It's a new year which can only mean one thing: Merry Debtmas!

Todd and Clinton discuss the challenges of home ownership and financial planning in this time of rising costs and inflation. Clinton emphasizes the importance of financial literacy and planning, noting that 60% of Canadians are facing mortgage renewals with potentially strained finances. 

They highlight the necessity of having a fallback plan, such as savings, and the benefits of tools like the First Home Savings Account and TFSAs. The conversation also touches on the dream of home ownership, the impact of lifestyle choices on financial health, and the role of government policies in supporting home buyers.

Mario Cloutier from Manulife joins Clinton Wilkins and Dan Ahlstrand again to discuss risk coverage for borrowers who are looking to build and the high cost of construction today. The three wrap the show by taking a listener's call, answering the questions he had on the subject of creditor insurance. 

Clinton Wilkins and Dan Ahlstrand are joined again by Manulife's Mario Cloutier. They discuss the types of insurance coverage borrowers should look into as they move through different phases of life. The three also field a range of call-in questions from Mortgage 101 listeners. 

Dan Ahlstrand and Clinton Wilkins are joined by Mario Cloutier, from Manulife, to discuss how to keep your finances protected. Cloutier advises that insurance premiums are often affordable and can be maintained at a fixed rate throughout the mortgage term, recommending both creditor and life insurance for comprehensive protection.

Clinton Wilkins and Dan Ahlstrand talk about financial literacy, highlighting the importance of understanding finances beyond just bank balances, noting that Canadians are at an all-time high of 180% debt-to-income ratio.

Dan Ahlstrand and Clinton Wilkins discuss the changing landscape of income and housing in Nova Scotia. They focus on the recent federal government announcements allowing up to 90% home equity borrowing for secondary suites.

Chris Johnson from Sagen joins us on Mortgage 101 to discuss the importance of high-ratio mortgage insurance, which allows buyers to access homeownership with as little as 5% down, making it more affordable for Canadians. 

Derek Bellefontaine, Real Estate Appraiser, with Mari Tech joins us as our guest to discuss the role of appraisers in valuing homes, which is crucial for purchasing, refinancing, and separations.

Special host Dan Ahlstrand joins Clinton Wilkins to kick off Financial Literacy Month, emphasizing education on income, assets, and credit. 

Clinton Wilkins reflects on this year's discussions of the impact of interest rate cuts on consumers, noting that rates have declined by 0.25% and are predicted to reduce further by 125 to 175 basis points by the end of next year. This could potentially bring prime rates to around 4%. Clinton also highlights the importance of being organized and prepared for real estate transactions, emphasizing the need for flexibility and the right professionals.