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The Hidden Costs of Holding Onto Your Home Too Long

In this episode, we’re diving into a tough but important topic: the real cost of holding onto a home longer than you should. Many homeowners—especially downsizers and seniors—struggle with the decision to move because of memories, fear of change, or simply not knowing where to start.

But what’s the real cost of staying? We’ll break down the financial, emotional, and lifestyle impact of keeping a home that no longer fits your needs. From skyrocketing maintenance costs to the stress of managing a large space, we’ll explore why waiting too long can actually be more expensive and overwhelming.

Plus, I’ll share practical tips to help you decide when it’s time to move—and how to make the transition easier. If you’ve been wondering whether it’s time for a fresh start, this episode is for you!

Spring Market Readiness: Should You List Now or Wait?

March is here, and spring is knocking on our doors—literally and in the real estate market! If you’re a downsizer, a senior thinking about your next chapter, or just wondering if now’s the right time to sell, this episode is for you.

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Nailed It or Failed It? 🏗️🔨 The Real Costs of Pre-Construction You Didn’t See Coming

Pulling back the curtain on the true financial realities of buying pre-construction properties in Toronto and the GTA. While glossy brochures and model suites make these projects look like a dream come true, the hidden costs and risks often tell a different story.

Breaking down both the wins and pitfalls of pre-construction buying. On the upside, buyers get flexible deposit structures, modern layouts, and potential property value growth. But the downside? Premium prices per square foot, unpredictable construction delays, hefty development fees, and closing costs that can leave your budget reeling.

Things get even more complicated when appraisals come in lower than expected. Jacqueline explains what happens when lenders won't cover the amount you were initially approved for and how buyers often face five- or six-figure cash shortfalls. She also dives into the risks of walking away, including deposit forfeitures and potential lawsuits from builders.

Sharing practical tips on how to protect yourself—like capping closing fees, vetting builders, and preparing for financial surprises.

Whether you're considering buying pre-construction or just want to make smarter property decisions, this episode is packed with valuable insights to help you avoid costly mistakes.

Key Takeaway: Pre-construction isn’t just about fancy finishes—it’s about understanding the fine print and planning for the unexpected.

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✨ Energy is all around us — but how often do we pause long enough to feel it?

I’m so excited you’re here today. I recently had the privilege of hosting a beautiful live Reiki session with the incredible Veronica (@vsreikimaster36), and let me tell you, it was absolutely magical.

Energy is all around us, even when we can’t see or touch it. And if we just take a minute to shut off all the distractions, breathe deeply, and allow ourselves to be fully present, something amazing can happen — we can reconnect with ourselves on a whole new level.

This session with Veronica was a powerful reminder of that. Whether you’re curious about energy healing or simply need a peaceful reset, this episode is for you. Veronica guided us through calming techniques and shared insights on how Reiki can help release stress, promote balance, and create a more profound sense of peace.

If you missed the live session, don’t worry — you can catch the replay right here. And if you're ready for a deeper experience, you can always book your own private session with Veronica. Trust me, it’s so worth it.

So find a quiet spot, get comfy, and let’s dive into this beautiful and grounding experience. You won’t want to miss it!

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Clear the Clutter, Ditch the Debt, and Conquer the Market

In this episode, we're diving into three game-changing topics to help you simplify your life, take control of your finances, and easily navigate the real estate market. Here's what's in store:

1. Breaking Up with Clutter
   Is your home overflowing with "stuff" you don't need? We'll explore how letting go of clutter can bring clarity, peace, and freedom, whether you're downsizing, organizing, or starting fresh. Let's make room for the life you truly want.
2. Living Debt-Free
   Imagine waking up without the stress of debt. We'll guide you through a step-by-step plan to break free, build smarter habits, and create a financial future full of freedom and opportunity. Say goodbye to debt and hello to peace of mind.
3. Toronto & GTA Real Estate Update
   The market is shifting are you ready? Get the latest insights into the real estate trends shaping Toronto and the GTA. Whether you're buying, selling, or investing, we'll help you understand what's happening and how to make smart decisions.

This episode is packed with actionable advice and insights to help you clear the clutter, ditch the debt, and conquer the real estate market. Let's make this your year of transformation!

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💡 Tipping Talk: When Did Takeout Become a Tip Trap? 🍟💸

We're diving into the changing world of tipping. Is discretionary still discretionary, or is tipping for takeout the new norm? Let's discuss it!

This episode of Tipping the Hot Topic explores the shifting expectations surrounding tipping culture. Gone are the days when tipping was reserved for sit-down dining. Now, even takeout orders require a gratuity.

So... what is the jist

• Why has tipping culture expanded?
• The psychology behind those point-of-sale screens nudging you to tip.
• How these new norms impact customers and workers alike.

Are these tipping trends here to stay, or is it time to push back? Grab a coffee (and maybe leave a tip!) while we chat about this hot-button issue. 🎙️

4o

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Welcome to Elementary!

Today, I’m diving into two topics that hit close to home for so many of us. First, we’ll talk about managing your budget because times are changing, and knowing how to save and spend wisely is essential. What better time to get started than right now, at the beginning of the year? Then, we’ll shift gears and talk about beating the winter blues because let’s face it: the coldest months are here, and resetting our mindset is more important than ever.

Part 1: Times Are Changing – Let’s Talk Budgets

I work with clients at all stages of life, and their goals often vary. Some are just starting out and wondering:

• How do I start saving for a house?
• What’s the first step toward building a secure financial future?

Then, I meet others who are further along in their journey and want to know:

• How do I get as close to mortgage-free as possible?
• Can I downsize or right-size to create a simpler, stress-free lifestyle?

The truth is that creating your ideal lifestyle doesn’t have to mean giving up everything you love. But it does require making intentional choices. It’s not about struggle versus luxury; it’s about finding balance. Ask yourself:

• What’s most important to me?
• Where can I adjust my spending to align with my goals?

Small changes can lead to big results. Whether it’s skipping the daily coffee run or reevaluating subscription services, managing your money doesn’t have to feel overwhelming. It’s about clarity, not sacrifice.

Part 2: Beating the Winter Blues

Now, let’s talk about winter. The cold months can be tough—short days, long nights, and sometimes, a drop in energy. But we can flip the script with a few simple steps:

• Get moving. Bundle up and take a brisk walk. Fresh air does wonders for your mood.
• Create cozy routines. Light a candle, grab a warm drink, and read a good book. Small rituals can make all the difference.
• Stay connected. Call a friend or plan a get-together. A little laughter can brighten even the gloomiest day.
• Reset your goals. Take this time to reflect on what you want for the year ahead. A clear plan brings purpose, even on the coldest mornings.

Final Thoughts

You don’t have to choose between financial stability and enjoying life—you can have both with the right mindset and plan. And as we navigate the winter months, let’s focus on keeping our spirits high and our goals front and center.

So grab a cup of tea, settle in, and let’s talk about making choices that lead to a better, brighter future.

Until next time, stay warm, stay focused, and remember: you’ve got this!

4o

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NEW YEAR, NEW YOU!

In this episode, I kick off 2025 with an exciting guest, @baileymacnamara, a fitness coach known for her empowering and welcoming approach to health and wellness. We dive into her philosophy of making fitness accessible to everyone and the importance of creating a supportive space for all.

Bailey also shares some exciting news—she’s launching a brand-new course designed for those who may not be ready for one-on-one coaching but still want to start their fitness journey. We discuss what inspired her to create this course, how it works, and why it’s the perfect way to ease into a healthier lifestyle.

If you’re looking for motivation, tips on starting your fitness journey, or just some great conversation about wellness, this is an episode you won’t want to miss!

Key Topics:

• Building confidence in fitness
• Bailey’s philosophy on making fitness approachable
• Busting Myths Around Weight Lifting
• Details about her new course
• How to take the first step toward your goals

Tune in now and start 2025 strong!

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Unlock the Secret: Should You Add a Co-Borrower to Your Canadian Mortgage?

Are you thinking about adding someone to your mortgage? This episode discusses the benefits, potential risks, and legal implications of making this decision in Canada. We also discuss the impact on liability, credit, and ownership, what happens if the other person passes away, and how to remove their name from the mortgage. Tune in to learn how to protect yourself and make informed choices when sharing financial responsibility for your home.

Navigating the Real Estate Market as a Downsizer
In this episode, we explore how downsizers can confidently navigate the real estate market in Canada. We cover everything from setting clear goals to understanding your timing, exploring housing options like condos or bungalows, and working with the right experts to make the process stress-free. Whether you’re looking to simplify your lifestyle, cut costs, or find a home that suits your needs, this episode is packed with practical tips and insights to help you make informed decisions.

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