Federal Fiscal Update : Building Tomorrow in Canada’s Housing Revolution”- CBC News

Latest News Mohsen Ravankhah 20 Nov

Introduction: Buckle up, Canada! The federal government is poised to usher in a housing renaissance with a groundbreaking fiscal update. Billions are set to be poured into reshaping the housing landscape, offering relief, and propelling the economy forward. Let’s dive into the game-changing highlights that promise to redefine affordable living across the nation

  1. Massive Funding for New Homes:
    • The government plans to invest a whopping $15 billion in building 30,000 new rental homes across Canada.
    • This means more places for people to live, especially those looking for affordable housing.
  2. $1 Billion for Affordable Housing Fund:
    • Another $1 billion will be set aside specifically to speed up the construction of affordable housing.
    • This fund will support the creation of various types of homes, including non-profit and public housing.
  3. Help for Homeowners in Financial Trouble:
    • New rules are coming to assist homeowners who might be struggling financially.
    • The government is setting up a six-point plan to guide how mortgage relief will work, helping people stay in their homes during tough times.
  4. Support for Builders:
    • Builders who take on the challenge of constructing new homes will get some extra help.
    • The Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation will offer them favorable terms on loans, making it easier to get things done.
  5. Changes in Short-Term Rentals:
    • The government is looking to make changes in how short-term rentals (like Airbnb) work.
    • Owners in areas where short-term rentals are not allowed might not be able to deduct expenses, making it less attractive for them. The goal is to encourage long-term renting instead.
  6. Balancing Act:
    • The government is trying to balance helping people with their housing needs and being responsible with money.
    • The Finance Minister wants to make sure Canadians get support while also keeping an eye on the country’s budget.
  7. What’s Next:
    • This update is part of a bigger plan to improve housing and affordability in Canada.
    • It’s not a huge budget announcement but more of an update to let everyone know how things are going and what changes are on the way.
  8. Expectations and Critics:
    • Different political parties have different ideas about what should be done.
    • Some people are concerned about the country’s budget and want a plan to balance it. Others are focused on making sure affordable housing and lower grocery prices are a priority.

In a nutshell, the government is putting serious money into housing to make it more affordable, help builders, and support homeowners facing financial challenges. The goal is to find a balance that benefits Canadians without putting too much strain on the country’s finances.

Conclusion: The fiscal update isn’t just about numbers; it’s about reshaping communities, supporting homeowners, and fostering economic growth. As the nation eagerly awaits these transformative measures, it’s clear that a new era for Canadian housing is on the horizon. Stay tuned for a future where affordable living takes center stage.

CBC News

Many Canadians Are Unhappy with Their Current Mortgages, Survey Shows

Latest News Mohsen Ravankhah 24 Aug

Introduction:

A cloud of unease has cast its shadow on the ever-evolving landscape of Canadian homeownership. The dream of owning a home has met a formidable opponent: the unrelenting surge of interest rates. What was once a beacon of stability now finds itself under the stormy skies of regret for many Canadian homeowners. As the Real Estate and Mortgage Institute of Canada (REMIC) recently unveiled through a comprehensive survey, many homeowners are grappling with unexpected mortgage payment hikes that have left them pondering the roads not taken.

Key Findings of the REMIC Survey:

  1. Mortgage Malaise Grips Many Canadians:
    • 34.1% of Canadians say they regret the mortgage they are currently in.
    • 21.80% state that interest rate hikes have made their mortgages unaffordable.
    • 12.30% express regret about being locked in at a bad rate.
    • Interestingly, only 30.21% of Canadians would have opted for a less expensive property if they had foreseen the rise in mortgage rates.
  2. Lack of Awareness about Interest Rates:
    • More than half of Canadians, a staggering 59%, cannot quote Canada’s current interest rate.
    • Among them, 41.80% simply said no, while 17.20% responded with ‘maybe.’
  3. Confusion Surrounding Mortgage Rates:
    • Alarmingly, 68.4% of Canadians admit they are unaware of their mortgage payments if the Canadian interest rate reaches 5%, which is the current rate.
    • 31.8% stated they didn’t know, and another 36.6% were unsure.
  4. Bank Trust and Mortgage Rates:
    • 57% of Canadians arranged their mortgages through banks.
    • When asked if banks offer the best mortgage rates, 43.10% responded ‘maybe,’ while 10.5% said ‘Yes.’
    • Interestingly, 57.80% believe banks provide the best rates due to loyalty, with 21.20% saying ‘yes’ and 36.60% saying ‘maybe.’
    • A gender divide exists: 56.0% of women trust bank rates, compared to only 43.90% of men.
    • According to Joe White, President and CEO of REMIC, “Having blind faith in banks could be an expensive mistake for homebuyers.”
  5. Long-Term Mortgage Concerns:
    • 45.2% of Canadians doubt they can pay off their mortgages until age 60.
    • A significant portion thinks they will be mortgage-bound until older ages: 8.2% at 80 or older, 4.60% at 75, and 8.20% at 70.
  6. Over half (58.22%) don’t know their exact monthly mortgage payments without looking them up
    • Conclusion 
    • “Canadian homebuyers need to educate themselves more on the basics of taking on a mortgage and its lasting financial impact.” REMIC’s survey underscores the need for homeowners to be well informed to make wise decisions about their mortgages. Blind trust in banks might not be the best route; seeking advice from licensed mortgage brokers could provide a competitive edge.In the whirlwind of home buying, ensuring affordability and long-term financial stability must be prioritized. As the survey reveals, a home should never become a burden that impacts the quality of life and future financial prospect