The Mortgages With Marlee Blog

Mortgage Renewal in 2026 | Tips and Strategies

By Marlee Shimoda December 22, 2025

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)

By Marlee Shimoda November 24, 2025

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

By Marlee Shimoda October 27, 2025

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…

Can I Buy a Home if I Don’t Have 20% Down in Canada?

By Marlee Shimoda September 24, 2025

What is the difference between 5% and 20% down payment Canada? In my last blog post, 5 Steps to Mortgage Pre-Approval , Step 3 highlighted the importance of understanding down payment options in Canada. Here we are going to dive a bit deeper into what to consider when saving for your down payment. A common misconception with Canadian mortgage down payments…