Let’s face it – discussing estate planning with your parents might feel about as comfortable as watching a romantic movie scene with them. But unlike your teenage years, this conversation is one you definitely shouldn’t skip. After all, nobody wants to be caught in a messy family situation that could have been avoided with a few candid chats.

So, your great-aunt Mabel left you an unexpected chunk of change. First off, our condolences – and congratulations? (It’s okay to feel both sad and excited – money emotions are complicated!)

Retirement should be a time to relax, enjoy life, and do the things you’ve always dreamed of. But let’s face it—managing your finances after retirement can sometimes feel like a second job. Luckily, consolidating your assets with one financial institution, and one financial advisor, can make life a whole lot easier. Here’s why keeping everything under one roof is the savvy way to go:

Let’s face it—talking about wills and powers of attorney (POA) isn’t exactly the most thrilling dinner table topic. But stick with us! Creating these essential documents isn’t just about creating paperwork; it’s about making sure your family doesn’t have to guess what you would have wanted while juggling life’s curveballs. Plus, wouldn’t you rather call the shots even if you’re not around to say, “I told you so”?

Talking to your kids, or other loved ones, about your estate plan may not be the easiest topic to bring up, but it’s an important step in preparing your family for the future. By being open and transparent, you can help your family understand your wishes, reduce confusion, and promote harmony when it comes time to manage your affairs.

Think estate planning is just for the rich and famous – think again. It’s for anyone who wants to ensure a legacy for their loved ones so there’s no better time than now to get started. And, once it’s done, you’ll have the peace of mind that everything’s sorted.

Here’s a simple step-by-step guide to get you rolling.

Let’s be honest – being named an executor isn’t exactly like winning the lottery. In fact, it’s more like inheriting a part-time job you never applied for. But understanding what this role entails can help you decide whether to accept this honour (or politely decline it).

Creating an estate plan involves working with several professionals to ensure your plan is legally sound, comprehensive, and tailored to your goals. Here’s who you may need to collaborate with:

What’s the Big Deal?

The news coming out of the USA that up to $10,000 of student debt was being eliminated for most students by the government has dominated the news these days as we once again approach the beginning of school.

And it’s no wonder why that’s such a big deal as post-secondary costs continue to rise not just in the USA, but right here in Canada.

With the current low mortgage rates, I am finding a lot of my members have the same question: should I try pay down my mortgage faster, or should I start/continue investing in my future? My answer is always the same: it depends! The reason I cannot give a definitive answer is due to the number of factors that make each of us unique. In this blog, I would like to share some of the factors I consider when giving advice to my members, and I am hoping I am able to help more people make the decision that is right for them.