From Planning to Possession: How Jeff and Brianne Bought Their First Home in Just 3 Years

General Angela Calla 24 Jun

 

WATCH – For Jeff and Brianne of Port Coquitlam, the dream of owning a home felt distant — until they got the right plan in place. Their family had long trusted The Angela Calla Mortgage Team as a household name for mortgage advice. So when the time came to turn their goal into action, they didn’t hesitate to reach out.

Working closely with a trusted financial advisor, Krystian, and through our team’s personalized guidance, they developed a step-by-step plan that would prepare them for homeownership — not just in theory, but in real life. And in just three years, they were holding the keys to their very first family home.

Their advice? Download our free mortgage app and reach out directly to start your own path to ownership. The earlier you plan, the more empowered you’ll feel. Whether you’re buying in a few months or a few years, we’ll help guide the way.

✅ Ready to Start Your Journey?

📲 Download our FREE Mortgage App

📞 Connect with us to create your personalized homeownership plan:

Angela Calla Mortgage Team

📧 angela@countoncalla.ca

🌐 https://angelacalla.ca

 


Angela Calla is an 19-year award-winning woman of influence which sets her apart from the rest. Alongside her team, Angela passionately assists mortgage holders in acquiring the best possible mortgage. Through her presence on “The Mortgage Show” and through her best-selling book “The Mortgage Code, Angela educates prospective home buyers by providing vital information on mortgages. In light of this, her success awarded her with the 2020Business Leader of the Year Award.

Angela is a frequent go-to source for media and publishers across the country. For media interviews, speaking inquiries, or personal mortgage assistance, please contact Angela at hello@countoncalla.ca or at 604-802-3983.

Click here to view the latest news on our blog. 

Watch My Global News Interview – See What Homeownership Options May Apply to You!

General Angela Calla 17 Jun

I’m excited to share my recent appearance on Global News Morning, where I discussed ways Canadians can save thousands with homeownership — including GST and PTT exemptionsCMHC Eco Plus rebates, and special mortgage programs for, medical professionals, and the self-employed.

Click on the image below to watch the clip.

If you’re wondering what options may apply to you or someone you know, let’s connect and create a personalized plan.

Let’s make homeownership work for you!

 


Angela Calla is an 19-year award-winning woman of influence which sets her apart from the rest. Alongside her team, Angela passionately assists mortgage holders in acquiring the best possible mortgage. Through her presence on “The Mortgage Show” and through her best-selling book “The Mortgage Code, Angela educates prospective home buyers by providing vital information on mortgages. In light of this, her success awarded her with the 2020Business Leader of the Year Award.

Angela is a frequent go-to source for media and publishers across the country. For media interviews, speaking inquiries, or personal mortgage assistance, please contact Angela at hello@countoncalla.ca or at 604-802-3983.

Click here to view the latest news on our blog. 

June 2025 Newsletter

General Angela Calla 10 Jun

Welcome to the June issue of my monthly newsletter!
There’s so much to look forward to this month – the longest day of the year, warm weather (finally!), and school letting out for the summer, to name just a few things.

Along with the rising temperatures, many people crank their air conditioning. If you’re one of those folks, I’ve got some tips to keep you cool without wasting energy or money. But before you get there, I want to share some advice for all the spring housing market participants – how to find your dream home. Let’s dig right in.

House Hunting Done Right:
5 Steps to Find Your Dream Home

Finding your dream home can seem like a daunting task.

But don’t despair!

Here are five actionable steps to set you up for success.

  1. Start with the Practicalities: First, figure out your finances. How much have you got saved for a downpayment, how much can you afford on a monthly basis, and what will you be able to qualify for? Download my mortgage app and start running your numbers quickly and easily on your own time.
  2. Set Yourself up for Success: If you want to find your dream home, you’ve got to figure out what that is. Make a list of needs and wants in your home, considering things like number of bedrooms, parking, your renovation skills and budget, etc. Also consider anything that would be a deal breaker. Share your requirements with your real estate agent before you start looking at properties. Keep in mind the more requirements you have, the longer your search might take, so be patient.
  3. Visit the Area: The neighbourhood might be the most important factor in your home purchase, so be sure to go to the ones you’re considering living in. Check out what’s happening in the area like construction, gentrification, who’s there, amenities, etc. Try to meet some of your potential neighbours and get a feel of what they like and don’t like about what’s happening in the area. You may learn some info that won’t be available in a property listing which could sway your purchase decision, or even find out about properties that could be available to purchase but aren’t currently listed for sale.
  4. Gather Information: Ask whatever questions you can about the house, like the history of repairs and upgrades, any outstanding leases or tenants, concerns with neighbours or the neighbourhood, traffic on the street, etc. Be sure to see the property in person at least twice and go at different times of the day so you get as complete a picture as you can of the home and its surroundings.
  5. Sell Yourself: Consider that no one has to sell you their home. Writing a letter introducing yourself and explaining your intentions can set you apart from other offers and endear you to the seller. You might end up with more favourable purchase circumstances thanks to your effort. Also be sure to have your financing in order (I can get you a preapproval valid for 120 days) so you have fewer conditions on any offer you make.

When you’re ready to make a move, I’m here for you. Give me a call to help you with the practicalities of financing so you have a successful hunt for that dream home!

Cool and Cost-Effective:
Summer Energy Saving Tips

We all love a nice, air-conditioned home on the hottest days of summer, but no one looks forward to the bill for it.

Here are a few ways to stay cool without shelling out the big bucks!

Tactic 1: Minimize Heat Sources

  • Close your blinds and eliminate direct sunlight coming in and heating up a room.
  • Avoid placing lamps or TV sets near your room air-conditioning thermostat. The thermostat will sense heat from these appliances and run more than necessary.
  • Avoid using the oven on hot days, as your air conditioning will have to go into overdrive to counteract all the heat produced. Cook on the stove or grill outside.
  • Skip the dryer and all the heat it produces by hanging clothes to dry

Tactic 2: Lower Your Energy Usage

  • Avoid setting your thermostat at a colder setting than normal when you first turn it on. It will not cool your home any faster, but it will work harder than necessary.
  • Choose fans over air conditioning as they use significantly less energy. However, turn off fans when you leave the room. Fans cool people by creating a wind chill effect on the skin but have no effect on the temperature of a room.
  • The smaller the difference between the indoor and outdoor temperatures, the lower your overall cooling bill will be. Having the temperature set 5 degrees higher for 8 hours a day can reduce your energy bill by 10%
  • Unplug electrical items you aren’t using constantly – like game consoles or anything with an LED indicator light or digital clock – as they use power and often generate heat

Tactic 3: Switch to an Evaporative Air Cooler

Evaporative air coolers (or swamp coolers as they are sometimes called) lower the temperature by moving hot air across water. As a fan blows the air across a water reservoir, the air picks up small water particles which evaporate as they are blown away. The evaporating water cools the air nearby the same way drying sweat cools people down.

Here’s what else you need to know:

  • Units are portable and can be placed anywhere in your home or moved from room to room as needed
  • They are great for dry climates, but not useful in particularly humid environments
  • Air temperature can be successfully lowered by 5-15 degrees
  • Air conditioners use 90% more energy than an evaporative air cooler so making this switch can drastically lower your energy bill

If you’re interested in more info about an evaporative cooler, click here.

Economic Insights from Dr. Sherry Cooper

The Trump tariff mayhem has significantly impacted the Canadian economy and financial markets. Since the February tariff threats and the on-again, off-again nature of the policy changes, consumer and business confidence have tumbled while inflation expectations have surged.

Short- and long-term interest rates have increased considerably as bond vigilantes have sold US Treasury bonds for fear of mounting inflation. Another big boost to interest rates is the vast and rapidly growing surge in the US government’s net federal debt to GDP ratio, which will only rise sharply further with the current tax bill under debate in the US House of Representatives.

China has been a primary net seller of US Government bonds, increasing interest rates. No wonder the Fed is reluctant to ease monetary policy, and US rates are at record spreads vis-à-vis Canada.

Canadian labour markets have weakened considerably, and the US-tariff-related layoffs have already begun. The jobless rate rose to 6.9% in April, portending a coming recession in this year’s second and third quarters.

Economic and financial uncertainty has slowed Canadian housing activity, particularly in the GTA and GVA. However, the increased inventory of unsold homes in much of the country has driven down prices. This creates a buying opportunity for many would-be purchasers.

 


Angela Calla is an 19-year award-winning woman of influence which sets her apart from the rest. Alongside her team, Angela passionately assists mortgage holders in acquiring the best possible mortgage. Through her presence on “The Mortgage Show” and through her best-selling book “The Mortgage Code, Angela educates prospective home buyers by providing vital information on mortgages. In light of this, her success awarded her with the 2020Business Leader of the Year Award.

Angela is a frequent go-to source for media and publishers across the country. For media interviews, speaking inquiries, or personal mortgage assistance, please contact Angela at hello@countoncalla.ca or at 604-802-3983.

Click here to view the latest news on our blog. 

Bank of Canada Holds Rates Steady for Second Consecutive Meeting

General Angela Calla 10 Jun

Bank of Canada Holds Rates Steady for the Second Consecutive Meeting–But Two More Rate Cuts Are Likely This Year
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.

In today’s press conference opening comments, Governor Macklem said, “The extreme financial turmoil we saw in April has moderated, and stock markets have recovered their losses. However, the outcomes of the trade negotiations are highly uncertain. Tariffs are well above their levels at the beginning of 2025, and new trade actions are still being threatened. The recent further increases in US tariffs on steel and aluminum underline the unpredictability of US trade policy.”

“So far, the US economy has proven resilient. Imports were strong as businesses tried to get ahead of tariffs, and that pulled down first-quarter US GDP. But domestic demand remained relatively strong. Early indicators for the second quarter suggest a rebound in growth as imports fall back and domestic demand continues to expand.

The flip side of the strength in US imports was a surge in Canadian exports. This boosted first-quarter GDP growth in Canada, which came in at 2.2%, slightly stronger than the Bank had forecast.

The labour market has weakened, with job losses concentrated in trade-intensive sectors. The unemployment rate rose to 6.9% in April. So far, employment has held up across sectors less exposed to trade. However, businesses generally tell the central bank they plan to scale back hiring.

The pull forward in exports and inventory accumulation in the first quarter borrows economic strength from the future, so the second quarter is expected to be much weaker. Canadian families and businesses’ spending has shown some resilience in the face of US tariffs and heightened uncertainty. But they will likely remain cautious, suggesting domestic spending will remain subdued.

Inflation excluding taxes was 2.3% in April, slightly more substantial than the Bank had expected and up from 2.1% in March. The Bank’s preferred measures of core inflation and other measures of underlying inflation moved up in April. There is some unusual volatility in inflation, but these measures suggest underlying inflation could be firmer than we thought. Higher core inflation can be partly attributed to higher goods prices, including food, and may reflect the effects of trade disruption. Many businesses report higher costs for finding alternative suppliers and developing new markets. The Bank will be closely watching measures of underlying inflation to gauge how inflationary pressures are evolving.

The Bank is also monitoring inflation expectations closely. In April, we reported that consumers and businesses expected prices to rise due to tariffs, while longer-term inflation expectations remained well anchored. Recent surveys continue to show consumers bracing for higher prices, and many businesses say they intend to pass on tariff costs.

Governing Council will continue to assess the timing and strength of the downward pressure on inflation from a weaker economy and the upward pressure on inflation from higher costs.

At this decision, there was a consensus to hold the policy unchanged as we gain more information. The BoC also discussed the path ahead for the policy interest rate. Here, there was more diversity of views. On balance, members thought there could be a need for a reduction in the policy rate if the economy weakens in the face of continued US tariffs and uncertainty, and cost pressures on inflation are contained

Bottom Line 

We expect the Canadian economy to post a small negative reading (-0.5%) in both Q2 and Q3, bringing growth for the year to 1.2%, just one tick above the recently released OECD forecast for Canada. The next Governing Council decision date is July 30, which will give the  Bank time to assess the underlying momentum in inflation and the dampening effect of tariffs on economic activity.

If inflation slows over the next couple of months—we get two CPI releases and two jobs reports before the next meeting—and the economy slows in Q2 and Q3 as widely expected, the Bank will likely cut rates two more times this year, bringing the overnight rate down to 2.25%.

Article courtesy of Dr. Sherry Cooper, Chief Economist, DLC

 

 


Angela Calla is an 19-year award-winning woman of influence which sets her apart from the rest. Alongside her team, Angela passionately assists mortgage holders in acquiring the best possible mortgage. Through her presence on “The Mortgage Show” and through her best-selling book “The Mortgage Code, Angela educates prospective home buyers by providing vital information on mortgages. In light of this, her success awarded her with the 2020Business Leader of the Year Award.

Angela is a frequent go-to source for media and publishers across the country. For media interviews, speaking inquiries, or personal mortgage assistance, please contact Angela at hello@countoncalla.ca or at 604-802-3983.

Click here to view the latest news on our blog. 

Bank of Canada Holds – Here’s Why Timing Still Matters

General Angela Calla 4 Jun

The Bank of Canada is met this morning, and paused interest rate declines as expected with no changes made.  Read the full release HERE.

While cuts are still forecasted, they may not arrive until later this year — with upcoming meetings on July 30, September 4, October 23, and December 11 left in 2025.

But here’s what many don’t realize:

Fixed mortgage rates are driven by the bond market — not the Bank of Canada — and can change at any time, without notice. There are no set dates, which means waiting too long could cost you.

If you’re:

  • Planning to buy a home
  • Facing a mortgage renewal
  • Thinking about breaking your mortgage to consolidate debt

Reach out now — planning early could save you thousands.

 

 


Angela Calla is an 19-year award-winning woman of influence which sets her apart from the rest. Alongside her team, Angela passionately assists mortgage holders in acquiring the best possible mortgage. Through her presence on “The Mortgage Show” and through her best-selling book “The Mortgage Code, Angela educates prospective home buyers by providing vital information on mortgages. In light of this, her success awarded her with the 2020Business Leader of the Year Award.

Angela is a frequent go-to source for media and publishers across the country. For media interviews, speaking inquiries, or personal mortgage assistance, please contact Angela at hello@countoncalla.ca or at 604-802-3983.

Click here to view the latest news on our blog. 

HUGE NEWS for First-Time Home Buyers in Canada!

General Angela Calla 28 May

The federal government just dropped a game-changer—and it’s effective May 27, 2025!

Up to $50,000 GST rebate is now available for new homes up to $1.5 million — and yes, that includes pre-sales and new builds!

🔑 What This Means for YOU as a First-Time Buyer:

✅ 100% GST Rebate if your new home is priced at $1M or less

✅ Partial Rebate up to $1.5M (e.g. 50% rebate if home is $1.25M)

✅ More savings = easier mortgage approval + more cash for closing costs

✅ Applies to purchases from May 27, 2025 through 2031

🏗️ For Developers & Sellers:

  • Expect increased demand from motivated, qualified buyers
  • A major boost for pre-sale and new construction activity

📈 For the Market Overall:

  • A clear step toward boosting supply and improving affordability
  • A powerful tool to help more Canadians become homeowners

✨ Angela Calla Mortgage Team has helped thousands of first-time buyers navigate programs just like this—and we’re ready to help you make the most of it.

This kind of opportunity doesn’t come around often. If you’re thinking about buying a pre-sale or new build, now’s the time to plan.

📞 Let’s build a strategy that works for you and your future.

📧 callateam@countoncalla.ca

📱 604-802-3983

🌐 countoncalla.ca

🔗 Full details 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

#AngelaCallaMortgageTeam #CountOnCalla #VancouverRealEstate #FirstHome #CanadaHousing #GSTRebate #PresaleVancouver #countoncalla #themortgagecode


Angela Calla is an 19-year award-winning woman of influence which sets her apart from the rest. Alongside her team, Angela passionately assists mortgage holders in acquiring the best possible mortgage. Through her presence on “The Mortgage Show” and through her best-selling book “The Mortgage Code, Angela educates prospective home buyers by providing vital information on mortgages. In light of this, her success awarded her with the 2020Business Leader of the Year Award.

Angela is a frequent go-to source for media and publishers across the country. For media interviews, speaking inquiries, or personal mortgage assistance, please contact Angela at hello@countoncalla.ca or at 604-802-3983.

Click here to view the latest news on our blog. 

First-Time Home Buyer in BC? Here’s What You Need to Know!

General Angela Calla 28 May

First-Time Home Buyer in BC? Here’s What You Need to Know!

(And yes — you may still qualify even if you haven’t owned a home in the last 4 years or have gone through a spousal separation and lived apart for 90+ days.)

We’ve put together a list of the latest first-time home buyer incentives in BC to help you get into the market with confidence:

  •  Property Transfer Tax (PTT) Exemption

Buy a home for $835,000 or less and you could qualify for a PTT exemption on the first $500,000 — a savings of up to $8,000!

Partial exemptions may apply even if only one buyer is a first-time purchaser.

  •  30-Year Mortgage Amortization

Starting December 2024, insured 30-year amortizations will be available for first-time buyers — helping reduce monthly payments and increase affordability.

  •  Home Buyers’ Plan (HBP)

Withdraw up to $60,000 tax-free from your RRSP (or $120,000 with a partner) to use toward your down payment.

✅ Must be repaid over 15 years

✅ Funds stay tax-free and your retirement savings can remain invested

  •  BC New Build PTT Exemption

As of April 2024, newly built homes priced up to $1.1M may be eligible for a full PTT exemption. A great option for those eyeing brand-new properties!

  •  First-Time Home Buyers’ Tax Credit

Claim up to $1,500 in tax credits to help cover closing costs in your purchase year.

  •  Tax-Free First Home Savings Account (FHSA)

Save up to $8,000 per year (max $40,000) tax-free for your first home.

✅ Reduces your taxable income

✅ Withdrawals are tax-free when used to buy a home

After you buy, you may qualify for:

• Up to $570/year in property tax relief in for properties located in the Capital Regional District, the Metro Vancouver Regional District and the Fraser Valley Regional District. For all other areas of the province the grant amount is $770.

• Up to $1,045/year if you’re a senior, veteran, or person with a disability

(Applies to homes up to $2.15M in value.)

Not sure which incentives apply to you?

We’re here to help you understand your options and create a strategy that gets you into your first home

Download my free mortgage toolbox app here: Check out my free mortgage app. It includes everything you need to estimate your home ownership costs. You can also reach me at 604-802-3983 or callateam@countoncalla.ca

https://dlcapp.ca/app/angela-calla/download

and let’s get started today!

#FirstTimeBuyer #BCRealEstate #HomeOwnership #HomeBuyerIncentives #MortgageHelp #SmartMoves #FHSA #HBP #PTTExemption #AngelaCallaMortgageTeam #CountOnCalla #TheMortgageCode

 


Angela Calla is an 19-year award-winning woman of influence which sets her apart from the rest. Alongside her team, Angela passionately assists mortgage holders in acquiring the best possible mortgage. Through her presence on “The Mortgage Show” and through her best-selling book “The Mortgage Code, Angela educates prospective home buyers by providing vital information on mortgages. In light of this, her success awarded her with the 2020Business Leader of the Year Award.

Angela is a frequent go-to source for media and publishers across the country. For media interviews, speaking inquiries, or personal mortgage assistance, please contact Angela at hello@countoncalla.ca or at 604-802-3983.

Click here to view the latest news on our blog. 

May Newsletter

General Angela Calla 7 May

Welcome to the May issue of my monthly newsletter!

Welcome to May! Hard to believe we’re already a third of the way into 2025. The Stanley Cup Playoffs are in full swing, and hockey fans across Canada are hoping this is the year the Cup finally comes home. Is your team still in the hunt?

While we wait to see how things play out on the ice, this month’s update covers mortgage penalties—what they are and how to avoid them—plus some great ways to boost your home’s value, no matter your budget.

Enjoy – and if you’re watching the playoffs, may your team go all the way!

Understanding Mortgage Penalties

Many homeowners—especially those without a mortgage broker—don’t fully understand mortgage penalties. And I get it! Financing a home can be overwhelming. But if you’re considering refinancing, selling, making a lump sum payment, or need a way out, read this first.

The most common mortgage penalty my clients encounter is a prepayment penalty. Did you know? Your lender doesn’t want their money back early! That’s because they earn guaranteed interest on the loan, helping them not only budget but also profit. Let’s go over the types of prepayment penalties:

Prepayment or Overpayment: If you make a lump sum payment on your mortgage or increase the regular payments by too much, you could be outside the terms of your mortgage agreement.

Transferring: If you move your mortgage to another lender before the end of your term, that is considered breaking the mortgage agreement you made.

Early Re-Payment: If you sell your home and pay off your lender with the proceeds, leaving you without a mortgage, that also breaks the agreement.

Breaking your mortgage for these—or any other reason—almost always results in financial penalties. The amount of the penalty that could be owed will be based on a few factors:

The amount of pre- or over-payment

Interest rates (existing and new)

The type of mortgage (open, closed) and the type of rate (fixed, variable)

How can you reduce or avoid prepayment fees?

The simplest answer is to wait until the end of your existing term to make changes. If that’s not possible, let’s review your circumstances:

Do you have a fixed or variable rate? If you have a variable rate and you’re breaking the mortgage in favour of a fixed option, first check to see if you can lock in a rate under your existing terms

Are you making a lump-sum payment? Review the terms of your mortgage to see what your annual prepayment allowance is. Most mortgages will let you make some fixed lump sum payments without any penalties

Penalties for non-payment

There’s also a flip side to penalties, which involves incurring a penalty because you’re making a late payment or missing payments.

You won’t be surprised that any payment received after the due date will incur a fee. Lenders will also report the missed payment to the credit bureau, which will impact your credit score. Before you miss a payment, the best thing you can do is to notify your lender (especially before it happens) and let them know. You can work together to defer a payment, skip a payment, or make other alternative arrangements.

If you’re with a lender that offers it, consider taking a ‘mortgage payment holiday’ and either skipping or deferring payments for a specific amount of time. Some lenders allow up to 3-6 months or possibly longer, depending on the circumstances.

If you have already missed a payment, you should make up that late or missed payment as soon as possible to avoid a quickly escalating situation.

When can penalties be worthwhile?

It is important to note that sometimes, paying a penalty can be worthwhile—especially if you’re locked into a higher-rate mortgage and the savings from breaking it and securing a lower rate outweigh the penalty costs. I can help you with this determination! I can help you determine if this makes financial sense for you.

An alternative to mortgage penalties

If you’re likely to break your mortgage agreement, consider an open mortgage. This is a great short-term solution for anyone who has an inheritance coming up, is planning a move out of town, or perhaps getting married (or divorced) and planning to combine (or separate) assets. You regularly pay the mortgage as long as you need it, but when you sell the property—no worries. This option does typically come with higher rates, but the benefit is that there are no penalties to pay it off at any time.

Whatever type of mortgage penalty you might be facing, my best recommendation is to talk to me for expert advice. Do this before you make any commitments so we can go over the fine print and you can understand what you’re getting into! I always take the time to do this with my clients, and I would be happy to assist you also.

Top Home Upgrades to Boost Your Property’s Value

“Spring has a way of bringing everything back to life, even a broken heart—or a dated, messy house.” ~ Willie Nelson (roughly interpreted)

Spring is typically a busy season for the housing market in Canada.

Whether you’re looking to sell or help your home bloom where it’s planted, these value-add ideas will be worth putting on your to-do list. We’ve sorted the chores by cost so you can consider your budget first and foremost.

Now, let’s get to work!

Under $100

Perhaps the best bang for your buck is to focus on the front of the house. A few inexpensive ideas are to paint the front railing, upgrade the mailbox, or change the numbers on your house. You’ll also get a lot of value from some yard maintenance, like raking, picking up the pinecones, cutting the grass, or planting a few flowers. Do you know why flowers are so popular? They have a lot of buds. ????

Looking at the inside of the house, something almost all of us could benefit from is decluttering. Go through kitchen drawers and cupboards, closets, and even review the décor in your home. If you still have one of those tall vases with some wheat coming out of it, it’s time to let that go. While you’re scrutinizing every nook and cranny, make sure all the lightbulbs work—and replace any that are burnt out.

Under $500

This budget can get you pretty far if you’re willing to DIY some projects. For example, you could get some paint and supplies and paint a whole new colour into your home. Start with a room or even just an accent wall to make the project more manageable. Another option is to put a firepit in your yard. Seeing and using the space in a new way might make you fall in love with the home all over again.

Another option is to tackle some small upgrades, like new knobs on the kitchen drawers, replacing a toilet seat with an upgraded bidet, or even installing a new light fixture that brightens up a room. Some door handles might need replacing or you may even want to add some curtains or a window treatment to the most used rooms in your home.

Under $1000

Perhaps the biggest suggestion in this category is a professional cleaner. Having someone come in and truly scrub the baseboards, inside the oven, and all those other sneaky little places will make your house look instantly better. Be sure to make a list of what needs the most attention and prioritize the tasks when you hire the cleaner. You could also get your carpets professionally cleaned – they’ll both look and feel much better.

Another idea is to add some tech into your home, like a smart thermostat, lighting, or a camera-based security system. These can be relatively easy to install on your own which is a great way to save some money.

Under $2500

We’re going to start with an interesting one here, which is to upgrade your front door to a steel door. Based on the numbers online, you’ll make back 188% of the value at resale, so think of it as an investment.

If you’ve got hardwood floors, getting them refinished will make a big difference aesthetically in your home. If that’s not a direction you want to go, you could also upgrade the space with a high-quality area rug.

Under $5000

The first suggestion is to upgrade your bedroom closets to custom designs. Make the space more functional for the clothes, shoes, and accessories you have. It will not only make getting dressed easier, but the entire space will be easier on the eyes.

The second suggestion is to install a new garage door. Whether it’s a newly automatic door or simply a better-looking replacement, a new garage door has been shown to recoup 194% of its cost at resale. And if resale isn’t the direction you’re going, you can still use the new door and have your property looking better quickly.

Unrestricted Budget

This next section is something you’re almost certainly better off hiring a professional to tackle. These are much more time and labour intensive, so be sure to research the cost and get quotes from professionals before launching into any of them. Here are a few suggestions:

Replace the roof. Speaking of roofs, do you know why the roof went to the doctor? It had shingles.
Redo the kitchen to modern design with new appliances like a gas stove, convection oven, double dishwasher, tech-heavy fridge, or other things you’ve had on your bucket list
Add an addition to the home with an office space
Replace windows with energy efficient ones and include window dressings
The bottom line here is that no matter how big or how small your budget is, there are plenty of things you can do to spruce up your home and either enjoy it more yourself or increase its value to a potential buyer.

Economic Insights from Dr. Sherry Cooper

President Trump’s second term, now just over 90 days long, has wreaked chaos worldwide. A selloff in US assets deepened as President Donald Trump stepped up criticism of Jerome Powell, Chairman of the Federal Reserve, on social media, with stocks, the dollar and longer-dated Treasuries sliding amid concerns about the Federal Reserve’s future independence.

Trump’s assurances that tariff talks were progressing did little to stop the rout. Wealth has been obliterated as stocks have sold off everywhere, and the US dollar has weakened to a 15-month low. The benchmark 10-year fell, with the yield close to 4.4%. As investors turned away from US securities, haven assets climbed. Gold jumped to another record, above $3,400 an ounce, while the Swiss franc gained more than 1% against the dollar.

The weakness also spread to the US credit market. In derivatives, the cost of protecting a basket of high-grade credit securities against default rose to the highest over a week. Three investment-grade companies looked at selling bonds on Monday.

The US president took to Truth Social, escalating his attack on the Fed chair, insisting there was “virtually” no inflation and it was time for “preemptive cuts.” The last reading of the Fed’s preferred inflation gauge remains above the central bank’s target. There will be a new readout next week.

National Economic Council Director Kevin Hassett said on Friday that Trump is studying whether he can fire Powell. The comments raised new questions about whether the Fed can maintain its longstanding independence, with the president increasingly venting dissatisfaction in harsh terms that the central bank hasn’t moved faster to lower interest rates.

“Were Powell to be fired, the initial reaction would be a huge injection of volatility into financial markets and the most dramatic rush to the exit from US assets possible,” said Michael Brown, senior research strategist at Pepperstone. “Not only is the independence of the Fed clearly under threat, but the prospect of de-dollarisation and a move away from US hegemony is increasingly realistic.”

Hedge fund elites have echoed this concern. According to people present, Paul Singer, founder of Elliott Investment Management, warned recently at a private event in Abu Dhabi that the US dollar might lose its reserve currency status.

Rebuking the Fed risks politicizing US monetary policy in a way that markets find deeply unsettling.

“Frankly, firing Powell stretches belief,” said Christopher Wong, a currency strategist at Oversea-Chinese Banking Corp. “If the credibility of the Fed is called into question, it could severely erode confidence in the dollar.”

Fed Chicago President Austan Goolsbee warned against efforts to curtail the central bank’s independence. “There’s virtual unanimity among economists that monetary independence from political interference — that the Fed or any central bank be able to do the job needs to do — is essential,” Goolsbee said on CBS’s Face the Nation on Sunday.

Legal scholars say that a president can’t dismiss a Fed chair easily, and Powell has previously said he wouldn’t resign if asked by Trump.

Trade War

Trump’s tariff offensive also weighed a heavy burden on markets amid worries about a financial slump.

“The global economy is buffeted by a US war on trade, which we believe generates a large enough economic shock to threaten the life of the US and global expansion,” wrote Bruce Kasman, chief economist at JPMorgan Chase.

The Bloomberg Dollar Spot Index slid 0.7% on Monday—every Group-of-10 currency gained against the greenback, including the Canadian dollar. The yen jump weighed on stock indexes in Japan, pushing the Nikkei 225 down 1.3%.

The yen, euro and Swiss franc rallied. WTI crude fell more than 2% to below $64 a barrel. This and eliminating the consumer carbon tax should keep April inflation close to the target level.

As a sign that investors are rotating investments away from the US, Deutsche Bank AG said that Chinese clients had reduced some of their Treasury holdings in favour of European debt. European high-quality bonds, Japanese government bonds and gold are likely to be the potential choices for investors as alternatives to Treasuries.

With this backdrop, the Canadian economy has slowed precipitously. A Canadian recession likely began in the second quarter as consumer and business confidence plunged to record lows. While the details of the imposed levies are uncertain, there is no question that layoffs in the most vulnerable sectors, such as auto manufacturing, are just the tip of the iceberg. Other highly vulnerable sectors include agriculture, mining and minerals, energy, and lumber.

Once the Canadian election is behind us, the most critical next step would be renegotiating the USMCA—the free trade agreement initially negotiated by the first Trump administration.

Tariff turmoil and rising longer-term interest rates have sideswiped Canada’s housing markets, especially in Toronto and Vancouver, where overbuilding and rising new listings have led to a marked decline in the sales-to-new-listings ratio. Home prices are soft, and sellers are motivated.

While the Bank of Canada moved to the sidelines at the April 16 meeting, we believe incoming data will confirm that a recession is imminent. Although trade restrictions put upward pressure on prices, the central bank will no doubt respond if one-shot price hikes feed into an inflationary cycle.

Because Canada is far more interest rate sensitive and depends critically on trade with the US, our economic reaction is likely to be the canary in the coal mine. The Bank of Canada will undoubtedly respond to recessionary pressure by decreasing the overnight policy rate to 2.0%-to-2.25% in the next few months. This should help to spur housing activity where pent-up demand for housing is growing.


Angela Calla is an 19-year award-winning woman of influence which sets her apart from the rest. Alongside her team, Angela passionately assists mortgage holders in acquiring the best possible mortgage. Through her presence on “The Mortgage Show” and through her best-selling book “The Mortgage Code, Angela educates prospective home buyers by providing vital information on mortgages. In light of this, her success awarded her with the 2020Business Leader of the Year Award.

Angela is a frequent go-to source for media and publishers across the country. For media interviews, speaking inquiries, or personal mortgage assistance, please contact Angela at hello@countoncalla.ca or at 604-802-3983.

Click here to view the latest news on our blog. 

Real Stories, Real Savings: How Volker from Surrey Used His Mortgage to Support His Family and Build a Brighter Financial Future

General Angela Calla 29 Apr

At the Angela Calla Mortgage Team, we’re more than just numbers—we’re about real people making real financial progress. One of those people is Volker, a long-time member of our mortgage family in Surrey, BC.

Volker first heard about our team while tuning in to The Mortgage Show on CKNW. Years later, when he needed to access equity from his home to help his son make a purchase, he reached out to us—not just for a transaction, but to ensure the entire decision aligned with his long-term financial plan.

His words say it best: “The difference between working with Angela’s team and my past experiences was night and day. I felt cared for, understood, and empowered to make decisions that help me get ahead—not just stay afloat.”

That’s the impact of continual mortgage management. It’s what we specialize in.

Unlike the traditional banking experience, our approach is rooted in personalized planning. We reviewed Volker’s equity options, ensured his solution matched his retirement goals, and supported his family’s next generation—without compromising his future.

 “This is exactly what Angela talks about in her best-selling book, The Mortgage Code—strategic decisions today that build financial resilience for tomorrow.”

Volker now encourages anyone exploring mortgage options to take the first step with us. Whether you’re refinancing, purchasing, or renewing, our goal is to create a mortgage strategy that fits your life—not the bank’s.

 Want to feel the same peace of mind Volker found?

 Schedule your personalized mortgage plan with us callateam@countoncalla.ca

 Read The Mortgage Code

 Tune in to The Mortgage Show live on CKNW or listen to the podcast anytime

 Or just download our app to explore your options now


Angela Calla is an 19-year award-winning woman of influence which sets her apart from the rest. Alongside her team, Angela passionately assists mortgage holders in acquiring the best possible mortgage. Through her presence on “The Mortgage Show” and through her best-selling book “The Mortgage Code, Angela educates prospective home buyers by providing vital information on mortgages. In light of this, her success awarded her with the 2020Business Leader of the Year Award.

Angela is a frequent go-to source for media and publishers across the country. For media interviews, speaking inquiries, or personal mortgage assistance, please contact Angela at hello@countoncalla.ca or at 604-802-3983.

Click here to view the latest news on our blog. 

3 Smart Money Moves for Today’s Economy – As Heard on Vancouver Consumer on CKNW

General Angela Calla 28 Apr

I had the pleasure of joining Vancouver Consumer on CKNW to share some key strategies to help Canadians thrive financially in today’s economy. Over three segments, we explored actionable steps everyone can take to build a stronger financial future.

Here’s a quick recap:

Review Your Mortgage and Debt Strategy
With rates and lending rules constantly changing, reviewing your mortgage annually is critical. Consolidating high-interest debt into your mortgage can save hundreds to thousands of dollars each month — freeing up cash flow and improving your financial health.
Make Your Money Work for You
Even small, consistent investments can grow significantly over time. Whether it’s maximizing RRSPs, TFSAs, or employer-matching programs, it’s important to have a plan that aligns with your goals. Every dollar saved today multiplies your financial security tomorrow.
Plan Ahead for Renewals and Life Changes
Don’t wait until the last minute to plan for your mortgage renewal or a major life change. A proactive approach helps you access the best options and avoid costly penalties or missed opportunities.

You can read a full breakdown of these tips here:

3 Smart Money Moves

Catch the full conversation on the podcast here:

Listen on Spotify

Have questions or want a personalized review?

Reach out to the Angela Calla Mortgage Team:

Email: callateam@countoncalla.ca


Angela Calla is an 19-year award-winning woman of influence which sets her apart from the rest. Alongside her team, Angela passionately assists mortgage holders in acquiring the best possible mortgage. Through her presence on “The Mortgage Show” and through her best-selling book “The Mortgage Code, Angela educates prospective home buyers by providing vital information on mortgages. In light of this, her success awarded her with the 2020Business Leader of the Year Award.

Angela is a frequent go-to source for media and publishers across the country. For media interviews, speaking inquiries, or personal mortgage assistance, please contact Angela at hello@countoncalla.ca or at 604-802-3983.

Click here to view the latest news on our blog.