Summer Savings Tips: Five Ways to Put Aside Extra Cash to Boost Your Mortgage Payments

Marci • July 15, 2014

If you are trying to put aside some money for your mortgage, then you know exactly how difficult it can be to zero in on your expense list in order to reduce it. Here are a few tips that you can use to save over the summer months so that you can pay down your mortgage more easily.

Turn Off the Air Conditioner

The weather is nice outside, so go outside and enjoy it. When you need to cool off, hit the community pool or take a cold shower. Keeping the air conditioner off is one of the best ways to save money over the summer.

Reduce Lighting and Water Use to Save Electricity

As it stays lighter in the summertime for a longer period of time, you do not have to use as many lights in the house. Turn them off in the daytime and open the blinds so that can make use of the natural light outside. You can also save money by preserving your hot water. Since it is already warm outside, there is very little use for hot water in the house. As a matter of fact, if you are brave enough to take cold showers, do so. Some people have even unhooked their water heater completely in order to save money.

Fire Up the Barbecue!

Because the weather is so nice outside, you can use that time to get family together for a meal without the convenience cost of a restaurant. Barbecues and potlucks are a great way to save money while eating well during the summertime.

Take Advantage of Off-Season Sales

Take advantage of summer sales and try to purchase as many of your winter clothes as possible in the summertime. There are many places that stock coats and other winter clothes for liquidation in the summer at far lower prices. If you have not invested in a Costco or another bulk-buying warehouse membership, do so. You can then get all of your undergarments and other winter clothes like thick socks in bulk in order to save even more money.

Most Importantly: Get Outside as Often as Possible!

You’d be surprised at how much money one can save if they simply make the decision to spend time outside instead of indoors, watching TV. The electricity that you can save is one thing; if you completely wean yourself off of the TV set, you can actually save money by downgrading your cable plan.

There are many other ways to save money during the summer. Most of them have to do with taking advantage of all of the cultural amenities, events and festivals that are available in Vancouver during the summertime. If you and your household can get creative in its use of natural resources, then you will definitely save a great deal of money that you can put towards your mortgage payment. Remember to have fun while you are saving money – there is nothing better than using nature to get ahead in your finances!

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How to Finance a Spousal Buyout After Separation or Divorce

By Marci Deane • November 4, 2026
Mortgage Options During Divorce or Separation: What You Should Know If you’re going through—or considering—a divorce or separation, you may not realize that there are mortgage solutions specifically designed to help one party keep the home . For many people, the family home is their largest asset and where most of their equity is tied up. In situations like this, a spousal buyout program can allow one person to refinance the property and buy out the other party’s share—often up to 95% of the home’s value . This option can work whether you want to keep the home or your former partner does. What Is the Spousal Buyout Program? The spousal buyout program is a refinancing option that allows one owner to purchase the other owner’s share of the property as part of a separation or divorce settlement. In some cases, it can also be used to pay off jointly held debts, as outlined in a legal agreement. Below are some of the most common questions about how the program works. Is a finalized separation agreement required? Yes. Lenders require a signed and finalized separation agreement that clearly outlines how assets and debts are to be divided. This document is essential for approval. Can the funds be used for renovations or personal debts? No. Funds from a spousal buyout can only be used to: Buy out the other owner’s share of equity Pay off joint debts specifically listed in the separation agreement They cannot be used for renovations, personal loans, or unrelated expenses. How much equity can be accessed? The maximum amount available is the amount required to: Buy out the other party’s agreed-upon share of equity Pay off any joint debts listed in the agreement This amount cannot exceed 95% loan-to-value . What is the maximum loan-to-value allowed? The maximum loan-to-value is the lesser of : 95%, or The remaining mortgage balance plus the required buyout and joint debt payout The property must be the primary owner-occupied residence . Do all parties need to be on title? Yes. All individuals involved in the buyout must currently be registered on title. Your solicitor will confirm this through a title search. Does this only apply to married or common-law couples? No. While commonly used for married or common-law couples, the program may also apply to siblings or friends who jointly own a property and need one party to exit the mortgage. These cases are typically reviewed on an exception basis and require insurer approval. If no separation agreement exists, the purchase contract must clearly outline the buyout terms. Is a full appraisal required? Yes. A physical, on-site appraisal is required to confirm the property’s value before the mortgage can be finalized. Final Thoughts This overview covers some of the most common questions about mortgage options during separation or divorce, but every situation is different. Working with an independent mortgage professional gives you access to multiple lenders, specialized programs, and unbiased advice—so you can clearly understand your options and choose what’s best for your future. If you’re navigating a separation and need guidance around keeping or selling the home, feel free to connect anytime. All conversations are handled with discretion and confidentiality, and I’d be happy to walk you through your options.

Bank of Canada Raises Rate to 2.5% — October 28, 2026

By Marci Deane • October 28, 2026
On October 28, 2026, the Bank of Canada raised its key interest rate by 0.25%, bringing it to 2.5%. If you have a mortgage, are shopping for a home, or have a renewal coming up, this decision matters. Here is a plain-language look at what changed, why it happened, and what it could mean for you.

How to Legally Assign a Construction Mortgage

By Marci Deane • October 21, 2026
Why More Mortgage Options Matter—Especially for Assignment Purchases One of the biggest advantages of working with an independent mortgage professional is access to choice. Instead of being limited to one lender and one set of products, mortgage brokers work with multiple lenders—each with different guidelines, risk tolerances, and mortgage solutions. That flexibility becomes especially valuable when your situation doesn’t fit neatly into a “standard” box. A great example of this is purchasing new construction through an assignment contract . Why Assignment Purchases Can Be Challenging Assignment purchases are often viewed as higher risk by traditional lenders. Rather than declining these deals outright, many lenders quietly make them difficult by adding layers of conditions, restrictions, or uncertainty. This can lead to delays, frustration, or financing falling apart late in the process. The Good News There are lenders—available exclusively through the broker channel —that have clear, favourable policies for assignment purchases. With the right lender and proper planning, these transactions are absolutely doable. Typical Financing Requirements for Assignment Purchases While every situation is unique, many lenders that allow assignment financing look for the following: Standard purchase qualification, including income verification, credit, and down payment Assignments accepted at either the original purchase price or current market value Minimum 620 credit score , with no prior bankruptcies or consumer proposals The full down payment must come from the purchaser —seller incentives cannot be used Required Documentation To secure financing, lenders typically require: The original purchase agreement signed by all parties The MLS listing (if applicable) The assignment agreement signed by the builder, original purchaser, and new buyer Any side agreements outlining changes to the purchase price A full appraisal to confirm value This list isn’t exhaustive, but it highlights that while assignment purchases require more coordination, they are very achievable with the right lender and guidance. Final Thoughts Assignment contracts can open doors to great opportunities—but only if your financing supports the transaction. This is where access to multiple lenders and specialized policies makes a real difference. If you’re considering purchasing new construction through an assignment, or if you’d like to explore more traditional purchase options, feel free to connect anytime. I’d be happy to walk you through the mortgage products available and help you choose an option that doesn’t limit your financing possibilities.