Testimonial: Payam Ezzatian

Posted on April 25, 2025April 25, 2025 by admin

I had the pleasure of working with Andy on a recent matter. He’s prompt and professional, and provides valuable insight based on decades of experience. I would not hesitate to ask for his assistance again. Payam Ezzatian Partner Brauti Thorning LLP Toronto, Ontario

I Felt Every Second of That Drill

Posted on April 22, 2025April 22, 2025 by Andy MacDonald

I was in the dentist’s chair last week for what should have been a quick fix: replace a cracked filling, in and out. But as the drill started, I realized something wasn’t right. I could feel everything. Even the air flow from the suction was causing pain. After a few painful seconds, I raised my hand and asked, “Is it true that redheads need more freezing?” My dentist paused, gave me a look, and said, “Actually… yeah, they often do.” I nodded. “Thought so. I’m bald now, but I was ...

How Self-Employed Buyers Can Qualify for a Mortgage

Posted on April 15, 2025April 15, 2025 by Andy MacDonald

If you’re self-employed and planning to buy a home in 2025, you may already know this journey can come with more hoops to jump through compared to salaried employees. But here’s the good news: qualifying for a mortgage is absolutely possible! You just need to be prepared, understand how lenders think, and work with the right mortgage professional. Why It’s Tougher for Self-Employed Borrowers Mortgage lenders love predictability. With salaried employees, it’s easy: lenders look at pay stub...

Order Taker or Problem Solver?

Posted on April 10, 2025April 10, 2025 by Andy MacDonald

Have you ever worked with someone who clearly knows the rules but can’t actually solve the problem in front of them? They can recite the process, follow the checklist, and quote the policy but when your situation doesn’t fit the mold, they’re stuck. These are what we call order takers. In the world of mortgages, the difference between an order taker and a problem solver can make or break your experience and potentially cost you time, money, or even a dea...

What is a private mortgage?

Posted on November 4, 2024November 4, 2024 by Andy MacDonald

A private mortgage refers to a loan, secured by real property, provided by an individual or a private entity, rather than a traditional financial institution like a bank or credit union. Here are some key features: Lending Source The lender can be a private individual, a group of investors, or a private lending company like a MIC (Mortgage Investment Corporation). Terms and Conditions Private mortgages often have more flexible terms compared to traditional mortgages. They can v...

What is a MIC?

Posted on November 3, 2024November 4, 2024 by Andy MacDonald

A Mortgage Investment Corporation (MIC) is an investment vehicle that pools funds from investors to provide mortgage loans, primarily focusing on real estate borrowers who may have difficulty obtaining financing from traditional banks. MICs are regulated under the Income Tax Act and must distribute a substantial portion of their income to maintain tax-exempt status. Benefits of Borrowing from a MIC: Accessibility MICs often cater to borrowers who may not meet the stringent criteria of ...

“Coles Notes” On A TFSA

Posted on May 12, 2016December 2, 2020 by admin

Tax Free Savings Accounts were created in 2009 as a way for Canadians to invest for their future. With the latest change in Government, Canadians can now contribute up to $5,500 per year in their TFSA. Here is what you need to know about a TFSA: 1) You are allowed to contribute up to $5,500 per year to an account. If you have not contributed previously you can contribute up to $46,500 into a TFSA in 2016. 2) A TFSA is not your typical "savings account". Many people are under the as...

RRSP Season Begins Today!

Posted on March 3, 2015December 2, 2020 by admin

RRSP season begins today...not next January or February! Did you wait until the last minute to contribute to your RRSP? January and February are traditionally the busiest months for RRSP contributions. Everyone scrambles to make a contribution before the March deadline in the hopes of reducing their income taxes. Reducing taxes is always a good thing but there is a smart way and a not so smart way to do this. A lifetime ago I worked in a local branch of one of the countries largest fin...

Divorce…the seven letter word that feels like a four letter word!

Posted on December 1, 2014March 24, 2015 by admin

So you’ve come to the point in your life where you are one of the statistics; you’re getting divorced. Divorce is never easy but with the right attitude, and some planning, you can minimize the stress and pain it inflicts on you and your family. Debbie Shawn of Divorce Matters suggests that the most important piece of advice she can offer is to remember that while you may be ending your marriage it is virtually impossible to end the relationship with your spouse. There will always be mome...

Got kids? Get your free money!

Posted on November 4, 2014December 2, 2020 by admin

It's not often that the government offers you free money but when they do you should take advantage of it! If you have kids you should consider opening a Registered Education Savings Plan (RESP) for them. Even if you don't have extra funds to contribute yourself it's a great place to park birthday or Christmas money that your child may receive from friends and family. The free money is the contribution the government will make to the plan in the form of the Canada Education Savings Gr...