What is the CMHC?

Did you know that the Canadian Mortgage and Housing Corporation's  (CMHC) website is FILLED with tons of interesting articles?

The CMHC was developed as a government owned corporation in 1946 to address Canada's post-war housing shortage. Since then, the agency has grown into a National institution providing many mortgage loan insurance policies.

On their website, you can find many interesting articles about purchasing, maintaining, and renovating a home, as well as the obvious information about mortgages. They even have a great series of articles entitled "Home Buying Step by Step".

What we have also found really interesting is their Canadian Housing Observer which contains a yearly report of just about any statistic regarding housing trends and conditions, and outlines key factors that influence Canadian markets... To check out the Canadian Housing Observer for 2010 click here.

There is too much information contain in the CMHC's website to talk about here, but do take the time to explore it by clicking here.

Until next time,
The Jamie Dann Team

2010 Canadian Housing Observer: An Update

“Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation (CMHC) is Canada’s national housing agency. Established as a government-owned corporation in 1946 to address Canada’s post-war housing shortage, the agency has grown into a major national institution. CMHC is Canada’s premier provider of mortgage loan insurance, mortgage-backed securities, housing policy and programs, and housing research”.

The Canadian Housing Observer, an annual publication put out by the CMHC, now in its eight year, provides a comprehensive report of Canadian real estate activity which plays an important part in the Canadian economy. The report addresses the impact of housing activity on employment and on Canada’s financial situation. In the most recent report released, it shows that new home construction, rental, buying, selling and renovation for 2009 accounted for more than one-fifth of Canada’s total gross domestic product - which translates to $307 billion!

The report also details factors which affect real estate activity in Canada such as governmental regulations, consumer behaviour and industry practice. It also gives a comprehensive analysis of housing statistics for 2009. To read more about CMHC and The Canadian Housing Observer click here.

Until next time,
Jamie

Tips on How to Regularly Maintain Your Home Without Hurting Your Pocket

Home sweet home is a slogan you are most likely familiar with, but how do you have a really home sweet home? Aside from a harmonious family living, it is important to keep your home clean and well maintained both inside and out. Over time your house deteriorates, regular cleaning and maintenance is a great way to help prevent major repairs.


I came across an article from the CMHC (Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation) giving tips on how to maintain your home seasonally in inexpensive ways. Basically, you need to do regular preventive maintenance to keep your home in good repair. Checking for leaks, caulking, cleaning your carpets, and replacing filters are a few regular maintenance tasks which can save you from major home repairs. You may encounter minor repairs that are needed in your home while doing regular maintenance work but a few minor repairs can save you a lot in the long run. To learn more about recommended home maintenance (by season) you can do to keep your house home sweet home click here.

Until next time,
Jamie