537 – The True Cost of Borrowing

537 – The True Cost of Borrowing

Author: Doug Hoyes December 14, 2024 Duration: 31:36

Have you ever stopped to consider the real costs—and sacrifices—of borrowing someone else's money?

Whether it's a mortgage, car loan, or another form of financing, the hidden fees, penalties, and long-term credit impacts can quickly add up. Beyond the numbers, debt can bring stress, limit opportunities, and force tough choices in your personal and professional life.

Doug Hoyes and Ted Michalos provide expert insights to help you confidently navigate borrowing, avoid costly mistakes, and make decisions that protect your finances and peace of mind.

Timestamps:

(1:00) – Get Interested in Your Interest Rates

(3:25) – Understanding Origination Fees and Insurance Costs

(8:05) – Why Doug and Ted Recommend Paying on Time

(10:15) – Prepayment Penalties and Other "Hidden" Fees

(15:10) – Discretionary Spending or Needing to Borrow More

(17:10) – How Borrowing Impacts Your Credit Score

(19:30) – Debt Causes Stress and Limits Opportunities

(21:15) – Why Banks Encourage You to Finance  

(24:00) – Practical Advice – How to Read Your Loan Contract

(26:50) – The Bottom Line: Calculating the Total Cost

(29:00) – Knowing When to Seek Professional Help


Learn more from Hoyes Michalos:

Debt Repayment Calculator

Debt To Income Ratio Calculator

Budgeting Course

Sign Up for Our Newsletter HERE

Smart Borrowing and Loan Management Tips

Hoyes Michalos YouTube Channel

Hoyes Michalos Instagram

Hoyes Michalos Facebook

Hoyes Michalos TikTok

Hoyes Michalos Twitter (X)

Hoyes Michalos LinkedIn

Straight Talk on Your Money by Doug Hoyes

Find a Hoyes Michalos Office in Your Area Here


Disclaimer:
The information provided in the Debt Free in 30 Podcast is for entertainment and informational purposes only and is not intended as personal financial advice. Individual financial situations vary and may require personalized advice from a qualified financial advisor. Always consult with a financial professional. The views expressed in this episode do not necessarily reflect the opinions of Hoyes, Michalos & Associates, or any other affiliated organizations. We do not endorse or guarantee the effectiveness of any specific financial institutions or strategies discussed.


Doug Hoyes sits down each week with a different specialist to untangle the complicated feelings and hard numbers around owing money. The conversations in Debt Free in 30 move beyond simple scare tactics or dry theory, focusing instead on actionable strategies for managing debt, rebuilding savings, and making informed investing choices. You’ll hear from trustees, financial planners, and counselors who explain concepts in plain language, stripping away the industry jargon that often leaves people feeling overwhelmed. Whether it’s navigating a consumer proposal, understanding credit scores, or starting to invest with a tight budget, this podcast provides a clear-eyed look at the steps toward financial stability. Doug’s approach is grounded and pragmatic, reflecting his deep expertise in the field, making each episode feel like a direct consultation with a knowledgeable guide. Tuning in regularly offers a consistent source of demystified advice, turning what can be a stressful topic into a manageable process. It’s that blend of expert insight and relatable conversation that defines this particular personal finance podcast.
Author: Language: English Episodes: 100

Debt Free in 30
Podcast Episodes
577 – How to Break Free from the Minimum Payment Trap [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 30:40
Making only the minimum payment on credit cards may feel manageable, but it's one of the riskiest financial habits for Canadians today. Doug Hoyes and Ted Michalos explain the real math behind minimum payments and share…
574 – Simple Shifts: Ways to Save More and Spend Less [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 30:44
Looking to save more and spend smarter? This episode is packed with practical, expert-backed tips - from insider grocery hacks and avoiding hidden fees to smarter banking strategies. Learn how simple shifts, like opening…
570 – Debt Free in 30: Bloopers & Best Bits! [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 10:41
While we're known for expert debt advice, let's say it's a good thing we're better at being LITs than we are at staying on script! Join us for a compilation of our funniest on-air flubs, the kind of candid moments that u…
568 – Can You Have Good Debt? Debt In Canada Today [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 29:58
Is debt still avoidable, or has borrowing become a fact of life in Canada? Ontario Licensed Insolvency Trustees Doug Hoyes and Ted Michalos answer our questions, share a simple test to assess new debt, and provide an act…
567 – How to Financially Prepare for Canada's Recession [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 30:21
Don't just brace for a recession, prepare to come out stronger. This conversation is about turning Canada's economic uncertainty into an opportunity for financial growth (or, at least, stability). We'll equip you with pr…