Kent Chapman - MortgageTree

08/05/2026

📉 Good news for Canadian homeowners 55+ considering a reverse mortgage.

Reverse mortgage rates have been coming down across Canada, making it a more affordable option for homeowners looking to access the equity in their home without selling or taking on monthly mortgage payments.

In recent weeks, all four of Canada's reverse mortgage lenders have lowered rates, thanks to lower funding costs and increased competition in the market. While reverse mortgage rates aren't directly tied to the Bank of Canada's overnight rate, this shift means better borrowing opportunities for many retirees.

A reverse mortgage can help:
🏡 Supplement retirement income
🏡 Pay off existing debt
🏡 Cover home renovations or healthcare costs
🏡 Stay in the home you love longer

Let's have a conversation about your options.
CALL KENT 403-797-2093
www.mortgagetree.ca
Source: Canadian Mortgage Trends, Why Canada's reverse mortgage rates are falling (July 16, 2026).

08/04/2026

🏡 Property Red Flags Mortgage Lenders Look For

Not every property qualifies for financing as easily as you might think.
Some features can make it more difficult to secure a mortgage, including:

🔹 Structural or foundation concerns
🔹 Major deferred maintenance
🔹 Unpermitted renovations
🔹 Rural or unique properties
🔹 Certain condos or leasehold properties
🔹 Homes with safety or habitability issues

That doesn't always mean financing isn't possible, it just means you may need the right lender and the right strategy.

If you've found a home you love, let's talk before you make an offer. I can help you understand your financing options and avoid surprises along the way.
📩 Reach out anytime to discuss your mortgage options!CALL KENT 403-797-2093
www.mortgagetree.ca

07/29/2026

Many Canadians hear about 30-year fixed mortgages in the U.S. and wonder why we don't have them here.

But there's another side to the story.

🇺🇸 Americans can lock in their mortgage rate for up to 30 years, giving them long-term payment certainty.
🇨🇦 Canadians typically renew every 3-5 years, which means rates can change over time.
Sounds like an easy win for the U.S., right?

Not always.

Because American lenders are guaranteeing rates for decades, U.S. mortgage rates are often higher than Canadian mortgage rates.

So while Canadians face renewal risk, we often benefit from lower rates and more flexibility.

The lesson? Every mortgage system has trade-offs. The best mortgage isn't just about the rate, it’s about choosing the right strategy for your goals and future plans.

CALL KENT 403-797-2093
www.mortgagetree.ca

07/27/2026

🏡 Your home may be one of your largest assets, so why not put some of that equity to work?

A CHIP Reverse Mortgage allows eligible homeowners aged 55+ to access tax-free cash from their home's equity while continuing to live in the home they love.

Whether you're looking to supplement retirement income, renovate, travel, help family members, or eliminate debt, a reverse mortgage can provide flexibility without required monthly mortgage payments.

Curious if it's the right fit for your retirement plans? Let's explore your options.

CALL KENT 403-797-2093
www.mortgagetree.ca

07/24/2026

Buying a condo? Don't just fall in love with the unit, ask the right questions about the building too.

Here are a few important questions to ask your REALTOR®:
- What do the condo fees include?
- Is there a healthy reserve fund?
- Have there been any recent or upcoming special assessments?
- Are there restrictions on pets, rentals, or renovations?
- What amenities are available and are they worth the fees?
- How has the building been maintained over the years?

A condo purchase is about more than the square footage inside your door. Understanding the financial health and rules of the condo corporation can help you avoid costly surprises down the road.

Thinking about buying a condo? Let's make sure you know what questions to ask before you make an offer.
CALL KENT 403-797-2093
www.mortgagetree.ca

07/22/2026

Need a little extra cash when buying a home?

A cashback mortgage could provide a lump sum of money when your mortgage closes that can be used for closing costs, moving expenses, furniture, renovations, or paying down higher-interest debt.

But here's the catch: cashback mortgages typically come with a higher interest rate than a standard mortgage.

In other words, that cash isn't really "free." You'll usually pay for it over time through higher mortgage costs.

For the right borrower, a cashback mortgage can be a useful tool. The key is understanding the trade-offs and making sure it fits your overall financial plan.

Wondering if a cashback mortgage makes sense for you? Let's compare your options and find the best fit.

CALL KENT 403-797-2093
www.mortgagetree.ca

07/17/2026

If you're purchasing a newly built home, you may be eligible for a GST rebate worth up to $50,000. That could mean significant savings on your home purchase and help make homeownership more affordable.

Here's the quick breakdown:

✅ Full GST rebate on new homes priced up to $1 million

✅ Partial rebate available on homes between $1 million and $1.5 million

✅ Potential savings of up to $50,000

✅ Available on qualifying new builds, owner-built homes, and some co-op housing purchases intended as your primary residence

To qualify, you generally must be a first-time home buyer, at least 18 years old, a Canadian citizen or permanent resident, and not have owned and lived in a home during the current year or previous four calendar years (including a home owned by a spouse or common-law partner).
For many buyers, this could make a new construction home much more attainable.

Let's chat about how this rebate could impact your down payment strategy and mortgage options.
CALL KENT 403-797-2093
www.mortgagetree.ca

07/15/2026

Just announced!

The Bank of Canada held its target for the overnight rate at 2.25%. This represents a steady hold for the sixth consecutive announcement, keeping the benchmark rate and overall consumer borrowing costs such as variable mortgages and HELOCs unchanged.

Questions about mortgage rates? Contact us for more information.
www.mortgagetree.ca

07/13/2026

🏡 FHSA: The Home Buying Account Too Many Canadians Still Aren't Using

If you're planning to buy your first home, the First Home Savings Account (FHSA) could be one of the most powerful tools available.

Think of it as the best parts of an RRSP and TFSA combined.
A few important details many people don't realize:
📌 Your FHSA contribution room only starts accumulating once you open the account.
📌 Unused room can carry forward, but only up to $8,000.
📌 Contributions must be made by December 31 to claim the deduction for that tax year.
📌 If you don't end up buying a home, you can transfer the funds to your RRSP or RRIF tax-free.

The FHSA can be a game-changer for first-time buyers, but understanding the rules is key to maximizing the benefit.

Thinking about buying your first home in the next few years? Let's talk about how the FHSA could fit into your homeownership plan.
CALL KENT 403-797-2093
www.mortgagetree.ca

07/10/2026

Thinking about buying an acreage? The mortgage process may be a little different than buying a home in the city.

Factors like the size of the land, property use, outbuildings, wells, septic systems, and even how many acres are included can all impact your financing options.

Some lenders have acreage restrictions, while others offer specialized programs designed for rural properties.
That's why it's important to work with someone who understands the unique requirements of acreage financing.

Whether you're dreaming of more space, a hobby farm, or country living, we can help you navigate the options and find the right mortgage solution for your property.
📞 Ready to explore acreage living? Let's talk before you start your search!
CALL KENT 403-797-2093
www.mortgagetree.ca