5 Tips for buying a new home

Buying a new home can be a large undertaking with many moving parts. Before signing on the dotted line, consider the following when purchasing a home:

1. Your lifestyle needs—Finding a home that fits your specific lifestyle needs is a large part of the homebuying process. Do you want to live close to downtown, or would you prefer to live outside the city? Do you want space to maintain a yard or garden? Where would you like your children to attend school? All of these questions can bring you closer to narrowing down what type of home will work for you.

2. Your budget—After you’ve determined which type of house will best fit your lifestyle, it’s important to decide on a budget that will allow for a comfortable monthly mortgage payment. In addition, be sure to take insurance costs, taxes, monthly maintenance fees, repair costs and more into consideration when determining a budget. Legal and administrative fees during closing typically range from 1 to 4 per cent of the selling price, and should be kept in mind during budget discussions. Meet with a financial representative to help determine what you can afford.

3. Your real estate agent—The right real estate agent will work to meet your needs and guide you through negotiations and the closing process. Interview a few different agents and request references.

4. Your builder—As you begin looking into the homebuying process, building may end up being the best option for you. Ask for references from friends and family and see if they were satisfied with their builder.

5. Your pre-delivery inspection (PDI)—Should you choose to build, this inspection is likely the first time you’ll visit your new home. You’ll learn how to operate and maintain the home, and ensure that everything has been built in accordance with your purchase agreement.

For more homebuying tips, contact James Purcell Insurance Broker Ltd today.

Distracted Driving Prevention

Beware of Road-Side Deer

Did You Know?

The majority of animal and vehicle crashes result in some form of bodily injury or vehicle damage. Whether you’re driving in the city or the country, here are some tips to keep you
safe on the road.

Animal and vehicle collisions are especially commonplace between October and December. Drivers should be aware of this danger and take the necessary precautions to remain accident-free.

·        Remain alert at all times and watch out for animals.

·        Slow down if you see an animal up ahead, as it is generally unpredictable.

·        Slow down at designated animal crossing areas marked by road signs. These signs indicate that the area has a lot of animal traffic and an increased potential for accidents.

·        Use your high beams at night to see animals easier.

Read more safety tips

Safety First

In the event that your vehicle collides with an animal:

·        Pull off to the side of the road and call the local police department.

·        Do not attempt to move the animal if it is lying in the middle of the road.

·        Do not leave your vehicle to check on an injured animal, as it may still be alive and potentially dangerous to you.