Finding Certainty in Uncertain Times

Stephanie Barritt • January 22, 2019

If you listen to the radio, watch the news on TV, read the newspaper, go on Facebook, browse the internet, or talk with people, even a little, chances are you've been inundated with uncertainty. The uncertainty of it all is what sells papers... or ads on the internet, because it's not 1996 anymore.

One week the headline will read that the housing market is expected to come crashing down around us any minute, followed by an article that claims we've seen a 20% increase in the average sales price of detached homes. One week it looks like interest rates are gonna go through the roof, the next week everything returns to normal. One week you feel so stupid for not jumping on the Bitcoin train, the next week it's announced that Bitcoin just fell 20%.

So how do you trust what you read? Especially if you're someone who is prone to react to news emotionally. Well, here is some advice.

As far as the mortgage conversation goes, it's pretty straight forward. Is now a good time to buy a home? Well... if you need a place to live, then yes. Let's talk! Should I go fixed or variable? Well... we can talk about that as well. Feel free to contact me anytime, I'd love to help you work through your options.

As far as the housing market is concerned, is it a buyers market, or a sellers market? Well, that depends on where you live. The best advice is to talk with a trusted real estate professional.

As far as your finances are concerned, here is an article on the subject that's worth reading. Managing Uncertaintyby Julia Chung of Spring Financial Planning.

Although this article was written in January of 2018, and the cold is referenced several times, the principles are solid. And if you're too busy to read the article in its entirety, here is the coles notes version in internet meme form:

Said in another way, if you're looking to find certainty in uncertain times, you need a plan. Working with professionals is a great start.

STEPHANIE BARRITT
MORTGAGE EXPERT

CONTACT ME
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By Stephanie Barritt • February 18, 2026
Your Guide to Real Estate Investment in Canada Real estate has long been one of the most popular ways Canadians build wealth. Whether you’re purchasing your first rental property or expanding an existing portfolio, understanding how real estate investment works in Canada—and how it’s financed—is key to making smart decisions. This guide walks through the fundamentals you need to know before getting started. Why Canadians Invest in Real Estate Real estate offers several potential benefits as an investment: Long-term appreciation of property value Rental income that can support cash flow Leverage , allowing you to invest using borrowed funds Tangible asset with intrinsic value Portfolio diversification beyond stocks and bonds When structured properly, real estate can support both income and long-term net worth growth. Types of Real Estate Investments Investors typically focus on one or more of the following: Long-term residential rentals Short-term or vacation rentals (subject to local regulations) Multi-unit residential properties Pre-construction or assignment purchases Value-add properties that require renovations Each type comes with different financing rules, risks, and return profiles. Down Payment Requirements for Investment Properties In Canada, investment properties generally require higher down payments than owner-occupied homes. Typical minimums include: 20% down payment for most rental properties Higher down payments may be required depending on: Number of units Property type Borrower profile Lender guidelines Down payment source, income stability, and credit history all play a role in approval. How Rental Income Is Used to Qualify Lenders don’t always count 100% of rental income. Depending on the lender and mortgage product, they may: Use a rental income offset , or Include a percentage of rental income toward qualification Understanding how income is treated can significantly impact borrowing power. Financing Options for Investors Investment financing can include: Conventional mortgages Insured or insurable options (in limited scenarios) Alternative or broker-only lenders Refinancing equity from existing properties Purchase plus improvements for value-add projects Access to multiple lenders is often crucial for investors as portfolios grow. Key Costs Investors Should Plan For Beyond the purchase price, investors should budget for: Property taxes Insurance Maintenance and repairs Vacancy periods Property management fees (if applicable) Legal and closing costs A realistic cash-flow analysis is essential before buying. Risk Considerations Like any investment, real estate carries risk. Key factors to consider include: Interest rate changes Market fluctuations Tenant turnover Regulatory changes Liquidity (real estate is not easily sold quickly) A strong financing structure can help manage many of these risks. The Role of a Mortgage Professional Investment mortgages are rarely “one-size-fits-all.” Lender policies vary widely, especially as you acquire more properties. Working with an independent mortgage professional allows you to: Compare multiple lender strategies Structure financing for long-term growth Preserve flexibility as your portfolio evolves Avoid costly mistakes early on Final Thoughts Real estate investment in Canada can be a powerful wealth-building tool when approached with a clear strategy and proper financing. Whether you’re exploring your first rental property or planning your next acquisition, understanding the numbers—and the lending landscape—matters. If you’d like to discuss investment property financing, run the numbers, or explore your options, feel free to connect. A well-planned mortgage strategy can make all the difference in long-term success.

Wait! Are You Really Ready to Buy That Home?

By Stephanie Barritt • February 11, 2026
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