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Avoiding First-Time Home Buyer Mistakes in Alberta
Buying your first home is exciting, but Alberta’s competitive housing market means there is little room for error. A young family moving into their first home in Alberta. Whether you are searching in Calgary, Edmonton, or growing cities like Red Deer, Lethbridge, Medicine Hat, and Fort McMurray, avoiding common mistakes can make the difference between a smooth experience and costly setbacks. Underestimating Costs One of the biggest first time home buyer mistakes in Alberta is

Tina Kha
Sep 25, 20253 min read


Alternatives to Reverse Mortgages: HELOCs, Downsizing & More in Alberta
Many Albertans consider reverse mortgages when they want to access the equity in their homes without selling. While reverse mortgages can be useful in some cases, they are not the only option. Alberta homeowners have options beyond reverse mortgages. Depending on your financial situation, there are alternatives that may offer more flexibility or lower costs. Let’s look at some of the most common reverse mortgage alternatives in Alberta and how they compare. Home Equity Line o

Tina Kha
Sep 22, 20253 min read


Short-Term vs. Long-Term Rentals in Calgary & Edmonton
Investing in rental properties in Alberta can be highly rewarding, but the choice between short-term rentals like Airbnb and traditional long-term leases is not always straightforward. Calgary and Edmonton each have unique market conditions that influence financing, regulations, and income potential. Downtown Edmonton is a strong rental market for investors. ˇ Differences in Financing Securing a mortgage for short-term rentals is different from financing a long-term investmen

Tina Kha
Sep 19, 20252 min read


How to Unlock Equity for Renovations for Your Calgary Home
Understanding Home Equity Home equity is the difference between your property’s current market value and the balance remaining on your mortgage. Using home equity to renovate your Calgary home. As you pay down your mortgage or as your Calgary home appreciates, your equity grows. This equity can be used to fund renovations, debt consolidation, or other major expenses. Why Use Equity for Renovations? Renovations can increase the long-term value of your Calgary property. Accessi

Tina Kha
Sep 17, 20252 min read


Is Now the Right Time to Refinance in Alberta? Pros, Cons, and Timing
Refinancing your mortgage can be a powerful financial tool, but the decision depends heavily on timing, market conditions, and your...

Tina Kha
Sep 8, 20252 min read


Calgary First-Time Home Buyers: Navigating Local Programs and Market Trends
Buying your first home in Calgary can feel both exciting and overwhelming. The Calgary housing market has seen steady demand fueled by...

Tina Kha
Sep 3, 20253 min read


5 Smart Ways Calgary Homeowners Can Consolidate Debt
Managing multiple high-interest debts can feel overwhelming, especially when you are juggling credit cards, lines of credit, and personal...

Tina Kha
Aug 28, 20253 min read


Is Now the Right Time to Refinance Your Mortgage in Alberta?
"Thinking about refinancing your mortgage in Alberta? Learn how refinancing can lower your payments, access home equity, and secure better rates with expert guidance from Tina Kha.

Tina Kha
Aug 19, 20253 min read


First-Time Home Buyer Programs in Edmonton: What You Need to Know
Discover the best first-time home buyer programs in Edmonton and how to qualify. Learn how to save, reduce costs, and work with Tina Kha.

Tina Kha
Jul 31, 20253 min read


Understanding Mortgage Broker Fees in Canada
Reviewing mortgage documents with an Edmonton advisor. As a mortgage broker in Canada, I often receive a common question: "How do mortgage brokers get paid?" Like all professions, mortgage brokers need to earn a living. Fortunately, in most cases, you won’t have to pay any fees to work with a mortgage broker. How Does the Process Work? Let’s break down how the process typically unfolds: You either reach out to me or are referred because you need a mortgage. We connect, and I

Tina Kha
Jul 1, 20253 min read


Understanding the Role of the Bank of Canada (BoC)
To put it simply, the Bank of Canada (BoC) creates and lends money to banks at what’s called the Overnight Lending Rate (or Key Interest Rate ). This is the rate banks pay to borrow money. One of the BoC’s primary responsibilities is managing inflation in Canada. It does this by adjusting the Overnight Lending Rate: If inflation is too high , the BoC raises rates to make borrowing more expensive. This slows down spending and curbs inflation. If inflation is too low , the Bo

Tina Kha
May 15, 20254 min read


Understanding How Your Credit Score Affects Your Mortgage Outcomes
Your credit score is vital in determining your mortgage eligibility and rates. It significantly influences the overall approval process. Borrowers with good or excellent credit scores typically enjoy lower interest rates, improved terms, and a smoother application experience. However, even if your credit isn't perfect, securing a mortgage is still possible. Let's explore how credit scores impact mortgage rates, and the options available for various credit situations. The Infl

Tina Kha
Apr 9, 20253 min read


Bank vs Broker
There are a lot of misunderstandings about mortgage brokers. Some people think our job is just about rate shopping and hunt for the lowest mortgage rates, while others assume we charge steep fees for something they could easily do themselves. Let’s set the record straight and break down what we really do, without the corporate lingo and with a bit of personality. So, What Exactly Do We Do? Think of us like wedding planners, but for mortgages. If you were getting married, woul

Tina Kha
Mar 6, 20252 min read


The RRSP Home Buyers' Plan (HBP)
Unlock your path to homeownership with Canada's Home Buyers' Plan (HBP). Explore tax-free RRSP withdrawals for your dream home!

Tina Kha
Nov 29, 20232 min read


First Home Savings Account (FHSA)
FHSA, serves as a tax-free savings tool explicitly created to assist first time home buyers in Canada accumulate funds for a down payment.

Tina Kha
Nov 27, 20232 min read


Fixed vs Variable Rate Mortgages
Explore stability with fixed-rate mortgages or embrace flexibility with variable rates. Make informed choices for your financial future.

Tina Kha
Nov 25, 20232 min read


Mortgage Down Payments
Unlock homeownership: Mastering mortgage down payments. Expert guidance for securing your dream home stress-free.

Tina Kha
Nov 22, 20233 min read
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