Most of us know what calculator to use for that basic mortgage calculation—the amount you pay each month in relation to the home price, your amortization period and term and the prevailing interest rate. But what about those more complex calculations, such as the cost to break your mortgage or the ability to compare three mortgage options while determining your effective interest rate (that’s the... 

A complete schedule of when to do what … and how much it costs When I bought my dream home two years ago, I wasn’t imagining myself standing in my basement, holding an umbrella, watching my husband chase streams of water with a flashlight. But that’s where I ended up. It was the first spring thaw and he was trying to figure out where the leaks were coming from. Clad in his work boots and... 

I live in a town-house and I am about to purchase a detached house. I currently have enough life insurance to cover my townhouse mortgage, but this new home purchase will increase the amount I owe. My bank is recommending mortgage life insurance. Should I take out a policy? Mortgage life insurance is designed to pay off the rest of your mortgage in the event that you or your spouse die with... 

Just because you have condensation or dirt spots inside your window panes doesn’t mean you have to pay for new windows. Save money by re-using the frame and replacing the glass. Replacing windows is an expensive project that not only includes the cost of the window itself, but also the cost of installation (for the less-than-handy homeowner). For that reason, you’ll first want to consider...