Shashi Ramu's blog

In the real estate market, interest rates are foundational to home-buying decisions. High interest rates, in particular, can profoundly impact first-time homebuyers. While these elevated rates often pose challenges, they also present unique opportunities, especially when paired with the various incentives available to help first-time buyers. Let's explore the good and the bad of high interest rates, as well as the financial programs designed to assist first-time buyers in entering the real estate market.

The Challenges of High Rates for First-Time Buyer

Increased Borrowing Costs

One of the...

Following holiday splurges, you may be looking for ways to save money. Did you know that with very little effort and often no additional investment, you can make changes around your home that save up to $1,500 annually? These tips will help you reduce your electrical, heating and cooling costs all year round. 

Phantom Power  
Phantom (or standby power) can account for up to 10% of your home’s energy use. The average Canadian household has 25 electronic devices that use phantom power, costing approximately $150 a year in wasted electricity (Hydro One). Unplug coffee makers, phone chargers,...

Bathrooms are usually the smallest rooms in the home so owners can afford to splurge on luxurious finishes such as sleek vanities, high-end tile, sophisticated hardware, or even a fireplace. Today, there are more options to choose from than ever before and while that can be helpful, it can also be overwhelming. When looking at thousands of product samples, where do you start? And how do you create a cohesive, coordinated bathroom design?

Start with three basics:

   1. Infrastructure
       The location of existing plumbing, water lines and vent stacks will likely determine the...

I will admit it, I love my plant babies. I don't have pets , so these are the closest thing LOL. I have a mix of annuals and perennials during the spring and summer months, and I do try (in most cases) to transfer the perennials indoors prior to the onset of frost at night. I am in a smaller space (700 SF open concept_ . The living room does get full but they all survive and in some cases, flourish indoors through the winter (once they have gotten over the initial shock).

Here are some tips to ensure a smooth transition for your plants (I'm proud to say I do about 10 of these so far and...

Summer is here!  I love a cold refreshing margarita during the summer months. The best margaritas in Toronto can be found at a variety of establishments throughout the city. Here are some popular spots that are renowned for their exceptional margaritas:

1. El Catrin: 18 Tank House Lane

Located in the vibrant Distillery District, El Catrin is known for its extensive tequila selection and expertly crafted margaritas. The atmosphere is energetic, and the staff is knowledgeable about Mexican spirits.

2. Reposado: 136 Ossington Ave

This cozy tequila bar on Ossington Avenue is a...

In the one-year period from May 2022 to May 2023, interest rates more than doubled. The prime rate (an average of the best rates of major commercial banks) rose from 3.2% to 6.7% while the underlying Bank of Canada overnight lending rate rose from 1% to 4.5%.

The effect on Canadian homeowners has been significant. Imagine a family makes monthly payments on a $300,000 variable rate mortgage with a 25-year amortization. At 3.2%, the monthly payment would be $1,450, but at 6.7%, the monthly payment becomes $2,046—a difference of $596 each month.

This is a dramatic increase in a short...

Wild invaders in our lawns, gardens and flowerbeds steal precious nutrients, water and sunlight from surrounding plants. Weeds are fast-growing and perfectly adapted to their local environment: they can often tolerate heat, a lack of water, and harsh winter weather. It can feel like a losing battle, but homeowners can turn the tide with a multi-step approach.

Limited tilling

People frequently resolve to eat healthier by replacing processed food high in salt, sugar and saturated fat with fruits and vegetables. That is a wise choice and a great start, but what about the other kitchen habits that endanger health?