Improving your credit score doesn’t have to be confusing. Small changes can create big results when you know what to focus on. Let’s make it simple 👇 1️⃣ Have at least 2 active tradelines Lenders want to see you can manage more than one account responsibly. This usually means 2 credit cards OR a card + line of credit. ✔️ limits of at least $2,000 each ✔️ use them monthly ✔️ pay them on time 2️⃣ Make every payment on time Payment history is the biggest part of your score. Even one missed bill can cause a major drop. ✔️ set reminders or autopay ✔️ always pay at least the minimum 3️⃣ Limit credit checks Too many hard inquiries signal risk to lenders. This lowers your score and can block approvals. ✔️ avoid store card offers ✔️ avoid applying for multiple loans at once 4️⃣ Keep balances under 50% of your limit High utilization hurts your score even if you make payments. Under 30% is ideal — under 20% is even better. ✔️ pay mid-month AND end-of-month ✔️ use credit only for predictable bills 5️⃣ If you miss a payment, fix it fast Your score recovers faster when you catch up quickly. Lenders look at patterns, not perfection. ✔️ make the payment immediately ✔️ resume on-time payments going forward 6️⃣ Each partner needs their own credit If one person has all the accounts, the other has no history. That becomes a problem when applying jointly. ✔️ make sure joint accounts report for both ✔️ both partners should have 1–2 active accounts 7️⃣ Never exceed your limit Going over-limit is a major warning sign for lenders. It signals financial strain and poor credit management. ✔️ stay under your limit ✔️ request a higher limit if needed 💬 Final Thought Strong credit is built through simple habits done consistently — not complicated tricks. If you want help boosting your score before applying for a mortgage, message The Frontline Mortgage Group anytime. 💬

Your credit score plays a major role in what type of mortgage you qualify for — and the interest rate you get. ‎ But here’s the good news: your credit score can always be improved. ‎ Here’s how 👇 ‎ ‎ 🔎 1️⃣ Stop applying for new credit unnecessarily ‎ Every time you apply for credit, a hard inquiry hits your report. ‎ Too many inquiries — especially within 6 months of applying for a mortgage — can drag your score down. ‎ Hard checks can stay on your report for up to 3 years, so avoid unnecessary applications, especially right before mortgage qualification. ‎ ‎ 💳 2️⃣ Keep your balances low (ideally under 30%) ‎ If your credit cards are constantly maxed out, your score suffers. ‎ Aim to keep balances: ✔️ under 30% of the limit (good) ✔️ under 20% (even better) ‎ Make regular payments to slowly reduce your utilization. Then switch daily spending to debit to avoid building balances back up. ‎ ‎ ⏰ 3️⃣ Pay EVERYTHING on time ‎ Late payments on any bill can hurt your score — including: ✔️ cell phone bills ✔️ internet bills ✔️ utility bills ‎ Payment history is the #1 factor in your score. Never miss due dates. ‎ ‎ 🧾 4️⃣ Use your credit cards regularly (but responsibly) ‎ Even if you don’t like using credit, you should still use each card every few months. ‎ Why? Because if a card isn’t used, it may stop reporting and won’t help your score. ‎ Just use it for a small purchase and pay the full balance right away. No interest. No risk. Positive reporting. ‎ ‎ 🛠️ 5️⃣ Consider a secured credit card to rebuild credit ‎ If your score is damaged or you’re starting from scratch, a secured credit card is a great tool. ‎ You put down a deposit, and the lender gives you a matching credit limit. Since they take no risk, approval is easy — and it reports just like a normal card. ‎ Used properly, it’s one of the fastest ways to rebuild credit. ‎ ‎ 💬 Need help improving your score before applying for a mortgage? Message The Frontline Mortgage Group anytime. We’ll walk you through what to fix — and how to boost your score in the most efficient way.

Life happens — and sometimes finances take a hit. Whether it’s a consumer proposal or bankruptcy, it doesn’t mean homeownership is off the table forever. ‎ With the right strategy, you can rebuild, re-qualify, and get approved again. Here’s how 👇 ‎ ‎ 💡 You’re not alone ‎ Many Canadians go through financial hardship. What matters is how you rebuild — and the good news is that lenders do work with clients who have had proposals or bankruptcies. ‎ As mortgage professionals, we: ✔️ protect your credit ✔️ negotiate with multiple lenders ✔️ match you with institutions that specialize in recovery mortgages ✔️ help rebuild your profile strategically ‎ ‎ 📌 If you’ve had a consumer proposal ‎ Here’s the upside: You’ve already developed the discipline of making consistent monthly payments — which is the same skill needed for mortgage responsibility. ‎ After a proposal, you can: ✔️ continue saving to build a down payment ✔️ begin re-establishing credit ✔️ use secured credit cards to rebuild ✔️ qualify again once enough credit history is restored ‎ If you already own a home, some lenders will even allow you to refinance to: ✔️ pay out your consumer proposal early ✔️ reduce monthly obligations ✔️ accelerate your path back to traditional lending ‎ ‎ 📌 If you’ve gone through bankruptcy ‎ Approval depends on: ✔️ how long it has been since discharge ✔️ how much down payment you have ✔️ how much equity you have (if you already own a home) ‎ Some lenders will approve you sooner with a larger down payment, while others require a longer waiting period. ‎ Rates will vary based on risk, but you can move back to prime lenders over time with consistent credit rebuilding. ‎ ‎ 💬 Final Thought ‎ Bankruptcy or a consumer proposal isn’t the end of the road — it’s just a reset. ‎ With proper planning, credit rebuilding, and guidance, you can qualify for home financing again. ‎ If you want help mapping out your next steps, message The Frontline Mortgage Group anytime. We’ll guide you through the process and protect your credit along the way. 💬

Most people focus on rate… but the biggest financial losses actually come from bad decisions made after the mortgage is in place. ‎ Here are the top 5 mistakes that quietly cost homeowners thousands 👇 ‎ ‎ ❌ 1. Not consolidating high-interest debt into a low-interest mortgage ‎ Many homeowners avoid using home equity because: • “I don’t want to use the equity in my home.” • “I can pay it off myself.” ‎ But real life happens: ✔️ car loans ✔️ credit cards ✔️ unexpected repairs ✔️ income changes ‎ Minimum payments on high-interest debt can trap families for years, while a strategic refinance can drastically reduce monthly payments and improve cash flow. ‎ ‎ ❌ 2. Paying fees just to get the “lower” rate ‎ Rate chasers — beware. ‎ Sometimes the lower rate with a fee ends up costing more than the slightly higher rate with no fee. ‎ Example: Mortgage: $500,000 Option A: 4.49% + $2,500 fee Option B: 4.64% no fee ‎ After 2 years: • You owe $1,929 MORE with the “low rate” option • You saved only $672 in payment ‎ You paid a $2,500 fee to lose money. ‎ ‎ ❌ 3. Not looking at long-term planning ‎ Most homeowners refinance every 3 years, even when they take a 5-year term. ‎ If that’s the case, why lock into a long term that costs more and has higher penalties? ‎ A shorter term (2–4 years) can mean: ✔️ lower rate ✔️ easier planning ✔️ cheaper exit options ✔️ better equity strategy ‎ ‎ ❌ 4. Choosing a 5-year term when a 3–4 year term is cheaper ‎ Banks don’t push 5-year terms because they’re “safer”… they push them because they are more profitable. ‎ Example on a $450,000 mortgage: ‎ 2.34% (3-year) → $990 bi-weekly → $402,578 owing after 3 years ‎ 2.59% (5-year) → $1,018 bi-weekly → $403,604 owing after 3 years ‎ You paid: 🔸 $2,184 more in payments 🔸 $1,026 more owing 🔸 Total loss = $3,210 ‎ All because of choosing the wrong term. ‎ ‎ ❌ 5. Getting a mortgage with a lender that charges massive penalties ‎ This is where homeowners lose the most money. ‎ Big banks often use “IRD penalties” that can exceed $10,000–$20,000 if you break early. ‎ Example: Mortgage = $403,750 Break at year 3 ‎ • Big bank penalty: $12,672 • Monoline lender penalty: typically $3,000–$4,000 ‎ That’s a $10,000 difference — just in penalties. ‎ ‎ 💬 Final Thought ‎ Small decisions can have huge financial consequences. ‎ Before choosing your term, rate, lender, or strategy — talk to a mortgage professional who can show you the real numbers, not just the rate. ‎ If you want help reviewing your mortgage or avoiding expensive mistakes, message The Frontline Mortgage Group anytime. 💬

There is a LOT of confusion about credit reports, credit scores, and how they actually work. ‎ Many clients we speak with have never even seen their credit report — and most are shocked to learn what affects their score (and what doesn’t). ‎ Let’s clear things up. ‎ Here’s how to keep your credit score strong 👇 ‎ 💳 1️⃣ Pay your bills on time — all of them ‎ This includes: ✔️ credit cards ✔️ lines of credit ✔️ loans ✔️ cell phone bills ✔️ utilities ‎ Late payments are one of the fastest ways to damage your score. ‎ ‎ 🏷️ 2️⃣ Pay parking tickets and fines on time ‎ Many people don’t realize unpaid fines can affect your credit. ‎ If they go unpaid long enough, they can be sent to collections — and that hits your score hard. ‎ ‎ 📋 3️⃣ Review your credit report with us — line by line ‎ When we go through your credit report together, we can help you spot: ✔️ errors ✔️ duplicate accounts ✔️ fraudulent activity ✔️ unauthorized credit checks ‎ We can also help dispute or correct any inaccurate information. ‎ ‎ 💼 4️⃣ Have at least 2 active credit accounts ‎ You should have: ✔️ 1–2 credit cards ✔️ OR a credit card + line of credit ‎ But keep your credit limits reasonable and avoid maxing out your cards. ‎ 👉 The unofficial guideline: Use no more than 30% of your available credit ‎ This shows lenders you manage credit responsibly. ‎ ‎ ❌ 5️⃣ Don’t apply for credit too often ‎ Too many applications in a short period makes lenders nervous. ‎ They see this as a sign that you may be: • overextending yourself • struggling financially • potentially a victim of identity theft ‎ Either way, it increases risk — and lowers your score. ‎ ‎ 📉 “My score drops every time it’s checked” — TRUE or FALSE? ‎ Mostly false. ‎ You can check your own credit report as often as you want — it does NOT affect your score. ‎ But when a lender checks it, that can impact your score slightly. ‎ A few inquiries per year is normal. A cluster of inquiries in a short period signals risk. ‎ ‎ 🔎 Multiple checks when house shopping? Use a broker. ‎ If you visit several banks on your own, each one pulls your credit separately — and that can lower your score. ‎ When you work with us, we pull your credit report once, and use that same report to shop multiple lenders on your behalf. ‎ That means: ✔️ less impact on your score ✔️ better rate shopping ✔️ smarter mortgage planning ‎ ‎ 💡 Final Thought ‎ A strong credit score gives you more options, better rates, and more confidence when applying for a mortgage. ‎ If you want help reviewing your credit, rebuilding your score, or preparing for a mortgage application, message The Frontline Mortgage Group . We’ll walk you through your report line by line and help you strengthen your financial profile. 💬

Your credit score affects every major loan you apply for — from your mortgage to your car loan to your line of credit. ‎ And with stricter mortgage rules and rising rates, your score matters more than ever. ‎ Here’s what you need to know 👇 ‎ 🔎 Start by knowing where you stand ‎ You should check your credit report at least once a year. ‎ You can request a free copy from: ✔️ Equifax Canada ✔️ TransUnion Canada ‎ This helps you: • confirm your information is accurate • catch mistakes early • identify possible identity fraud ‎ ‎ 🆕 New to credit? Your score will be lower at first ‎ If you’re new to borrowing, your score won’t be as high as someone who has years of history — and that’s normal. ‎ Why? ✔️ Payment history matters most ✔️ Established accounts carry more weight ✔️ Lower debt = higher score ‎ Even if you manage credit perfectly, you simply need time to build history. ‎ ‎ 💳 Using credit properly can actually help you ‎ Credit cards and lines of credit can work in your favour when used wisely: ✔️ Pay balances in full ✔️ Avoid interest ✔️ Keep usage low ‎ If you pay the full amount on time each month, you essentially use the bank’s money for free. ‎ ‎ ⚠️ Forgot a payment? Here’s the truth: ‎ Your score generally takes a hit after two consecutive missed payments, not one. ‎ But when it drops, it drops fast — typically 60 to 100 points instantly. ‎ And your lender may raise your interest rate as a penalty. ‎ Every point counts, especially if you plan to apply for new financing. ‎ ‎ 📊 Key factors that determine your credit score ‎ Here are the biggest ones lenders look at: ‎ 🔸 Credit card balances Your credit card usage has more impact on your score than car loans or LOCs. Keep balances below 30%–70% of the limit for the best results. ‎ 🔸 Credit history length Older accounts help your score — even if you don’t use them often. Use old cards periodically to keep them active. ‎ 🔸 Errors or outdated information Mistakes happen. Dispute inaccurate cell phone bills, incorrect balances, or unauthorized accounts. ‎ We can help you identify what needs to be fixed. ‎ ‎ 💡 Final Thought ‎ Your credit score is one of the most powerful financial tools you have — and improving it is easier than most people think. ‎ If you want help reviewing your credit report or boosting your score for a future mortgage, message The Frontline Mortgage Group . We’ll walk through your report with you and build a customized improvement plan. 💬

A line of credit can be a useful tool — until you try to qualify for a mortgage. ‎ Lenders calculate line-of-credit payments very differently than the minimum payment you see on your statement. ‎ And for many buyers, this single detail is the reason they get declined. ‎ Here’s what you need to know 👇 ‎ 💳 Unsecured lines of credit are a major qualification killer ‎ Lenders don’t use your “minimum payment” when assessing your debt ratios. ‎ They are required to use 3% of the balance as the monthly payment — regardless of what the bank actually asks you to pay. ‎ This means: ✔️ $10,000 balance → $300/mo payment ✔️ $25,000 balance → $750/mo payment ✔️ $40,000 balance → $1,200/mo payment ‎ Even if your bank only requires interest-only payments, lenders must use the 3% calculation for qualification purposes. ‎ That can dramatically reduce your buying power. ‎ ‎ 🏠 Secured lines of credit (HELOCs) count as mortgages ‎ Many clients tell us: “I don’t have a mortgage — it’s just a HELOC.” ‎ A HELOC is a mortgage. It’s secured against your home, and lenders treat it that way. ‎ Even though the bank only requires interest payments, mortgage lenders must calculate a full mortgage payment based on: ✔️ the HELOC balance ✔️ a 25-year amortization ✔️ the current benchmark/stress-test rate ‎ Here’s an example: HELOC balance: $200,000 Benchmark qualifying rate: 5.34% (example rate) 25-year amortization ‎ Lender qualifying payment = ~$1,202/month ‎ Even if you only pay interest of $400–$500/mo, the lender must use the higher payment in your debt ratios. ‎ This can single-handedly disqualify an application. ‎ ‎ ⚠️ This rule stops more mortgage approvals than most people realize ‎ Line-of-credit balances have become one of the top reasons lenders decline applications — even when income and credit are strong. ‎ Because LOCs are easy to access, many Canadians build them up without realizing the future impact. ‎ By the time they’re ready to buy or refinance, the payment calculations destroy their borrowing power. ‎ ‎ 💡 What can you do? ‎ Before applying for a mortgage, it’s smart to: ✔️ pay down LOC balances as much as possible ✔️ transfer LOC debt into lower-payment loans (case-by-case) ✔️ consolidate with home equity if available ✔️ review debt ratios with us before house shopping ‎ A small change in how your debts are structured can dramatically increase your qualification amount. ‎ ‎ 💬 Final Thought ‎ Line-of-credit balances — especially large ones — can quietly kill mortgage applications under today’s qualification rules. ‎ If you have a LOC or HELOC and want to buy or refinance, message The Frontline Mortgage Group before applying anywhere. We’ll calculate the real numbers, show you how lenders view your debt, and help structure things properly so you don’t get blindsided. 💬

If you want to become a homeowner but feel buried by debt, don’t stress — you’re not alone, and there is a clear path forward. ‎ You just need a plan… and the discipline to follow it. ‎ Here are 5 practical steps that can help you reduce your debt and move closer to owning your first home 👇 ‎ 1️⃣ Make a list of ALL your debts ‎ Write everything down, including: ✔️ creditor name ✔️ balance ✔️ interest rate ✔️ minimum payment ‎ Most credit card statements now show how long it will take to pay off your balance at minimum payments — use this to stay honest with yourself. ‎ Seeing everything in one place is the first step toward taking control. ‎ ‎ 2️⃣ Lower your interest rates wherever possible ‎ This part is easier than many people think. ‎ Try these strategies: ‎ ✔️ Call your credit card companies Ask for a lower interest rate. Mention competing offers. Many will approve a reduction and send it in writing. ‎ ✔️ Use balance transfer promotions wisely Some cards offer 0% for 6–12 months. Pay aggressively during this period — don’t fall into the trap of overspending. ‎ ✔️ Consider a debt consolidation loan If you have home equity, we can consolidate your debts at a much lower rate than credit cards. ‎ ✔️ Renegotiate car loan or service bills Lenders sometimes lower rates for good payment history. ‎ ✔️ Renegotiate utilities and cellphone plans Competition is high — companies often reduce rates when you mention switching. ‎ The goal is simple: Reduce interest → lower monthly costs → pay off debt faster. ‎ ‎ 3️⃣ Know your numbers ‎ There are two key numbers to track: ‎ ✔️ Your total debt amount How much do you need to eliminate to reach a clean slate? ‎ ✔️ Your credit score What score do you need to qualify for a mortgage? ‎ If you’re unsure about the required credit score or debt thresholds, message us — we can walk you through exactly what lenders look for. ‎ Once you know your numbers, you can set a realistic timeline. ‎ ‎ 4️⃣ Build a realistic plan ‎ Decide how you’ll tackle your debts: ‎ ✔️ Highest-interest first (saves the most money) ✔️ Smallest-balance first (creates faster momentum) ‎ Pick one strategy and stick to it. ‎ Pay off one debt at a time — it feels achievable and helps you stay motivated. ‎ Bonus tip: some local libraries and community centres offer free budgeting or financial planning workshops. They’re worth checking out. ‎ ‎ 5️⃣ Monitor your progress and adjust as needed ‎ Ask yourself: ✔️ Are balances going down? ✔️ Is your credit score rising? ✔️ Are you staying within your budget? ‎ Like any business, even big companies review and adjust their budget quarterly — you can do the same. ‎ Small adjustments make a big difference over time. ‎ Stay consistent, celebrate small wins, and keep your long-term goal in mind: stepping into your own home. ‎ ‎ 💡 Final Thought ‎ Debt doesn’t disappear overnight — but with structure, commitment, and the right guidance, it becomes manageable. ‎ If you want help reviewing your debts, improving your credit, or building a mortgage-ready plan, message The Frontline Mortgage Group . We’ll guide you step-by-step toward becoming a homeowner. 💬

Every mortgage application requires proof of where the down payment is coming from. Lenders must verify that the funds are legitimate, traceable, and acceptable under federal lending rules. Being upfront and organized early prevents delays and removes unnecessary stress during the approval process. Here’s what every buyer needs to understand about down payment verification 👇 1️⃣ Lenders require a full 90-day history of your accounts Lenders must see where the money originated. ✔️ 90 days of bank statements ✔️ your name, account number, and dates visible ✔️ no altered or blacked-out documents Statements showing missing info or edits are automatically rejected, as documents must be verifiable and complete. 2️⃣ Large or unusual deposits must be fully explained Unexplained deposits are red flags and must be documented. ✔️ gift from immediate family → gift letter ✔️ vehicle sold → bill of sale ✔️ CRA refund → Notice of Assessment ✔️ TFSA withdrawal → 90-day TFSA history Unverified deposits or borrowed funds from friends cannot be used and may disqualify the application. 3️⃣ Gifted down payments are allowed — but only from immediate family Gifted funds must follow strict rules. ✔️ completed gift letter ✔️ proof of deposit into your account ✔️ no expectation of repayment Gifts from non-family members are not permitted for insured mortgages and create compliance issues for lenders. 4️⃣ You must show an additional 1.5% for closing costs Down payment alone is not enough. ✔️ legal fees ✔️ land transfer tax (where applicable) ✔️ title insurance ✔️ adjustments and disbursements Lenders need to confirm that buyers have saved both the down payment **and** closing-cost funds. 5️⃣ Keep funds stable once verification is provided After submitting verification, the money must remain in the account. ✔️ do not move funds between accounts ✔️ do not spend any portion ✔️ avoid new unexplained deposits Lenders may request updated statements before closing to confirm the required funds are still available. 💬 Final Thought Down payment verification is one of the most important steps in the mortgage approval process. Clear documentation, stable account history, and transparent communication make the process smooth and predictable — avoiding last-minute surprises. If you need help preparing your down-payment documentation or confirming whether a deposit is acceptable, send The Frontline Mortgage Group a message anytime.

Down payment rules have tightened dramatically due to Canada’s ongoing fight against money laundering. Lenders must now verify where every dollar of your down payment came from — and the review is far more detailed than most buyers expect. Here’s what lenders look for and how to prepare properly 👇 1️⃣ Lenders must verify where your down payment came from Federal regulations require lenders to collect 30–90 days of transaction history for every account used for your down payment. ✔️ full 90-day history is standard ✔️ all large deposits over $1,000 must be explained ✔️ any account used for transfers must also be reviewed This is not optional — lenders must document the legitimacy of your money. 2️⃣ Multiple accounts mean multiple statements If you move money between your own accounts, the lender must review each one. ✔️ chequing → savings transfers ✔️ TFSA or investment withdrawals ✔️ e-transfers to yourself ✔️ cash deposits Every movement creates a documentation trail the lender must track to ensure funds are legitimate. 3️⃣ Cash deposits are red flags Cash is the hardest source to verify and always requires explanation. ✔️ lenders rarely accept unexplained cash ✔️ large cash deposits must have proof ✔️ undocumented sources may be declined If cash cannot be traced to a legitimate source, the lender must exclude it from your down payment. 4️⃣ Income must match savings If your income doesn’t support your accumulated savings, lenders can request a full year of history. ✔️ recent grads with unusually high savings ✔️ large deposits inconsistent with income ✔️ sudden unexplained increases in balance Lenders must confirm your savings are reasonable for your financial profile. 5️⃣ These rules come from federal anti-money-laundering laws Lenders are not being “difficult” — they are legally required to verify funds. ✔️ FINTRAC rules ✔️ anti-money-laundering compliance ✔️ audits of lender files ✔️ mandatory verification of large deposits If a lender cannot prove your funds are legitimate, they cannot approve the mortgage. 💬 Final Thought Source-of-funds rules are strict, and they’re not going away. The more organized your accounts are before buying, the smoother your approval will be. Proper preparation prevents delays, stress, and last-minute surprises. If you want help structuring and documenting your down payment correctly, message The Frontline Mortgage Group and we’ll guide you step-by-step.

Mortgage lending in Canada has become more detailed and documentation-heavy, and lenders now require much more proof before approving financing. This isn’t to make your life difficult — it’s to prevent fraud and ensure you can comfortably manage the mortgage. Here’s a clear breakdown of what lenders will request and why it matters 👇 1️⃣ Income documents Lenders must verify that your income is stable and consistent. ✔️ confirms you can repay the mortgage ✔️ prevents future affordability issues ✔️ required by lenders and insurers Your income type determines which documents are needed. 2️⃣ Self-employed income Self-employed borrowers must show two full years of income history. ✔️ 2 years tax returns ✔️ business financial statements ✔️ CRA Notices of Assessment Accountants can send documents to ensure nothing is missing. 3️⃣ Rental income Rental income must be verifiable and consistent. ✔️ lease agreements ✔️ T1 with rental schedules ✔️ proof of rent deposits Unclaimed rental income can affect how lenders calculate eligibility. 4️⃣ Guaranteed employment income Traditional employment requires recent and verified documentation. ✔️ pay stubs ✔️ job letter ✔️ 2 years of tax documents Lenders will call your employer to confirm details. 5️⃣ Commission, overtime, bonus, seasonal, or contract income Variable income requires a two-year average for qualification. ✔️ pay stubs ✔️ job letter ✔️ 2 years of T1s ✔️ 2 years of NOAs Averaging protects lenders from relying on fluctuating income. 6️⃣ Liabilities and ongoing obligations Lenders verify all debts — not just what appears on your credit report. ✔️ mortgage statements ✔️ property taxes ✔️ child or spousal support ✔️ CRA balances Government debt must be paid before refinancing or approval. 7️⃣ Down payment and closing cost verification All funds must be sourced and traceable for at least 90 days. ✔️ bank statements ✔️ gift letters ✔️ deposit proof Lenders must confirm the money is legitimate and available. 8️⃣ Documentation rules for banks and financial institutions Statements must clearly show ownership and account details. ✔️ name and account number visible ✔️ e-statements preferred ✔️ teller-printed statements must be stamped Screenshots are acceptable only if the institution’s name and your name are visible. 💬 Final Thought Document requirements may feel overwhelming, but they protect both you and the lender by confirming income stability, debt obligations, and legitimate savings. Preparing documents early makes your approval process faster and smoother. If you want a customized checklist based on your income and situation, The Frontline Mortgage Group can create one that ensures you’re fully prepared before applying.

For buyers entering the market — especially first-timers — nothing beats the excitement of getting an accepted offer. ‎ But right after that excitement comes the stress of actually securing financing. ‎ And this is where one clause can save you from massive financial disaster 👇 ‎ ‎ ⚠️ Always include a “Subject to Financing” condition ‎ Before writing an offer, your REALTOR® will ask if you’ve been pre-qualified by a mortgage broker or bank — but pre-qualification is not a guarantee of approval. ‎ A lender still needs to approve: ✔️ your income & employment ✔️ your down payment source ✔️ the property itself ‎ If any one of these fails, the lender can deny the mortgage. ‎ And without financing… you cannot complete the purchase. ‎ ‎ 🏠 Why does the property matter? ‎ Even if you qualify personally, the lender must also approve the home. Examples of property issues that can cause denial: • weak strata contingency fund • upcoming major repairs (leaking roof, failing parkade, etc.) • structural issues • previous grow-op history • underfunded reserve • insurance concerns ‎ If the lender or insurer doesn’t like the property, they simply won’t lend on it. ‎ Your subject-to-financing clause gives you the legal right to walk away without losing your deposit. ‎ ‎ 💥 What happens if you make a subject-free offer? ‎ This is where buyers get into serious trouble. If you make a subject-free offer and it’s accepted: ❌ your deposit becomes non-refundable ❌ you must complete the purchase ❌ if you can’t get financing, you still owe the money ❌ the seller can sue you for losses ‎ In a worst-case scenario, you could: • lose your entire deposit • face legal action • be forced to cover the seller’s financial damages ‎ All because you didn’t include one simple condition. ‎ ‎ ⏳ How long should the financing condition be? ‎ 👉 3–5 business days is standard and safe. ‎ This gives your broker and lender enough time to: ✔️ verify income ✔️ verify down payment ✔️ run the application ✔️ approve the property ✔️ complete lender + insurer review ‎ ‎ 💬 Final Thought ‎ No matter what anyone tells you — Never write an offer without a subject-to-financing clause. ‎ It protects your deposit, protects you legally, and protects you financially. ‎ If you want help getting fully prepared BEFORE you write an offer, message The Frontline Mortgage Group anytime. We’ll make sure you’re protected from start to finish. 💬

Buying a home can feel overwhelming, especially if you’re not sure what happens when. Understanding the basic steps makes the process more predictable and a lot less stressful. Here’s how the home-buying journey typically works from start to finish 👇 1️⃣ Build your down payment Your down payment is the foundation of your purchase power and affects what kind of mortgage you can get. ✔️ minimum 5% down for homes under $500,000 ✔️ 5% on first $500K + 10% on the portion from $500K–$999K ✔️ 20% down required once the price is $1 million or more For any purchase with less than 20% down, mortgage default insurance is required — planning this upfront avoids surprises later. 2️⃣ Get a strategy, budget, and pre-qualification Before you start shopping, you need a clear plan and a realistic mortgage number. ✔️ review income, debts, credit, and employment history ✔️ confirm your down payment source and documentation ✔️ compare options: fixed vs variable, 25 vs 30-year amortization, and payment frequency A strong pre-qualification gives you a confident price range and keeps you focused on homes you can truly afford. 3️⃣ Set a realistic budget Lender numbers don’t always match real-life comfort levels — your own budget matters most. ✔️ total home costs (mortgage, taxes, heat, condo fees) should stay within a safe slice of your income ✔️ factor in insurance, utilities, and day-to-day expenses ✔️ stress-test your budget using a slightly higher payment than today’s rate Being honest about what you can comfortably carry each month protects you long after you get the keys. 4️⃣ Find the right property with the right realtor Once you know your numbers, it’s time to work with a realtor who understands your goals. ✔️ search and screen properties that fit your budget and needs ✔️ book showings and compare neighbourhoods and features ✔️ prepare, present, and negotiate offers and counter-offers Interview at least a couple of realtors and choose the one who clearly puts your interests first and communicates well. 5️⃣ Secure your mortgage approval When you’ve found the home you want, your broker matches your file to the best-fit lender and product. ✔️ lender reviews your full application and the specific property ✔️ issues a mortgage “commitment” outlining rate, term, and conditions ✔️ asks for documents to verify income, down payment, and debts Approval depends on BOTH you as a borrower and the property meeting the lender’s guidelines. 6️⃣ Work with your real estate lawyer Your real estate lawyer makes sure the transfer of the home and the mortgage registration are done properly. ✔️ reviews the agreement and lender instructions ✔️ checks title, taxes, and any registered charges on the property ✔️ prepares documents for you to sign and explains what you’re agreeing to This step protects you legally and ensures everything is registered correctly before money changes hands. 7️⃣ Closing, keys, and move-in day Once everything is signed and the funds move, the home officially becomes yours. ✔️ lender sends mortgage funds to your lawyer ✔️ your lawyer sends money to the seller’s lawyer and registers you on title ✔️ keys are released, usually later that day or the next business day At that point, you’re ready to move in, set up utilities, and start settling into your new home. 💬 Final Thought Buying a home is much easier when you understand the steps, timelines, and who does what. A clear plan, the right team, and a solid mortgage strategy make an overwhelming process manageable. Message The Frontline Mortgage Group and find out how.

You’ve saved, you’ve built your credit, and now you’re ready to start house hunting. But between you and your new home is a mortgage process that can feel overwhelming. Here’s a simple breakdown of what to expect 👇 1️⃣ Pre-approval Your first step is choosing a qualified mortgage professional. They’ll take your application, pull your credit, and determine your maximum purchase price. ✔️ employment verification ✔️ down payment proof ✔️ tax documents ✔️ credit review If you’re self-employed, separated, new to Canada, previously bankrupt, or receive variable income, expect additional documentation. A proper pre-approval lets you shop confidently and strengthens your offer when competing with other buyers. 2️⃣ Full approval after you make an offer Once you have an accepted offer, updated paperwork may be required. The lender reassesses your full application PLUS the property itself. ✔️ property must meet lender guidelines ✔️ file is reviewed by default mortgage insurer if applicable ✔️ approval is issued once all conditions are satisfied Do **NOT** remove your financing condition until your mortgage professional confirms all conditions are cleared. 3️⃣ Final legal steps before you get the keys After the lender sends instructions, your lawyer prepares final documents. You’ll need to bring: ✔️ balance of down payment (bank draft) ✔️ two pieces of ID ✔️ void cheque for payment setup On closing day: The lender sends funds → your lawyer → seller’s lawyer → keys released. Once complete, it’s smart to call the lender to ensure payments are set up correctly. 💬 Final Thought The mortgage process can feel intimidating, but when broken down step-by-step it becomes manageable and predictable. Ask questions at every stage — understanding your mortgage terms protects you and helps you move into your new home with confidence. If you need help getting pre-approved or understanding next steps, message The Frontline Mortgage Group anytime. 💬

A real mortgage pre-approval isn’t just a rate-hold, and it isn’t something that can be confirmed in five minutes at a bank counter. A true pre-approval means your income, credit, down payment, and financial documents have already been verified — giving you real confidence when you begin house hunting. See why being fully documented upfront gives you a major advantage over other buyers. 👇 With a full pre-approval, YOU are already approved — and all that’s left is getting the property itself approved, which makes the process faster, safer, and far less stressful. 1️⃣ Why Documentation Matters A true pre-approval requires proof of everything you state in your application. ✔️ income must be verifiable ✔️ down payment must be fully documented ✔️ credit must be reviewed upfront ✔️ lender conditions can be met immediately Being fully prepared allows you to write shorter financing timelines and strengthens your offer in competitive markets. 2️⃣ Why a Rate-Hold Is NOT a Pre-Approval Many banks issue a rate-hold without verifying anything. ✔️ no income review ✔️ no down payment verification ✔️ no employer confirmation ✔️ no credit analysis A rate-hold does not guarantee approval and often results in last-minute stress, document scrambling, or a declined mortgage after an offer is already firm. 3️⃣ Required Income Documents (Full-Time Employees) Lenders require consistent, verifiable income. ✔️ last 2 pay stubs ✔️ employer letter if requested ✔️ last 2 years of T4s ✔️ most recent Notice of Assessment All documents must show your name, employer name, and tax deductions clearly. 4️⃣ Additional Income Sources Any income used for qualification must be documented. ✔️ child support or spousal support ✔️ EI or LTD (with proof) ✔️ foster income ✔️ part-time or seasonal income For separated/divorced borrowers, a finalized agreement is required. 5️⃣ Down Payment Verification Lenders must see the history of your funds. ✔️ 90 days of bank statements ✔️ proof of RRSP funds (last quarterly statement) ✔️ statements for all accounts used ✔️ name must appear on each document Gifted funds must be disclosed upfront and require a formal gift letter. 6️⃣ Part-Time Employees Part-time income must meet stricter rules. ✔️ 3 years of Notices of Assessment ✔️ 2 years at the same job ✔️ consistent work history Multiple part-time jobs can be combined if properly documented. 7️⃣ Self-Employed Borrowers Self-employed applicants must provide full tax and business documentation. ✔️ 2 years of T1 Generals ✔️ 2 years of Statement of Business Activities ✔️ 3 years of Notices of Assessment ✔️ incorporation documents (if incorporated) ✔️ 90-day down payment history This ensures the lender sees true income and business stability. 💬 Final Thought Being fully pre-approved — with all documents reviewed upfront — gives you faster approvals, stronger negotiating power, and complete confidence when making an offer. Proper preparation eliminates stress, delays, and last-minute surprises. If you’d like The Frontline Mortgage Group to walk you through the full pre-approval process and review your documents in advance, send us a message anytime.