In this episode of Real Life Mortgage Solutions, Len Lane is joined by Chris Woodhouse of Highclere Lending to talk about innovation, integrity, and strategy in the Canadian mortgage space. With a career that began in brokering and evolved through leadership roles at major lenders like Street Capital and RFA, Chris now brings his expertise to the forefront of a new venture focused on tech-enabled underwriting and relationship-driven service.

Len and Chris dive into how Highclere is using AI to support (not replace) underwriters, and how the company’s phased rollout strategy prioritizes trust, fraud prevention, and sustainable growth. They discuss licensing challenges across provinces, the evolving Alt and soft-B lending markets, and what brokers can expect from Highclere’s upcoming product launches, including (potentially) a game-changing 30-year fully open term.

For brokers navigating today’s market, this conversation is packed with insight on mortgage evolution, retention strategies, and the power of leveraging CRM and AI tools to stay connected with clients for life.

About Chris Woodhouse

Chris Woodhouse is a seasoned mortgage professional whose career spans brokering, business development, and executive leadership within Canada’s lending industry. Formerly with Street Capital and RFA, Chris recently joined Highclere Lending to help shape its vision of smart, scalable, and transparent lending practices. Known for his practical approach and relationship-first style, Chris is passionate about empowering brokers and borrowers alike with better tools and more flexible financing options.

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Contact Len Lane | Brokers for Life: 

• BrokersForLife.ca
• Linkedin: Len Lane
• LinkedIn: Brokers for Life
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• X: @Brokers4Life
  
  

Contact Chris Woodhouse: 

• Website: Highclere 
• LinkedIn: Highclere
• LinkedIn: Chris Woodhouse

In this episode of Real Life Mortgage Solutions, host Len Lane sits down with industry veteran Gary Siegel to explore his five-decade-long journey through Canada’s evolving mortgage landscape. Gary reflects on his early years with CMHC, where he managed social housing programs, direct lending, and insured mortgages—laying the foundation for a career defined by public service, innovation, and a deep understanding of housing finance.

The conversation tracks his transitions through major organizations like MICC, GE Capital, and Invis, highlighting pivotal changes in the mortgage industry—from the emergence of private mortgage insurance and the rise (and fall) of high-risk lending, to the creation of “super brokers” and new commission models. Gary also shares how regulatory shifts following the 2008 financial crisis reshaped lending practices and led him to a final chapter as Compliance Advisor with RECA, where he worked to harmonize broker regulation and improve industry education.

Now newly retired, Gary reflects on a career marked by resilience, mentorship, and a commitment to elevating mortgage professionalism across Canada. His insights provide a historical lens on how policy, market forces, and people shape the business of mortgages—and how staying curious and adaptable keeps a career vibrant even after 50+ years.

About Gary Siegel

Gary Siegel is a highly respected figure in Canada’s mortgage industry, with a career spanning over five decades. He began with CMHC in the 1970s, managing social housing and insured lending programs, before taking on senior roles at MICC, GE Capital, and Genworth. Gary later joined Invis, where he helped lead operations across Western Canada during a time of major industry transformation, including the rise of super brokers and evolving commission structures.

Gary served as a compliance advisor at the Real Estate Council of Alberta (RECA), where he brought his deep industry knowledge to regulatory policy, education, and broker oversight. Known for his integrity, mentorship, and commitment to raising professional standards, Gary has made a lasting impact on housing finance and mortgage brokering in Canada. Now retired, he continues to be recognized as a thoughtful leader and advocate for responsible industry growth.

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Contact Len Lane | Brokers for Life: 

• BrokersForLife.ca
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Contact Gary Siegle: 

• Linkedin: Gary Siegle
  
  

In this insightful episode of Real Life Mortgage Solutions, Len Lane is joined again by Sandra Landry of MNP to discuss the ever-evolving landscape of consumer debt and insolvency in Canada. They explore how economic pressures have led to a noticeable uptick in larger and more complex consumer proposals, often involving higher incomes and assets (such as home equity or investment accounts).

Sandra breaks down the differences between bankruptcies and proposals, highlighting how proposals are often the more secure and predictable option for debt resolution—particularly for those with real estate holdings or rising incomes. The conversation also touches on rental market trends, vehicle financing issues, and the growing number of young Canadians struggling to enter the housing market due to inflated costs and increased credit dependency.

From mortgage portability to third-time bankruptcies and the rise of leasing in the auto industry, this conversation is packed with real-world insight and practical takeaways for anyone navigating debt in today’s high-cost environment.

About Sandra Landry

Sandra Landry is a Senior Vice President at MNP Ltd., one of Canada’s leading firms for consumer insolvency services. With over a decade of experience in the insolvency field, Sandra brings a deep understanding of how proposals and bankruptcies affect Canadians on both personal and financial levels. A strong advocate for financial literacy, she works closely with individuals and families to help them find sustainable solutions to complex debt challenges.

MNP is a member of Praxity, a global alliance of independent accounting and consulting firms, which allows Sandra and her team to access a wide breadth of resources while offering localized, client-focused service.

Resources discussed in this episode:

• MNP Consumer Insolvency Services
• Praxity 
• Equifax Market Pulse Reports
  
  

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Contact Len Lane | Brokers for Life: 

• BrokersForLife.ca
• Linkedin: Len Lane
• LinkedIn: Brokers for Life
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• X: @Brokers4Life
  
  

Contact Sandra Landry: 

• Website: MNP.ca
• Phone: 780-969-1488
• Email: [email protected]
• Linkedin: SandraLandry

In this episode, Len welcomes Chris O’Sullivan from Alta West Capital to break down the ins and outs of private lending and how it fits into a broker’s toolkit. Chris shares his unique background—from private brokering to auto finance and now to advocating for brokers at Alta West—and outlines the flexible mortgage solutions that Alta West offers.

The conversation touches on key areas such as the difference between the Express and Flex mortgage products, how Alta West evaluates files based on exit strategies rather than just TDS, and why private lending isn’t just for bruised credit. Chris also clarifies appraisal designation requirements, discusses their broker loyalty program, and provides insight into how Alta West partners with brokers to offer speed, transparency, and flexibility.

Brokers will also hear about tools like the draw-style HELOC, bundling first and second mortgages in-house, mixed-use financing, and opportunities to support charitable causes through mortgage referrals. Whether you’re new to private deals or looking for smoother underwriting, this episode is packed with practical tips and valuable context.

About Chris O’Sullivan

Chris O’Sullivan is the Business Development Manager (BDM) for Alberta at Alta West Capital. With a background in private brokering and a stint in auto finance at KDK Financial, Chris brings a well-rounded understanding of alternative lending solutions. At Alta West, he’s known for championing broker success, as well as advocating for strong deals, supporting education around private lending, and offering white-glove service to help brokers close more files efficiently.

Chris is also passionate about partnerships that make an impact. He regularly works with brokers to support charitable initiatives and strives to create financing solutions that prioritize both broker and client outcomes.

Resources discussed in this episode:

• Alta West Capital Program
• Alta West Broker Portal for pricing update (register through the Alta West website)
• Alta West mortgage program PDFs (available upon request or through internal broker library)

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Contact Len Lane | Brokers for Life: 

• BrokersForLife.ca
• Linkedin: Len Lane
• LinkedIn: Brokers for Life
• Facebook: Brokers for Life
• X: @Brokers4Life

Contact Chris O’Sullivan | Alta West Capital: 

• Website
• LinkedIn: Chris O’Sullivan
• LinkedIn: Alta West Capital 

Host Len Lane sits down with Sam Dayal, a CPA and seasoned commercial underwriter with Dominion Lending Centres. With over 15 years of experience in the industry, Sam shares practical insights into the nuances of commercial financing, breaking down the differences between business loans and commercial mortgages. He explains how factors like cash flow, collateral, amortization periods, and risk profiles play major roles in determining the right lending solution for each scenario.

The conversation dives deep into the types of properties that fall under the commercial financing umbrella, including multifamily apartment buildings, office units, industrial spaces, strip malls, and hotels. Sam also shares candid perspectives on more complex or stigmatized properties such as cannabis facilities, tattoo parlors, and nail salons, explaining the risk perceptions lenders have and how borrowers can prepare. Whether you're a mortgage broker, investor, or business owner, this episode provides valuable knowledge to help you navigate the commercial lending space more confidently.

About Sam Dayal, CPA
Sam Dayal is a Chartered Professional Accountant (CPA) and seasoned commercial underwriter with over 15 years of experience in the mortgage and finance industry. Currently with DLC Commercial, Sam specializes in structuring complex commercial mortgage solutions across Western Canada. His expertise spans a wide range of property types, including multi-family apartment buildings, retail strip malls, office spaces, industrial buildings, land development, and specialized sectors like hotels, churches, and cannabis-related businesses.

Known for his practical approach, deep industry knowledge, and responsiveness, Sam provides strategic financing guidance to real estate investors, professionals, and business owners. His background in accounting, including experience with a publicly traded hotel chain, further enhances his ability to assess financials and navigate high-stakes commercial lending decisions.

Sam is a trusted resource for mortgage brokers and borrowers alike, offering transparent advice and efficient assessments, often within hours of an initial inquiry.

Resources discussed in this episode:

• CMHC Multi-Family Program 
• CMHC MLI Select

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Contact Len Lane | Brokers for Life: 

• BrokersForLife.ca
• Linkedin: Len Lane
• LinkedIn: Brokers for Life
• Facebook: Brokers for Life
• X: @Brokers4Life
  
  

Contact Sam Dayal | Commercial Underwriter, DLC Commercial: 

• Website: samdayal.ca
• Email: [email protected] 
• Tel: 604-960-9600 ext 236 
• LinkedIn: Sam Dayal
  
  

Len Lane sits down with Leslie Kearns, a Broker Experience Specialist from Alberta Treasury Branch (ATB), to unpack the complexities of mortgage solutions for home construction. Whether you're building on a lot you already own or working with a builder, this conversation covers the key financing options available—from draw mortgages to completion mortgages. Leslie outlines the requirements for fixed-price contracts, the four draw stages in construction financing, and what clients should know about additional costs and new home warranties.

The episode also dives into modular and self-built homes, highlighting what lenders require when clients take on these types of projects. Leslie and Len discuss common challenges such as utility setup, delivery costs, and the need for private lenders in certain scenarios. Throughout the conversation, they emphasize the importance of proper planning, having sufficient equity and cash flow, and engaging experienced professionals to navigate the build. Whether you’re just considering a custom home or already own land, this episode is packed with insights to help you move forward with confidence.

About

Leslie Kearns is a broker experience specialist with Alberta Treasury Branch (ATB).

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Contact Len Lane | Brokers for Life: 

• BrokersForLife.ca
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Contact Leslie Kearns: 

• Website: atb.com 
  
  

In this insightful episode, Len sits down with Cyndy Morin, founder of Resolve Legal Group, to explore her holistic and client-centered approach to family law. Cyndy shares how her personal journey shaped the unique structure of her firm, including the development of the Client Support Coordinator role—an integral position that ensures clients receive emotional support, are matched with the right lawyer, and have access to community resources during the separation process. 

Cyndy discusses how Resolve Legal Group goes beyond legal representation by hosting educational seminars and partnering with professionals like counselors, psychologists, and financial advisors to help clients navigate the complexities of divorce with confidence and clarity. She highlights key initiatives like the Step Forward Program, which offers exclusive discounts from local businesses to alleviate some of the financial burdens clients may face. She offers practical advice for those going through separation, such as gathering financial disclosure early and considering mediation over litigation to preserve both finances and peace of mind. 

Whether you’re currently navigating a separation or supporting someone who is, Cyndy’s compassionate approach and innovative solutions provide a refreshing take on how legal services can truly serve the whole person, not just the case.

About Cyndy Morin, B.A., J.D., 

Cyndy Morin is the founder and managing lawyer of Resolve Legal Group in Calgary, Alberta. With a deep personal understanding of the emotional and financial challenges that accompany loss, separation, and divorce, Cyndy has built her firm around compassion, innovation, and client-centered service. Since founding Resolve in 2011, she has grown the practice from a solo operation into a leading family law firm known for its unique and supportive approach.

Under her leadership, Resolve also offers access to on-site professionals, including psychologists, parenting specialists, and financial advisors, and runs regular seminar series for self-represented clients. Outside the courtroom, Cyndy is an adventurer at heart: she’s a certified open water diver, a private pilot with a seaplane endorsement, and a passionate world traveler. Her dynamic background and empathetic leadership continue to redefine what it means to offer real life legal solutions.

Resources discussed in this episode:

• Calgary Counselling Centre
• Step Forward Program
• Trish Guise - Forensic Coercive Control Solutions

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Contact Len Lane | Brokers for Life: 

• BrokersForLife.ca
• Linkedin: Len Lane
• LinkedIn: Brokers for Life
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• X: @Brokers4Life
  
  

Contact Cyndy Morin | Resolve Legal Group: 

• Website: resolvelegalgroup.com
• Linkedin: CyndyMorin
  
  

Len Lane sits down with Bart Paterson, Business Development Manager at Manulife, to explore the often-overlooked importance of life and disability insurance in the mortgage process. While many clients are familiar with default and title insurance that protect the lender and the property, Len and Bart emphasize that life and disability insurance protect the client by insuring their health, income, and long-term investment. 

Bart explains Manulife’s Mortgage Protection Plan (MPP), a flexible, portable insurance solution with fixed premiums that can provide peace of mind for homeowners facing unexpected life events, especially new homeowners. He shares sobering statistics, such as the fact that one in two Canadians will be diagnosed with cancer, and the average disability lasts around 10 months—yet most people only have enough savings to cover one month. 

Len and Bart also discuss the dangers of relying solely on employer-provided insurance, which often only covers a portion of income and may not be portable. They stress the need to have insurance conversations early in the mortgage process and address common objections like cost, helping clients understand that peace of mind and protection from financial hardship are well worth the investment. Whether you're a mortgage broker or a homeowner, this episode highlights why protecting your mortgage with the right insurance is an essential part of smart financial planning.

About Bart Paterson

Bart Paterson is the Business Development Manager at Manulife for Mortgage Protection in Alberta and Saskatchewan. He brings experience from previous roles at Manulife Bank of Canada.

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Contact Len Lane | Brokers for Life: 

• BrokersForLife.ca
• LinkedIn: Len Lane
• LinkedIn: Brokers for Life
• Facebook: Brokers for Life
• X: @Brokers4Life
  
  

Contact Bart Paterson | Manulife: 

• Facebook: Bart Paterson - Mortgage Architects
• LinkedIn: Bart Paterson
  
  

In this episode of the podcast, Len sits down with lawyer Brandon Hans to discuss the complex world of foreclosure. They break down the foreclosure process, explaining how it begins when a borrower defaults on their mortgage and the lender takes legal action to recover the debt. Key triggers for foreclosure include missed payments, failure to maintain the property, and breaches of loan agreements. The discussion covers the different approaches taken by smaller lenders versus larger banks, the legal steps involved, and the financial consequences homeowners may face, including damage to credit scores and additional costs such as legal fees and realtor commissions.

Throughout the episode, Len and Brandon emphasize the importance of early legal intervention and financial planning to prevent foreclosure. They share practical advice for homeowners, lenders, and prospective buyers, including the value of maintaining property conditions, understanding mortgage agreements, and seeking professional guidance when navigating foreclosure situations. Tune in to gain expert insights into foreclosure laws, lender strategies, and the best ways to protect yourself from the financial and legal pitfalls of mortgage default.

About Brandon Hans

Brandon joined BARR LLP as an articling student in 2016 after successfully completing the NCA accreditation process. He obtained his Bachelor of Laws from the University of Kent, Canterbury in 2014. During his time in Kent, Brandon volunteered in many student-oriented extra-curricular activities, such as the Kent Law School Mooting Program and the 2013 and 2014 Critical Law Conferences. His current areas of focus are in real estate, foreclosure law, creditor-debtor relations, and financing. In 2023, Brandon joined the partnership at BARR LLP.

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Contact Len Lane | Brokers for Life: 

• BrokersForLife.ca
• Linkedin: Len Lane
• LinkedIn: Brokers for Life
• Facebook: Brokers for Life
• X: @Brokers4Life
  
  

Contact Brandon Hans | Barr LLP: 

• Website: barrllp.com 
• Instagram: @barrllp
• Facebook: BarrLLP
• Linkedin: Barr LLP
  
  

In this episode, host Len welcomes Shane Parker, partner at PDS Law—Parker Dubrule Szaskiewicz LLP—to discuss the rising land title registration fees in Alberta and the challenges facing real estate lawyers today. Shane explains how these fee increases and evolving document requirements impact homebuyers, emphasizing the importance of clear communication with lenders to prevent unexpected delays.

Len and Shane also delve into shifting real estate regulations, including stricter anti-money laundering (AML) identification rules and the continued requirement for original ink signatures on land title registrations. They highlight common closing challenges and underscore the need for collaboration between realtors, mortgage brokers, and lawyers to ensure seamless transactions. Tune in for expert insights on how buyers can better prepare, stay flexible, and navigate the complexities of the closing process.

About Shane Parker

Shane Parker, King’s Council, is a partner at Parker Dubrule Szaskiewicz LLP. He obtained his Bachelor of Arts (1988) and Law Degree (1991) from the University of Alberta and has over 25 years of experience, primarily in Real Estate and Corporate law. Shane is an active member of his community with various board involvements over the years and coaching kids in minor league soccer and hockey. His interests include gardening, golf, yoga, and Scotch.

Resources discussed in this episode:

• DocuSign
• FastKey

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Contact Len Lane | Brokers for Life: 

• BrokersForLife.ca
• Linkedin: Len Lane
• LinkedIn: Brokers for Life
• Facebook: Brokers for Life
• X: @Brokers4Life
  
  

Contact Shane Parker | PDS Law: 

• Website: pdslaw.ca
• Email: [email protected]