The mortgage industry is incredibly accessible, with minimal requirements to become a licensed agent. Unfortunately, this means many mortgage agents enter the field with limited experience, learning as they go—often at their clients’ expense.
I chose a different path. I spent over a decade working within the banking system, gaining hands-on experience at every level of the mortgage process. I began as a document review specialist, analyzing income and down payment documents, then advanced to underwriter, where I approved, declined, and structured mortgages with specific terms and conditions. Along the way, I helped establish a specialized mortgage department at a major bank and even developed innovative mortgage qualification programs.
This background gives me unique insight into how lenders think, what they prioritize, and how to position applications for success. I also maintain strong personal relationships with lenders, which helps me advocate for my clients effectively.
When you work with me, you’re not just working with someone who understands the application process—you’re working with someone who has seen both sides of the transaction. I leverage my expertise to provide you with informed guidance, tailored solutions, and a seamless experience from start to finish.
Banks focus exclusively on their own mortgage products, which can be limited in variety and often designed to maximize their profits. Their goal is to fit you into one of their pre-designed options, even if it’s not the best fit for your unique needs. With thousands of employees coming and going, it can also be difficult to build a long-term relationship with someone who prioritizes your best interest.
Mortgage agents, on the other hand, have access to a wide range of lenders—many of which are only available through an agent. This allows us to shop around and find a mortgage that’s truly tailored to your situation. We also negotiate directly on your behalf to secure better terms and rates than you may find on your own.
By getting to know you and understanding your unique needs, we provide personalized solutions, no matter how straightforward or complex your case may be. And because we’re not tied to any single lender, you can trust that our advice is unbiased and focused solely on what’s best for you.
One of the biggest advantages of working with us is the ongoing support we provide. Whether your mortgage closed last week or years ago, we’re always here to answer your questions, monitor the market to ensure you’re continually benefiting from the best rates, and adjust your mortgage as your life evolves.
When you work with a mortgage broker, you’re not just securing a mortgage—you’re gaining a partner who’s committed to your long-term financial success.
A fixed rate stays the same throughout the mortgage term, offering stability. A variable rate fluctuates based on market conditions and can save you money if rates drop. There are two types, Adjustable-Rate Mortgages (ARM) and Variable Rate Mortgages (VRM). I’ll help you determine which option aligns with your goals and risk tolerance.
A pre-approval gives you a clear picture of your borrowing power and locks in an interest rate for up to 120 days. It’s essential to know your budget and how much you qualify for so you can shop confidently and show sellers you’re serious. I take it a step further and get you pre-approved on the property you want so that you know exactly how much you’re paying, all in.
First-time homebuyers can benefit from programs like the First-Time Home Buyer Incentive, the Home Buyers’ Plan (HBP), and the Land Transfer Tax Rebate.
You may be eligible to purchase a home with as little as a 5% down payment, provided you meet certain qualification criteria. However, it’s important to consider the potential drawbacks, such as the requirement to pay a mortgage insurance premium. If you’d like to learn more about the requirements and implications, feel free to reach out—I’d be happy to provide more details.
Yes! Lenders often look at different factors for self-employed borrowers, like income stability and business health. There are different categories of self employment as well, with one being “verifiable” and the other being “stated.” In my time with the banks, I developed a program tailored specifically for self employed borrowers. With my deep understanding of these requirements, I’ll help you determine which category you fall under and match you with the right lender for you. Check out my article in the blog section entitled “Mortgage Tips for Self-Employed Borrowers.”
The required documents depend on whether your income is classified as “stated” or “verifiable.” For some borrowers, it may be as straightforward as providing proof of business ownership and a recent Notice of Assessment. However, in other cases, lenders may require more extensive documentation, such as financial statements, business bank statements, and T1 Generals to assess income stability and business performance.
Refinancing can help you consolidate debt, access equity, or secure a better rate. Check out my blog post entitled “The Idea Behind Refinancing” for more information.
Absolutely! Mortgage renewals are a great opportunity to shop around for better rates or terms. You should typically reach out 3 – 4 months to start exploring your options.
Yes! I have experience helping clients with unique situations, such as high-net-worth individuals with foreign income or overseas funds. I work with lenders who understand these complexities but it’s very important to note that these usually come with higher interest rates to offset the additional perceived risk.
While traditional banks may be stricter, there are scores of “alternative” lenders who focus on your overall financial picture, not just your credit score.
Private mortgages are short-term solutions, ideal for clients who need quick approvals or don’t qualify for traditional financing. There are several pros and cons to these, and I would only recommend them in very limited situations.
Closing costs generally include land transfer taxes, legal fees, and other expenses such as your share of property taxes for the year. It’s recommended to set aside approximately 1.5% of the purchase price for these costs. However, the actual amount may vary depending on factors such as location, available rebates, and specific legal fees.
If you opt for a fixed rate mortgage, your payments will stay the same. If you opt for a variable mortgage however, your payments may change. My recommendation to you on type of mortgage will depend on your specific circumstances and risk tolerance. Check out my article entitled “Understanding the 3 Main Types of Mortgages in Canada for more information.
Mortgage rates vary based on the type of mortgage (fixed vs. variable), the length of the term, and your personal financial profile. Lenders also have different rates for insured, insurable, and uninsured mortgages. Your interest rate is only one component of your mortgage. Other factors you need to consider are prepayment penalties, additional fees, portability, and how frequently your interest rate gets compounded.
The mortgage approval process can take anywhere from one day to four weeks, depending on several factors. These include, but are not limited to, the type of mortgage (a standard application usually takes less time compared to a complex situation), the lender’s response time, required documents, and additional requirements such as appraisals and inspections. When we have our initial consultation, I am happy to give you an estimated time based on your application, as well as my experience with the lender we submit your application to.
The best term length for your mortgage depends on your financial goals, risk tolerance, and plans for the future.
The two most popular ways are refinancing and/or taking out a Home Equity Line of Credit (HELOC). Depending on your situation, you may also consider taking out a second or third mortgage, or a reverse mortgage.
Whether it’s worth breaking your mortgage to secure a lower rate depends on your financial situation and the costs associated with breaking the mortgage. Factors to consider include prepayment penalties, current market rates, your remaining term, and other costs such as legal fees and/or appraisals. I can help you run the numbers to see whether breaking your mortgage is worth it.
The down payment required for an investment property typically depends on several factors, including the type of property, its location, and your financial situation. While there are situations where you can qualify for a mortgage on an investment property with less than 20% down, you generally want to plan for a 20% – 35% down payment.
Yes, you can use rental income to help qualify for a mortgage, particularly when you are purchasing a property with rental units or refinancing a property with rental income.
Yes! In fact, some lenders offer special mortgage programs for newcomers, which may have more flexible qualification criteria, including lower down payment options and the ability to use foreign credit history.
Do you still have unanswered questions?
Feel free to ask!
