Matt Foulis
24 Marlborough St N N0P1A0 Blenheim, ON, Canada

It’s a common assumption that your mortgage is good as done once you have a mortgage pre-approval. False: just because you have a pre-approval doesn’t mean it will translate into a mortgage. Why? Simply, no one knows, including yourself what kind of home you’re going to buy. Specific reasons why a property can cause concern: 1. Value of the home... 2. Property condition 3. Property specifics 4. Location 5. Condos Other reasons could be changes in your financial situation. For instance, if you just bought a brand new car or you just recently changed jobs. When looking for your new home make sure you’re keeping your mortgage agent, advisor and real estate agent in the know. They will help keep you as fully informed as possible when choosing to go in on an offer.

The idea of being a leader has become lost in the title. Just because you hold seniority and have people reporting to you, doesn’t mean you’ve instilled the true meaning of leadership. The definition of a leader is someone whose actions inspire, empower, and serve others to provide an improved state over an extended period of time. If you want to know whether you’re seen as a leader, ask yourself these questions:... 1. Do I think of other’s needs before my own? 2. Do I set high standards and hold people accountable to them? 3. Do I devote time every day to the development of leadership skills? 4. Do I admit that I don’t know all the answers? 5. Do I have a mantra that can motivate and inspire others? Take some time to reflect on your management style and what you can do to get to leader status.

The return of good weather often means getting back to physical activities. If you hurt yourself while playing sports who do you turn to? One option is an athletic therapist! Learn more about what they do and how they can help here. #LuminoHealthy

Underwriting, premiums, and annuity- terms like these can make insurance words sound like a foreign language. Here are 16 of the most commonly misunderstood words in the insurance world. Fellow professionals which words do you find create the biggest confusion for Clients?

Back in October the government announced it would ban hard-to-recycle single-use plastic food containers, such as black plastic and polystyrene. What does this mean for restaurants? Since the pandemic started, takeout has been the only option for many businesses. This has generated a lot more waste prompting start-ups across Canada to come up with a solution reusable takeout containers.

That home renovation you’re thinking about doing this summer may have just doubled or even tripled in cost. The price of a square foot of lumber has jumped from about $11 to $35 within a year. This is costing homeowner’s substantially more than before the pandemic. We can expect high prices for the near future. As mills begin to ramp up production we should see an easing of prices over time which may mean you’ll want to wait.

Are you dealing with a mental health issue? Or know someone who is? One of the best things you can do is talk about it. Find #tips and resources to reduce the stigma and start conversations whether you’re seeking help for yourself or others. #MentalHealthWeek

You can't keep your retirement savings in an #RRSP forever. See how a #RRIF gives you a way to turn your RRSP into income to help pay for retirement.

Are you a parent in Chatham-Kent that has school aged children online learning? There's financial assistance available to offset those rising grocery bills! A friend brought to my attention the Student Nutrition Program, which is being offered by CK Public Health starting in May and running through August. Click the attached link, register your child(ren) monthly, and you should receive a $40 gift card per child to a local grocery store chain of your choosing. Gift cards are ...sent in the mail and should arrive the following month. **My apologies if the link is not working, let me know if so and I'll get tech support to rectify. https://app.gigitmarketplace.com//studentnutritionprogram2

Sometimes all you need is love and tacos. Happy Cinco de Mayo!

By now, you’ve settled back into work after the holidays. Are you thinking about how you might manage your digital world this year? This article provides some insight into how our new working world has changed over the last year and what you can do to help manage what's been described as "digital overload." #worklifebalance

There are 5 common RRSP mistakes, but missing the contribution deadline can be one too. Here are some simple #tips to help you avoid them.

The Canadian housing market keeps on its record setting ways. Sales were up 47% in December compared to 2019 and average home price was a record $607,280.

It’s okay to not be okay. On Bell Let’s Talk Day speak up. Reach out. Don’t hesitate to seek help. It’s the most important thing you could do for yourself. For additional resources visit http://bit.ly/LetsGetYouThereMH #BellLetsTalk

The word "organic" is becoming more popular within the food industry. What does it really mean and what are the benefits? Check out @LuminoHealth's latest article for the answers.

As the COVID-19 pandemic continues over the holiday season, a new kind of stress is emerging. How do you plan a relaxing holiday after a particularly challenging and emotional year? Here are 6 #tips to help you keep the celebrations calm.

Determining the right drawdown strategy depends on your personal situationin particular, the amount of income you expect to receive in retirement. Let’s sit down and look at the opportunities you have and determine what’s right for you. #planningforretirement

Sun Life’s Q3 results have been released. It was a success quarter on many fronts with our continued focus on our Clients and their families during these challenging times. #sunlifeCA

November is Financial Literacy Month. Working with an advisor has so many benefits. Take a step towards bettering your financial future by contacting me today. #FLM2020

In a post-pandemic world different skill sets will be required to navigate the new digital landscape. In order to thrive and set yourself apart for years to come, here are some skills we will all need to succeed.

Feeling anxious about the #holidays? A registered psychologist has #tips for getting through the season in the era of #COVID-19.

With the winter months upon us, it’s going to be challenging to maintain a healthy lifestyle through the use of outdoor activities. What are some ways you plan to stay in shape this season? #health

If you’re like me, using a TFSA and an RRSP are great savings vehicles for long-term and short-term goals. To learn how you can utilize these accounts and make saving for your future easier, contact me today to learn more.

Looking for ways to increase the value of your home but on a budget? HGTV has 30 great tips to help you get the biggest bang for your buck.

Creating a healthy work-life balance will not only improve your physical, emotional and mental well-being but is also important for your career. Here are 7 great #tips to help you remain balanced in business and in life. #worklifebalance

Having good life insurance coverage offers a helping hand to your loved ones should anything happen to you. How does it help? Contact me today to learn more or for a review or your protections needs. #insurance

If you happen to have any rare $1, $2, $25, $500 or $1,000 Canadian bills when the clock strikes midnight on January 1st, they’ll be rendered useless. Click here to learn what you need to do.

As we move into the long winter months amid a pandemic you may be struggling to find the mental capacity to take on more, and that’s okay. You’re time has not become more free, you’re just managing it all differently. We all need rest and probably now more then ever. #mentalhealth

With tax season not too far off, it’s a good time to review how any early RRSP withdrawals can affect your 2020 tax bill. #RRSP

It’s sometimes called the sunshine vitamin because your body produces it when exposed to sunlight. But how can you make sure you’re getting enough vitamin D in the winter? Learn more.

In recognition of Mental Illness Awareness Week, let’s remember that a healthy mind is just as vital to our overall well-being as our physical health. #MentalHealthMatters

Studies have shown that spending money on experiences is more rewarding than buying material goods. However, many of us are spending our free time in ways that aren’t really making us happy. When deciding where to invest your time and energy, think of these 7 things first.

If you deferred your mortgage payments in the wake of COVID-19, the 6-month waiver is ending September 30th. If your mortgage payments are starting back up and you’re not ready, here are some options you could try.

A change in season is an ideal time to develop new heathier and more productive lifestyle habits. The cool, crisp air represents a fresh start so why not start now? Here are some great reasons to make your resolutions in the fall instead of waiting until January.

Many #Canadians are working from home during the pandemic. A chiropractor shares 6 simple #exercises with Lumino Health to help you work more comfortably. Learn more here. #LuminoHealthy

There’s no shortage of studies and articles that have reported the affects that COVID-19 has had on work-life balance and mental health. However, in a recent study it was found that people high in resilience are better able to handle this ‘new normal.’ Where do you fall in your resiliency test?

Saving for your child’s education shouldn’t be difficult. By putting #money away regularly and receiving matching contributions from the Government, you will be able to reach your goals in no time. Contact me today to get an RESP started for your little one.

Alzheimer's is the most common form of dementia. It can lead to changes in memory, thinking, behavior and affects many Canadians over the age of 65. Here are some important warning signs to look out for and what you can do to help as a family member or caregiver.

Patio season is almost over in Canada and anxiety is running high for business owners and the industry as a whole. What are some ways you plan to support your local restaurants as we start to head indoors?

This year has affected all of us in many different ways, one of which is our mental health. Mental health is 1 of the key health concerns of our time and Sun Life is committed to building a more resilient Canada by empowering you to take charge of your health journey. #SunLifeCA #health

Our mental health affects every aspect of our lives and practicing self-care and checking in on ourselves is of the utmost importance. I encourage you to do a mental health checkup to make sure you’re taking the best care of yourself. #MentalHealth

Heading back to school during a pandemic can be stressful for kids and parents. To help support parents as they have these discussions, @LuminoHealth hosted a webinar called This year’s back to school conversations. Watch the webinar here.

Reading is a great everyday activity that can help expose your child to language early on. Here are 6 ways you can help them learn to love reading. #Family

Not surprising: the Bank of Canada announced that it’s keeping its benchmark rate at 0.25%. It’s expected that the Bank will keep this rate unchanged well into 2022 to aid our economic recovery.

As an entrepreneur it’s hard to find the right work-life balance. Feeling like you’re constantly chasing the definition of success can become very stressful and not good for your health. Studies show that by focusing more on these 3 things, will help lead to greater happiness and fulfillment.

Recovering from a serious illness can take up a lot of time, energy and money. Luckily, there are resources that can help. I can help you build a personalized plan that will make it easier for you to focus on what really matters. Contact me today.

Investing early and at regular intervals are 2 key #tips when investing in the market. If time is on your side worrying about the market will only cause more stress. Instead, focus on the things you can control and let the market do the work.

The future of office work is still uncertain but if it were up to employees, many would prefer to stay home, at least for part of the week. This new normal can have a ripple effect on so many areas of our lives. What impact has working from home had on your life?

Taking a brisk walk early in the morning not only has many health benefits but it can increase alertness and improve your mood. Here’s how to make the most of your morning walks.

As kids are heading off to post-secondary school it’s important to revisit the basics of an RESP. For answers to your savings questions, reach out to me today. #RESP #Education

Do you have an advisor? Sun Life’s recent survey found that Canadians working with an advisor often feel more financially secure and healthy. Here’s how working with an advisor like myself can help you address your needs and goals- no matter your life stage.