Disclaimer: Kirby is an unlicensed assistant

Mortgage Brokerage 101

My goal is to make the home buying experience less expensive and more enjoyable. You may be asking yourself, “Why do I need a mortgage broker?”. My job as mortgage broker is to help make your home buying experience as easy and affordable as possible. This is made possible through my dealings with a variety of lending institutions. my position as mortgage broker for all Lethbridge and surrounding area housing gives you the ability to enter a bidding environment where lenders compete for your business. The great thing about my service is that I provide you more choices, which means you get more competitive rates for your mortgage. Also, I am not tied to any one lender or range of products. My goal is to assist you in successfully financing your home or property. Let me help you through the Lethbridge housing market so that you can find your new home.

  • More choices means more competitive rates
  • Independent advice on your financial options
  • No cost to you
  • Access to special deals and add-ons
  • Quick and efficient
  • On going support

BUYING A HOME 

A home is one of the most important investments you will ever make. I want to help you protect that investment when finding a safe and comfortable place that your family can call home. If you are purchasing a home, make sure you know what to expect. It is always wise to do a Home Inspection before you buy. A home inspection will provide you a complete understanding of the condition of the house you are planning on buying. Knowing this will give you a better idea of whether or not the home is a worthy investment for you. Here are some things you should look out for when you are looking to buy a new home:

  • Floors leading to slips and trips
  • Gas detection
  • Decks and porches – look for signs of damage
  • Plumbing – copper or PVC pipes are good, lead pipes are bad
  • Electrical system – make sure the electrical panel has been upgraded
  • Insulation – make sure your house is well-insulated
  • Heating – find out what kind of energy is used to heat the home

Your Credit Score 

Your credit score is a summary of most of the types of credits you used and whether you have made your payments on time. The types of credits include credit cards, loans, and financing plans. Your credit history is usually based on the information that is sent to the two credit-reporting agencies in Canada, which are Equifax and TransUnion. When you request a loan, the lenders will usually check your credit history with these agencies, which are also referred to as credit bureaus. Consistent upkeep of your credit score is important when it comes to getting loans. You can build good credit history by consistently making payments on your credit cards and other loans on time. Without a credit history, or if you have a bad credit history, it will be more difficult to borrow money, especially for large amounts like a home mortgage. Here are some of the things you can find on your credit score:

  • How long you’ve had credit
  • Your history of making payments
  • Your outstanding debts
  • Number of recent inquiries about your credit history
  • Types of credit you’re using
  • Any records of bankruptcy or your debts being sent to a collection agency

HOME OWNERSHIP

I can guide you through the Southern Alberta housing market so that you can become a homeowner. Home ownership is a big financial step to take., My goal is to help you get there as quickly as possible.  With all big investments, do some research. Ask me any questions you’d like. The better informed you are about the process and what home ownership entails, the better prepared you will be to take the plunge. I can Help you through your home buying process! Here are a few things that you should take note of to become a homeowner.

  • Know your financial situation – evaluate your current network, review monthly expenses and debt payments
  • Calculate costs – list and calculate upfront costs and other expenses
  • Determine your needs – current and future housing needs, location, features, etc
  • Find the right professionals – real estate professionals, lawyers, home inspectors, etc
  • Close the deal – become new homeowners
  • Budget – budget for mortgage payments, ongoing operating costs and funds