ETown Mortgage Team

The most beautiful and delicious cupcakes for Cathy Broadbent’s 60th birthday.
Thank you Shawna Rhode!

Planning to buy a home or looking to refinance but worried about qualifying while on maternity or parental leave?

We've got great news! Some of our Lenders consider maternity or parental leave income when assessing a mortgage application.

Here's how it works:

1) Income Recognition: Some lenders include your maternity or parental leave benefits as part of your income.
2) Future Earnings: Your return-to-work income can also be factored into the qualification process.
3) Expert Guidance: Our mortgage agents (brokers) will navigate the details and find the best options for your situation.

Ready to explore your mortgage options? Connect with us today and let us help you secure your dream home, even while on leave!

Shopping for a home can be an exciting time. It can also be a bit deflating if you find a property that comes so close, but doesn't quite tick all the boxes. That's where the Purchase Plus Improvement Mortgage comes in.

This type of mortgage allows homeowners to renovate a newly-purchased or refinanced home and roll the cost of the improvement into the balance of the mortgage. Borrowers can benefit from (lower) interest rates associated with a mortgage while enjoying the simplicity of one payment and the added benefit of avoiding additional debt (via higher interest rate options). Build value/equity with your improved space.

Contact us for further information on how this mortgage option works and how you can use it to your advantage!

Ready to Buy Your First Home? We're Here to Help!

Navigating the journey to homeownership can be overwhelming, but you don't have to do it alone. As licensed, independent agents (brokers) we're here to guide you every step of the way.

Here's how we can help:

1) Personalized Guidance: Tailored advice to match your unique needs and financial situation.
2) Access to Multiple Lenders: We shop around to find the best rates and terms for you.
3) First-Time Buyer Programs: We'll help you explore available incentives and programs designed for first-time homebuyers.
4) Expert Support: From pre-approval to closing, we'll be with you to ensure a smooth and stress-free process.

Let's turn your homeownership dreams into reality. Connect with us today and take the first step towards buying your first home!

A mortgage payment is the amount you pay to your lender - often on a biweekly or monthly basis. The payment is comprised of your principal, and interest but may also include your property taxes and/or applicable mortgage insurance premium.

Knowing the payment frequency that works best for you to manage your finances and pay down your mortgage faster is an advantage.

Here’s why it’s important:

- Budgeting: Helps you plan your monthly expenses and avoid financial surprises.
- Interest Savings: Understanding how payments are applied can save you money over time, reducing the amount of time (amortization) it takes to - pay off your mortgage.
- Equity Building: Increases your home equity with each payment, boosting your financial stability.

Need help navigating your mortgage payments? Connect with us today for more information!

Here are 5 Essential Home Maintenance Tips that will help ensure your home is ready to shine all season.

1. Keep Cool & Efficient: Check your air conditioning system and clean or replace filters regularly to ensure it's running smoothly and efficiently. A well-maintained AC not only keeps you comfortable but also helps you save on energy bills!

2. Inspect Your Roof: Summer storms can be fierce, so inspect your roof for any signs of damage, loose shingles, or leaks. Addressing minor issues now can prevent more significant problems down the road.

3. Garden & Landscape Love: Embrace the beauty of your outdoor spaces by pruning bushes, watering plants, and keeping the lawn well-tended. A well-maintained garden adds curb appeal and creates a serene oasis for your summer days!

4. Decks & Patios: Give your decks and patios some TLC by inspecting for any loose boards or nails. Clean and reseal the surfaces to protect against summer sun and rain, so you can fully enjoy outdoor gatherings!

5. Gutters & Downspouts: Ensure gutters and downspouts are clear of debris to prevent water buildup and potential damage to your home's foundation. Proper drainage keeps your home protected during summer storms!

As your trusted mortgage brokerage, we're here to help you make the most of your homeownership journey. These summer home maintenance tips will not only keep your home stay in tip-top shape but also add value and peace of mind!

If you have any questions about mortgage solutions or need advice on homeownership, don't hesitate to reach out. We're here to support you every step of the way, so you can focus on making unforgettable summer memories!

Unlock Your Dream of Canadian Homeownership!

We take immense pride in welcoming foreign buyers to the Canadian real estate market and helping them plant their roots in our beautiful country.

Canada's cultural diversity is what makes our nation truly special. Whether you're an expat, newcomer, or global citizen, we celebrate your presence and are committed to making your dream of owning a home in Canada a reality!

Moving to a new country is an exciting journey, and we are here to guide you every step of the way. Our team of caring and skilled mortgage experts is dedicated to providing attentive support to ensure a smooth and stress-free experience.

We prioritize building lasting relationships with our clients. Your dreams matter to us, and we are dedicated to crafting a customized plan that suits your needs and aspirations.

Connect with us today - let's start this exciting journey together!

Reverse mortgages are often misunderstood and therefore overlooked as a viable and flexible mortgage option for homeowners 55+.

These mortgages are provided by banks who adhere to federal government lending regulations. A reverse mortgage will not erode your equity and is a great way to increase cash flow when there's available equity in the (owned) home.

Alleviate financial burdens, retrofit a home (age in place), provide a living legacy for family members or enjoy much deserved travel.

Talk to us today to learn if a Reverse Mortgage is right for you!

Is your mortgage renewal coming up? It may be the perfect time to make the most of your increased home value and equity. Here’s how a mortgage agent/broker can help:

- Access Equity/Refinance Options: Tap into your home’s increased value for renovations, debt consolidation, or investments; lower monthly payments, shorten your mortgage term or consolidate debt.
- Save Money/Secure Better Rates: We shop multiple lenders to find the most competitive rates and terms.
- Options, options, options! Customized Solutions = unlike the bank, we have access to multiple mortgage products to fit your financial goals and lifestyle.
- Save Time/Reduce Stress: Let us do the heavy lifting and provide you with amazing service.
- Independent Advice: We work for you not the banks!

Even if you started with a bank, we can help you unlock the full potential of your mortgage renewal. Contact us for a no obligation review before signing with your current lender!

Funding your student's post-secondary education can be tough...there’s tuition, housing, transportation, food, and books.

We may not the first person you think of to help with these financial needs; but, we can and might be, the solution you are looking for.

Did you know that you can put down as little as a 5% down payment for a second home/property if an immediate family member (your student) will be occupying the home?

Not looking to purchase a property? No problem. Tapping into your home's available equity via a Home Equity Take Out (Refinance) could be the answer to unlock needed funds to help with your child/children's post-secondary costs.

Talk to us today about these solutions and more!

Are you New to Canada?

We understand it’s a mix of excitement and challenges. There is a lot to do to get settled into a new country - there are bank accounts, jobs to find, a place to call your home. The Government of Canada has free services that are designed to help you transition seamlessly into your new life. And we are here to help you prepare for the purchase of your first Canadian property.

Explore the government page for valuable resources to help you: https://www.canada.ca

🔍 Find a job
🏥 Access health care
🗣️ Improve language skills

We can help you with your mortgage options including the New to Canada Program and get you settled into your new home. Contact us to have all your questions answered including:

Expenses related to home ownership
Saving for a down payment
Understanding your eligibility to purchase
How much house you can afford
Mortgage pre-approval
Your mortgage options

We’re here to support you every step of the way. Let’s make your Canadian journey a successful one!

To many, the terms "mortgage broker (agent)" and "bank specialist" might seem synonymous, but they actually represent distinct roles. When considering homeownership, understanding these differences can be crucial in finding the right mortgage for you:

Mortgage Agents (Brokers) are provincially licensed and must comply with all provincial and federal regulations. We work with an independent firms (brokerages), giving us access to a wide range of rates and mortgage options that you might not find through a single bank. Our lenders include chartered banks, credit unions, trust companies, monoline and alternative lenders, as well as commercial lending and private financing.

In contrast, a bank specialist is an employee of one lender, dedicated to promoting that institution's products. They do not need to be licensed.

Curious about the benefits of working with a Mortgage Agent (Broker)? Contact us today – we're here to help you find the best mortgage for your unique needs.

Getting ready to apply for a mortgage?

Here’s a quick checklist of essential documents you’ll need to provide:

Proof of Income (pay stubs, tax returns)
Employment Verification
Bank Statements
Proof of Assets (investments, savings)
Photo ID

Having these documents ready can streamline your application and help you secure the best mortgage options.

Need more details? Connect with us today!

The New to Canada Program provides those who have immigrated or relocated to Canada with the opportunity to purchase a home.

You are considered a New to Canada home buyer if you:

are a permanent resident of Canada or have a valid working permit
have immigrated or relocated to Canada within the last 60 months

We can help you navigate the Canadian mortgage process. Contact us for more information!

Our mission is to equip you with the knowledge, support, and confidence needed to make informed decisions about your mortgage.

With our guidance, you'll feel empowered to navigate the complexities of the home buying journey with ease.

From understanding mortgage options to securing the best rates, we're here to guide you - let's work together to turn those dreams into reality!

An important piece to remember regarding verifying your down payment, is to keep funds in your account for a minimum of 90 days prior to making an offer on a home/getting your pre-approval.
Any deposits/transfers into your account over $1,000 will require additional verification/explanations, even if you move money between accounts, 90 days from all accounts involved will be required to verify your down payment for your purchase.

We are here to walk you through your home buying journey!

The rise of remote work is transforming the housing market, giving homebuyers more flexibility in choosing where to live and how to finance their homes.

With the freedom to work from anywhere, you can explore mortgage options that cater to your new lifestyle, from suburban retreats to rural havens.

A mortgage agent (broker) can help you navigate these trends and find the perfect mortgage solution tailored to your needs. Explore how these trends can work to your advantage.

Connect with us to find the perfect mortgage for your lifestyle!

In a changing market, refinancing your mortgage can be a game-changer.

Whether you're looking to lower your monthly payments, shorten your loan term, or tap into your home equity, now is the perfect time to explore your options.

Our team of experts is here to guide you through the process and help you find the best refinancing strategy tailored to your needs.

Don't miss out on potential savings — let's get started today!

A condominium mortgage differs from a traditional mortgage, often requiring additional steps such as reviewing condo documents and any pending special assessments. Ensure you consult with your real estate and mortgage agent (broker) to allocate sufficient time to meet all conditions.

If you’re considering condo living, we’re here to guide you through the process and support you throughout your financing journey.

Connect with us today to get started!

With the Bank of Canada’s recent rate drop, now could be a great time to lock in a favorable rate and protect yourself from potential increases. This move can provide financial stability and peace of mind as you move through the purchase or mortgage (renewal) process.

Not sure where to start? Talk to a licensed, independent Mortgage Agent (Broker) to ensure you’re making the best choices for your situation.

Connect with us today to take advantage of today’s lower rates!

Wondering if now is the right time to invest in a rental property?

Planning ahead is essential to determine the best course of action for your investment goals. We are here to guide you through the process. We work closely with you to uncover the mortgage solution that best fits your unique situation.

Whether you’re a first-time investor or looking to expand your portfolio, we have the expertise and access to various lending options to support your journey.

Don’t leave your investment to chance. Connect with us today to get started on your pre-approval!

Your pre-approval is contingent on approval from both the lender and, if applicable, an insurer. Final approval and commitment to fund your mortgage can only be given once a specific property is identified.

For a purchase: this means the property details are provided after you have an accepted Offer to Purchase (Purchase Agreement), where both the buyer and seller have agreed on the terms. This is why it's crucial to include a finance condition in your Offer (your property also needs to be approved before mortgage funds are released).

For a refinance: while the property is already known, it must still meet the lender's criteria, usually confirmed through an appraisal.

Remember, a pre-approval is just the first step. Full approval requires that both you and your chosen property meet the necessary requirements.

We're here to guide you through the entire process. Let's get started today!

When you work with a Mortgage Agent (Broker), you partner with an independent, licensed professional who has extensive access to a wide range of lending options and up-to-date knowledge of current lending and regulatory practices.

We collaborate with banks, credit unions, trust companies, mono-line lenders, alternative lenders, commercial lenders, and private funds.

This broad access/knowledge increases your chances of finding the perfect mortgage solution and lender that match your needs at competitive market rates.

Contact us today for more valuable tips and lending advice!

Life changes, and so do our financial needs. Maybe your household income has increased and you’re looking for ways to pay off your mortgage faster. Alternatively, a job loss, illness, or new family member might prompt the need for a manageable payment schedule.

Whatever the changes, we’re here to help!

We work with you to understand your situation, and assist you in navigating your options - mid-term or at renewal. Let's dive into the details together.

Unlike the bank, we have access to numerous lending options which means you have the added value of choice, as well as an increased chance of getting approved.

Contact us today to get started!

Wondering about the cost of using a mortgage broker? Here's the scoop:

Good News: Using a mortgage agent (broker) is generally free for you, the borrower.

How It Works: We are typically paid by the lender (some exceptions include alternative/private loans apply). Get expert independent advice.

Whether you're a first-time homebuyer, investor, or refinancing an existing mortgage, partnering with us can streamline the journey and help you achieve your financial goals.

Working with a licensed mortgage agent (broker) not only saves you time and effort but also provides several additional benefits. As licensed professionals we act as intermediaries between you and lenders, offering expert guidance and personalized assistance throughout the mortgage process. By leveraging our expertise and industry connections, we can often secure better terms and interest rates than if you were to navigate the process alone. From assessing your financial situation to submitting applications and negotiating on your behalf, we handle the legwork, allowing you to focus on other priorities with peace of mind. Whether you're a first-time homebuyer or refinancing an existing mortgage, partnering with us can streamline the journey and help you achieve your financial goals.

Did you know a home's value is determined by features like its square footage, location, age, quality, and the number of bedrooms and bathrooms?

Remember, a property’s value isn't constant—it reflects its worth in the current market compared to similar properties. Renovations, neighbourhood developments, and changes in the housing market can all influence this value.

When applying for a mortgage, the lender will ask for the property value. That's where a professional home appraisal comes in! It's a crucial step in the real estate and mortgage process, benefiting both buyers and lenders by providing an accurate, unbiased property valuation.

If your home appraisal doesn’t support the mortgage amount you require, don’t worry. Working with a licensed mortgage agent (broker) and real estate agent will assist you in a path forward and/or provide alternative options.

Renewing your mortgage? Don't fall into these common traps!

Here are 5 mistakes to steer clear of:

1 - Missing the Renewal Deadline
2 - Not Shopping Around for Better Rates
3 - Forgetting to Review Your Terms and Conditions
4 - Ignoring Changes in Your Financial Situation
5 - Overlooking the Fine Print 6 - Not speaking with a licensed mortgage agent (broker)

Remember, a mortgage agent (broker) is essential to ensuring you make the most of your mortgage renewal. We can help you navigate the process, find the best rates, and avoid costly mistakes. Don't hesitate to reach out for expert guidance!

Your credit score is a crucial factor in determining whether you'll be approved for a mortgage. It signals your financial health and provides a snapshot of your credit history, showing lenders how credit worthy you are.

Steps to Build and Improve Your Credit Score:

Start Early: Apply for a credit card and use it responsibly to build a credit history.
Pay On Time: Always pay your bills in full and on time. If you can't, at least pay the minimum required.
Manage Debt: Pay off your loans, credit cards, and lines of credit as quickly as possible.
Keep Balances Low: Stay within your credit card limits and keep your balances low. Limit Credit Applications: Avoid applying for more credit cards or loans than you can manage. Speak to a licensed mortgage professional before opening or closing accounts if you are thinking of acquiring a mortgage.

Building a good credit history boosts your chances of mortgage approval. We work with all types of credit scores - contact us today for more information!

Did you know your mortgage payment influenced by these 4 factors?

Amount Owing: The more you borrow, the higher your required payment will be.
Interest Rate: A higher interest rate means more interest paid on the mortgage loan during the term of the mortgage.
Payment Frequency: Paying more frequently reduces the amount owed as any extra payments beyond your loan payment amount goes directly to your principal borrowed, reducing the interest paid and amortization period (how long you are set to pay to zero).
Amortization Period: Longer amortization leads to lower payments but increases total interest paid over the mortgage's lifetime.

Knowing these factors empowers you to make informed decisions about your mortgage.

Contact us today for more valuable tips and mortgage advice!