When I was 19, I stepped into the home-buying process completely naïve about how mortgages actually worked. I had no real understanding of what applying for a mortgage involved, what lenders looked for, or what to expect along the way. What I wasn’t prepared for was how overwhelming it felt. The uncertainty made everything more stressful than it needed to be, and the process felt long and exhausting simply because I didn’t know what was coming next.

Fast forward a few years, and now as a mortgage broker myself — that experience is exactly why I do what I do. My goal is to take the stress out of the mortgage process by being a steady source of support: emotionally, educationally, and every step in between. I never want my clients to feel confused, left in the dark, or anxious about what’s happening behind the scenes. Buying a home is a big deal, and it can come with a lot of emotions — but it doesn’t have to feel overwhelming.

If I could go back and share a few things with my younger self : the things I wish I had known before applying for a mortgage in Saskatchewan… these would be at the top of the list:

1. Applying for a mortgage can feel invasive – my job is to ease this feeling and support you along the way.

   It can feel like you’re being asked for every document imaginable. That’s completely normal. You’re not alone! Canadian lenders are getting increasingly more specific about what they need to ensure you’re a good fit as a borrower.

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2. The process might not feel smooth. It may take longer than you may have expected to gather documents, confirm banking information or secure where your down-payment is coming from. It is important that if these steps take longer than expected or feel frustrating along the way – not to get discouraged. It will be worth it. My job is to assist in making this step SPECIFICALLY feel less stressful. That’s the advantage of a mortgage broker. I provide updates along the way so you never feel like you’re in the dark about what step of the process we’re in, and what the next steps are.
   

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3. Sometimes lenders say no – and that’s okay. My job as a mortgage broker is to find you a lender that fits your mortgage needs and future goals – all at a great rate. Not every lender will be a good fit. Just like jeans. Sometimes you have to shop around until you find the perfect fit. That’s my job.

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   The down payment isn’t the only up-front expense. You need to also have a little bit of cash set aside for things like home inspection, appraisal, closing costs and lawyer fees. These things can be a bit of a surprise to people – especially first time homebuyers if you are not aware of them before hand

   • • Side Note: My Mortgage Toolbox App has a feature where you can calculate and add in these additional costs into your payment and mortgage scenario builder – to break down exactly all the expenses one can expect. From the mortgage payment to property taxes to closing costs – you can add them all up and even compare plans in the built-in scenario builder for all types of Canadian mortgage scenarios.
     • Link: Mortgage Toolbox

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   It really is the best idea to get pre-approved before you start home-hunting. There are so many upsides to getting approved :

   • Know your budget before you even start scrolling listings

   • Sellers will take you more seriously. A pre-approval is financial credibility – sellers love this.

   • Catch any credit stuff early so it doesn’t slow you down

   • Focus only on homes you can actually afford

   • Get an idea of your monthly payments and rates

   • Make your offer smoother when you find the one

Here’s the basics of what I’m trying to say: Buying a home sometimes doesn’t always go smoothly or according to plan. That’s okay. My job is to tackle things behind the scenes, providing you with consistent support and updates – all while considering your goals, needs and feelings surrounding the mortgage application and submission process.

Being a first time homebuyer in Saskatchewan can be daunting, especially when you don’t know where to start or what to expect when applying for a mortgage.

I’ll be your trusted Saskatchewan mortgage application guide. Let’s make your mortgage happen.

Your trusted Saskatchewan Mortgage Associate,

– Jade