This is a temporary bonus, effective February 21, 2012 to March 31, 2013. The bonus is a one-time refundable personal income tax credit worth up to $10,000.

Who qualifies?  * Buying or building a new home or a substantially renovated home where HST is payable. (more…)

Thinking of moving to a great small city (around 150,000 population)?

Here are some great reasons why Abbotsford is a top choice:

* Temperate climate (may or not have snow in winter)

* Fabulous scenery with mountain and valley views

* Affordability (price of an average home is under $400,000)’

* Excellent schools

* Loads of recreation: recreational centres, sports facilities, numerous golf courses, etc.

* International Airport

* New regional hospital and cancer centre

* University of the Fraser Valley

* New entertainment centre with great entertainers and The Abbotsford Heat(AHL)

* New public art gallery and museum, The Reach

* Tradex that hosts regional trade shows

And that’s just the beginning.  A wonderful city in which to raise your children with great schools, amazing sports, music opportunities, etc. (more…)

Richard Friesen has earned the designation, Seniors Real Estate Specialist.

1.  An SRES understands the issues facing older adults.   They can help you navigate your choices and may be able to suggest alternatives that help you stay in your home.

2. This specialist understands the demands a sale can make on you, and works hard to minimize them.  Richard will be there when you need him.

3. The Seniors Specialist is interested in looking out for your best interests through all aspects of your transition, not just the sale of your home.

4. A Seniors Specialist can draw on a network of other helpful experts to help you deal with the entire process, from finances to moving.

5. A Seniors Specialist is knowledgeable about senior housing options and can refer you to another Seniors Specialist if you’re moving outside the area. (more…)

The Home Buyers’ Plan (HBP) allows you to withdraw up to $25,000 from RRSPs to buy or build a qualifying home for yourself (as a first-time home buyer) or for a related disabled person. You may still be considered a first-time home buyer if you own a rental property or if you have not recently owned a home.
This is a temporary “loan” from your RRSP — you must pay back the amount you borrow from your RRSP for the Home Buyer’s Plan within 15 years or it will be added to your taxable income.
You can make withdrawals from more than one RRSP as long as you are the annuitant (plan owner). Typically, you will not be allowed to withdraw funds from a locked-in RRSP. (more…)