Plain answers for common situations. John Antle works with clients in Airdrie and across Alberta by phone or video, and in person by arrangement.
First-time home buyers in Airdrie
Most first-time buyers start with a pre-approval, which shows what you may qualify for before you shop. I explain the down payment rules, the stress test and your closing costs, plus the FHSA and the RRSP Home Buyers’ Plan. Buying a new build? The timeline and deposits work differently, so we plan for that early.
Lender approval required. Any fees are disclosed in writing in advance.
Read the first-time buyer guide · Talk to John: 403-879-2065
Mortgage renewals
Your renewal letter is a starting point, not the final word. A federally regulated lender has to send it at least 21 days before your term ends, which isn’t much time to compare. Starting about four months out gives you room to look at other lenders and, if it makes sense, switch at maturity without a prepayment penalty.
A switch requires approval from the new lender.
Compare your offer before you sign · Talk to John: 403-879-2065
Refinancing your Airdrie home
A refinance replaces your current mortgage, usually to access equity for renovations or debt consolidation, or to change your rate type or term. Most lenders cap a standard refinance at 80% of your home’s value. Adding a legal secondary suite may qualify for a higher limit under CMHC’s insured refinance rules. I show the full cost, including any prepayment penalty, before you decide.
Lender approval required. Any fees are disclosed in writing in advance.
Read the refinancing guide · Talk to John: 403-879-2065
Options for income that’s hard to prove
If your income is hard to prove on paper, for example self-employed, commission or rental income, some alternative lenders offer low-documentation or stated-income programs, and some private lenders lend mainly on your home equity. These options usually need a larger down payment or more equity, and they cost more than a bank mortgage. I can review your situation and explain which lenders may fit.
Lender approval required. Costs are higher than a standard mortgage, and any fees are disclosed in writing in advance.
Book a call with John · Talk to John: 403-879-2065
Bad credit mortgages
There are often still options with bad credit, usually through alternative (B) or private lenders at higher rates and fees. The aim is a plan: a mortgage that works now, steps to rebuild your credit, and a route back to a lower-cost lender at renewal. I can review your situation privately and explain the options.
Lender approval required. Costs are higher than a standard mortgage, and any fees are disclosed in writing in advance.
Book a call with John · Talk to John: 403-879-2065
Mortgages after bankruptcy or a consumer proposal
You may be able to get a mortgage while you are in a consumer proposal, or soon after a bankruptcy discharge or a completed proposal, usually through alternative or private lenders at higher cost. Lenders look at your equity or down payment, your income, how you have handled credit since, and your discharge or completion date. I can explain what lenders typically look for and help you plan a route back to standard rates.
Lender approval required. Costs are higher than a standard mortgage, and any fees are disclosed in writing in advance.
Book a call with John · Talk to John: 403-879-2065
Reverse mortgages for homeowners 55+
A reverse mortgage lets homeowners aged 55 or older borrow against their home equity without regular mortgage payments; the loan is usually repaid when the home is sold or the owners move out. Rates are generally higher than a regular mortgage and the balance grows over time, so it suits some people and not others. I can explain the options and costs and compare them with a refinance or a home equity line of credit.
Lender approval required. Costs are higher than a standard mortgage, and any fees are disclosed in writing in advance.
Book a call with John · Talk to John: 403-879-2065
Alternative (B lender) and private mortgages
Alternative (B) lenders may consider borrowers who don’t fit a bank’s standard rules, such as recent self-employment, bruised credit or high debt ratios. Private lenders focus mainly on the property and your equity. Both cost more than a bank mortgage, and terms are usually short (often one to three years for B lenders, one or two for private), so you need a clear exit plan. I work with 60+ A and alternative lenders and 200+ private lenders.
Lender approval required. Costs are higher than a standard mortgage, and any fees are disclosed in writing in advance.
Book a call with John · Talk to John: 403-879-2065