Get Unbiased Advice: Work with an Independent Mortgage Pro

Jeff Johnson • December 24, 2025

Why Work With an Independent Mortgage Professional?

If you’re in the market for a mortgage, here’s the most important thing to know:

Working with an independent mortgage professional can save you money and provide better options than dealing directly with a single bank.


If that’s all you read—great! But if you’d like to understand why that statement is true, keep reading.


The Best Mortgage Isn’t Just About the Lowest Rate

It’s easy to fall for slick marketing that promotes ultra-low mortgage rates. But the lowest rate doesn’t always mean the lowest cost.


The best mortgage is the one that costs you the least amount of money over time—not just the one with the flashiest headline rate. Things like:

  • Prepayment penalties
  • Portability
  • Flexibility to refinance
  • Amortization structure
  • Fixed vs. variable terms

…can all affect the true cost of your mortgage.


An independent mortgage professional looks beyond the rate. They’ll help you find a product that fits your unique financial situation, long-term goals, and lifestyle—so you’re not hit with expensive surprises down the road.


Save Time (and Your Sanity)

Applying for a mortgage can be complicated. Every lender has different rules, documents, and policies—and trying to navigate them all on your own can be time-consuming and frustrating.

When you work with an independent mortgage professional:

  • You fill out one application
  • They shop that application across multiple lenders
  • You get expert advice tailored to your needs

This means less paperwork, less stress, and more confidence in your options.


Get Unbiased Advice That Puts You First

Bank specialists work for the bank. Their job is to sell you that bank’s mortgage products—whether or not it’s the best deal for you.


Independent mortgage professionals work for you. They’re provincially licensed, and their job is to help you:

  • Compare multiple lenders
  • Understand the fine print
  • Make informed, long-term financial decisions


And the best part? Their services are typically free to you. Mortgage professionals are paid a standardized fee by the lender when a mortgage is placed—so you get expert guidance without any out-of-pocket cost.


Access More Mortgage Options

When you go to your bank, you’re limited to that bank’s mortgage products.

When you go to an independent mortgage professional, you get access to:

  • Major banks
  • Credit unions
  • Monoline lenders (who only offer mortgages)
  • Alternative and private lenders (if needed)

That’s far more choice, and a much better chance of finding a mortgage that truly fits your needs and goals.


The Bottom Line

If you want to:

  • Save money over the life of your mortgage
  • Save time by avoiding unnecessary back-and-forth
  • Access more lenders and products
  • Get honest, client-first advice

…then working with an independent mortgage professional is one of the smartest decisions you can make.


Let’s Make a Plan That Works for You

If you're ready to talk about mortgage financing—or just want to explore your options—I'm here to help. Let's connect and put together a strategy that makes sense for your goals and your future.

Reach out anytime. I’d be happy to help.


Jeff Johnson

Mortgage Expert

GET STARTED

Tips to Pay Off Your Mortgage Early

By Jeff Johnson • February 18, 2026
Owning a home feels great—carrying a large mortgage, not so much. The good news? With the right strategies, you can shorten your amortization, save thousands in interest, and become mortgage-free sooner than you think. Here are four proven ways to make it happen: 1. Switch to Accelerated Payments One of the simplest ways to reduce your mortgage faster is by moving from monthly payments to accelerated bi-weekly payments . Instead of 12 monthly payments a year, you’ll make 26 half-payments. That works out to the equivalent of one extra monthly payment each year, shaving years off your mortgage—often without you noticing much difference in your budget. 2. Increase Your Regular Payments Most mortgages allow you to boost your regular payment by 10–25%. Some even let you double up payments occasionally. Every extra dollar goes directly toward your principal, which means less interest and faster progress toward paying off your balance. 3. Make Lump-Sum Payments Depending on your lender, you may be able to make lump-sum payments of 10–25% of your original mortgage balance each year. This option is ideal if you receive a bonus, inheritance, or other windfall. Applying a lump sum directly to your principal immediately reduces the interest charged for the rest of your term. 4. Review Your Mortgage Annually It’s easy to put your mortgage on auto-pilot, but a yearly review keeps you in control. By sitting down with an independent mortgage professional, you can check if refinancing, restructuring, or adjusting terms could save you money. A quick annual review helps ensure your mortgage is always working for you—not against you. The Bottom Line Paying off your mortgage early doesn’t require a massive lifestyle change—it’s about making smart, consistent choices. Whether it’s accelerated payments, lump sums, or regular reviews, every step you take helps reduce your debt faster. If you’d like to explore strategies tailored to your situation—or want a free annual mortgage review—let’s connect. I’d be happy to help you find the fastest path to mortgage freedom.

Buying a Vacation Property or Rental? Here’s What Lenders Look For

By Jeff Johnson • February 11, 2026
Owning a vacation home or an investment rental property is a dream for many Canadians. Whether it’s a cottage on the lake for family getaways or a rental unit to generate extra income, real estate can be both a lifestyle choice and a smart financial move. But before you dive in, it’s important to know what lenders look for when financing these types of properties. 1. Down Payment Requirements The biggest difference between buying a primary residence and a vacation or rental property is the down payment. Vacation property (owner-occupied, seasonal, or secondary home): Typically requires at least 5–10% down, depending on the lender and whether the property is winterized and accessible year-round. Rental property: Usually requires a minimum of 20% down. This is because rental income can fluctuate, and lenders want extra security before approving financing. 2. Property Type & Location Not all properties qualify for traditional mortgage financing. Lenders consider: Accessibility : Is the property accessible year-round (roads maintained, utilities available)? Condition : Seasonal or non-winterized cottages may not meet standard lending criteria. Zoning & Use : If it’s a rental, lenders want to ensure it complies with municipal bylaws and zoning regulations. Properties that fall outside these norms may require financing through alternative lenders, often with higher rates but more flexibility. 3. Rental Income Considerations If you’re buying a property with the intent to rent it out, lenders may factor the rental income into your mortgage application. Long-term rentals : Lenders typically accept 50–80% of the expected rental income when calculating your debt-service ratios. Short-term rentals (Airbnb, VRBO, etc.) : Many traditional lenders are cautious about using projected income from short-term rentals. Alternative lenders may be more flexible, depending on the property’s location and your financial profile. 4. Debt-Service Ratios Lenders use your Gross Debt Service (GDS) and Total Debt Service (TDS) ratios to determine if you can handle the mortgage payments alongside your other obligations. With investment or vacation properties, lenders may apply stricter guidelines, especially if your primary residence already carries a large mortgage. 5. Credit & Financial Stability Your credit score, employment history, and overall financial health still matter. Since vacation and rental properties are considered higher risk, lenders want reassurance that you can handle the additional debt—even if rental income fluctuates or the property sits vacant. 6. Insurance Requirements Rental properties often require specialized landlord insurance, and vacation homes may need coverage tailored to seasonal or secondary use. Lenders will want proof of adequate insurance before releasing mortgage funds. The Bottom Line Buying a vacation property or rental can be exciting, but financing these purchases comes with extra rules and considerations. From higher down payments to stricter property requirements, lenders want to be confident that you can handle the responsibility. If you’re considering a second property, the best step is to work with a mortgage professional who can compare lender requirements, outline your options, and find the financing that works best for you. Thinking about making your dream of a vacation or rental property a reality? Connect with us today.