Daily Wipe-Downs: Make it a habit to wipe down bathroom surfaces, such as sinks, countertops, and faucets, daily. This quick task prevents soap scum and grime buildup, keeping your bathroom sparkling clean.

Drawer Dividers: Use dividers in your bathroom drawers to separate toiletries and cosmetics. This prevents items from getting jumbled together and makes it easier to find what you need.

Vertical Storage: Maximize vertical space by installing shelves or organizers on the back of your bathroom door. This is a great way to store towels, robes, or extra toiletries without taking up precious floor space.

The Bank of Canada has maintained its target for the overnight rate at 5% today, with the Bank Rate at 5.25% and the deposit rate at 5%. Here are the key highlights from the announcement:

Global Economic Trends:
Inflation in advanced economies is on the decline, but core inflation remains elevated.Global growth slowed in Q2 2023, largely due to a significant slowdown in China. The U.S. saw stronger-than-expected growth driven by robust consumer spending. Europe's service sector supported growth while manufacturing contracted. Global bond yields have risen, reflecting higher real interest rates, and oil prices are higher than expected.

Canadian Economic Update:
The Canadian economy is experiencing weaker growth to alleviate price pressures. Economic growth contracted by 0.2% at an annualized rate in Q2 2023, impacted by factors like wildfires. Household credit growth slowed due to higher rates, while government spending and business investment supported domestic demand. The labor market is gradually easing, with wage growth around 4% to 5%.

Inflation:
Inflation remains a concern, with CPI inflation averaging close to 3%. Core inflation is running at about 3.5%, indicating little recent downward momentum. Recent gasoline price increases are expected to push CPI inflation higher in the near term.

Monetary Policy:
The policy interest rate remains at 5%. The Bank continues to normalize its balance sheet. The Bank is watchful of underlying inflationary pressures and is ready to increase rates if needed. Assessment factors include excess demand, inflation expectations, wage growth, and corporate pricing behaviour.

Seize the opportunity today to fortify your financial future. If you're on the lookout for a top-notch mortgage broker who can guide you towards the perfect mortgage solutions customized just for you, don't hesitate to reach out. Secure your tomorrow, today!

Total residential unit sales August 2023 hit 2,250, increasing 21.8% compared to August 2022, dropping marginally from July 2023 by 3.1%. New residential listings were up 3.7% year-over-year from August 2022, and increasing 0.3% from July 2023. Overall inventory in the GEA was down 15.5% from August of last year, and down 2.7% from the previous month.

For August, detached unit sales were up 16.8% from August 2022 and decreased 5.8% from July 2023 at 1,311. Semi-detached unit sales were down 11.6% month-over-month but increased by 12.9% from this time last year. Row/Townhouse unit sales were up 50.0% from August 2022 and up 23.2% from July 2023. Apartment Condominium unit sales had an increase of 25.1% from August 2022, while noting a decrease of 6.9% from the previous month.

Total residential average prices came in at $397,811, a 0.5% increase from August 2022, and a drop of 2.7% from July 2023. Detached homes averaged $495,005, noting a 2.1% year-over-year increase, but a 1.4% decrease from July 2023. Semi-detached sold for an average of $373,175, resulting in a 4.3% increase year-over-year, and a decrease of 1.5% from the previous month. Row/townhouse prices were up 3.6% from August 2022 and down 4.1% month-over-month, selling at $253,345. Apartment Condominium average prices hit $192,815 showing a decrease of 1.0% from last month and an increase of 0.5% from August 2022.

The MLS® Home Price Index (HPI) composite benchmark price* in the GEA came in at $380,600, resulting in a decrease of 0.3% from July 2023, and a drop of 3.9% from August 2022.

Detached homes averaged 45 days on the market, increasing one day from July 2023. Semi-detached homes averaged 42 days on the market, increasing seven days from the previous month, with row/townhouses averaging 44 days on the market, an increase of three days month-over-month.  Apartment condominiums averaged 56 days on the market, showing a two-day decrease from July 2023. 

Overall, all residential listings averaged 46 days on the market, increasing by four days year-over-year and one day from July 2023.

If you or someone you know have questions about how this may impact your home selling or buying decision, connect with me to discuss a winning plan.

Craig Finnman ⁠
Re/Max Elite ⁠
craig@craigfinnman.ca ⁠
780-982-1589⁠

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Cashback mortgages are a type of mortgage that has gained popularity in Canada over the past few years. With a cashback mortgage, borrowers receive a lump sum cash payment from the lender at closing. This cash payment can be used for various purposes, such as covering closing costs or making home improvements.

How a Cashback Mortgage Works

Cashback mortgages are a type of mortgage that has become increasingly popular in Canada in recent years. With a cashback mortgage, the lender provides borrowers with a lump sum cash payment at closing. This payment can be used for various purposes, such as covering closing costs, making home improvements, or paying off high-interest debt.

The amount of cashback a borrower can receive typically ranges from 1% to 7% of the mortgage amount. However, the exact amount can vary depending on the lender and the borrower’s credit score and financial situation. The cashback payment is typically added to the mortgage balance, which means that borrowers will pay interest on the cashback amount over the life of the mortgage.

Advantages of a Cashback Mortgage

Cashback mortgages can provide several benefits for borrowers in Canada:

A cashback mortgage can help with the upfront costs of buying a home or refinancing an existing mortgage. This can be especially beneficial for first-time homebuyers or borrowers who need more cash.

Cashback mortgages can be a way for borrowers to make home improvements or pay off high-interest debt. By using the cashback payment for these purposes, borrowers can save money in the long run and increase the value of their homes.

A cashback mortgage can provide flexibility and financial security. The lump sum can be used for any purpose, meaning borrowers can choose how to use it based on their financial needs and goals.

Drawbacks of a Cashback Mortgage

While cashback mortgages can provide several benefits, they also have several drawbacks that borrowers should consider:

A cashback mortgage often has a higher interest rate than a traditional one. This means that borrowers will pay more interest over the life of the mortgage, which can result in higher overall costs.

They also often come with restrictions on refinancing or prepayment penalties. These restrictions can make it more difficult or expensive for borrowers to change their mortgage in the future.

In a cashback mortgage, the cashback payment is added to the mortgage balance, which means that borrowers will pay interest on the cashback amount over the life of the mortgage. This can result in higher overall costs and a longer mortgage term.

Finally, cashback mortgages may not be a good fit for borrowers focused on paying off their mortgage quickly. By using the cashback payment for other purposes, borrowers may delay paying off their mortgage and incur more interest charges over the long term.

How to Apply for a Cashback Mortgage

Applying for a cashback mortgage in Canada is similar to applying for a traditional mortgage. Here are the steps involved in applying for a cashback mortgage: 

• Determine whether you meet the eligibility requirements. These requirements can vary depending on the lender but may include credit score, income level, and debt-to-income ratio.
• Gather documentation to support your application. This may include income verification, bank statements, and employment history.
• Shop around for lenders to find the best cashback mortgage option for your needs. This may involve researching different lenders online or working with a mortgage broker.
• Apply for the mortgage. This will involve filling out an application and providing the necessary documentation. If you are approved for a cashback mortgage, you will receive pre-approval, which will outline the terms and conditions of the mortgage.
• Close the mortgage by signing the necessary paperwork and paying any fees or charges associated with the mortgage. Then you can begin moving into your new home!

Cashback mortgages are a popular option in Canada that can provide borrowers with a lump sum cash payment at closing. With careful consideration and informed decision-making, cashback mortgages can be valuable for borrowers looking to purchase or refinance a home in Canada. Talk to your financial advisor to see if a cashback mortgage might be a good option for you.

Source

Declutter Your Countertops: Keep your kitchen tidy by clearing off unnecessary items from your countertops. Store appliances and utensils you don't use daily to create a more spacious and organized cooking area.

Use Clear Containers: Store pantry staples like flour, rice, and cereals in clear, airtight containers. This not only keeps your ingredients fresh but also makes it easy to identify what you need, reducing the chances of a messy pantry.

Designate Zones: Create specific zones in your kitchen for different tasks, like cooking, prepping, and baking. Keep related items together to streamline your workflow and maintain an orderly space.

Ready to make the most of this Labour Day long weekend in Edmonton and Sherwood Park? Here are 5 fantastic family-friendly activities to enjoy:

Explore Nature's Beauty: Take a stroll through Elk Island National Park or enjoy the vibrant colours of the Muttart Conservatory.

Splash Into Fun: Head to Strathcona Wilderness Centre for a day of swimming, picnicking, and outdoor adventures.

Cultural Delights: Discover the history of our region at Fort Edmonton Park or catch a show at the Jubilee Auditorium.

Tasty Treats: Treat your taste buds to local delights at Edmonton's Farmers' Market or enjoy a family BBQ in your own backyard.

Home Sweet Home: If you're dreaming of a new home, let's chat about your real estate goals. The perfect family home could be just a click away!

Make this Labour Day weekend memorable with family, fun, and a little bit of home inspiration. Happy Labour Day!