In this insightful episode of Real Life Mortgage Solutions, Len Lane sits down with Rachel Rogerson, Director of Business Development at Bloom, to uncover the real benefits and myths surrounding reverse mortgages. Rachel shares her expertise on how reverse mortgages can provide financial relief to Canadians aged 55 and older, tapping into home equity without the burden of monthly payments.

Tune in as Rachel explains the safety nets in place to protect homeowners, such as Bloom’s Home Equity Guarantee, and dispels common misconceptions about losing home ownership. Discover how reverse mortgages can help you or a loved one enhance financial independence while maintaining home equity, and learn why this option is becoming increasingly popular in Western Canada.

About Rachel Rogerson

With over 10 years of experience in mortgage financing, Rachel is a passionate and results-driven leader who helps people achieve their homeownership and financial goals. She is currently the Director of Business Development at Bloom Finance Company Ltd., a leading provider of home equity reverse mortgage solutions.

Rachel leverages her skills in data-driven decision-making, market analysis, sales and marketing strategy, and relationship management to create and execute growth initiatives, expand the customer base, and increase Bloom's brand awareness and reputation. She also collaborates with a team of talented mortgage professionals who share her vision of delivering exceptional service and value to our clients. She has a proven track record of leading mortgage financing from origination, structuring, negotiation, and due diligence to documentation, and she has been recognized as a top performer in the industry.

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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 Rachel Rogerson | Bloom Finance Company: 

• Website: BloomFinanceCompanyLtd.
• Linkedin: RachelRogerson
  
  

Get ready for an eye-opening journey into the heart of Western Canada's mortgage landscape. Len Lane, Founder of Brokers for Life Inc., teams up with MCAP’s dynamic Director of Sales, Lee-Ann McEllister, to tackle the market’s biggest challenges—from soaring housing costs in BC to steady trends in the Prairies. Lee-Ann shares her wealth of knowledge on regional differences across Western Canada, offering valuable insights for brokers and homebuyers navigating the changing real estate market.

The discussion also delves into the impact of interprovincial migration, fluctuating interest rates, and the evolving role of technology in the mortgage industry. Lee-Ann highlights how MCAP’s innovative approach and strong company culture have allowed them to remain competitive and thrive. Don’t miss this chance to learn from one of the industry's top leaders and gain practical insights into the future of mortgages in Canada.

About Lee-Ann McEllister

Lee-Ann is the Director of Sales for MCAP and an Associate Certified Organizational Coach with the International Coaching Federation.

She proudly leads a team of dedicated Business Development Managers, supporting them to make an impact and help broker partners grow their business. After almost two decades in finance sales, she believes work can be fun and is passionate about creating an enjoyable atmosphere in everything she does. Innovation is the key driver of MCAP and Lee-Ann's success; she welcomes creativity and new ideas and runs toward change!

In 2020 and 2022, she was named Woman of Influence by Canadian Mortgage Professionals and dedicates her time and energy as Board Chair for BC Lenders Group Association. She works closely with Habitat for Humanity Okanagan as Board Chair and Chair of their Family Services Committee. She is also a member of their Governance Committee and Community Engagement and Fundraising Committee. She is passionate about providing a hand-up to families in her community.

Lee-Ann is grateful to be part of the mortgage broker industry and thinks that home ownership is a keystone of wealth and provides emotional security. 

Resources discussed in this episode:

• International Coaching Federation
• Canadian Mortgage Professionals
• BC Lenders Group Association
• Habitat for Humanity Okanagan\
• Velocity
• Flinks

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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 Lee-Ann McEllister: 

• Website: mcapblue.com
• Linkedin: LeeAnnMcEllister

In this episode of Real Life Mortgage Solutions, Len Lane, Founder of Brokers for Life, dives deep into the crucial topic of credit with Sandra Landry, Senior VP at MNP Bankruptcy. They explore the "5 C's of Credit" (Character, Capacity, Capital, Collateral, and Conditions), explaining how lenders evaluate creditworthiness and what influences your credit score.

With a practical approach, Len and Sandra discuss what appears on credit reports, the importance of consistent financial behaviour, and tips on maintaining or rebuilding credit, especially for self-employed individuals and those with a history of bankruptcy or foreclosure.

Sandra also provides insightful advice on credit-rebuilding strategies, like maintaining long-term credit accounts, keeping borrowed amounts low, and setting up automatic payments to avoid late fees. This episode is filled with actionable advice to help you navigate the complexities of credit reports, improve your credit score, and make informed decisions about your financial future.

About Sandra Landry

Sandra is a motivated individual who strives to learn something new every day. She enjoys learning about various businesses and individuals in her community and working out ways to help them.

There are significant options open to both individuals and businesses which include credit counselling, orderly payment of debt, proposals and bankruptcy. It's important that everyone understands what those options include and it's her role as Trustee to ensure that people are able to make the right choice for themselves and their own situation.

Resources discussed in this episode:

• Equifax: www.equifax.com
• TransUnion: www.transunion.ca

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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 Sandra Landry: 

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

Facing financial hardship can feel overwhelming, but understanding your options is the first step toward relief. Len Lane speaks with Sandra Landry, Senior Vice President and Licensed Insolvency Trustee at MNP, to discuss how Canadians are dealing with increasing debt following the pandemic. Sandra explains the significant rise in bankruptcy and consumer proposal filings since 2022, emphasizing how interest rate increases and higher living costs have strained the finances of many. They discuss the distinctions between bankruptcy and consumer proposals, providing practical advice on how individuals can manage debt and avoid common pitfalls.

Sandra discusses her work in insolvency, stressing the significance of assisting individuals in comprehending various options, such as credit counselling. She explains how trustees like herself can help people find the most suitable financial solutions for their specific circumstances. This episode delves into the intricacies of bankruptcy laws and the impact of debt on credit scores and outlines the process of rebuilding credit after bankruptcy with effective planning. 

About Sandra Landry

Sandra is a motivated individual who strives to learn something new every day. She enjoys learning about various businesses and individuals in her community and working out ways to help them.

There are significant options open to both individuals and businesses which include credit counselling, orderly payment of debt, proposals and bankruptcy. It's important that everyone understands what those options include and it's her role as Trustee to ensure that people are able to make the right choice for themselves and their own situation.

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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 Sandra Landry: 

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

Join Len Lane, Founder of Brokers for Life, as he sits down with Dave Ford from Fastkey Technology to discuss a groundbreaking tool transforming background and financial screening. With increasing complexities from the CRA in document verification and the rising risks of fraud, Fastkey steps in to simplify and secure the mortgage documentation process.

Len and Dave dive into how Fastkey provides brokers with direct access to CRA documents, ensuring authenticity and reducing fraud threats. Plus, with seamless integration into platforms like Velocity, Fastkey offers a more efficient experience for both brokers and lenders, making the process smoother for clients.

About Dave Ford

Dave Ford is the Lender Relationship Manager at Fastkey Technology, a cutting-edge company that provides mortgage brokers and lenders with secure and reliable access to CRA documents. With a background in financial technology, Dave is passionate about leveraging innovative tools to enhance the mortgage process, reduce fraud risks, and improve efficiency in the lending industry.

Resources discussed in this episode:

• Velocity
• Wise
• Forex

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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 Ford: 

• Website: fastkey.com
• Instagram: @fastkey_tech
• Twitter: @Fastkey_tech
• YouTube: @FastkeyTech
• Facebook: Fastkey Technology Ltd.
• LinkedIn: Fastkey Technology Ltd.
• LinkedIn: David Ford

In this insightful episode, Len Lane, founder and president of Brokers for Life Inc., dives into the world of mortgage technology with Heather Cermak, Regional Vice President of Prairies at DLCG. They discuss the drastic changes in mortgage submission processes over the past 17 years, highlighting the shift from manual, paper-based systems to sophisticated digital platforms like Velocity.

Heather shares her journey in the mortgage industry and her experiences with various technology platforms. She emphasizes the importance of secure document handling and the role of Velocity in enhancing client and broker experiences. Len and Heather also explore the benefits of an integrated CRM, the significance of client engagement, and the positive feedback from both brokers and lenders regarding Velocity's capabilities.

About Heather Cermak

Heather Cermak is the Regional Vice President of Prairies at Dominion Lending Centres Group (DLCG). With extensive experience in the mortgage industry, Heather has a deep understanding of the technological advancements that have shaped the sector. Her passion for improving client and broker experiences through innovative solutions makes her a valuable voice in the conversation about mortgage technology.

Resources discussed in this episode:

• Velocity: https://newton.ca/velocity/

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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 Heather Cermak: 

• Website: heathercermak.ca
• Linkedin: Heather Cermak
• Email: [email protected]
  
  

In this informative episode, Len Lane, founder and president of Brokers for Life Inc., sits down with Kyra Wong, Senior Vice President of Insurance Products for DLCG, to discuss the importance of Mortgage Protection Plans (MPP). They highlight the significant differences between MPP and bank insurance, emphasizing the portability and comprehensive coverage of MPP.

Kyra shares her personal experiences and stories from her career, illustrating the critical need for mortgage protection. Listeners will gain valuable insights into the pitfalls of relying solely on employer-provided insurance and the benefits of securing independent mortgage coverage. The episode also delves into practical tips for mortgage brokers on how to effectively present insurance options to clients and help ensure their financial security.

About Kyra Wong

Kyra Wong is the Senior Vice President of Insurance Products for DLCG, with over 20 years of experience in the insurance industry. Starting her career as a mortgage broker, Kyra transitioned into insurance after witnessing firsthand the devastating impact of inadequate coverage on her clients. Her passion for educating mortgage brokers and advocating for comprehensive insurance solutions drives her work at DLCG. Kyra is dedicated to helping brokers understand the value of Mortgage Protection Plans and ensuring their clients are protected.

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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 Kyra Wong: 

• DLCG: dlcg.ca
• Website: magicalunicornproject.com
• Instagram: magicalunicornproject
• Linkedin: Kyra Wong
  
  

 In this episode, Len Lane sits down with Teresa Ferbey, Sagen Account Manager, to discuss a range of mortgage solutions available through Sagen. They delve into the critical role of Mortgage Default Insurance, making homeownership accessible even with less than 20% down payment. Teresa shares insights on popular programs like the First-Time Home Buyer Incentive, New to Canada Program, and Business for Self options, highlighting their benefits and eligibility criteria.

Key topics include the Purchase Plus Improvements Program, which allows buyers to roll renovation costs into their mortgage, and the Homeowner Assistance Program (HOAP), designed to support homeowners facing financial hardship. Teresa also explains the portability of Sagen insurance and upcoming changes like the introduction of 30-year amortizations for new homes.

About Teresa Ferbey

Teresa Ferbey is a seasoned Sagen Account Manager with extensive experience in the mortgage insurance industry. With a background at Genworth and a passion for helping homeowners, Teresa brings valuable insights into making homeownership more accessible and manageable. Her expertise spans various programs designed to assist first-time buyers, new Canadians, and self-employed individuals.

Resources discussed in this episode:

• Business for Self (Alt. A)
• Energy Efficient Housing Program
• First-Time Home Buyer Incentive
• HOAP (Homeowner Assistance Program)
• New to Canada Program
• Purchase Plus Improvements Program
• Vacation/Secondary Homes

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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 Teresa Ferbey: 

• Website: www.sagen.ca
• Linkedin: Teresa Ferbey
• Email: [email protected]

 In this insightful episode of Real Life Mortgage Solutions, host Len Lane is joined by Shauna Vandenbroek, Business Development Manager for Residential Lending Solutions at FCT (First Canadian Title). Shauna dives deep into the often-overlooked topic of title insurance, explaining its critical role in protecting homeowners from various risks. From covering unknown issues like liens, judgments, and fraud to discussing the differences between lender and homeowner policies, Shauna provides a comprehensive guide on why title insurance is essential for every property owner.

Shauna also shares valuable insights into the rising trends of title fraud and how FCT's advanced fraud detection measures, including their new identification verification system, help safeguard clients and lenders. The episode highlights the importance of strong industry partnerships and how FCT's mortgage closing solutions can simplify the closing process, reduce costs, and enhance client trust. Tune in to learn why title insurance is more than just an optional add-on but a vital component of any real estate transaction.

About Shauna Vandenbroek

Shauna Vandenbroek is the Business Development Manager for Residential Lending Solutions at FCT (First Canadian Title). With extensive experience in the mortgage and lending industry, Shauna is passionate about educating professionals and homeowners on the importance of title insurance. She works closely with mortgage brokers and lenders to provide innovative solutions that enhance the closing process and protect clients from potential risks.

Resources discussed in this episode:

• CMHC: cmhc-schl.gc.ca
• SAGEN: sagen.ca
• Mortgage Logic News: mortgagelogic.news

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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 Shauna Vandenbroek: 

• Website: fct.ca
• Linkedin: Shauna Vandenbroek (Bobinski)
• Email: [email protected]

Have you considered buying a house to renovate or building your own home from the ground up and wondered how a mortgage can cover that? In this episode, Len discusses the three types of construction project mortgages (Purchase Plus Improvement, Completion, and Draw Mortgages), how they’re different, and what they cover. After listening, you’ll have a good grasp of which mortgage you’ll need to apply for in your specific scenario along with an introduction to the specific terms involved. 

Len further breaks down the requirements that lenders are looking for from applicants in all three construction mortgage cases. There are many details that home buyers must be aware of, from how much down payment is required to who the contractor is to ensuring the right paperwork is filled out to account for all the costs associated with a build or renovation. This episode is a great introduction to the possibilities a construction mortgage offers, along with the key factors to be aware of in the process. 

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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