Interested in learning more about property mortgages in Canada? Look no further!
Latest News
Paying down your mortgage faster comes with trade-offs + MORE Apr 18th
While extra payments can reduce long-term interest costs, they may also limit liquidity, trigger penalties and crowd out other financial priorities.... More »
TD returns to positive earnings, but mortgage stress grows + MORE Aug 29th
TD Bank returned to profit in the third quarter after a loss in Q2 tied to U.S. regulatory and restructuring charges, even as rising mortgage delinquencies pointed to mounting household strain..... More »
Renting out your home can bring cash—and complications + MORE May 21st
If you search “Airbnb how to get started” you’ll reach their splash page with a big number. As of May in Toronto, Airbnb says you can make more than $4,000 per month during the FIFA World Cup. It’s a powerful lure for someone who needs help with their rent or mortgage, and has a spare room t.... More »
What’s better for buying a second home: HELOC or personal loan? + MORE Aug 8th
Ask MoneySense
I am considering taking out a HELOC loan to buy another property. Is this a wise decision, or would a loan be better? My bank advises me that I can qualify for a $400,000 HELOC.
–Caren
When buying a second property, Canadians can choose from a number of financing options, inc.... More »
U.S. existing-home sales rose to eight-month high in October + MORE Nov 21st
Sales of previously owned homes in the U.S. rose in October to the fastest pace in eight months, as buyers took advantage of lower mortgage rates and gained the upper hand over sellers in some markets..... More »
Buying a home in Canada hasn’t been easy in recent years, but thanks to recent changes to mortgage rules, falling interest rates and more cuts expected in the months ahead, many prospective home owners are feeling freshly optimistic. It all starts with a down payment, though—and the bigger, the better. If you’re thinking about buying your first home in the next few years, consider opening a first home savings account (FHSA) by December 31. Even if you don’t plan to start contributing this year, opening the account now gives you more room to save in 2025.
Here’s what you need to know about using this account, including the FHSA contribution limit and deadline, how to open an FHSA account online and why it might even make sense to open one if you’re undecided about home ownership and debating your decision.
What is a first home savings account (FHSA)?
The FHSA is a tax-free registered savings account that was introduced in April 2023. Designed to help first-time buyers save up for a down payment and get into the housing market sooner, the FHSA allows account holders to contribute up to $8,000 per year, up to a lifetime FHSA limit of $40,000 (or twice that amount if you’re part of a couple and you’re both first-time home buyers)…
