Let’s talk mortgages, clearly.

For the vast majority of residential mortgage applications, our services are 100% free for you: the chosen lender pays us once your mortgage is finalized. For certain alternative or private loans, fees may apply. They are always disclosed clearly and in writing before you make any decision.

Not at all, it’s a common situation for first-time buyers. Below 20%, your mortgage must be insured against default (CMHC, Sagen or Canada Guaranty). The premium is added to your mortgage. However, the 9% Québec tax on the premium is payable in cash at the notary. On the plus side, insured mortgages often get the best rates.

An initial conversation and an estimate have no impact on your credit report. A credit check is only done with your authorization, at the full analysis stage, and one single check lets us present your application to several lenders. Instead of multiplying applications at different banks, you protect your score.

No, it’s the perfect time to talk! Most lenders let you hold a rate a few months before maturity. Starting early lets us review your options without pressure, watch rates and lock in the best offer at the right time. Sometimes an early renewal is even worthwhile.

A fixed rate stays the same for the whole term: your payments are predictable. A variable rate follows the lender’s prime rate, which moves with Bank of Canada decisions: it can go down or up during the term. The penalty for breaking the mortgage is usually much lower with a variable rate (3 months’ interest).

For an owner-occupied property: 5% on the first $500,000, then 10% on the portion between $500,000 and $1.5M. From $1.5M, the minimum is 20%. For an owner-occupied 3–4 unit plex, plan for at least 10%, and 20% for a pure rental property.