The guys discuss the impact of inflation and rising debt on home ownership. Clinton notes that Canadians are heavily indebted, with mortgages averaging $400,000, often supported by dual incomes of $100,000. Food prices have doubled, affecting household budgets significantly. They highlight the disparity between real estate prices, which have doubled, and stagnant incomes. Wilkins advises focusing on needs over wants to manage inflation better.

Todd and Clinton discuss the evolution of their mortgage show, emphasizing their dynamic approach to mortgage lending and broader topics. Clinton, with nearly21 years of experience, highlights his passion for the industry and his role as the Atlantic director for Mortgage Professionals Canada. He shares his business growth, handling $500 million in transactions this year, and the challenges of working with high-net-worth clients.

Todd and Clinton regroup to wrap up their discussion on Pride in Homeownership. They touch on the impact of political uncertainties, such as trade wars and interest rates, on the housing market. They noted that while rates have decreased, the market remains high, affecting affordability. Clinton highlighted the trend of younger buyers receiving large family gifts, often $100,000, to make down payments. They also discussed the shift in demographics, with more seniors and first-time buyers entering the market. Challenges in the trades, such as difficulty in accessing contractors, were mentioned.

Clinton and Blair are back to answer more mortgage questions from listeners. The two explain that mortgage payments are relatively stable, with a portion going to interest and the rest to principal. They emphasize the importance of the stress test in ensuring affordability and protecting borrowers from financial shocks. Clinton notes that while interest rates have risen from sub-2% to around 4%, the stress test prevents issues during renewal. They also discuss the benefits of maintaining a good relationship with a mortgage broker for long-term financial planning. 

Todd, Clinton, welcome guest Blair Patterson to address questions from listeners, including how to prepare for buying a home in 10 years, the importance of automatic savings, and the impact of interest rates on mortgage payments. They emphasize the significance of credit scores, the benefits of automatic payments, and the challenges faced by queer clients in the housing market. Blair shares his experience transitioning from the Navy to a mortgage broker to help military and queer communities. They also touch on the growth of the Halifax region and the importance of financial empowerment.

Clinton Wilkins and Todd Veinotte discuss the intersection of Pride Month and home ownership. They highlight the importance of continuing to address issues of equality, noting that the percentage of homes owned by queer people is lower than that of straight people. Clinton shares his experiences as a mortgage broker, emphasizing the challenges faced by the queer community, such as socioeconomic barriers and relationship dynamics affecting lending.

Clinton Wilkins and Todd Veinotte discuss the importance of credit monitoring, especially in light of the recent Nova Scotia Power cyber breach affecting 200,000 customers. They recommend using free apps like Borrowell (Equifax) and Credit Karma (TransUnion) for weekly updates, which do not impact credit scores. For more comprehensive monitoring, paid services from Equifax and TransUnion cost around $30 monthly. They also advise setting fraud alerts and warnings on credit bureaus to prevent unauthorized account openings. 

Todd Veinotte, Clinton Wilkins, and Trevor Gordon (of Home Equity Bank) discuss the importance of aging in place for retirees. They explore the benefits of a reverse mortgage, highlighting its flexibility and the freedom it provides to clients who use it. The program is equity-driven, not credit-driven, and caters to seniors with strong credit but limited cash flow. The three discuss eligibility, average coverage, and everything else you need to know about reverse mortgages.

Todd Veinotte and Clinton Wilkins welcome Trevor Gordon, Business Development Manager at Home Equity Bank, to discuss reverse mortgages. Trevor explains that Home Equity Bank has been providing reverse mortgages for over 30 years. He highlights that the average client and dispels common misconceptions about reverse mortgages, such as the bank taking the property, stressing their role in helping retirees age in place.

Clinton Wilkins and Todd Veinotte discuss the impact of the new government's financial policies on the mortgage market, highlighting the HST exemption on homes valued at $1.5 million or more, which could save homeowners up to $250 monthly. They also address the rising costs of home ownership, including unexpected expenses like a $3,000 heat pump repair. They also touch on the challenges of living on a floodplain and the potential impact of uranium exploration on property values.