The Financial Literacy Video series is your exclusive gateway to financial empowerment brought to you by Wiegers Financial & Benefits. In this series, we offer invaluable perspectives and tailored approaches to bring your financial goals to life. Whether you’re just beginning or seeking to refine your financial planning, we have the resources for all. Stay tuned as we explore essential financial topics in the coming posts, and let’s work together to unleash your financial potential. Your brighter financial future starts here. In our latest VLOG, Taylor Szeto, a trusted financial advisor will provide you with information about the cost of borrowing.
Understanding the Current Housing Landscape
In recent years, the Canadian housing market has transformed significantly. With the rise of remote work, suburbs and rural areas have become more appealing, leading to increased demand for recreational properties. However, the primary driver behind these housing shifts is the need for individuals to find homes that better suit their needs in terms of size and location.
Key Findings From the Manulife Bank 2022 Fall Debt Survey
The Manulife Bank 2022 Fall Debt Survey revealed several key findings. A staggering 81% of respondents believe that Canada is facing an affordable housing crisis. Additionally, 67% of homeowners are worried about making their mortgage payments, and 71% are worried about how much they owe on their mortgage. It’s worth noting that 53% admit they would struggle with handling any unexpected expenses, while more than half of respondents say that their spending is outpacing their income. Unsurprisingly, 48% of Canadians feel overwhelmed by their financial situation.
Strategies to Become Mortgage-Free Sooner
To help individuals improve their financial situations and reduce mortgage stress related to the costs of borrowing, I recommend focusing on the three following components:
Obtaining the lowest interest rate possible. It’s important also to understand how interest is calculated, whether through compound or simple interest.
Emphasizing principal reduction. This can be instrumental in minimizing interest accumulation over time.
Shortening the amortization period for your mortgage. This too can greatly benefit your financial goals.
Strategies to Reduce Mortgage Stress Related to the Costs of Borrowing
There are a number of strategies you can follow to help alleviate mortgage stress and improve financial well-being. These strategies include:
Identifying the source of mortgage anxiety
Aligning payment schedules with one’s paycheque
Adopting a biweekly payment plan
Renewing mortgages earlier for better rates
Considering insurance coverage to protect against unexpected life events
By consistently examining and implementing these strategies, you can take better control of your mortgage and secure a more stable future.
As affordable housing concerns persist, it is crucial to stay informed and proactive. By understanding the components that contribute to mortgage stress and implementing effective strategies to tackle them, you can achieve financial peace of mind. Please watch below as Taylor explains more about financial planning for individuals and families here .
Account Representative, Manulife Securities Investment Services Inc.
Insurance Representative, Wiegers Financial and Insurance Planning Services Ltd.
Taylor Szeto and Manulife Securities Investment Services Inc. (“Manulife Securities”) do not make any representation that the information in any linked site and/or 3rd party articles is accurate and will not accept any responsibility or liability for any inaccuracies in the information not maintained by them, such as 3rd party articles and/or linked sites.
The opinions expressed are those of the author and may not necessarily reflect those of Manulife Securities Investment Services Inc.
Mutual funds are offered through Manulife Securities Investment Services Inc. Insurance products and services are offered through Wiegers Financial and Insurance Planning Services Ltd. Banking products and services are offered by referral arrangements through our related company Manulife Bank of Canada. Please confirm with your Advisor which company you are dealing with for each of your products and services.
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