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Pre-qualification is a quick estimate of what you might qualify for based on information you provide — it's informal and unverified. Pre-approval is a full application reviewed by a lender, resulting in a written commitment for a specific amount at a specific rate for a set term. Pre-approval is what you want before you start house hunting seriously.

In Canada, the minimum down payment is 5% for homes under $500,000. For homes between $500,000 and $999,999, it's 5% on the first $500K and 10% on the remainder. For homes $1M+, minimum is 20%. That said, putting down 20% or more avoids CMHC mortgage insurance — which can save you thousands.

Yes — and this is actually one of Danielle's specialties. Self-employed borrowers can qualify using stated income programs or traditional income documentation. It's more nuanced than a standard T4 application, but absolutely achievable. The key is working with someone who knows which lenders to approach.

Most lenders want to see a minimum of 620-650, with better rates typically available at 680+. But credit score is just one factor — income, down payment, debt levels, and employment history all play a role. If your credit isn't where you want it to be, Danielle can help you understand your options and build a plan.

From application to closing typically takes 30-60 days. The pre-approval step can happen within 24-48 hours. If you already have a property and an accepted offer, Danielle works to get your commitment letter as quickly as possible — usually within a few business days once all documents are in.

A mortgage agent works for you, not the bank. We have access to multiple lenders — including your bank, plus credit unions, monoline lenders, and alternative lenders — so we can compare rates and terms across the market. You pay nothing for this service; the lender pays the agent after closing.

CMHC (or mortgage default insurance) is required when your down payment is less than 20%. It protects the lender if you default — but it's added to your mortgage and costs between 2.8% and 4% of the loan amount. Putting 20% down avoids this cost, but lower down payments are still viable if managed properly.

At every closing, Danielle donates 10% of her commission to a registered Canadian charity of your choosing. You pick the cause — whether it's a local food bank, a children's hospital, a women's shelter, or anything else that matters to you. It's her way of making sure every transaction creates a ripple beyond the closing table.