Midwest Canada Minute - March 15, 2009 - 03/17/09 11:05 AM
Home Swapping and Other Matches
Home swapping for several week vacations has become a major enterprise world wide.  Here's how it works - your house in western Canada is in an attractive location to someone in southern Germany or Australia; you have always wanted to visit that part of the world; and they want to experience this lifestyle.  You exchange keys, maybe even vehicles at the airports, and off both parties go for an affordable vacation.
You own a cabin or serviced lot at the lake that your family actually only uses for about 15 days per year and the annual … (1 comments)

Midwest Canada Minute - March 8, 2009 - 03/12/09 10:14 AM
Buying is a Big Decision
 As the cost of rental accommodations climb and interest rates drop, we are seeing an increasing number of first time home buyers in the marketplace.  Here are some quick, albeit hard driving, tips to assist you in making one of the biggest financial decisions you will face in your lifetime.  Be realistic in your expectations.  Start by securing pre-approval of a mortgage and maximum purchase price from a financial institution of your choice.  Don't rely on Internet based questionnaires; get face to face with an experienced lender.  Should you not qualify because of one factor or … (0 comments)

Midwest Canada Minute - March 1, 2009 - 03/02/09 10:31 AM
Seeing the Beauty Within
 It's been an interesting start to the year.  I have had the opportunity to view a number of properties this winter that have either been fully refreshed, are well into the process of renovation, or supporting buyers that are considering taking on the challenge of renewal.  I actually like conversing with people who have the talent to see the potential in an old structure and the initiative to make it happen.  I don't know from where they draw their energy, because I know I don't have what it takes to take on projects like that; but you … (0 comments)