Wishing you all the best! Bonds way up...

Christos Gitersos - Mortgage Planner

christos@gitersos.com
604.786.9099
http://www.gitersos.com/

Christos - Facebook Christos - Instagram Christos - Twitter

Foreclosure Lists

 

Detached - Burnaby & New West
Detached - Tri Cities
Detached - Chilliwack & Sardis
Attached - Burnaby & New West
Attached - Chilliwack & Sardis
Attached - Langley
Attached - Surrey, Cloverdale & N. Delta
Detached - Langley
Detached - South Surrey & North Surrey
Detached - Cloverdale & Delta
Attached - Pitt Meadows & Maple Ridge
Attached - Tri Cities
Attached - Mission & Abbotsford
Detached - Pitt Meadows & Maple Ridge
Detached - Mission & Abbotsford



Bond yield spike - important

 

This morning we saw a bond yield spike which puts pressure on fixed rates to move up. And just as I'm writing this a lender has sent an email with the increase. 

Job numbers came in better than expected with a huge gain in part time jobs, however a loss in full time. This news is what made the bonds spike. 

I'm not sure how this is good news as I'm sure most of the jobs were seasonal workers say at Amazon and so forth for the busy season. 

Let's see what next week brings!

If you're not following me on Instagram, you should as I post this info almost daily there. It's important to know and my job is to keep you in the know!

There's a link at the top of this newsletter  you can find me at



Ready to finally get results that stick?

 

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👉 Follow on Instagram: @ufnutritionandwellness

👉 Learn more: www.ufnutritionandwellness.ca

Meet your new coach Lindsay

Lindsay is a long time client and friend. Her sister and I graduated high school together and I really enjoy trying to help out small businesses in the community!



December brings cheer and joy and family!

 

From our house to yours and everyone surrounding you we wish you nothing but the best over the upcoming holiday season! Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!!!

p.s. If you can get a chance to go to the Capilano Suspension Bridge, go. It's quite remarkable. As a BC resident the price of your admission gives you a whole years pass!



Be rewarded for being awesome!

 

You can earn up to $2,700 just for referring your family, friends or co-workers.

The more you refer the more you make. Just for referring a name you'll get $20 cash so you can do with it as you please!

Some more information here http://www.gitersos.com/client-appreciation/

This year has been so overwhelming with the support I've received. I have many amazing people who have received quite a bit and I can't be more thankful! 



✨ Holiday Happenings Around Town

 

Looking for seasonal fun around Metro Vancouver and the Fraser Valley? Check out these local favourites — from cozy heritage villages to dazzling light displays, festive markets, and community celebrations.

🎄 Downtown Vancouver – Classic City Cheer

Get into the holiday spirit at the Vancouver Christmas Market (Jack Poole Plaza). Sip warm drinks, browse wooden huts full of artisan gifts, enjoy live music and festive treats, and stroll by the waterfront under twinkling lights. (greatcanadiantrolley.com)

For a magical garden stroll, don’t miss the VanDusen Festival of Lights — the botanical garden is transformed into a glowing world of lights, music, and holiday ambience. (Vancouver Christmas)

Prefer a light-filled winter forest stroll? The Capilano Suspension Bridge Canyon Lights lights up North Vancouver with thousands of lights over the bridge, treetops, and cliffwalk for an unforgettable night out. (Vancouver Christmas)

🏡 Local & Family-Friendly — Close to Home

Right in Burnaby: the Festive Village 2025 at Burnaby Village Museum offers a heritage-village holiday experience from November 22 through January 2 — with glowing lights, heritage decor, and family-friendly walks. (Vancouver Christmas)

If you’d rather stay a bit east, the Surrey Tree Lighting Festival 2025 at Surrey Civic Plaza is a lively community celebration with a giant tree lighting, vendor market, live entertainment, skating, and festive fun for all ages. (Vancouver Christmas)

🎁 Fraser Valley & Beyond – Spread the Holiday Cheer

Head to the Winter Jubilee 2025 in Historic Downtown Abbotsford for a community-style celebration with artisan markets, live performances, food trucks — and a joyful tree lighting to kick off the season. (Vancouver Page)

💡 Quick Tips

Many of these events run from late November through early January, giving you plenty of time to plan a few outings.

If you want to avoid crowds, consider visiting on a weeknight or weekday — many events (especially markets and light displays) stay open for several weeks.

Dress warm, bring reusable mugs if possible, and enjoy the mix of cozy community charm and big-city holiday sparkle.

Vancouver Blog Miss604 604now.com todocanada.ca Vancouver Blog Miss604 Vancouver Blog Miss604



Shall we play a game for money?!

Christos Gitersos - Mortgage Planner

christos@gitersos.com
604.786.9099
http://www.gitersos.com/

Christos - Facebook Christos - Instagram Christos - Twitter

Foreclosure Lists

 

Attached - Chilliwack & Sardis
Attached - Abbotsford & Mission
Attached - Langley
Attached - Surrey, N. Delta & Cloverdale
Attached - Burnaby & New West
Detached - Burnaby & New West
Attached - Tri Cities
Detached - Chilliwack & Sardis
Detached - Langely
Detached - Mission & Abbotsford
Detached - Tri Cities
Detached - Pitt Meadows & Maple Ridge
Detached - N. Delta & Cloverdale
Detached - North & South Surrey, White Rock



Be rewarded for being awesome!

 

You can earn up to $2,700 just for referring your family, friends or co-workers.

The more you refer the more you make. Just for referring a name you'll get $20 cash so you can do with it as you please!

Some more information here http://www.gitersos.com/client-appreciation/

This year has been so overwhelming with the support I've received. I have many amazing people who have received quite a bit and I can't be more thankful! 



Bank of Canada Lowers Policy Rate to 2.25%

 

By Dr Sherry Cooper - Chief Economist for Dominion Lending Centres

Today, the Bank of Canada lowered the overnight policy rate by 25 bps to 2.25% as was widely expected. This is the bottom of the Bank's estimate of the neutral overnight rate, where monetary policy is neither expansionary nor contractionary. The economy will grow at about a 0.5% pace in Q3, causing the Bank to cut rates again at the final meeting this year on December 10. The easing will then end, but rates will remain relatively subdued until more trade uncertainty is alleviated.

The Fed is widely expected to cut rates by 25 bps this afternoon as well. 

Today's Monetary Policy Report suggests that the significant decline in export growth will persist for some time. Layoffs in trade-dependent sectors have already slowed considerably, especially in Ontario, Quebec, and some softwood lumber businesses in several provinces. The central bank acknowledged that "because US trade policy remains unpredictable and uncertainty is still higher than usual, this projection is subject to a wider-than-normal range of risks."

"In the United States, economic activity has been strong, supported by the boom in AI investment. At the same time, employment growth has slowed and tariffs have started to push up consumer prices. Growth in the euro area is decelerating due to weaker exports and slowing domestic demand. In China, lower exports to the United States have been offset by higher exports to other countries, but business investment has weakened.  Global financial conditions have eased further since July and oil prices have been fairly stable. The Canadian dollar has depreciated slightly against the US dollar."

Continue reading here...



Shall we play a game for some gift cards?!

 

With the Christmas season coming up, tell me a story of how you made someone's Christmas extra special in the past. 

The winning story will get $100 and the second place will get $50.



Plumbing help? Look no further!

 

Wide range of services both commercially and residential.

Great people, running a great company!

Abbotsford Plumbing and Heating Company | On Tap Solutions



Do You Have A Mortgage Rate Closer to 5%?

 

I've gone through a lot of you on this newsletter looking for 'opportunities' in the market. 

Many have taken the advice and have gone through a successful redo of their mortgage.

The overall savings have been massive for many!

If I haven't contacted you yet, or you want to revisit, or know someone that could use a check in, please let me know.



I've seen nothing, to date, more epic!

Christos Gitersos - Mortgage Planner

christos@gitersos.com
604.786.9099
http://www.gitersos.com/

Christos - Facebook Christos - Instagram Christos - Twitter

Foreclosure Lists

 

Detached - Tri Cities
Detached - Mission & Abbotsford
Detached - South Surrey, Delta & Cloverdale
Detached - Burnaby & New West
Detached - Maple Ridge & Pitt Meadows
Detached - Langley
Detached - Chilliwack & Sardis
Attached - Tri Cities
Attached - Langley
Attached - Surrey, N. Delta & Cloverdale
Attached - Chilliwack & Sardis
Attached - Abbotsford
Attached - Burnaby & New West
Detached - Surrey_opt



Mortgage Renewal's and Opportunities

 

I have seen a ton of renewal offers come in recently and all can be easily be beaten on the open market. 

As most here know, I always am looking for opportunities in the market to save you money. Renewals are no different.

I've been reaching out to quite a few of you that have high 4% or in to the mid 5's recently as there's huge savings opportunities. 

If you haven't heard from me yet, reach out!



Be rewarded for being awesome!

 

You can earn up to $2,700 just for referring your family, friends or co-workers.

The more you refer the more you make. Just for referring a name you'll get $20 cash so you can do with it as you please!

Some more information here http://www.gitersos.com/client-appreciation/

This year has been so overwhelming with the support I've received. I have many amazing people who have received quite a bit and I can't be more thankful! 



Never seen such beauty

 

Recently I had the utmost pleasure of hiking up to the base of Mt Baker. Ptarmigan ridge, to date, is the most beautiful and rewarding hike I have ever done.

It wasn't hard per say, just long at slightly over 19km's in and out. I did just under 30k steps.

If you're a hiker, or just want a good day out, go. It's not difficult. You can cut the route in half and get to the 5 km mark for a pretty epic view as well.

10/10 Highly recommend!



Bank of Canada Lowers Policy Rate to 2.5%

 

By Dr. Sherry Cooper - Chief Economist, Dominion Lending Centres

Today, the Bank of Canada lowered the overnight policy rate by 25 bps to 2.5% as was widely expected. Following yesterday's better-than-expected inflation report, the Bank believes that underlying inflation was 2.5% year-over-year.

Through the recent period of tariff turmoil, the Governing Council has closely monitored the risks and uncertainties facing the Canadian economy. Three developments triggered the Bank's rate cut. Canada's labour market softened further. Upward pressure on underlying inflation has diminished, and there is less upside to risk to future inflation with the removal of most retaliatory tariffs by Canada. 

Considerable uncertainty remains. However, with a weaker economy and less upside risk to inflation, the Governing Council deemed that a reduction in the policy rate was appropriate to better balance the risks going forward.

"The Bank will continue to assess the risks, look over a shorter horizon than usual, and be ready to respond to new information."

Continue reading here...



What a summer - Still a chance at a $50 gift card!!

Christos Gitersos - Mortgage Planner

christos@gitersos.com
604.786.9099
http://www.gitersos.com/

Christos - Facebook Christos - Instagram Christos - Twitter

Foreclosure Lists

 

Attached - Chilliwack & Sardis
Attached - Delta & Cloverdale
Attached - Pitt Meadows & Maple Ridge
Attached - Mission & Abbotsford
Attached - Langley
Attached - Burnaby & New West
Detached - Burnaby & New West
Detached - Langley
Attached - Tri Cities
Detached - Chilliwack & Sardis
Attached - Surrey
Detached - Delta & Cloverdale
Detached - Tri Cities
Detached - Pitt Meadows & Maple Ridge
Detached - Mission & Abbotsford
Detached - Surrey Part 2



End of August Wedding!

 

My little cousin got married and we stayed in Sun Peaks to enjoy!

We had the whole family there and not just the four of us. My parents, siblings, cousins, aunts and uncles and so forth. 

20 of us stayed in the same hotel on the same floor....we had a blast!


The picture is the four of us of course :)



In Conversation With Dr. Sherry Cooper - No Changes To Prime Rate

The Bank of Canada met last month while we were away on holidays and made no changes to their overnight rate.  Our DLC Chief Economist offered us an economic outlook and these are her thoughts and predictions:

Two More BoC Cuts Predicted: Dr. Sherry Cooper says the Bank of Canada won’t cut rates until core inflation softens and labour markets weaken further. However, two more 25 bps rate cuts are expected in 2025, bringing the policy rate to 2.25% by fall.

Recession Forecast: Dr. Sherry Cooper believes Canada has already entered a mild recession (0.5%) due to trade exposure and global volatility.

Muted Housing Market: Home sales remain slow in 2025, potentially making it a favorable year for buyers.

Mortgage Rule Watch: OSFI may adjust the mortgage stress test, possibly lowering the qualifying rate buffer below 200 bps.



Instagram Account - - $50 Gift Cards

 

For the first 50 that I mentioned to come back, we had Neil win the first $50 gift card of his choice.

We are 6 people away to getting to 177 and another random draw for the next $50.

I will do this up until 227, so please jump on, invite others!

Christos Gitersos (@christos_mortgages_marstel) • Instagram photos and videos

As a reminder, I'm doing this as my original account was hacked and I lost all access. You can forward this to your friends and if they 'follow' they will be added in too!



Want a good read, try this!

 

A very good client of mine has come out with a very good read, so I've been told! (it's not really my kind of book!)

I wanted to make sure I helped her out and add it to the newsletter.

Congrat's Rebecca and good luck with the book!

After Daniel | Universal Book Links Help You Find Books at Your Favorite Store!

Careful as there are some explicit parts. So not for everyone, especially the younger ones!



Be rewarded for being awesome!

 

You can earn up to $2,700 just for referring your family, friends or co-workers.

The more you refer the more you make. Just for referring a name you'll get $20 cash so you can do with it as you please!

Some more information here http://www.gitersos.com/client-appreciation/

This year has been so overwhelming with the support I've received. I have many amazing people who have received quite a bit and I can't be more thankful! 

I've given out well over $1,000 this year alone. That's a lot of $20 bills!



Top of the world! Mastermind group in Santorini!

Christos Gitersos - Mortgage Planner

christos@gitersos.com
604.786.9099
http://www.gitersos.com/

Christos - Facebook Christos - Instagram Christos - Twitter

Foreclosure Lists

 

Detached - Tri Cities
Detached - Langley
Detached - Pitt Meadows & Maple Ridge
Detached - Mission & Abbotsford
Detached - Burnaby & New West
Attached - Tri Cities
Detached - Delta & Cloverdale
Detached - Chillliwack & Sardis
Attached - Surrey, N. Delta & Cloverdale
Attached - Chilliwack & Sardis
Attached - Pitt Meadows & Maple Ridge
Attached - Mission & Abbotsford
Attached - Langley
Attached - Burnaby & New West
Detached - Surrey 1
Detached - Surrey 2

Wow, lot's in Surrey this go around, I had to split them in to two. Not good



Be rewarded for being awesome!

 

You can earn up to $2,700 just for referring your family, friends or co-workers.

The more you refer the more you make. Just for referring a name you'll get $20 cash so you can do with it as you please!

Some more information here http://www.gitersos.com/client-appreciation/

This year has been so overwhelming with the support I've received. I have many amazing people who have received quite a bit and I can't be more thankful! 



GST and new homes

 

G.S.T. AND First Time Home Buyers

Here's a recent blog I wrote on the GST exemption, for First Time Buyers, on new homes.



The Elevate Experience w/ Ryan Grafton and co.

 

The Elevate Experience:Santorini – Santorinn Suites

A 5-day mastermind for residential investors expanding into CRE, active operators scaling portfolios, and professionals looking to deploy capital into multifamily, storage, hotels, and more.



On top of the world!

 

Many of you know I like to get out on a hike as often as I can, even if it's solo. 

This Sunday morning I was fortunate to have a buddy and we did the 4.4km ascend up and oh my, this one was not an easy one. There was no relief, just always going up! But the views were WELL worth it.

The hike is called Elk Mountain. You can push along another 3km, across the top, to Thurston. We made it half way and turned around due to time.



Private mortgages

 

No one ever wants one, however, they can be a good tool to be used. I've done many of them and a lot are not because they have bad credit or in a real bind, some are used as a strategy to buy another property and so forth.

Understanding Private First & Second Mortgages



Be like Tom!!! / Prime - no change

Christos Gitersos - Mortgage Planner

christos@gitersos.com
604.786.9099
http://www.gitersos.com/

Christos - Facebook Christos - Instagram Christos - Twitter

Foreclosure Lists

 

Detached - Tri Cities
Attached - Chilliwack & Sardis
Attached - Langley
Attached - Burnaby & New West
Attached - Pitt Meadows & Maple Ridge
Attached - Mission & Abbotsford
Attached - Tri Cities
Attached - Surrey, N. Delta & Cloverdale
Detached - Burnaby & New West
Detached - Tri Cities
Detached - Langley
Detached - Chilliwack & Sardis
Detached - PItt Meadows & Maple Ridge
Detached - Delta & Cloverdale
Detached - MIssion & Abbotsford



Be rewarded for being awesome!

 

You can earn up to $2,700 just for referring your family, friends or co-workers.

The more you refer the more you make. Just for referring a name you'll get $20 cash so you can do with it as you please!

Some more information here http://www.gitersos.com/client-appreciation/

This year has been so overwhelming with the support I've received. I have many amazing people who have received quite a bit and I can't be more thankful! 



Changes to First Time Home Buyer G.S.T. Rebate

 

From Tony Spagnolo - Spagnolo LLP  https://bcrealestatelawyers.com/

On May 27, the Federal Government issued a press release that is very important for first time home buyers of new homes (and co-ops): a full GST rebate on homes under $1 million, and a partial rebate on homes between $1 million and $1.5 million.

Per the press release (the link to which is found at the bottom), the Excise Tax Act will be amended to provide a rebate to first time home buyers. In basic terms, it means that First Time Home Buyers will still pay the GST on the closing of a purchase of a qualifying home but will be eligible for a rebate of the full amount (up to $50,000).

The rebate is phased out in a linear manner from $1-1.5 million. So for example, a home that is $1.4 million would lose 80% of the rebate – in other words, it would still be eligible for a 20% ($10,000) rebate!

This policy will hopefully spur some activity in the pre-sale market and help first time buyers enter the market.

The full press release can be found here: https://www.canada.ca/en/department-finance/news/2025/05/gst-relief-for-first-time-home-buyers-on-new-homes-valued-up-to-15-million.html



Be like Tom not like the other guy!

 

One of my long time friends moved to the island a few years back. He kept his lawn immaculate as you can see. I drove by there this weekend and took a picture to send him as to what it looks like today. What a difference! He almost cried to see it. After SO much hard work, of which I saw often, this is what it ended up looking like. Be like Tom!! 

His real name isn't Tom!



Bank of Canada holds rates steady for second consecutive meeting as Q1 GDP surprised on the high side and tariff-related inflation remains a risk

 

By Dr Sherry Cooper, Chief Economist for Dominion Lending Centres

As expected, the Bank of Canada held its benchmark interest rate unchanged at 2.75% at today’s meeting, the second consecutive rate hold since the Bank cut overnight rates seven times in the past year. The governing council noted that the unpredictability of the magnitude and duration of tariffs posed downside risks to growth and lifted inflation expectations, warranting caution regarding the continuation of monetary easing.

The gap between the 2.75% overnight policy rate in Canada and the 4.25-4.50% policy rate in the US is historically wide. Another cause of uncertainty is the fiscal response to today’s economic challenges. If the Big Beautiful Bill, now under consideration in the Senate, survives, the US is slated to run unprecedented budget deficits. The Congressional Budget Office estimates it would add roughly US$4 trillion to the already burgeoning federal government’s red ink. This has caused a year-to-date rise in longer-term bond yields, steepening the yield curve. 

Uncertainty remains high, and the US President just doubled the tariff on steel and aluminum to 50%, which could halt Canadian metals exports to the US. Last week’s release of the first quarter GDP report at 2.2% annualized growth was stronger than expected as exports and inventories surged before the tariffs. Final domestic demand in Canada was flat.  More recent data showed considerable weakness, especially in labour and housing markets. Consumer spending has also slowed sharply.

Read more here...



May brings sun! Ai brings craziness!

Christos Gitersos - Mortgage Planner

christos@gitersos.com
604.786.9099
http://www.gitersos.com/

Christos - Facebook Christos - Instagram Christos - Twitter

Foreclosure Lists

Detached - Burnaby, New West
Detached - Tri Cities
Attached - Chilliwack, Sardis
Attached - Mission, Abbotsford
Attached - Pitt Meadows, Maple Ridge
Attached - Langley
Attached - Burnaby, New West
Attached - Tri Cities
Detached - Chilliwack, Sardis
Attached - Surrey, Delta, Cloverdale



Canadian Housing Demand and Prices Slide Further in March

 

On April 15, 2025, it was reported that home sales in Canada dropped again in March. Sales fell by 4.8% from February, and overall sales are now 20% lower than they were in November 2024. Experts believe this drop is mostly due to concerns about new tariffs and the uncertainty they bring. The biggest declines were seen in Ontario and British Columbia, but almost every region in Canada has been affected. People are becoming more cautious about buying homes, unsure of what will happen with the economy.

Compared to March 2024, home sales were down 9.3%, making it the lowest March total since 2009. Even though the number of newly listed homes went up by 3%, prices continued to fall. The MLS® Home Price Index dropped by 1% from the previous month and was 2.1% lower than a year ago. The actual average home price also dropped 3.7% compared to March last year, showing that the market is clearly slowing down.


Overall, right now, it would not be fun to be living in Toronto, especially owning a condo in the city. They always feel the hit worse.



Need a renovation expert?

 

Mark is your guy to connect with. I've known Mark and his family for quite sometime and can only say good things! The projects he has taken on, in the business, have been top notch!

I highly suggest reaching out to him.

https://www.1364services.com/

Oh, and did you know, you can refinance your property to cover the renovations!?



AI is crazy!

 

I was playing around with AI and so forth, this is a picture it made of me! There was a bit of a trend going on a few weeks ago, so thought I'd try.

I also tried the voice/video one. The video part was good, the voice, far off. Gave me some weird accents!

Soon enough you won't know if it's me or not!!



Mother's Day!

 

A Tribute to All Moms on Mother’s Day

We pause to celebrate the women whose love is the foundation of our lives—our mothers.

To all the moms who nurtured us from our very first breath, who stayed up through sleepless nights, who cheered us on when we struggled, and who stood by us when we stumbled—you are the quiet strength behind every step we take. Your sacrifices often go unseen, but they are deeply felt in the hearts you've shaped and the lives you've guided.

You are teachers, healers, protectors, and dream-builders. You give without expecting, love without conditions, and show up even when the world feels too heavy. Whether you're a birth mom, adoptive mom, stepmom, grandmother, or a mother figure in someone’s life—your impact is immeasurable.

This Mother’s Day, we honor the warmth of your embrace, the wisdom in your words, and the power of your presence. Thank you for every hug, every lesson, and every moment you gave of yourself.

You are appreciated. You are admired. You are loved.

Happy Mother’s Day.



Where did it go....Refinance program extended for March

Christos Gitersos - Mortgage Planner

christos@gitersos.com
604.786.9099
http://www.gitersos.com/

Christos - Facebook Christos - Instagram Christos - Twitter

Foreclosure Lists

 

Detached - Burnaby & New West
Attached - Tri Cities
Detached - Chilliwack & Sardis
Detached - Pitt Meadows & Maple Ridge
Attached - Pitt Meadows & Maple Ridge
Detached - Langley
Attached - Langley
Attached - Mission & Abbotsford
Detached - Mission & Abbotsford
Attached - Surrey, N. Delta, Cloverdale



Be rewarded for being awesome!

 

You can earn up to $2,700 just for referring your family, friends or co-workers.

The more you refer the more you make. Just for referring a name you'll get $20 cash so you can do with it as you please!

Some more information here http://www.gitersos.com/client-appreciation/

This year has been so overwhelming with the support I've received. I have many amazing people who have received quite a bit and I can't be more thankful! 



Home Trends For 2025

 

Real estate pros and home designers weigh in on hot home design trends that may have timeless appeal – and the ones you need to approach with caution. Home trends can be hot one minute but not so hot the next. So, how can you tell which home design trend will survive or even be a classic someday versus one that might fade faster than you can say “carpeted bathroom.”

#1 Home Trend for 2025 - Brassy Fixtures: Brass metals are making a comeback. The last run featured shiny, polished brass that coated kitchens and bathrooms in the 1980s and 1990s. But the more modern look is brushed gold or unlacquered brass. 

#2 Home Trend for 2025 - Biophilic Design: Biophilia may sound like a medical condition, but it’s actually a trend centered on increasing a home’s connection to nature. And it’s the top trend that designers, contractors, and homebuilding professionals are identifying for the new year. You can try out this home trend by adding more plants and greenery, filtering in more natural light to the interior, or embracing neutral, earthy color palettes and materials.

#3 Home Trend for 2025 - Wallpaper: Richly patterned wallpaper is predicted to be a hot trend in 2025. We will see more unique, bold-patterned wallpaper featuring geometric shapes or metallic shine. The wallpaper is popping up in smaller areas, like the powder room, or used on the “fifth wall” - the ceiling. Wallpaper is making a huge comeback. It’s taking on the design world as it adds depth and texture to a room instantly.

#4 Home Trend for 2025 - Wood Accents: Wood elements, like ceiling beams, trim, millwork, wall paneling, and cabinetry, are adding natural wood tones back into interiors. Natural materials are gaining prominence in home remodels. Eighty percent of home professionals are identifying natural wood (untreated with paint) as one of the top construction materials for 2025.

#5 Home Trend for 2025 - Hidden Storage: Trends include paying more attention to everyday entries for storage. These might include a small vestibule or hall with a small alcove for shoes, a key drop, or a backpack valet.  More storage is coming to kitchens, too. Larger pantries are outfitted with cabinets and countertops to accommodate more food prep. Also, storage is being added throughout the home, like washing machine cupboards at the top of stairs and laundry zone bathrooms.



From this little stinker to...

 

Taking her for her driving, knowledge, test this weekend! Wow, where does the time go?!



May be time to look at a refinance?

 

Refinance FREE LEGALS - Click Here

FREE LEGALS! Extended for the month of March

I've teamed up with Flavia, a local notary here in Langley, and we are running a small, for a short period of time, refinance program for anyone needing to get something done. 

Lot's of renewals are coming up and will renew in to higher rates and maybe you need some payment relief. Maybe you over spent over the holidays, I know we did for sure!

Have a look at the attached PDF and let me know if you have questions!



THE 2025 BANK OF CANADA INTEREST RATE MEETING SCHEDULE

 

WHEN IS THE NEXT BOC MEETING?
 

The Bank of Canada meets eight times per year and makes announcements about rates. Now more than ever, these dates matter very much to our industry and and to anyone with a variable rate. Here are the dates listed below for 2025. I've also included a link to the BOC website.  

As always, should you have any questions, please feel free to reach out to discuss. I am happy to help. 

2025:

Wednesday, January 29, 2025 (0.25 reduction)

Wednesday, March 12, 2025

Wednesday, April 16, 2025

Wednesday, June 4, 2025

Wednesday, July 30, 2025

Wednesday, September 17, 2025

Wednesday, October 29, 2025

Wednesday, December 10, 2025


Bank of Canada publishes its 2025 schedule for policy interest rate announcements and other major publications - Bank of Canada




Large amount of foreclosures - Free legal's continues

Christos Gitersos - Mortgage Planner

christos@gitersos.com
604.786.9099
http://www.gitersos.com/

Christos - Facebook Christos - Instagram Christos - Twitter

May be time to look at a refinance?

 

Refinance FREE LEGALS - Click Here

FREE LEGALS!

I've teamed up with Flavia, a local notary here in Langley, and we are running a small, for a short period of time, refinance program for anyone needing to get something done. 

Lot's of renewals are coming up and will renew in to higher rates and maybe you need some payment relief. Maybe you over spent over the holidays, I know we did for sure!

Have a look at the attached PDF and let me know if you have questions!



THE 2025 BANK OF CANADA INTEREST RATE MEETING SCHEDULE

 

WHEN IS THE NEXT BOC MEETING?
 

The Bank of Canada meets eight times per year and makes announcements about rates. Now more than ever, these dates matter very much to our industry and and to anyone with a variable rate. Here are the dates listed below for 2025. I've also included a link to the BOC website.  

As always, should you have any questions, please feel free to reach out to discuss. I am happy to help. 

2025:

Wednesday, January 29, 2025 (0.25 reduction)

Wednesday, March 12, 2025

Wednesday, April 16, 2025

Wednesday, June 4, 2025

Wednesday, July 30, 2025

Wednesday, September 17, 2025

Wednesday, October 29, 2025

Wednesday, December 10, 2025


Bank of Canada publishes its 2025 schedule for policy interest rate announcements and other major publications - Bank of Canada




Foreclosure Lists

 

Attached - Tri Cities
Attached - Chilliwack, Sardis (1)
Attached - Langley
Detached - Burnaby, New West
Attached - Mission, Abbotsford (1)
Attached - Burnaby, New West (1)
Detached - Chilliwack, Sardis (1)
Attached - Surrey, Delta, Cloverdale
Detached - Langley (1)
Detached - Mission, Abbotdsford

Unfortunately there's quite a few this time around. Particularly Surrey detached.



There's a story behind this picture...

 

However, I'll just say it was a nice dinner at the Keg (which is very rare for me) with a nice photo with my big brother!



BC Home Flipping Tax in 2025

 

Starting January 1, 2025, profits from selling a taxable property in BC are subject to a new tax if the property was purchased less than 730 days before the sale. This rule applies regardless of the seller's location. A taxable property includes residential properties, properties zoned for residential use, and rights to acquire such properties, like pre-construction assignments.

Exceptions include deemed dispositions, mortgages, leases, gifts, or transfers without a change in beneficial ownership. For example, selling a property purchased on May 1, 2023, before June 1, 2025, would trigger the tax, while sales after this period would not. Exempt property locations are excluded.



Tis the season of lights and fun!

Christos Gitersos - Mortgage Planner

christos@gitersos.com
604.786.9099
http://www.gitersos.com/

Christos - Facebook Christos - Instagram Christos - Twitter

Foreclosure Lists

 

Attached - Langley
Attached - Pitt Meadows, Maple Ridge
Attached - Chilliwack, Sardis
Attached - Surrey, N.Delta, Cloverdale (1)
Attached - Surrey, N.Delta, Cloverdale
Attached - Mission, Abbotsford
Detached - Burnaby, New West
Detached - Chilliwack, Sardis
Attached - Burnaby, New West
Detached - Langley



Mortgage Renewal Challenge

 

Over the next two years, more than 4 million mortgages—around 60% of all outstanding mortgages—are set to renew. A large share of these mortgages haven't come up for renewal since interest rates began rising in 2022. Even with recent rate declines, most borrowers will likely face noticeably higher payments. 

Higher payments could lead households to cut back on spending more than anticipated, potentially slowing the economy. They could also create financial stress for borrowers and result in losses for lenders and mortgage insurers.

If your mortgage is coming up for renewal, don’t wait until the last minute to explore your options. Starting early gives you a better chance of securing a favourable outcome. Reach out to me, and I’ll help you review and compare the available options.



Why You Should Own Life Insurance in a Company

 

Owning life insurance through your company offers several advantages for business owners and incorporated professionals. Here's why it's worth considering:

1. Tax-Efficient Funding
Premiums are paid with pre-tax corporate income, which is typically taxed at a lower rate than personal income. This tax efficiency can significantly reduce the overall cost of the policy compared to paying with after-tax personal dollars.

2. Enhanced Estate Planning
In Canada, the death benefit proceeds (minus the policy’s adjusted cost base) are credited to the Capital Dividend Account (CDA), allowing your corporation to distribute these funds tax-free to shareholders or beneficiaries. This creates an effective way to transfer wealth to your heirs or shareholders without significant tax erosion.

3. Protecting Business Obligations
A corporation can own a life insurance policy on a key employee, owner, or partner to provide liquidity for debts, buy-sell agreements, or loss mitigation in the event of their passing. This ensures your business remains financially stable and operational during unexpected circumstances.

4. Investment Growth Within the Policy
Cash value in permanent life insurance policies (e.g., whole or universal life) grows tax-deferred, making it a tax-efficient savings vehicle. The cash surrender value can also be used as collateral for loans, providing an additional source of liquidity for the business.

5. Strategic Retirement Planning
Upon retirement, the corporation can borrow against the policy’s cash value or redeem it strategically, creating a tax-efficient source of income. This ensures your family or business will have financial support even after you step away.

6. Cost Sharing and Split-Dollar Agreements
Split-dollar arrangements between you and the corporation can make premiums more affordable. Policies can be tailored to meet both personal and corporate needs, maximizing benefits.

7. Creditor Protection
Life insurance policies owned by the corporation can provide a layer of protection for assets, shielding funds from creditors in some scenarios, depending on jurisdiction and structuring.

8. Flexible Succession Planning
Life insurance ensures a smooth transfer of ownership by funding buyouts when a partner or shareholder passes away. It also provides funds to keep the company stable during transitions, ensuring long-term stability for successors.

When Is Corporate-Owned Life Insurance Right for You?
This approach is ideal if you are incorporated and have surplus cash in your company, if you’re looking for tax-efficient ways to protect your family or business, or if you have a long-term goal of optimizing estate or retirement planning.



Yarrow lights

 

A friend of ours was playing the music at the Yarrow Lights tree lighting evening and it was a lot of fun! They had a ton of booths set up by local businesses and it was all free. Was able to sample some samosa's, duck sliders, tea, kettle corn and a few other things. Was a great night had by all!



Be rewarded for being awesome!

 

You can earn up to $2,700 just for referring your family, friends or co-workers.

The more you refer the more you make. Just for referring a name you'll get $20 cash so you can do with it as you please!

Some more information here http://www.gitersos.com/client-appreciation/

This year has been so overwhelming with the support I've received. I have many amazing people who have received quite a bit and I can't be more thankful! 



Changes Coming December 15th

 

Mortgage Cap Update: Higher Loan Limits

Starting December 15th, the maximum loan amounts will increase. This is great news, especially for those in higher-priced markets where the current loan limits may have made it more difficult to secure enough financing. Whether you're looking to buy a more expensive home or need additional funds for your next property, this increase in loan limits could be a game-changer for you.

This adjustment means you could have access to more financing without requiring a larger down payment, making homeownership more attainable for many buyers.

30-Year Amortization Period

Also effective December 15th, the maximum amortization period will be extended to 30 years for qualified borrowers. This longer timeframe can significantly lower your monthly mortgage payments by spreading them out over a greater number of years.

A 30-year amortization could be beneficial for:

First-time homebuyers looking to manage cash flow. Homeowners refinancing and seeking lower monthly payments. Investors wanting more financial flexibility

By reducing your monthly payments, a 30-year amortization offers you the opportunity to balance your mortgage alongside other financial commitments, all while still building equity in your home.

How Can These Changes Benefit You?

Afford More Home: With higher loan amounts, you’ll have the potential to increase your purchasing power. Whether you’re looking to buy a larger home or move into a more desirable area, this change could make it more accessible.

Lower Monthly Payments: The option for a 30-year amortization means that your monthly mortgage payments can be more manageable, even if you decide to borrow a larger amount. This can provide you with greater financial flexibility for other needs or investments.

Refinancing Opportunities: If you’re already a homeowner, the new loan limits and extended amortizations might make refinancing a great option to consolidate debt, renovate, or access equity for other goals while keeping your payments in check.