The Mortgages With Marlee Blog
The Hidden Costs of Buying a Home | What to keep in mind
Saving for a down payment is a huge milestone—but it’s not the only expense you’ll need to plan for when buying a home. One of the biggest surprises for many first-time home buyers is discovering the hidden costs of buying a home. While these expenses aren’t exactly “hidden,” they’re often overlooked until you’re well into the purchase process. The good news?…
Mortgage Financing | Needs for Seniors in Alberta
Seniors in Alberta often have different mortgage financing needs than younger borrowers. As people retire, their income sources change and their financial priorities shift. Many seniors are not looking to upgrade homes, but instead want stability, flexibility, or ways to access the equity they have built in their homes. 1. Accessing Home Equity Without Selling The most common need among…
What Credit Score Do You Need for a Mortgage in Canada? | 2026 Guide
If you’re thinking about buying a home, one of the first questions that usually comes up is: “What credit score do you need for a mortgage in Canada?” The good news is that there isn’t a single magic number, but your credit score does play a big role in how easily you can qualify, what lenders offer you, and how much interest you’ll…
Fixed vs Variable Mortgage Canada | Which Is Better in 2026?
Happy spring! If you’re trying to decide between a fixed vs variable mortgage in Canada, you’re not alone. Whether you’re buying, renewing, or refinancing, this is one of the biggest decisions you’ll make. It’s one of the most common questions I get and in 2026, it’s not always a straightforward answer! With interest rates still shifting, the right choice really comes down…
Pre-Approval vs Pre-Qualification | What You Need to Know in Canada
If you’re thinking about buying a home, you’ve probably come across the terms pre-qualification and pre-approval. Understanding pre-approval vs pre-qualification in Canada is an important first step and it can make your home buying experience a whole lot smoother (and less stressful). Let’s walk through what each one means, how they differ, and which one actually makes sense for you…
How Much Home Can I Afford? | Canada
If you’re thinking about buying your first home in 2026 and wondering, “How much home can I afford?” Like, actually afford, then you are asking yourself the right question! Not just what the bank might approve you for — but what fits comfortably into your real life. If you’re wondering how much home can I afford in Canada, you’re not alone.…
Should You Break Your Mortgage to Get a Lower Rate? | Mortgage Tips for Canadians
If you’ve found yourself thinking, “Mortgage rates seem more manageable than they were a year or two ago — should I break my mortgage to save?” you’re not alone. Many Canadian homeowners (especially first-time buyers) are watching rate movements closely and wondering if now is the time to make a switch. But before you pick up the phone and call…
Mortgage Renewal in 2026 | Tips and Strategies
If your mortgage renewal in 2026 feels far away, you’re definitely not alone. But here’s something many homeowners don’t realize: the best mortgage renewal 2026 decisions usually happen long before your term actually ends. December is a natural time to slow down, reflect on the year, and start thinking about what you want the next few years to look like. As you sit…
5 Common Mortgage Mistakes (And How to Avoid Them)
Buying your first home is exciting, but it can also feel overwhelming. One small mortgage misstep can cost you thousands, which is the last kind of surprise anyone wants. To help you feel prepared and confident, here are the most common mortgage mistakes first time home buyers Canada should watch out for and how you can avoid them. Mistake #1:…
5 Steps for Mortgage Pre-Approval in Canada
Securing a mortgage pre-approval in Canada can sound like an intimidating task. But trust me, it doesn’t have to be! A pre-approval is the best way to determine how much you can comfortably afford. Below is a simple mortgage approval checklist on how to get mortgage pre-approval Canada. Mortgage Approval Checklist 1. Collect Your Financial Information Your financial information helps…