. Thats like jacking up the minimum stress test rate from 4.94% (where it lies today) to 6.30%!' Roughly 18% of CMHCs high loan-to-value originations had a Gross Debt Ratio of more than 35%, according to a report from RBC Economic...s. And about 5% of CMHCs originations had credit scores of less than 680, according to data from Mortgage Professionals Canada. - Canadian Mortgage Trends

Michelle McCullough 22.05.2020

CMHC just announced changes to their guidelines when qualifying for a mortgage, starting July 1st. They will no longer allow a borrowed down payment when purchasing a home. Prior based on your credit score, you could use a line of credit or loan for your down payment when purchasing. They have increased the minimum credit score from 600 to 680.... The debt service ratios have changed from: Gross debt service ratio 39% - 35% Total debt service ratio from 44% - 42% Genworth and Canada Guaranty have not stated if they will be following with the changes. Please keep in mind if you have a pre-approval and have not wrote an offer prior to July 1, this could affect you. If you have any questions at all, please reach out. We are happy to help!

Michelle McCullough 02.05.2020

The Bank of Canada holds rates steady. Anyone with variable rate mortgages, loans or lines of credit will see that their low rate remain unchanged.

Michelle McCullough 18.04.2020

Such a great video

Michelle McCullough 13.04.2020

As the longest spring in memory finally gives way to summer, its nice to see people safely enjoy the sunny weather. I hope that you are yours are in good health. There continues to be uncertainty about the shifting mortgage market. Here are the most common questions: Should I break my fixed mortgage to get a lower rate? If youre only partway through your fixed term, youll need to pay a penalty to break your mortgage. Locking in a low rate now can be a strategy to provide...Continue reading

Michelle McCullough 01.04.2020

Great info from PG Mortgage Broker - Jamie Cunningham on property taxes

Michelle McCullough 20.03.2020

Effective Monday, itll be slightly easier to qualify for a mortgage! The qualifying rate is used in stress tests for both insured and uninsured mortgages, and ...a lower rate means it is easier for borrowers to qualify. For the first time since January 2018, when stress testing began, the mortgage qualifying rate is under 5%. Get in touch to see how much you qualify for! See more

Michelle McCullough 08.03.2020

To celebrate Mothers Day and support an amazing local business, PG Mortgage Broker - Jamie Cunningham, Katy Livingstone and I have decided to give a lucky lady a beautiful gift box from Dandy Lines. To Enter: 1. Share and like the original post 2. Tag 3 special women in your life ... Draw closes: Friday, May 8th @ 5pm Dandy Lines gift box photo by: Emily Jane Photography

Michelle McCullough 21.02.2020

4 days left until the draw! Make sure to purchase your ticket(s). If you didn't have a chance to see this home in person, trust me it's beautiful.

Michelle McCullough 07.02.2020

Definitely missing my face to face meetings but we are still here for any mortgage questions or help you need!

Michelle McCullough 31.01.2020

It is no surprise the Bank of Canada held firm on its overnight rate of .25% (1/4 percent) and did not venture into negative interest rates that have been tried notably in Europe and Japan with no evidence that negative rates improved GDP outcomes. Generally, economists agree there will not be much of an effect from lower interest rates on new borrowing, because few firms and households will want to borrow to fund investment or purchases during the Covid-19 crisis. However, t...he interest rate cuts have improved cash flow in households for those with variable rate loans and low interest rates will vastly support the economic recovery of Canada when the pandemic is over. The Bank of Canada recently announced a new program that will see a minimum $5 billion per week of market purchases of Government of Canada bonds, the government's quantitative easing program, that has never been attempted in before in Canada. It is widely expected the Bank of Canada will end up spending upwards of $200 billion on this program and has announced, this morning, an expansion into provincial bonds and corporate debt as well. With millions of Canadians currently unemployed or on temporary leave during the COVID-19 country-wide lockdown, Canada's employment insurance program and the Canada Emergency Response Benefit, have received over 6 million applicants. All levels of government are pouring billions into programs for businesses and individuals and are expected to unveil even more programs aimed at ensuring businesses remain solvent and workers have jobs to return to once the crisis has passed. The Bank of Canada in their announcement today outlined this message of support for Canadians - "The pandemic-driven contraction has prompted decisive policy action to support individuals and businesses and to lay the foundation for economic recovery once containment measures start to ease. Fiscal programs, designed to expand according to the magnitude of the shock, will help individuals and businesses weather this shutdown phase of the pandemic, and support incomes and confidence." The next rate-setting day is Wednesday, June 3rd. Please feel free to reach out at any time: by phone, email, or we can arrange a video conference if you have any questions or want to explore options available to you. Be safe. Be well.

Michelle McCullough 29.01.2020

We have been getting a lot of questions about rates recently. Here's a great article explaining why rates are higher than where you would expect them to be at this time. "The increasingly cloudy economic picture that has pushed the prime rate down has also led banks to reverse their cuts to fixed rates and instead push them up, even to levels that were higher than when the crisis began, as banks become more cautious about lending and liquidity."

Michelle McCullough 24.01.2020

Purchase your first home in 2019?

Michelle McCullough 11.01.2020

Some great information on deferring your mortgage shared by our friend Lee-Ann McEllister from MCAP. What you need to know: Most lenders will allow these deferred payments even if your mortgage is not insured (you would fall into this category if you originally had a 30 year am or refinanced) ... This is not only for job loss, but if you are affected in any way (hours cut back, home because of childcare, temporary income interruption, business for self and need cash flow) Mortgage deferral will allow you some reprieve from making the principal and interest payment. BUT, the interest is added to the remaining balance of your mortgage. It is not a 'Mortgage Holiday' It's important to ask how paying back the deferred payment works. Some lenders simply add the interest to the balance so you have a higher balance at renewal (remember, you are now paying amortizing interest on the interest), some lenders adjust your next payment after deferral to be bigger and pay it back, some lenders increase your remaining amortization at the end of your term If your lender states that it will not affect your credit score, get it in writing or screenshot from their website. It is not a perfect reporting system from lender to Equifax or TransUnion. If the deferred payment reports to your credit bureau incorrectly you will be able to fix it with proof Most lenders require 10 business days prior to payment date for processing. All lenders are experiencing insanely high call volume, you may even get a busy signal. If your lender has an online contact form or email, this is the most efficient and convenient way to get in the queue I know this is long but I do hope it's helpful, xx!

Michelle McCullough 07.01.2020

The Bank of Canada drops its key interest rate by half a percentage point in another unscheduled rate cut. This could decrease your variable rate mortgages, loans and lines of credit.

Michelle McCullough 29.12.2019

I wanted to reach out with some words of reassurance. In short...I'm here. We are in uncharted territory, and the mortgage marketplace is continually shifting to keep pace with economic realities and the needs of Canadian homeowners. Several announcements have been released in quick succession: by the government, lenders, and mortgage insurers. Here is a quick summary of some of the most common questions to help you make sense of it all. I encourage you give me a call at any ...time if you have questions about your own situation. Mortgage payment deferrals have been announced. What does it mean and how do I access that? Mortgage insurers Canada Mortgage and Housing Corp (CMHC) Genworth, and Canada Guaranty have joined with lenders to announce that eligible clients can delay mortgage payments. These are "compassionate" programs for homeowners who are in serious financial straits and unable to make their mortgage payments for a period of time. You will need to apply to the program, and assistance will be determined on a case-by-case basis so please do not just start skipping payments. If you urgently need this kind of help, get in touch, and I can help you find the right channels to apply. Lenders have been swamped with calls, so you may need some patience to get through this process. But we can also talk about financing options that might help you at this time. The Bank of Canada has lowered interest rates a few times. Won't that help me with my variable mortgage or line of credit? Yes, any lowering of the Bank of Canada rate will likely mean that your interest rate will also drop. Keep in mind that it usually doesn't happen instantly, and your own rate won't necessarily move in lock-step with the Bank of Canada rate. Ultimately, it's the lender's decision on whether and how much of the rate cut will be passed along to the end consumer. Lenders are naturally concerned about liquidity and the potential for an increase in mortgage defaults. So if the rates have dropped so low, should I lock in my variable mortgage? Or trade for a low fixed rate? I can go over the pros and cons with you. There is no simple answer. What about my fixed-rate mortgage? If you've got a fixed-rate mortgage, then nothing changes for you right now. The rate you negotiated is guaranteed for the entire term of your mortgage. However, if your fixed rate is a lot higher than the current rates available, then it is still worth calling to see if it makes sense to re-negotiate your mortgage to take advantage of today's rates. I can do a cost/benefit analysis to see if the switch can save you money. We are all navigating turbulent waters and many things are changing. The most important advice I can give you is to get in touch early if you're anticipating any challenges. Right now we all need to take things as calmly as we can, evaluate our priorities, and make decisions that are needed for the long term.

Michelle McCullough 22.12.2019

IMPORTANT UPDATE - the stress test changes recently announced for both insured and uninsured mortgages will no longer go into effect April 6th as announced by b...oth The Office of the Superintendent of Financial Institutions and the Finance Department. The market is rapidly changing. Stay tuned for updates. See more

Michelle McCullough 11.12.2019

Tweet from CMHC: Nobody should have to worry about their mortgage because of impacts of COVID-19. Were working with lenders to help, increasing our flexibilities to allow payment deferral of up to 6 months starting now.

Michelle McCullough 09.12.2019

The Bank of Canada lowers rate again by .5%! This is an unscheduled rate decision made today as a proactive measure taken in light of the negative shocks to Canadas economy. @Michelle McCullough

Michelle McCullough 29.11.2019

Mortgage rates have been rapidly decreasing. Now would be a great time to review your existing mortgage and debt load to see if you should be taking advantage of these lower rates. Give me a call and I can go over options to see if this is right for you!

Michelle McCullough 15.11.2019

Bank of Canada cuts rates by 0.5%. This means banks may be lowering prime rate for consumers and anyone with variable rate loans, mortgages and lines of credit will see a reduced interest rate.

Michelle McCullough 10.11.2019

Today, people getting insured mortgages must prove they can afford a payment based on the benchmark five-year posted rate. The Bank of Canada calculates this rate from typical big-bank rates, and its currently 5.19 per cent. Starting on April 6, a new and improved benchmark rate will be used. Itll be based on the countrys median five-year fixed insured-mortgage rate, plus two percentage points. If that rate were in existence today, it would be about 4.89 per cent, says th...e Department of Finance. Thats 30 basis points less than the current (minimum) stress-test rate. (There are 100 basis points in a percentage point.) If youre a mortgage shopper wondering whether any of this matters, here are nine reasons why it does:

Michelle McCullough 24.10.2019

Starting in April, the government will change the rules that cover mortgage lending in a way that should, in the short term at least, make it easier to qualify for a loan to buy a home. The Department of Finance says that as of April 6, the so-called "stress test" for mortgages will be calculated in a new way. Under the new rules announced today and set to be implemented in April, the new bar will be "the weekly median five-year fixed insured mortgage rate from mortgage insurance applications, plus two per cent."

Michelle McCullough 06.10.2019

Big congratulations to Katy Livingstone for being a Top Broker in BC!

Michelle McCullough 22.09.2019

Due to our office being located in Assante Wealth Management, we have experts available to help with financial planning & life insurance. These are vital components when purchasing a home and planning for your future. For example, if you don't have money saved for a down payment, a financial advisor can help come up with a savings plan or chat about RRSP contributions. And when purchasing a home, life insurance is something that is offered by each lender. However mortgage insurance may not be the best choice for you so our life insurance specialist can go over other options available. Together we make sure you have the best possible advice from an amazing team of people.

Michelle McCullough 03.09.2019

Thinking about purchasing a home this year? Your credit score is a huge factor when qualifying for a mortgage. Heres a great article explaining how to increase your credit score.