Looking Ahead to Retirement Through Real Estate
The way the retirement process has typically worked over the past few decades included working at the same company for most of your employable years, investing in RRSP’s, stocks and mutual funds along the way and then retiring at age 65 with a full company pension. Fast forward to present day and eroding job security and poorly [...]
Affording your Dream Home
The swirling mill of rumors surrounding the current housing market undoubtedly has many prospective homebuyers anxious about taking the plunge of ownership. Factor in concerns about job market/economic stability and it becomes quite clear why one might fear the prospect of being house proud, but cash poor or badly in debt. Having said that, however, there are [...]
Mortgage paydown or max out RRSP’s?
It’s that time of year again: tax time. And for many this time of year with it brings questions involving RRSP’s and how much to contribute. For those of us with mortgages, this question can be a tricky one. Should I put that money towards my mortgage or invest it in RRSP’s? This depends on [...]
Investing in mortgages: a tip for sophisticated investors
by Antony Heung Should I invest in real estate or stock options, including bonds, GICs and mutual funds? This is the age-old argument. There is a hidden option that is not commonly discussed, however. Investing in private mortgages is an option that sophisticated investors use to diversify their portfolio and mitigate the risks of an [...]
Month of the RRSP
The February 29 RRSP deadline is fast approaching. In considering whether to RRSP or not, many will be considering such things as the state of their bank balance as well as what other investments they will want to make during the year. While those considerations are a good place to start, you might also want [...]
Financial Freedom into Retirement
This week has seen media buzzing about retirement and pensions after PM Harper hinted at possible changes to Old Age Security Benefits. The below excerpt from the Globe and Mail offers a few tips to retirees on how to ensure financial security into your golden years: Educate yourself If your employer offers a pension plan, [...]
Living Longer and The Rising Cost of Retirement
According to studies, people today are reaching old age in better health and living longer lives. 30 years ago, the average life expectancy of a Canadian male was 75 years – today, this figure has increased to 80 years (The World Bank). Supposing that the average Canadian male retires around the age of 65, the [...]
The Real Asset
Is real estate an investment? I believe it is, but not everyone thinks so. If you talk to an account manager at your bank, she probably won’t suggest investing in real estate, although she would be happy to take your mortgage while steering you into an RRSP. Ditto with an independent investment advisor – he’ll [...]
