Real Stories In Real Estate podcast

Thinking about building your own home? Jay White of East Pro Contracting Group shares what really happens when you take on a custom build, from finding the right property and navigating permits to construction financing, delays, rising costs and unexpected changes. Jay also reveals what he loves about his home, what he would do differently, and why having extra capital and a realistic timeline can make all the difference.

Keywords

building your own home, building a custom home, custom home construction, construction financing, construction loan, self-build home, building a house from scratch, home construction costs, custom home builder, construction management

To get in touch with Denise:

Web: http://LaframboiseMortgage.ca

Email: [email protected]

Phone: 289-645-1568

Why Being Self-Employed Is Actually a Super Power EP 063 RSIRE

Being self-employed doesn’t have to make getting a mortgage harder. It can actually give you more options.

In this episode of Real Stories in Real Estate, Denise flips the script on one of the biggest misconceptions about self-employed borrowers: that being self-employed is automatically a mortgage liability

The reality? Self-employed borrowers have levers that salaried employees simply don’t have. How you pay yourself, how your business income is structured, what expenses you write off, and where certain expenses are held can all affect how a lender sees your income and your borrowing power.

Denise breaks down the difference between A and B lending, why business bank statements can sometimes tell a very different story than your tax return, the importance of protecting your credit, and why decisions made two or three years before you need a mortgage can dramatically change your options.

The biggest takeaway: don’t wait until you need a mortgage to start planning for one.

If you're self-employed, your mortgage strategy should be part of your business strategy.

• Why self-employment can be a mortgage advantage
• The difference between A lenders and B lenders
• How write-offs can affect mortgage qualification
• Using business bank statements to demonstrate income
• Why planning two to three years ahead matters
• Salary vs. dividends and how income structure can affect borrowing power
• The importance of maintaining strong credit
• How business expenses and vehicles can affect qualification
• Questions to discuss with both your accountant and mortgage professional
• Why the “cheapest mortgage” isn't always the cheapest overall financial strategy

To get in touch with Denise:

Web: http://LaframboiseMortgage.ca

Email: [email protected]

Phone: 289-645-1568

Keywords

#SelfEmployedMortgage #SelfEmployed #MortgageStrategy #MortgagePlanning #MortgageTips #MortgageBrokerOntario #OntarioMortgage #BusinessOwners #Entrepreneurs #MortgageQualification #RealEstateOntario #RealEstateInvesting #HomeBuyingTips #SelfEmployedFinancing #RealStoriesInRealEstate

A Different Way To Make Money In Real Estate EP 062 RSIRE

What if the best real estate opportunity is the one nobody else sees?

Denise sits down with entrepreneur and real estate investor Stephanie Grimbly to unpack the unconventional strategy that led her family to purchase two properties and ultimately sell them to a developer for a combined $3.1 million.

They talk about managing fear, avoiding FOMO, trusting your own numbers, identifying future development opportunities, and why following the crowd can be one of the biggest mistakes an investor can make. Stephanie also shares how her real estate experience gave her the confidence to take on her next entrepreneurial challenge.

A candid conversation about real estate investing, risk, mindset, opportunity, and thinking differently.

• How Stephanie and her family turned two properties into a $3.1 million sale
• Why unconventional real estate opportunities can be worth exploring
• Managing fear when making a major investment decision
• Why following the crowd can lead to buying at exactly the wrong time
• Using job and development trends to identify future opportunities
• The importance of trusting your own research and numbers
• What Stephanie would do differently if she could negotiate the deal again
• How real estate investing helped build confidence for her next entrepreneurial venture
• Why playing the long game often beats chasing quick wins

Main Takeaways

• You don't always need to follow the crowd to succeed in real estate.
• FOMO can cause investors to buy high and sell low.
• Emotional management is just as important as financial analysis.
• Sometimes the best opportunities are found by looking at what an area could become, not just what it is today.
• Your professionals should challenge your thinking, not simply tell you what you want to hear.
• A good investment doesn't necessarily need to produce immediate cash flow if the long-term economics make sense.
• "Everybody is doing it" should make you stop and ask more questions.

Keywords

real estate investing, Ontario real estate investing, GTA real estate, real estate development, property investment strategies, unconventional real estate investments, real estate wealth building, real estate FOMO, investment mindset, property development opportunities, real estate investor mindset, buying investment property, real estate podcast, Ontario investors, entrepreneurial mindset

Are reverse mortgages really as bad as their reputation suggests? In this episode, Denise separates fact from fiction, explaining how reverse mortgages work, who they're designed for, and why they can be a valuable financial tool for homeowners over 55. Learn how accessing your home's equity could improve retirement cash flow, eliminate financial stress, and help you stay in the home you love—all while understanding when a reverse mortgage is, and isn't, the right solution.

• What a reverse mortgage really is—and what it isn't
• Debunking the biggest myths surrounding reverse mortgages
• How homeowners can access equity without selling their home
• Lump sum versus monthly income options
• When a reverse mortgage makes sense—and when other solutions may be better
• Why family conversations are an important part of the decision-making process

• Reverse mortgages are a financial planning tool, not a last resort.
• Homeowners remain the owners of their property.
• Every retirement strategy should be based on the individual's financial goals and circumstances.
• Understanding all available options leads to better long-term decisions.

reverse mortgage Canada, reverse mortgage Ontario, retirement planning, home equity, house rich cash poor, retirement income, mortgage for seniors, Canadian homeowners, retirement financing, equity release, senior financial planning, mortgage advice, real estate podcast

EP 60 downsizing myths

Thinking about downsizing or helping aging parents navigate their next move? Denise is joined by Steve Sicard, a realtor specializing in senior transitions, to discuss aging in place, downsizing strategies, financing options, and the emotional realities of leaving a family home. This practical and compassionate conversation is filled with expert advice for families preparing for one of life's biggest transitions. 

Episode Highlights

• Common myths about downsizing and aging in place
• When it makes sense to stay in your home—and when it doesn't
• How HELOCs, reverse mortgages, and other financing tools can support seniors
• Why pricing strategy matters more than chasing unrealistic expectations
• The emotional challenges of leaving a family home
• How a team of trusted professionals can simplify the downsizing process

Main Takeaways

• Aging in place is often the best option when it is safe and financially sustainable.
• Downsizing is both an emotional and financial decision that deserves careful planning.
• There is no universal solution—every family's situation is unique.
• Working with experienced professionals can reduce stress and help avoid costly mistakes during major life transitions. 

Keywords

downsizing seniors, aging in place, Ottawa realtor, senior real estate specialist, reverse mortgage, HELOC, downsizing parents, retirement housing, selling a family home, senior home transition, Ontario real estate, retirement planning, real estate for seniors

To get in touch with Denise:

Web: http://LaframboiseMortgage.ca

Email: [email protected]

Phone: 289-645-1568

What does a mortgage broker actually do? Much more than finding you a great rate.

In this episode, Denise explains the strategy, planning, and guidance that happens behind the scenes—from comparing lenders and negotiating mortgage options to helping self-employed clients, planning renewals, and supporting homeowners long after closing day.

If you've ever wondered whether working with a mortgage broker is worth it, this episode has the answers.

• What mortgage brokers actually do behind the scenes
• Why the lowest rate isn't always the best mortgage
• How brokers compare dozens of lenders to find the right solution
• The advantage of working with a mortgage broker if you're self-employed
• Why annual mortgage reviews and renewal planning matter
• How brokers work with lawyers, realtors, and accountants to simplify the process

• A mortgage broker's role extends far beyond submitting applications.
• Mortgage strategy should be tailored to your long-term financial goals.
• Self-employed borrowers often have more options than they realize with the right guidance.
• The best mortgage advice continues long after closing day.

mortgage broker, mortgage broker Ontario, mortgage advice, first-time home buyer, self-employed mortgage, mortgage renewal, mortgage strategy, mortgage planning, refinance mortgage, mortgage broker vs bank, home financing, mortgage education, Ontario mortgages

To get in touch with Denise:

Web: http://LaframboiseMortgage.ca

Email: [email protected]

Phone: 289-645-1568

What if you could move into your future home today, even if you don't qualify for a traditional mortgage yet?

Is rent-to-own the right path to homeownership? Denise is joined by Robyn Yack and Cheryl Koffman to explain how rent-to-own works, who it's designed for, and why it's helping more Canadians become homeowners. Learn how this strategy can benefit first-time buyers, self-employed professionals, newcomers to Canada, and anyone rebuilding their financial future.

If you've ever thought homeownership was out of reach, this episode may introduce an option you didn't know existed. 

Episode Highlights

• How rent-to-own programs work from start to finish
• Who is an ideal candidate for rent-to-own
• Why only a 5% down payment may be required
• The advantages of locking in your future purchase price
• How rent-to-own can help after divorce, bankruptcy, or credit challenges
• Why younger buyers and their families are exploring this option

Main Takeaways

• Rent-to-own can provide a realistic pathway to homeownership for buyers who don't yet qualify for traditional financing.
• Stability, predictable housing costs, and forced savings make the program attractive for many families.
• Buyers can often choose the home and neighbourhood they want rather than settling for limited options.
• Exploring all available homeownership strategies helps buyers make informed financial decisions.

SEO-Friendly Keywords

rent to own Ontario, rent to own homes, first-time home buyer, homeownership strategies, bad credit mortgage alternatives, self-employed home buyers, divorce and real estate, newcomer home buying, down payment assistance, Ontario real estate, alternative mortgage solutions, buying your first home

To get in touch with Denise:

Web: http://LaframboiseMortgage.ca

Email: [email protected]

Phone: 289-645-1568

Are you self-employed? The decisions you make at tax time can have a major impact on your future mortgage.

In this episode, Denise explains why your accountant and mortgage broker should be working together, how lenders assess self-employed income, and why planning ahead can help you qualify for better financing while still keeping your tax strategy on track. A must-listen for every business owner planning to buy or refinance. If you're self-employed and planning to buy, refinance, or invest in the next few years, this episode could save you thousands of dollars—and a lot of unnecessary frustration.

Episode Highlights

• Why tax planning can impact your mortgage approval
• How lenders evaluate self-employed income
• Salary vs. dividends: what every business owner should know
• Why mortgage planning should begin years before you buy
• How mortgage brokers and accountants can work together to maximize your options

Main Takeaways

• Smart mortgage planning starts before tax season.
• Minimizing taxes isn't always the same as maximizing borrowing power.
• Early planning gives you more lender options and better rates.
• Collaboration between your accountant and mortgage broker can help you achieve both financial goals.

Keywords

self-employed mortgage, mortgage for business owners, mortgage planning, tax planning, accountant and mortgage broker, self-employed income, mortgage qualification, incorporated business, sole proprietor mortgage, mortgage strategies, Ontario mortgage broker, self-employed financing

To get in touch with Denise:

Web: http://LaframboiseMortgage.ca

Email: [email protected]

Phone: 289-645-1568

Thinking about buying pre-construction? Before you sign, listen to this episode. Denise and real estate lawyer Gabriel Brutto discuss appraisal shortfalls, builder lawsuits, financing pitfalls, why some buyers are facing major challenges at closing and what happens when a real estate deal falls apart. Learn how to protect yourself, avoid costly mistakes, and navigate today's real estate market with confidence. 

Main Takeaways

• A purchase agreement is a legally binding contract—not a reservation.
• Walking away from a deal can trigger significant financial consequences.
• Pre-construction contracts should always be reviewed by a real estate lawyer.
• Financing should be secured well before closing to avoid last-minute issues.
• Today's resale market may offer better opportunities and less risk than pre-construction condos.

SEO-Friendly Keywords

pre-construction condos, Ontario real estate, purchase agreement, real estate lawyer, builder lawsuits, appraisal shortfall, mortgage financing, real estate contracts, condo investing, Toronto real estate market, failed closing, home buying advice, real estate legal tips, pre-construction risks

To get in touch with Denise:

Web: http://LaframboiseMortgage.ca

Email: [email protected]

Phone: 289-645-1568

Mortgage renewal time doesn't have to be stressful. Denise explains why renewal shock happens, what your lender isn't telling you, and how reviewing your options six months before maturity could save you thousands. Whether you're employed, self-employed, or simply worried about rising payments, this episode will help you approach your next renewal with confidence.

Key Takeaways
* Why most lender renewal offers aren't their best offer
* The advantages and disadvantages of switching lenders
* How self-employed borrowers should prepare for renewal
* Why amortization matters just as much as rate
* The mortgage details most homeowners overlook
* Why you should start reviewing your options six months before renewal

SEO Keywords
mortgage renewal, mortgage renewal Canada, renewal shock, mortgage rates Ontario, self-employed mortgage, mortgage renewal advice, refinancing options, mortgage broker Ontario, mortgage payments, mortgage amortization, renewal strategies, homeowner financial planning

To get in touch with Denise:

Web: http://LaframboiseMortgage.ca

Email: [email protected]

Phone: 289-645-1568