Sean Cooper

Could you pay your mortgage after a job loss? Here’s how to protect your ability to pay in a worst-case scenario.

The housing market can be a hard thing to predict. But if you’ve found yourself in a predicament that requires you to withdraw your offer, it’s best to consider all your options before making a final decision.

Are you thinking about refinancing your mortgage? Early refinancing has become a bit of a trend; not surprisingly though, everyone is looking to save money where they can. Obtaining a new loan with better interest rates for your home could mean saving money on monthly mortgage payments or using the extra money on other projects such as renovations or making investments.

Be sure to get pre-approved for a mortgage ahead of time because you might not qualify to spend as much on a home as you thought under the stress test. 

Are you buying a home or renewing your mortgage soon? Canada’s housing market is in the midst of various changes.

Facing rapidly rising home prices in the GTA, last month the Liberals introduced a 16-point plan to cool the red-hot real estate market. Ontario’s Fair Housing Plan includes a number of measures to address the escalation of home prices in…

Set yourself a mortgage-free date and every day you’ll be one step closer to achieving it.

By choosing to “accelerate” your payments, you’re actually paying for an extra month of mortgage every year, meaning a slightly higher amount on each payment.

It’s been another banner year for real estate in the Greater Toronto Area. The average price for all property types sold in the GTA came in at $729,922 in 2016 – that’s an increase of 17.3% from 2015.

It’s been one year since writer Sean Cooper reached his goal of being mortgage-free by the age of 30. How did he do it? Read on for his secrets and what he would do differently next time.

The UGO Wallet is likely the first of many digital wallet apps so it will be interesting to see how the big banks respond.

Want to take out a loan or mortgage, but don’t know where to start? Planning to Borrow by Steve Bang demystifies the world of consumer borrowing. Read on for our review, and prepare yourself before you walk into the bank.

Canadians want better tax resources and clearer communication with the CRA, according to a survey from RedFlag Deals. Here’s how you can find the info you need when filing your return.

The Liberals have announced their new budget, including a $6-billion contingency fund that’s drawing criticism from economists and some Conservatives. Why has such a large fund been set aside – and what will it be used for? Read on for Sean’s breakdown.

Two of Canada’s largest lenders, RBC and Scotiabank, had their credit ratings downgraded last week by Fitch and Moody’s respectively. What’s behind this downgrade – and should banking consumers worry?

Starting March 1, 2016, TD is introducing a slew of new fees.

Toronto home prices have experienced two straight decades of price appreciation.

Bank of Canada Governor Stephen Poloz recently stated that negative interest rates could be a possibility in bad economic times. How does this monetary policy work? And how would consumers and borrowers be affected?

Cheap vs frugal – believe it or not, there’s a big difference between the two. Sean Cooper, frugal living expert, lists the top things you should never be afraid to spend money on.

There are new Liberal changes for the Home Buyer’s Plan in store, including expanding eligibility beyond first-time buyers. Here’s how the program is changing – and how it could impact your retirement savings.

Looking to save funds on your grocery bill? Check out these apps.

The Scotiabank GM Visa is the latest credit card to hit the market and earns 5% on the dollar toward a new GM vehicle. But will it get you into the driver’s seat faster? We take a look at the pros, cons, and how soon you could be driving off the lot in your new ride.

The Conservative government announced it plans to expand the maximum withdrawal amount for the Home Buyer’s Plan to $35,000. This is the most recent pre-election promise targeting home buyers struggling with steep affordability – but will this measure help, or hurt, the housing market?

Is it ever a good idea to sign up for a retail credit card? Store-offered cards are experiencing somewhat of a comeback in Canada as they offer features rivaling some of the best on the market. So, are they worth another look?

Good news for prospective home buyers and landlords: the CMHC has announced that 100% of the profit from an income suite can be used toward your mortgage qualification, Previously, only 50% was allowed. Read on to see how this can affect your home financing.

Thinking of opening a joint chequing account? Here’s what you need to apply, along with the pros and cons of opening one with your partner, parent or spouse.

Did you know: the second-hand economy is a $30-billion business in Canada? Buying and selling gently used goods can save you a bundle. Here are our top tips.

Generation Z are growing up in the aftermath of the financial crisis without the benefit of a strong economy.

While using Aeroplan points may seem like an innovative solution, when you look at how many points you’ll have to redeem, you probably won’t be as thrilled.

Phantom real estate bids are a common pressure tactic used in hot markets – but the Real Estate Council of Ontario is taking measures to fight the practice as of July 1. Here’s what you need to know.

The new TFSA contribution rules state Canadians can save up to $10,000 annually tax-free. But confusion still persists over how these accounts work. Here’s what you need to know.

Services like Plastiq and Rentmoola allow you to pay bills – and even rent – with your credit card. But should you? We break down the pros and cons of paying for more with your plastic.

Credit card interchange fee caps come into effect this month, meaning merchants will pay less to the banks to process every purchase made with plastic. It’s supposed to be a move that will benefit both consumers and business owners – but will it really? We look to examples set in other countries where fees have been capped.

Two Canadian economic forecasts were revised this week to reflect the damage cause by sliding oil prices. Meanwhile, household consumer debt levels continue to be cause for concern.

A recent BDO poll finds just over half of Canadians are lying about finances, especially those in the middle-aged demographic. Why all the deception? Read on for the full story.

Many people who haven’t saved enough for retirement say they’ll just keep working longer. But what if you don’t have that choice?

With countless baby boomers set to retire, they’ll need to determine if their RRSPs will be sufficient to cover life expenses during their golden years.

Target’s failed expansion serves as a warning to U.S. retailers looking to expand into Canada.

Planning to give to a worthy cost this year? You’re running out of time – December 31 marks the deadline for charitable giving tax eligibility. Check out our top charitable tax tips.

Boxing Day is one of the most popular shopping days in Canada. Almost two-thirds of Canadians said they were planning to take advantage of Boxing Day sales, according to a released by BMO in 2012.

A recent CIBC study suggests Canadian mortgage debt isn’t as dire as the Bank of Canada claims – in fact, consumers may be paying their mortgages off faster to the tune of $11 billion nationally. But do these numbers really paint an accurate picture of consumer debt in Canada? Read on for the full story.

Long-term GICs are a great way to add stability and guaranteed returns to any investment portfolio. Read on to learn more about these investment options.

Findependence Day Book Review: Jonathan Chevreau – A merge of fiction and personal finance drives home money lessons – without it being a math lesson.

Disability and critical illness are two types of insurance often overlooked by Canadians. Both protect your most valuable asset: your ability to earn income.

Frugal living extraordinaire Sean Cooper is well on his way to being mortgage-free by 31 – but did you know he also spends only $100 on groceries? Read on to see how he maintains his rock-bottom food costs.

Calling all gals looking to take control of their money: Well-Heeled: The Smart Girl’s Guide to Getting Rich is a must-read, chock full of tips for making more money, living debt-free and building a retirement nest egg, all aimed at financially independent young women.

Paying for university these days isn’t cheap – and it’s not getting any more affordable. And, as the cost of tuition keeps rising, many parents are lending a hand to help pay for their child’s education.

Two-thirds (67%) of high-net-worth Canadians – those with over $500,000 in investable assets –

that have a mortgage have the cash available to pay for their home in full, according

to a recent Investors Group survey.

Automated savings are one of the easiest ways to sock away a nestegg – but only 14% of Canadians are saving their money this way, according to a CIBC poll. Here’s how to make the process of setting money aside regularly less painful.

Sun-starved millennials are most likely to commit summer overspending sins, according to a Tangerine survey. Rather than break your summer piggy bank, try these fun sun tips instead to save some cash!

Rising interest rates can spell trouble for a bond-heavy retirement portfolio – yet a study finds Canadians don’t know how to protect their investments should rates rise. Here are 4 alternatives to consider when safeguarding your retirement plan.

For two-thirds of Canadians without a workplace pension plan, RRIFs will be vital to providing income in retirement, but current withdrawal rules mean seniors run the risk of depleting their funds when they need it most for health and general care.

New homeowners beware – there’s nothing like unexpected renovations to disrupt your budget and break your bank account. This is just what happened to rookie homeowner Sean Cooper this winter – read on to see how he paid for over $20,000 in surprise repairs.

You probably don’t associate summer fun with your bank… but did you know Canada’s big 5 host tons of great (and mostly free) concerts, festivals and events each year? Check out our list of don’t-miss fun events!

Should you sell the family home? This question is pondered by many retirees as they consider the cost savings of downsizing to a condo.

The push for Quebec separation has a renewed force, as a popular billionaire media mogul has joined forces with the PQ. This means the outcome of the provincial election on April 7 could determine whether Quebec will become its own nation.

Money Wise blogger Sean Cooper shares his secrets for buying a home – and paying a third of it off – all before turning 31! Read on to learn how he uses smart savings tactics and options like lump-sum payments to achieve his goals.

The Tim Hortons Visa will be a welcomed addition in many Canadian wallets, as there's many who can't start their day without a cup of Tim Hortons coffee.

Suffering from a long term illness like cancer or heart disease can have serious financial implications. Critical illness insurance can help counter these costs. Should you take out a policy, especially if you already have disability insurance?

Disability insurance is overlooked by a lot of people. If you ever fall ill or suffer an injury, you’ll be thankful you have disability coverage to help cover your bills.

Desjardins Group recently announced it will acquire State Farm Canada’s life, casualty and property insurance businesses. How will existing State Farm clients be affected? Read on to find out.

A new study finds Ontarians are shrugging off their savings plans in order to focus on debt repayment like mortgages. But is it ever a good idea to stop saving completely?

After months of waiting, existing Aeroplan cardholders have a timeline as to when they may transition in the TD CIBC Aimia deal. Here’s what consumers need to know about the switch, and what new features will be introduced for Aeroplan customers in the new year.

The Rogers NHL deal, a $5.2-billion agreement, effectively gives the communications giant full control of Canadian hockey access. Here’s why investors are cheering on the move.

Canadians will continue to have among the highest mobile phone rates in the world, while the big three continue their stranglehold on the wireless market.  

After four years in the making, the Canada-EU Comprehensive Economic and Trade Agreement has been inked, meaning consumers and businesses will access and benefit from huge new markets. How will this create savings for Canadian consumers, and what may become more expensive?

The Conservatives delivered a throne speech on Wednesday squarely aimed at appeasing consumers.

It’s important to understand your pension plan formula because it can mean the difference between a monthly pension of $500 and $2,500 at retirement.

Pension statements help provide you with the big picture when it comes to your retirement. Here are five things to check on your annual statement.

Gaming can be as addictive as gambling – here’s how you can keep your in-game spending in check and avoiding spending too much.

Confused about the language in your pension plan? You’re not alone. Here are 6 common pension terms defined.

Did you know the average Canadian gamer spends $900 on video games a year? Check out these top frugal gamer tips for keeping those costs down. PLUS, learn details on how you could WIN a PS4!

Considering taking on tenants to help pay your mortgage? Renting out a portion of your home is no easy feat. Check out these great first-timer tips from Money Wise writer and seasoned landlord Sean.

Talk of a minimum wage increase in Ontario has sparked a debate. While an increase in income and purchasing power is beneficial to workers and the economy, businesses warn of impending job cuts and fewer hours to cover costs.

Back to school season 2013 is just around the corner – and new consumer data shows parents are willing to spend more on school supplies this year, as economic growth and retail prospects improve.

A recent TD poll found that 22% of couples stretch the truth when it comes to their finances, as it remains a taboo topic for many.

A recent BMO report finds 25% of the home damage caused by the Calgary floods may not be covered by insurance. Here’s what you need about your policy so you won’t be blindsided by a natural disaster.

It appears the cloud of recession pessimism may be lifting from Canadian investors. A recent TD poll found that respondents feel generally good about their investment portfolios, and about the Canadian economy as a whole.

The failure and subsequent takeover of a small mobile service provider raises questions for mobile consumers: will there ever be more choice than the "big three" providers?

The Conservatives dangled what's known as income splitting in front of taxpayers last election, and with plans of paying down the federal deficit by 2015, income splitting could very soon be a reality in a few years.

Did you know that smoking indoors can greatly reduce the value of your home? This nasty habit scares away potential buyers, forcing you to sell for less.

A new TD study finds that Canadians are relying too heavily on their credit cards when on vacation. Check out these tips for a debt free vacation.

Overdraft protection can bail your bank account out of a tight situation – but using this add-on banking service can rack up high interest debt very quickly. Here’s what you need to know about overdrafts.

Many taxpayers hesitate to file their own taxes online, preferring to hand them over to an accountant instead. Today’s tax programs, however, can make filing a breeze, saving you time and potentially money!

You’ve saved for years for your retirement – but what can you do if your nest egg falls short of your living expenses? Here are 4 great ways to boost your retirement income.

Canada unemployment continues to be a national issue, and new graduates are hardest hit. Why are 20-somethings having trouble finding jobs? Is post-secondary debt setting students up for a lifetime of financial struggle?

Looking to lower your property taxes? It’s possible – check out our tips for ensuring your home hasn’t been unfairly assessed – and what you can do about it!

Target isn’t fully acquiring Zellers; it’s only taking over some of its prime locations. If you’re a Zellers employees this is bad news – not only are you not guaranteed a job, if you do get hired by these new stores, you’ll most likely have to start at a lower wage with fewer hours.

Looking for an effective way to grow your money for retirement? RRSP GICs offer an effective way to earn interest, risk free – and tax free.

According to the Bank of Canada, Canadians pay on average 11% more than Americans for the same products.

There’s a lot of confusion surrounding the TFSA. A recent survey by CIBC found 41% of respondents had no idea what to invest in

Canadian families are finding it increasingly difficult to save for the future in a post-recession economy. As global economic uncertainty continues, and the consequences of the U.S. fiscal cliff are on the horizon, Canadians are changing their spending habits and developing a new approach to saving.

By now you should have completed your taxes and are most likely eagerly awaiting your return. While some will get just a couple hundred dollars back, some of you could be in for a fairly sizable cheque. It’s easy to get excited about unexpected money, and hard not to want to spend it all at once.