Competition = Low Mortgage Rates

What is a Home Inspection Report and do I need one?

A Home Inspection Report can be used by a qualified buyer or a property owner to verify the condition of the property prior to being bought or sold. Those conducting home inspection reports are not required to be licensed and they are not regulated by a governing body other than the general consumer protection legislation.

Qualified home buyers are not required to have a home inspection done, but it is recommended to ensure the property is a sound investment. In order to get an accurate report, ask for the resume of the inspector and check references if possible. The report should contain details specific to issues or problems with the property and include the cost to repair these items.

To learn more about Hiring a Home Inspector search our website or call one of our Alberta agents for a list of inspectors. We will assist you and answer any questions you may have.

Don't Forget About Home Insurance

There are so many details and steps in the process when buying a new home, but do not forget about protecting your investment once the deal is done. When you go to meet with your insurance broker, take the following information with you to ensure that you get the proper insurance for your new home:

• Property appraisal
• House plans and other property details
• Past insurance history
• Personal information (such as identification, age, occupation, etc.)

What is a Mortgage Broker?

A Mortgage Broker is a registered agent who works on behalf of a borrower to obtain the best possible mortgage option for that borrower's financial situation. The Mortgage broker is a skilled negotiator and deals directly with the lenders in both standard and non standard borrowing situations. They have access to lenders who may not advertise nationally or be readily available to the consumer so finding the best possible mortgage option holds true.

Lender vs. Broker...

Many people have asked us what the difference is between a mortgage broker and a mortgage lender. A mortgage broker is a trained professional that has access to loan products of different lenders and is licensed to provide you with the best advice for your mortgage needs. Mortgage brokers do not lend money. Most brokerages are small firms providing expertise services and counseling rather than loans. The lender is the one who provides the money to the borrower at the closing table. The lender also makes the final decision regarding loan approval.

So why can't you skip the middle man and go straight to the lender? Many lenders will not deal with the public for a number of reasons. For one, the cost in promoting would be too great. For example, there are many mortgage lenders based in Calgary, Alberta alone. Bridgewater, MRS Trust, Gibraltar Mortgage just to name a few. But how many of those have you actually heard of? Another reason is administration. There is a lot of paperwork involved when you close a mortgage agreement, and it just makes sense dividing up the work amongst the brokers.

Did your Bank Refuse to give you a Mortgage?

Don't be embarrassed if your current bank has turned you down for a mortgage because it happens more often than you think. At Alberta Equity Mortgages, we know it can be frustrating for clients when the bank they have been dealing with for many years, denies them a mortgage.

So, why not let our professional brokers go to work for you? We have access to numerous national lenders who are willing and eager to lend money in situations where the bank is not. Do not let your bank stand in your way and deny you the home of your dreams, simply apply online today!