Blog, Real Estate
Buying your first home is an exciting milestone, but navigating the mortgage process can feel overwhelming. Here are the top five mortgage tips to make your journey smoother:
1. Check and Improve Your Credit Score
Your credit score plays a significant role in determining your mortgage eligibility and interest rate. Review your credit report for errors, pay off debts, and avoid taking on new loans before applying for a mortgage. A higher credit score can save you thousands in interest over the life of your loan.
2. Understand Your Budget
Before you start house hunting, calculate how much you can afford. Factor in your down payment, monthly mortgage payments, property taxes, insurance, and other expenses. Use online mortgage calculators to estimate payments and work with your lender to determine a comfortable range.
3. Save for a Down Payment and Closing Costs
While some programs allow for low down payments (as little as 5% in Canada), saving more can reduce your mortgage insurance costs and monthly payments. Don’t forget to set aside funds for closing costs, which typically range from 1.5% to 4% of the home’s purchase price.
4. Get Pre-Approved for a Mortgage
A pre-approval letter shows sellers you’re a serious buyer and gives you a clear idea of how much you can borrow. This step also helps streamline the buying process, so you can act quickly when you find the right home.
5. Research and Compare Mortgage Options
Not all mortgages are created equal. Compare fixed vs. variable rates, different term lengths, and lenders to find the best option for your financial goals. Seek advice from a trusted mortgage advisor who can explain the terms and ensure you’re getting the most favorable deal.
Your first home purchase is a significant investment, and having the right mortgage strategy can make all the difference. By following these tips and working with an experienced mortgage professional, you’ll be well on your way to finding your dream home with confidence.
If you’re ready to start your homeownership journey or have questions about mortgages, feel free to reach out, I can provide you great references for mortgage professionals. I’m here to help!
Check out our Vancouver Real Estate Seminars page where we share educational seminars for the first-time homebuyers.
Blog, Community Buzz, Real Estate
Bengali Food Festival is coming to New Westminster this Saturday, January 18, 2025. The event is hosted by BongMilanti – Metro Vancouver Bengali Cultural Association at New Westminster Secondary School.
Flyer Credit: The original flyer was created by SD Ronaldo
The organizers are claiming that it is going to be the biggest Bengali Food Festival in Metro Vancouver, featuring food stalls, dance competition, phuchka (pani puri) competition and cultural experiences.
Neeraj Kumar Real Estate Team is the proud sponsor of this event.
Event Details:
Date & Time: January 18, 2025; 6PM onwards
Location: 820, 6th Street, New Westminster, BC
Registration: Online Registration Required
Blog, Community Buzz
Since 2017, I have had the honor of supporting Friends For Cause Foundation (FFCF), an organization dedicated to restoring the sight of underprivileged individuals in rural India through free eye camps. These camps provide life-changing cataract surgeries to those in need, ensuring that people who would otherwise not have access to treatment can regain their vision—and, in many cases, their independence.
The foundation, led by Yogesh Bhatia, has been running these camps for years, with Yogesh ji himself dedicating months of his time each year to travel to India and oversee this vital work. His passion and commitment are a driving force behind the success of these initiatives, and it’s been heartening to see how many lives have been touched by the organization’s efforts.
How Can You Help?
This year, FFCF is hosting its annual fundraiser on October 26, 2024, at Fraserview Banquet Hall in Vancouver, and I’m inviting the entire Vancouver Indian community to come together in support of this worthy cause.
What makes this event even more impactful is the fact that just $50 is enough to cover the cost of one cataract surgery. That means one ticket purchase can directly help restore sight to one individual. It’s a beautiful way to make a tangible difference in someone’s life.
Why This Matters
Cataract blindness is one of the leading causes of vision loss in India, particularly in rural areas where medical resources are scarce and expensive. For many, a simple procedure can reverse years of blindness, but without access to affordable healthcare, these surgeries remain out of reach. FFCF’s eye camps bring this critical care to those who need it most, and your support can help continue this mission.
The people who benefit from these surgeries are often elderly, and restoring their vision helps them regain their autonomy, allowing them to live with dignity. For others, cataract surgery can mean the ability to work, support their families, and lead fulfilling lives once again. The impact of each surgery extends beyond just the individual—it strengthens families and communities.
Event Details:
️ Date: October 26, 2024
Venue: Fraserview Banquet Hall, Vancouver
Ticket Price: $50 (The cost to restore one person’s vision)
What to Expect: A night of community, celebration, and hope. Enjoy an evening with like-minded individuals committed to making a difference, while learning more about the ongoing work of FFCF.
Let’s Come Together
I encourage the Vancouver Indian Community to join us at this event and become part of a movement that’s changing lives. By purchasing a ticket, you’ll not only enjoy a meaningful evening but also give the gift of sight to someone in need.
Get Your Tickets Today
If you’re unable to attend but still want to support the cause, please consider making a donation. Every contribution, big or small, makes an impact.
Together, let’s help make this year’s fundraiser a success and continue the work of bringing hope, light, and vision to those who need it most.
For tickets and more information, please visit zeffy.com
Blog, Community Buzz
As the founder of India Cultural Association (ICA) Vancouver, I am incredibly proud to have supported the initiative by the Province of British Columbia to create a new museum or cultural centre for Canadians of South Asian heritage. This project is a landmark opportunity to celebrate and preserve the rich history, culture, and contributions of South Asians in B.C., and to build a space where future generations can continue to connect with their roots.
Community Engagement Session Success
Amit Phadke (right in black shirt), President of Marathi Society of British Columbia (MSBC) part of the engagement group. Thanks to his support!
Recently, ICA Vancouver hosted an in-person engagement session on September 29, 2024, bringing together voices from across Metro Vancouver’s South Asian community to share their thoughts on what this nuseum or cultural centre should represent. The session began on a positive and spiritual note with a prayer sung by Neeraja Aptikar, a renowned Hindustani vocalist and music teacher in Vancouver. The turnout was tremendous, with attendees offering heartfelt feedback, ideas, and support for this important initiative.
Neeraja Aptikar, famous vocalist & music teacher from Vancouver area singing Ganesh Strotram at Bridge & Engrich Lives Society where the Community Engagement Session took place on Sunday, September 29th
Abhishek Agrawal, one of the session coordinator addressing a engagement group
Vancouver’s South Asian community members expressed the desire for a space that reflects the diversity within the South Asian diaspora, while also serving as a hub for learning, cultural exchange, and celebration. From traditional arts and music to contemporary experiences, the feedback received will play a crucial role in shaping the future of this centre.
Media Coverage by Global BC
Neeraj Kumar, speaking with Global BC News
The significance of this event was also recognized by the media, with Global BC covering the story to help raise awareness about the initiative and the engagement process. This media spotlight underscores the importance of our collective efforts and helps bring greater visibility to the contributions of South Asians in British Columbia. Click here to watch the video (The video will play after the advertisement)
Next Steps: Your Voice Still Matters!
If you were unable to attend the in-person engagement session, your voice can still be heard. The Province of B.C. is continuing to gather feedback from the community, and you can share your thoughts by submitting them online through the official feedback portal. Your input is vital to ensuring that this cultural centre truly represents the diversity and richness of our heritage. Please click here to submit your feedback online.
Building a Legacy Together
As we move forward in this journey, we invite everyone in the South Asian community—and beyond—to be part of this legacy. Whether through sharing your thoughts online or attending future events, your contributions are key to making this vision a reality. We look forward to working together to create a space that honors our history, celebrates our present, and inspires future generations.
I, Neeraj Kumar personally thank everyone who has supported this initiative so far. Together, we are building something truly special for all Canadians of South Asian heritages in BC.
Blog, Yoga
Join me to celebrate International Day of Yoga (IDY) 2024 on June 23, 2024. I am going to lead a gentle Yoga session for everyBody & all ages at the event below. My yoga classes are aimed to empower you so that you can learn the easy & simple poses to maintain your daily Yoga practice at home on your own pace.
International Day of Yoga 2024 Celebrations in association with ATI Vancouver & Eventival
The event will include an in-person yoga session and nutritional talk Shubakshi Rawla from Nutrify Me who is a R.H.N., certified metabolic balance coach based in Coquitlam, BC.
There is a minimal fee of $5 to register for this session. All proceeds from the event will be donated to the BC Cancer Foundation. You will not only support a good cause by registering the event but will also gain lots of information by attending this session.
Event Details:
Date & Time: Sunday, June 23, 2024: 9am-am
Location: Maillardville Community Centre, Multipurpose Room#1 located at 1200 Cartier Avenue, Coquitlam, BC V3K 2C3
Registration: Click here to register
International Day of Yoga
The International Day of Yoga aims to raise awareness worldwide of the many benefits of practicing yoga. Recognizing its universal appeal, on 11 December 2014, the United Nations proclaimed 21 June as the International Day of Yoga.
Blog, Community Buzz
Come and experience a unique community gathering on June 22, 2022 5:30pm onwards at Bonsor Recreational Complex located at 6550 Bonsor Ave, Burnaby, BC V5H 3G4, very near to Metrotown Mall . “Gram Masala” – The Indian Food Festival organized by Vancouver Odia Association where you will find food from all over India under one roof.
Some of the Indian Food Flavors to expect:
Raghu Biryani – The king of biryanis!
Vada Pav Mirchi – Spice up your life with this Mumbai favorite.
Masala Factory – Home of the most authentic masalas & refreshing Indian Mocktails!
Tiku’s Rasoi – Traditional Gujarati recipes straight from the heart.
The above list is not all, more vendors are getting added, please visit the Facebook Event Page for more updates about this event.
