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You know the good news: if you've found your "almost" dream home, there's a financing solution to make it just right for you. But what does almost cover? Let's take a look at what renovations are eligible for a purchase plus improvements mortgage.

Just in time for the Spring 2020 real estate market, Canada's finance minister has announced changes to the stress test used to qualify insured and insurable mortgages. The government originally introduced a minimum qualifying rate in 2016 to ensure that home buyers would be able to afford their homes even if interest rates rise, incomes change, or families are faced with unforeseen expenses.

Your mortgage term is nearing its end and you've received a renewal offer from your existing mortgage provider. Do you simply sign that mortgage renewal and carry on? You certainly can; however, we suggest you get a second opinion to ensure that what you're being offered is a great option and, more important, a solution that fits your future needs and goals.

More and more Canadians worry that they will continue working and never officially retire. According to data published for Canada 150 celebrations, about half of Canadians who are working past the age of 60 choose to do so - but the other half must continue to work to meet their essential expenses. And in the 2019 Sun Life Barometer survey, 47% of working Canadians of all ages believe they are at risk of outliving their retirement savings.

We usually associate zombies with Hallowe'en, but when it comes to old debts they could revive when you least expect it. More and more Canadians are facing record-high levels of debt, due in part to extremely low interest rates. If you've passed the point when budgeting will help you get your finances back on track, chances are zombie debt has caught up with you.

It can be an overwhelming experience to find yourself in debt, with your credit sliding from bruised to bad. If you want to make a major purchase, like buying a house, it might feel as though that dream is slipping away. While it can be difficult to find your own way back to a strong financial situation and repair your bad credit, there are many solutions available to you.

1. What is a credit score and how do lenders use them?
   
   A credit score is a three digit number calculated from your data-rich credit report and is one factor used by lenders to determine your creditworthiness for a mortgage or loan. Your score can affect whether or not you are approved, as well as what interest rate you are charged.