BMO looks to aggressively expand its business in Alberta

CALGARY — BMO Bank of Montreal has created an Alberta and NWT division in Calgary as it seeks to “aggressively” grow its business in the province, the Herald has learned.

Robert Hayes, senior vice-president, Alberta & NWT division, personal and commercial banking for BMO, said the bank will be making a $100-million total investment in the Alberta branch network with new and renovated branches between 2011-2014.

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One bank account per property. No exceptions!!

Let us for the moment assume you have decided to purchase your first (or next) piece of real estate. It is extremely important that you open up a separate chequing account from which all your income and expenses for the property are to be recorded. Many people are reluctant to do so stating they wish to reduce their banking fees and commingle everything into one bank account. Although you may save a few dollars doing this, it potentially exposes you to having to pay thousands in accounting fees should the tax authorities ever decide to audit your property.
The deposits into your account for your rental property may include rent, parking fees, laundry or even vending machine income. Some examples of related withdrawls are insurance, property taxes and a mortgage payment. Doing this will make the accounting for your property very simple and easy for your accountant and others to follow.

Having a master bank account from which any fund transfers into or out of your rental property (or properties) will also simplify matters and keep your business running smoothly.

The true sign of success in real estate accounting is to not hear inquiries from anyone whether it is your accountant or the tax authorities.

BMO Bank of Montreal beats estimates with big increase in Q4, 2012 profit

TORONTO – The Bank of Montreal (TSX:BMO) has reported a big increase in quarterly and annual profit, beating analyst estimates by a wide margin.

For the fourth quarter ended Oct. 31, BMO had a $1.08-billion profit in the fourth quarter, a 41 per cent increase over the same time last year. That amounted to $1.59 per share of net earnings before adjustments.

Read more:  http://tinyurl.com/abbpsw8