Host Len chats with Reuven Gorsht from Deeded to discuss the challenges and innovations in the real estate closing process. Reuven shares his personal experience of a disastrous and disorganized closing that inspired his mission to modernize the closing experience for homebuyers. The conversation explores how Deeded’s virtual closing platform tracks and manages documents to ensure smooth transactions, combining human empathy with technology to provide a seamless experience for clients. 

Security is a focus of the discussion, with Reuven highlighting Deeded’s SOC2 certification and various measures to prevent phishing and fraud. The podcast also touches on the concept of Independent Legal Advice (ILS) and its importance in transactions. Reuven shares compelling statistics showing that 87% of homeowners find mortgage products through referrals, emphasizing the critical importance of creating excellent client experiences in the digital age. Len and Reuven conclude by discussing the future of the industry, pointing to the increasing adoption of digital solutions while maintaining the human touch that builds strong relationships with clients. 

About Reuven Gorsht

Reuven Gorsht is an entrepreneur with a passion for solving big, challenging problems. He’s helped transform and evolve multi-billion dollar corporations into new business models, products, and paradigms. He’s built several very successful startups from the ground up and knows what it takes to build products, teams, and cultures that can execute with passion.

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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 Reuven Gorsht | Deeded Law Services: 

• Website: deeded.ca 
• Instagram: @deeded.ca
• X: @getdeeded
• Facebook: @getdeeded
• Linkedin: Reuven Gorsht

In this episode of the Brokers for Life Podcast, host Len Lane sits down with condo expert Brian Fischer of KDM Management to demystify the world of condominium ownership. Brian explains that condos are not just about apartments—they represent a specific ownership structure dating back to Roman times. He dives into the importance of reviewing condo bylaws, financial statements, and insurance before purchasing, emphasizing the risks of overlooking key details. Common concerns such as pet policies, parking, and age restrictions are discussed, with Brian highlighting the upcoming regulatory changes that will limit age restrictions to only 18+ or 55+ by 2030.

Brian and Len also explore the complexities of multi-stage condo developments, where buyers may face unexpected financial and legal challenges. They stress the need for professional reviews of condo documents to avoid costly pitfalls. Whether you're a first-time condo buyer or an experienced investor, this episode provides crucial insights into navigating the condo market with confidence. Tune in to hear expert advice that can help you make informed decisions about condo ownership.

About Brian Fischer

With over 20 years of experience in the real estate industry, Brian is a licensed broker with RECA and a seasoned professional in condominium management. While he initially built his career in real estate sales, his focus shifted in 2010 when he and his wife acquired KDM Management, a well-established firm operating since 1986. Since taking the helm, Brian has been deeply immersed in the condominium sector, growing the company and enhancing its services to better serve clients. His extensive industry knowledge and hands-on leadership make him a trusted expert in condominium management.

Resources:

• RECA

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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 Brian Fischer: 

• Website: kdmmgmt.ca
• LinkedIn: Brian Fischer
  
  

In this episode of Brokers for Life, host Len Lane sits down with Elena Robinson, VP of Residential Sales at First National, to discuss her 35-year journey in the mortgage industry. Elena shares how she witnessed First National’s incredible growth from a small startup to a powerhouse with 1,700 employees, all while maintaining a strong commitment to mortgage brokers. She highlights the company’s unique approach—prioritizing customer service and never competing with brokers directly. 

Elena sheds light on popular mortgage products, such as insured five-year terms and stated income options, and emphasizes the importance of working with marketable properties and well-qualified borrowers. Looking ahead, Len and Elena discuss the current economic landscape and its potential impact on the mortgage industry in 2025. While cautious optimism prevails, Elena notes factors like interest rate shifts, government policies, and economic uncertainties that could influence market trends. 

She also shares insights from industry experts on how brokers can navigate these changes successfully. Throughout the discussion, both Len and Elena stress the importance of broker-client relationships, ongoing education, and adapting to market shifts. Tune in for an insightful conversation packed with industry expertise, valuable advice, and a forward-looking perspective on the mortgage business.

About Elena Robinson

Elena first joined Canada’s leading residential mortgage financing team, First National Financial, in 1990 as its first Business Development Manager, a role held for three years. In 2018, she returned to help re-launch the Excalibur program, First National’s alternative lending division. With more than three decades of experience in the mortgage industry, Elena has worked across various facets, including lending, alternative lending, and brokering.

Throughout Elena’s career, relationships have remained a constant. Many of the connections made at the beginning of their career over 30 years ago have evolved into long-standing professional relationships and friendships. Returning to First National to help launch the Excalibur division felt like building a company from the ground up, requiring passion, dedication, and a deep commitment to supporting both the team and brokers.

Having been a broker personally, Elena understands the daily demands of the role and can relate to the challenges brokers face. Approachability and trust have been the hallmarks of their career, and they take great pride in being a trusted source of knowledge, advice, and support.

First National, once a small and close-knit company, has always felt like home to Elena despite their experiences elsewhere in the industry. The enduring values and relationships within the organization continue to foster an environment of trust, respect, and collaboration—qualities that have been fundamental to her professional journey.

Resources discussed in this episode:

• Benjamin Tal - Economist

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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 Elena Robinson | First National Financial: 

• Website: firstnational.ca
• Linkedin: Elena Robinson
  
  

Len Lane, founder of Brokers for Life Inc., sits down with Shawn Jewers, Business Development Manager for MCAP Mortgages, to discuss the massive wave of mortgage renewals coming between 2025 and 2027. They break down the two types of mortgage transfers—standard and collateral—and why understanding the differences is crucial for brokers and homeowners alike. Shawn highlights the role of First Canadian Title (FCT) in the transfer process and explains how virtual signing can streamline transactions. The conversation also covers key industry insights, including the impact of grandfathering rules on insured mortgages and the potential savings that borrowers can access when qualifying at contract rates.

As the mortgage industry braces for this significant renewal period, Len and Shawn stress the importance of brokers staying informed and prepared. They discuss valuable tools such as MCAP’s transfer matrix, refinance calculator, and switch transfer template—all designed to help brokers navigate renewals more efficiently. Brokers are encouraged to attend quarterly MCAP webinars and ensure their clients stay responsive to communications from FCT for a smoother transfer experience. With a rapidly evolving market, this episode provides essential insights to help brokers and borrowers make the most of their mortgage renewals.

About Shawn Jewers

Shawn Jewers is a seasoned mortgage industry expert with over 20 years of experience in various facets of the field. Beginning his career at CMHC as a VDM, Shawn has developed a deep understanding of mortgage lending, underwriting, and market trends. Currently, he serves as the Business Development Manager for MCAP Mortgages, one of Canada’s leading mortgage lenders.

Throughout his career, Shawn has been a trusted resource for mortgage brokers, offering insights into mortgage transfers, refinancing strategies, and industry best practices. He is known for his expertise in differentiating standard and collateral transfers and for his ability to guide brokers in optimizing client solutions. With a strong commitment to education and communication, Shawn plays a key role in helping brokers navigate the evolving mortgage landscape, ensuring they are well-equipped to provide value-driven advice to their clients.

Resources discussed in this episode:

• MCAP - Professor

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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 Shawn Jewers: 

• Website: mcap.com
• Email: [email protected] 
• Linkedin: Shawn Jewers
  
  

Len Lane, founder of Brokers for Life Inc., discusses the rising divorce rates in Alberta and how the CMHC Spousal Buyout Program can help individuals retain ownership of their homes post-divorce. This program allows a spouse to qualify for a mortgage independently, covering up to 95% of the property's value to settle outstanding mortgages and other financial obligations outlined in a court-ordered separation agreement. 

Lane highlights key criteria, including the property being a principal residence and both spouses being on the title. By facilitating a structured approach to asset division, the program can help individuals stay in their homes, which is especially beneficial for families with children. However, he stresses the importance of factoring in additional costs, such as legal fees and land transfer taxes, which can range from 1.5% to 4% of the purchase price.

Lane also explores the concept of "Gray Divorce," referring to the increasing number of older couples separating later in life and the financial implications that come with it. For individuals facing a Gray Divorce, reverse mortgages can be a viable option, providing access to a portion of their home's equity without requiring monthly payments. This approach can help older divorcees secure financial stability while transitioning into separate living arrangements. Listeners looking for guidance on spousal buyouts, reverse mortgages, or other mortgage solutions are encouraged to reach out to the Brokers for Life team for expert advice.

Resources discussed in this episode:

• CMHC - Spousal Buyout

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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
  
  

In this episode, Len Lane, founder of Brokers for Life Inc., chats with Wayne Kainu from Neo Financial about Neo's impressive journey and innovative approach to financial services. Wayne shares his personal story, moving to Calgary in the 1990s as a speed skater, and how he eventually joined Neo Financial, founded by the creators of Skip the Dishes.

Neo has seen incredible growth, expanding from 100 to 800 employees in just three years. With cutting-edge technology, including a credit card application process that boasts 12-second approvals, Neo is reshaping banking and mortgage experiences in Canada. The company is focused on insured mortgages, offering competitive rates and a six-month term product, while setting its sights on the uninsured mortgage market using its deposits to improve efficiency and rates for brokers.

Wayne highlights Neo's plans to build proprietary mortgage technology by 2025 and their commitment to integrating platforms like Velocity to streamline processes further. He also discusses industry trends, including the need for professional advice, the evolving broker mindset, and Neo's dedication to supporting brokers through innovative tools like a trailer model to build equity in their business. Tune in for an insightful discussion on how Neo Financial is transforming Canadian banking and what’s next in its mission to enhance broker and client experiences.

About Wayne Kainu:

As the Head of Mortgages for Neo Financial, Wayne Kainu is an accomplished finance professional with extensive experience in the mortgage and lending sectors. Currently serving as the Head of Mortgages at Neo Financial since November 2021, Wayne previously founded and led Finevo Lending Group as President & CEO from February 2008 to November 2021. Prior to this, Wayne held managerial responsibilities in real estate secured lending at TD Bank from January 2003 to February 2008 and worked as a financial advisor at Scotiabank between May 1997 and January 2003. Wayne Kainu is also a graduate of the University of Calgary and holds a PFP® designation from the Canadian Securities Institute.

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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 Wayne Kainu | Neo Financial: 

• Website: neofinancial.com
• LinkedIn: WayneKainu
• X: @wjkainu
  
  

In this episode of Brokers for Life, host Len Lane and his guest, Gerhardt Klann, president of Northern Lights Real Estate Consulting, dive into the critical role appraisals play in real estate transactions, especially for buyers putting down over 20%. Gerhardt shares his journey from real estate investing in the late 1990s to becoming a seasoned appraiser and founder of Northern Lights Appraisals. The duo explores how appraisers determine market value, the impact of buyer preferences, and the nuances of renovations that add—or detract—from property value. They also reflect on lessons from the 2008 financial meltdown and discuss the significance of professional designations like DAR, DAC, and DRP in ensuring appraisal accuracy and credibility.

Turning their focus to the Alberta real estate market, Len and Gerhardt discuss the province’s growing appeal due to affordability and migration trends. They highlight the ongoing surge in Edmonton and Calgary, noting strong rental and resale markets fueled by interprovincial migration. With a nod to future opportunities, Gerhard predicts continued growth in the Edmonton market, while Len shares plans to expand his team to meet rising demand. This episode is a must-listen for those who want deeper insights into the evolving dynamics of Alberta real estate and strategies for navigating the current market conditions.

About Gerhardt Klann:

Northern Lights Real Estate Consulting is a residential and commercial real estate appraisal firm owned and operated by Gerhardt Klann and his wife Shila Klann. Gerhardt has his DAR, DAC, DRP and Certified Appraisal Reviewer Designations from the Canadian National Association of Real Estate Appraisers (CNAREA) and is licensed by the Real Estate Council of Alberta (RECA). 

He was recognized as CNAREA’s Appraiser of the Year (for all of Canada) in 2016 and has completed over 7,500 appraisals. In addition, Gerhardt is an engaging public speaker and has delivered the keynote address at several conferences for investors, lenders and mortgage brokers throughout western Canada. He developed his business skills at the University of Alberta, where he earned a B.Sc. Forestry Business Management, with distinction in 1999. A former world-class biathlete, Gerhardt brings a high level of focus and precision to his work. 

In addition, he is an active member of the community, serving as a volunteer for the Start 2 Finish Reading and Running Program and sits on the Appraisal Advisory Committee for the Real Estate Council of Alberta. Gerhardt and his hand-selected team of high-quality appraisers are passionate students of the Edmonton real estate market — with combined decades of appraisal, real estate and real estate investment experience. Their reports are well-regarded for their accuracy and precision and can help you make sound real estate-related decisions based on reliable facts.

Resources:

• REIN - Real Estate Investors Network
• Canadian National Association of Real Estate Appraisers
• Appraisal Institute 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 Gerhardt Klann | Northern Lights Appraisals: 

• Website: northernlightsappraisals.ca
• Facebook: @NorthernLightsAppraisals
• X: @NLAppraisals
• YouTube: EdmontonAppraisals
  
  

Host Len Lane welcomes special guest Dan Akowuah from Amansad Financial to discuss the intricacies of private lending and its role within the mortgage industry. Len and Dan break down the differences between private lending, syndicated mortgages, and mortgage investment corporations (MICs), a topic that is often misunderstood. Dan provides insight into private lending as an arrangement where individuals or corporations lend funds directly, bypassing traditional banking requirements. He explains how these private loans can offer an alternative solution for borrowers who may not meet conventional lending standards, emphasizing the importance of thorough due diligence and investor safeguards, especially with recent regulatory changes.

The conversation also delves into the current lending environment, touching on how high interest rates have influenced investor activity. Dan shares his approach to risk management, only working with investors who have diversified sources of income. He also notes that while private lending offers a unique opportunity for investors interested in real estate, it’s not without challenges. Dan stresses that ethical lending practices and rigorous verification procedures are essential, especially as regulatory bodies increase scrutiny to protect both lenders and borrowers. This episode provides valuable insights for anyone interested in understanding private lending's nuances and its place in today’s mortgage landscape.

About Dan K. Akowuah 

Dan K. Akowuah is a seasoned private lending professional at Amansad Financial, with over a decade of experience specializing in non-traditional lending solutions for clients who may not meet standard banking requirements. Formerly associated with the Brokers for Life team, Dan brings a wealth of knowledge from his prior work in retail finance within the automotive and RV sectors. 

Recognized for his meticulous due diligence and ethical approach, he has built a robust network of trusted investors. Dan’s expertise spans multiple Canadian provinces, focusing on securing private lending opportunities with a careful assessment of risk, particularly in single-family and select commercial properties. His dedication to maintaining high standards and regulatory compliance positions him as a knowledgeable and reliable partner in private lending.

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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 Dan K. Akowuah | Amansad Financial: 

• Website: amansadfinancial.com
• LinkedIn: DanA
  
  

In a critical update for the mortgage industry, Dave Teixeira joins host Len Lane to clarify the recent AML regulations. Dave highlights the importance of these rules in strengthening the role of mortgage brokers in Canada’s financial system and explains the operational challenges of ongoing compliance. He illustrates how DLCG is supporting brokers with tools to manage enhanced ID verification, risk assessments, and transaction monitoring while discussing the vital role of technology especially the Velocity platform. 

The conversation also touches on the intricacies of the regulatory landscape, including the importance of ongoing media monitoring and understanding the distinction between suspicious transaction reports (STRs) and other compliance documentation. Dave’s expertise offers mortgage professionals a roadmap to efficiently navigate AML requirements while ensuring top-notch client service. This episode is a must-listen for mortgage brokers, industry professionals, and those interested in regulatory compliance within financial services.

About Dave Teixeira

Dave Teixeira is the Executive Vice President of DLCG Operations. Since joining DLC in 2015, Dave has played a vital role in managing partnership relationships, overseeing media and government relations, and leading special projects. Known for his collaborative approach, Dave works closely with third-party partners, and his title accurately represents the wide range of operational functions he contributes to DLCG.

Resources discussed in this episode:

• Velocity
• REMIC
• remic.ca/aml

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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 Dave Teixeira | Dominion Lending Centres: 

• Website: DaveTeixeira.ca

In this episode, Len Lane, founder of Brokers for Life Inc., sits down with Mike Ayub from Home Trust to discuss the ins and outs of alternative lending. With over 30 years in the business, Home Trust specializes in serving clients who don’t fit traditional A-lender criteria, such as self-employed individuals and those with unique income sources. Mike dives into the competitive rates that Home Trust offers, sometimes even lower than A lenders, and highlights their popular products like stated income mortgages and rental property loans. He also shares insights on Alberta’s booming rental market and stresses the importance of exit strategies for clients using alternative lending solutions.

Mike also discusses the impact of rising interest rates on borrowers and how Home Trust has adapted to these changes while remaining a leader in the alternative lending space. Brokers are encouraged to understand the value of alternative lending and how it can be a critical tool in helping clients achieve financial stability. Tune in to hear more about Home Trust’s unique offerings, the evolving market, and how brokers can better serve clients by incorporating alternative lending into their portfolios.

About Mike Ayoub

Mike Ayoub is a seasoned professional with 16 years of experience at Home Trust, where he began his career in Halifax managing the Atlantic Canada division for 14 years. Now based in Alberta, Mike continues to oversee Atlantic Canada operations while contributing to Home Trust’s success in the alternative lending market. Established in 1989, Home Trust has been a leading player in alternative lending for over 30 years, offering specialized solutions to a diverse range of clients. Mike's expertise reflects Home Trust’s commitment to its core business, focusing on its classic alternative lending products while adapting to market changes.

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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 Mike Ayoub | Home Trust: 

• Website: HomeTrust
• Linkedin: MikeAyoub
• Instagram: @hometrustco
• Facebook: HomeTrustCo
• X: @hometrustco