Mark Panizzon

One of the most common questions I hear from clients is: "Why did mortgage rates change when the Bank of Canada didn't announce anything?" The answer is that not all mortgage rates move for the same reasons. Variable-rate mortgages and fixed-rate mortgages are influenced by different factors, and many of those factors originate well beyond Canada's borders. Understanding how interest rates are determined can help you make better mortgage decisions and avoid reacting to headlines alone. The...

Condominiums can be an excellent entry point into homeownership, offering affordability, convenience, and lower maintenance compared to detached homes. However, buying a condo is very different from purchasing a single-family home. Buyers aren't just purchasing a unit—they're also buying into a corporation, its finances, and its management. As mortgage professionals, realtors, and buyers know, a condo that appears affordable on the surface can quickly become expensive if the corporation is...

Buying a home comes with a lot of excitement — and a lot of expenses. Between the down payment, legal fees, home inspection, and moving costs, the cash can disappear fast. That's where a cash back mortgage can be an appealing option. But like most things in the mortgage world, it's not one-size-fits-all. Let's break it down in plain language. So, What Exactly Is a Cash Back Mortgage? A cash back mortgage is a product offered by some lenders where you receive a lump sum of cash — typically a...