Smarter Loans Staff

The Smarter Loans Staff is made up of writers, researchers, journalists, business leaders and industry experts who carefully research, analyze and produce Canada's highest quality content when it comes to money matters, on behalf of Smarter Loans. While we cannot possibly name every person involved in the process, we collectively credit them as Smarter Loans Writing Staff. Our work has been featured in the Toronto Star, National Post and many other publications. Today, Smarter Loans is recognized in Canada as the go-to destination for financial education, and was named the "GPS of Fintech Lending" by the Toronto Star in 2019.

Articles by Smarter Loans Staff

Canada Mortgage Market Trends: Rate Expectations, Variable Makes a Comeback, and RIP First-Time Homebuyers Incentive

Discover the latest trends shaping Canada’s mortgage market in this insightful article. Explore the significant rate declines and the resurgence of variable-rate mortgages, driven by anticipated Bank of Canada rate cuts. Bid farewell to the First-Time Homebuyers Incentive (FTHBI) and embrace the tax-friendly benefits of the First Home Savings Account (FHSA), designed to empower aspiring homeowners. Stay informed, make strategic decisions, and navigate the path to homeownership effectively with these invaluable insights.

Canadian Housing Market Trends: Prices Stabilize, Expectations of Rate Cuts Grow—and the Government Makes Promises

Canadian housing market trends show signs of stabilization as prices flatten and sales increase. The Canadian Real Estate Association reports that benchmark nationwide prices halted their decline in February, marking a 0.8% year-over-year increase. While sales dipped slightly from January, they remained significantly higher compared to the previous year. Anticipation grows for potential Bank of Canada rate cuts, with lower-than-expected inflation fueling hopes for easing monetary policy. Additionally, the federal government pledges significant investments in housing infrastructure and apartment construction loans, aiming to address affordability concerns. However, the near-term outlook for Canadian house prices remains closely tied to monetary policy decisions. Stay informed for further updates.

How to Get an Installment Loan with Bad Credit

Discover the accessibility of installment loans for individuals with bad credit. AimFinance provides quick access to funds, often within one business day. As an alternative for those ineligible for personal loans, installment loans offer manageable payments and swift approvals.

Considering Breaking Your Mortgage? Keep These Things in Mind

Breaking a mortgage involves altering the terms of your mortgage contract or not fulfilling the entire term. Common reasons for doing so include falling interest rates, changing financial circumstances, or the need to sell your home. Mortgages can be open or closed, with open mortgages allowing penalty-free contract changes but usually having higher rates. Closed mortgages involve fees for breaking the contract, and it’s essential to evaluate potential savings from lower interest rates against associated costs, which differ based on whether you stick with your current lender or switch to a new one.

What is an Installment Loan?

An installment loan is a type of loan where you borrow a fixed amount of money and repay it, along with interest, over a specified period. The interest rate is determined based on your creditworthiness. Installment loans provide predictability with fixed monthly payments until the loan is fully repaid. These loans can be secured, with collateral like a car, or unsecured, relying on your creditworthiness. Borrowers are advised to borrow only what they need, calculate affordability, and compare loan terms to make informed borrowing decisions.

How Credit Scores Affect Installment Loans

Installment loans are closely tied to credit scores. Your credit score will determine your options when it comes to borrowing money, and borrowing money will also impact your actual credit score based on how you handle the loan and its terms.

Fixed or Variable? What to Consider as Your Mortgage Comes Up for Renewal

When deciding between fixed or variable mortgages upon renewal, Canadians facing this decision should consider two key factors: the outlook for interest rates and their own risk tolerance. Historically, variable rates were favorable during low-rate periods, but with current economic uncertainties, locking in a fixed rate could provide stability and predictability in monthly payments. However, the path of short-term interest rates suggests that variable rates may see a decline in the coming months, making them an attractive choice for those who can tolerate some uncertainty. Ultimately, the decision should be based on individual financial circumstances and the willingness to embrace potential rate fluctuations.

The Bank of Canada Has Been On a Rate-Hiking Tear. Is That About to Change?

The Bank of Canada, once focused on raising interest rates, may now be considering a pause due to changing economic conditions. In response to high inflation, the central bank had aggressively increased rates in 2022, but the economy has shown signs of deceleration. If the economy continues to weaken, the Bank of Canada could reverse its rate-hiking strategy and lower interest rates in early 2024. This potential shift could impact various financial aspects, including mortgage rates and savings account returns, making it important for individuals to stay informed about the changing economic landscape.

What is inflation and what does it mean for the average Canadian?

With inflation near a 40 year high in Canada, I’m sure you’ve felt the pain when you went to the grocery store or filled up your car like a lot of Canadians. Let’s look at what inflation is and what it means for the average Canadian.

What is a recession and what does it mean for the average Canadian?

We often hear that a recession is coming. You may be wondering, why do we worry about recessions so much? Let’s gain a better understanding of recessions by looking at what a recession is and what does it mean for the average Canadian.