Going On Vacation?

	GOING AWAY ON VACATION? PROTECT YOUR HOME AND BELONGINGS WITH THESE TIPS Source: www.independenttraveler.com
		Summer is a popular time for people to go away to exotic locales or closer to home at a cottage on the lake. No matter your destination, it is key to do some due diligence and make sure your home is safe and protected while you are away. Here are some tips:

To give the impression you are at home in the evenings - install timers to turn on your interior lights. However, ensure the times work on a varied schedule as opposed to the exact times each day. Every would-be robber knows the hide-a-spare-key trick so remove your spare key and instead leave it with a trusted friend, family member or neighbour. Lock up any valuables including jewellery and other items in a fire-safe proof or at a safety deposit box at your bank. Shhh! Keep mum on your public social media profiles. Don’t advertise to the world of your absence on your open public social media profiles.

Choosing to own a vacation property or second property can offer you many exceptional advantages, but are your ready for the commitment? GREAT INVESTMENT Real estate has historically risen in value, especially in areas with limited availability. RENTAL INCOME If you choose to rent, you can benefit from additional income. RETIREMENT TEST DRIVE Experience the benefits of retirement ahead of time & see if the reality lives up to the dream. CONVENIENCE Your vacation property allows you to take holidays at the drop of a hat, without the hassle of that extra baggage. UPFRONT FEES A vacation home will very likely cost more than renting. You also have to furnish and decorate. MORTGAGE COSTS Downpayments are often greater (30-35%) as are the interest rates. UPKEEP EXPENSES Just as you do at home, you’ll have to maintain your vacation property. JUSTIFICATION Since you have made the investment you will feel obliged to visit it. Make sure you’ll love it as much as you do right now. NEED SOME ADVICE ON YOUR DECISION?CONTACT ME TODAY!

Posted by Steven Porter. Steven is a licensed Mortgage Agent with Mortgage Architects, Certified Reverse Mortgage Specialist (CRMS); Seniors Real Estate Specialist (SRES) and Accredited Buyer Representative (ABR) and retired, real estate broker with 30 years experience in residential real estate. Steven can be reached at 1-905-875-2582; steven.porter@mtgarc.ca or online at 1800Mortgages.ca . Lic.# 12728