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Canada’s Economy Has Now Stalled Twice. Is Your Emergency Fund Ready?

  Canada’s Economy Has Now Stalled Twice. Is Your Emergency Fund Ready? Canada's economy is losing momentum, and it is a good time to ask yourself an important question: If your income disappeared tomorrow, how long could you cover your bills without borrowing money? Statistics Canada's latest GDP report, released October 30, showed that Canada's economy recorded virtually no growth in August for the second consecutive month. An early estimate suggests economic activity contracted by 0.1% in September. Preliminary figures indicate that the economy grew by just 0.3% during the third quarter, although the official numbers have yet to be released. The slowdown follows a period of economic uncertainty, elevated household expenses and pressure on borrowers. While these figures do not confirm that Canada is entering a recession, they highlight why households should prepare for unexpected financial setbacks. The good news? You do not need a large income to start building a financi...

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New home buyers in trouble as mortgage rates soar

Some buyers who purchased preconstruction homes are finding themselves unable to close on their properties due to rising mortgage rates and stricter lending rules. As a result, they are resorting to selling their contracts to other buyers at a discount, or even giving up their deposits and facing legal risks.

According to Robert McLister, an interest rate analyst and mortgage strategist, this trend is creating opportunities for bargain hunters who are looking for assignment deals. These are transactions where the original buyer transfers their rights and obligations to a new buyer before the home is completed.

However, assignment deals are not without challenges and costs. Both assignors and assignees need to get approval from the builder, pay fees and taxes, and secure financing. Moreover, they need to be aware of the market conditions and the potential risks of flipping or renting out the property.

McLister advises buyers to start evaluating their options early and seek professional help from a tax-savvy accountant, a mortgage broker, and a real estate lawyer. He also suggests that buyers should monitor the bond yields and the Bank of Canada’s rate decisions, as they may affect the future demand and prices of new homes.

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