Welcome to my Mortgage Blog - Vick Sahota
Vancouver Homeowner with a Rental Suite? Turn Your Mortgage Into a Tax-Deductible Wealth Tool
In Vancouver, where secondary suites are common and mortgage payments are steep, most homeowners aren’t taking full advantage of one powerful financial strategy: rental cash damming. If you have a rental suite and a mortgage, you might be sitting on a missed opportunity to reduce your tax bill, pay down your mortgage faster, and boost long-term wealth, with no extra cash out of pocket.
Let’s break down how this works, and why it’s especially impactful for Vancouver homeowners.
From Condo to Detached Home: How to Upsize Without Breaking the Bank
For many growing families, the transition from a condo or townhome to a detached home is the natural next step. As your lifestyle evolves, so do your space and privacy needs. But upsizing doesn't have to mean stretching your finances to the limit. With thoughtful planning and the right strategy, you can make the leap without breaking the bank.
What Vancouver Homebuyers Can Learn from the 1980s Interest Rate Crisis
The early 1980s were a challenging time for Canadian homeowners, with interest rates reaching unprecedented highs. As of May 2025, while rates are lower, they remain elevated compared to the ultra-low rates of the pandemic era. Understanding the past can provide valuable insights for today's buyers navigating the current market.
The Evolution of Vancouver's Real Estate Market: A 50-Year Perspective
Over the past five decades, Vancouver's real estate market has undergone significant transformations, marked by soaring property values, shifting mortgage rates, and evolving government policies. This post highlights historical trends, key milestones, and current dynamics shaping Vancouver’s housing landscape.
Fixed vs. Variable Mortgages in Vancouver: Historical Performance and Market Insights
When navigating the mortgage landscape in Vancouver, BC, one of the most pressing decisions for homeowners and prospective buyers is choosing between fixed and variable mortgage rates. This choice can significantly impact financial outcomes, especially in a market as dynamic as Vancouver's. Let's delve into the historical performance of both mortgage types and explore which has traditionally offered better value.
Turn Your Mortgage Into a Tax-Efficient Tool With Rental Cash Damming
If you’re a high-income professional looking to pay off your mortgage faster and reduce your tax bill, one of the smartest strategies available is called rental cash damming. It’s a simple concept, but when structured correctly, it can transform how you pay down non-deductible mortgage debt, lower your taxes, and build long-term wealth, all without sacrificing your lifestyle.
The Mortgage Strategy Most People Don’t Know About (That Could Save You $100K+)
If there’s a big gap between how much you earn and how much you save each month, you might be in a perfect position to take advantage of a powerful mortgage strategy that most people have never heard of.
What Would You Do with an Extra $300,000?
Imagine waking up one day to find an extra $300,000 in your bank account. Sounds too good to be true? Well, for some homeowners, it's a very real possibility—just by changing the way they structure their mortgage.
Consolidating Debt and Increasing Cashflow
If you have a mortgage and other debts and are struggling with cashflow, there are options available to help you regain financial stability. One of the most effective strategies is debt consolidation through mortgage refinancing.
Why a Mortgage Broker May Be a Better Choice Than a Bank
When it comes to getting a mortgage, many people instinctively turn to their bank. But is that really the best choice? Working with a mortgage broker can offer significant advantages, from more options to personalized service, and more cost savings over the life of your mortgage. Here’s why you might want to consider a mortgage broker over a bank.
The Hidden Costs of Mortgage Renewals: What You Need to Know Before You Sign
I recently spoke with someone about their mortgage renewal. Their current lender was offering a competitive rate, but there was a catch—massive penalties if they needed to break their mortgage early.
Is Your Mortgage Helping You Build Wealth—Or Just Holding You Back?
For most homeowners, a mortgage is the biggest financial commitment of their lives. It’s often seen as a burden—another bill to pay. Did you know that your mortgage could actually become a tool for building long-term wealth? If you own your home and one rental property, a strategic restructure of your portfolio can completely change how much interest and income tax you pay.
Is 2025 the Year to Buy a Home?
There’s a lot of anticipation surrounding the real estate market in 2025—and for good reason. Is this the year for you to take the leap into homeownership? The idea is certainly appealing. Economic predictions and evolving mortgage regulations could create favourable conditions for buyers.
A and B Lenders: A Quick Guide
Have you ever wondered about the difference between A and B lenders? Let’s break it down.
GDS/TDS and How They Affect Your Mortgage Qualification
When it comes to securing a mortgage, there are two important financial metrics that lenders carefully consider to determine your qualification, Gross Debt Service (GDS) and Total Debt Service (TDS). Let's go into these concepts and explore their impact on your mortgage qualification.
Mortgage Renewals: A Strategic Approach for Homeowners
When it comes to mortgage renewals, timing is everything. Many homeowners may find themselves wondering when the best time is to reach out before their mortgage renewal. In this blog post, we'll explore why sooner is better and how proactive steps can lead to being better prepared at renewal time.
Breaking Your Mortgage: A Comprehensive Guide
Many Canadians find themselves breaking their mortgages before the end of the term, driven by a variety of circumstances. In this blog post, we’ll explore key considerations for those contemplating this decision.
Standard vs. Collateral Charge Mortgages: Pros and Cons
When it comes to securing a mortgage, homebuyers often encounter the terms "standard charge" and "collateral charge." These represent two distinct approaches to registering mortgages, each with its own set of advantages and disadvantages. In this blog post, we'll explore the differences between standard and collateral charge mortgages, shedding light on their pros and cons.
Mastering the Art of Budgeting: A Comprehensive Guide to Achieving Your Financial Goals
Budgeting is the cornerstone of financial success, providing a roadmap to meet your goals, whether it’s saving for a down payment or securing your future. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore essential tips and strategies to help you budget effectively and achieve your financial aspirations.