St. Catharines Mortgage Brokers and Agents

Mortgage Broker Advantages

Advantages of using a mortgage broker include:

• greater access to lenders, mortgage products and rates
• the ability to compare mortgage rates without having your credit report being pulled multiple times (if you conducted your own comparison shopping, your credit report would be pulled once by each of the lenders you go to)
• the mortgage broker can negotiate on your behalf and pass on some of their volume discounts to you
• greater flexibility when finding a time to meet with your broker in-person as mortgage brokers usually have extended hours, outside of the typical bank business hours
• access to your mortgage broker’s large amount of industry knowledge as they are not limited to products from a single lender
• free service, as mortgage brokers are paid by the lender that provides your mortgage

Mortgage Professionals Canada

Mortgage Professionals Canada (formerly CAAMP) is a national industry association which provides ethical and professional standards for its members. They provide education and information to mortgage brokers, regulators and mortgage consumers in order to maintain industry standards and conduct. By being a member of Mortgage Professionals Canada, mortgage brokers are agreeing to the ethical and professional guidelines outlined by the association.

Mortgage Broker Licensing

Mortgage brokers are licensed by the province, although each province has its own rules. In many provinces, mortgage brokers are expected to complete training courses and have a minimum amount of work experience before becoming licensed. In others, there are no educational requirements. In all provinces, one may acquire an Accredited Mortgage Professional (AMP) designation from the association known as Mortgage Professionals Canada (MPC). It is the only proficiency standard for the Canadian Mortgage industry and although not necessary, does add additional credibility.

Other Professionals

When purchasing a new home or property in St. Catharines you may choose to use the services of various professionals who all have a role in your new home purchase. These professionals include realtors, home inspectors and real estate lawyers. Realtors have access to home sales data and can help you find the right property and negotiate with the seller on your behalf. Home inspectors conduct home inspections to determine the condition of the property. A home inspection will allow you to determine what repairs and maintenance may be required in your property. Real estate lawyers execute all legal documents such as a purchase agreement and mortgage agreement, and ensures your rights as a buyer are upheld.

Mortgage Brokers Across Canada