In Canada, Holmes on Holmes > Hockey.

True story.

 

He would be even huger in Japan.

 

Mike Holmes is a pretty big star across the country.

and it's Holmes on Homes. That's the play on words

 

My suggestions --

Get pre-approved for real, so you can move on something you like and before interest rates rise.

Don't fall in love with a particular house. I made five other offers before landing my previous house and three offers before landing my current home (just closed a week ago). Depending on the market, sellers can be funny about negotiating and buyers can over-pay (some of my losing offers were their asking prices!).

Do your homework on rebates and discounts for big purchases. I needed almost an entire new household. Costco offers 3% cashback with their Exec membership and Amex card. Will more than pay for itself for me. Got an awesome counter-depth stainless new Bosch fridge at Sears Outlet for less than half retail (slight cosmetic defect, doors don't align perfectly, looks like a million dollars in my kitchen).

 

when you go to check out the mortgage rates, check the rates and payments on a 15 year mortgage, you will be be very surprised on little more it costs per month.

When I originally got my mortgage, I got the 30 year term, but just after five years I refinanced to a 15 year term and my payment only went up $75 per month

 

Found a home we really like; making offers. 30-year interest rate is at its all-time low too.