As we wrap up 2025, many Canadian homeowners and buyers are taking a moment to review their financial plans—especially when it comes to mortgages. December is always a time for reflection, but this year, the shifting economic landscape has made mortgage planning even more important.

Throughout 2025, we’ve seen greater stability in both fixed and variable mortgage rates. After several years of volatility and rapid adjustments, the market has finally found some balance

December is a month of planning, reflection, and preparation. Whether you’re looking to renew, refinance, purchase, or simply get clarity on your options, now is the perfect time to review your mortgage strategy.

Even if you’re not ready to make a change today, getting informed now sets you up for a stronger position in 2026

Refinancing your mortgage can be a smart way to access the funds you need for home improvements—especially when the renovations are big-ticket items like kitchens, bathrooms, additions, or major repairs.

There are a number of different ways to access your equity.  You can refinance and lock into a new mortgage amount allowing access to funds to complete your renovations all at once or you can also look at adding a Home Equity Line of Credit, only pay on what you use.

If you have solid equity, and want to learn about how your equity can help you achieve your renovation goals, give me a call to talk about your options.

Does rental income help you qualify for a higher purchase price?  Yes! Rental income can increase your buying power and help you qualify for a mortgage more easily. Even if the suite is not currently tenanted, you can still use the rental income to help you qualify. Your Mortgage Broker can help you get pre-qualified using approximate rental income in your application.  This will help you know what purchase price you are able to qualify for when shopping for properties.  Rental income is a great way to help with the mortgage payment and annual costs of home ownership.

If you’re planning to buy a property with a rental suite or invest in real estate, contact your Mortgage Specialist to see how rental income can help you qualify.

Why use a Mortgage Broker?

A Mortgage Broker acts on your behalf between you and potential lenders. Instead of going directly to one bank, a broker shops around on your behalf to find the best deal — saving you time, money, and stress.

There is NO FEE to use a Mortgage Broker, the Lender pays the fee to the Broker.  The only time there may be fees involved is if you are needing alternative or commercial lending, for traditional A lending, there are no fees for the Mortgage Broker to work on your behalf.

A Mortgage Broker also has the ability to think outside the box and access many different products for clients that are self-employed or may have lower credit scores.

Using a Mortgage Broker will help you through the process, from buying your first home, to what to do when your mortgage is up for renewal, even run scenario numbers for investment purchases.

I myself take a lot of pride in being accessible for my clients, always promptly returning phone calls and emails so I can stay in good contact with my clients during the process.  Contact me for any questions you might have regarding mortgages.

Contact me at www.kelownalending.ca or call 250-859-0990