Donna MacDonald

Bad Credit

Your credit history is integral when it comes to the mortgage approval process because that history is a reliable indicator of how you will manage your mortgage and your finances in the future. Your credit score is calculated using information in your credit report including your payment history, how much debt you’re carrying and the length of your credit history. Lenders use the score to helps determine the risk and your creditworthiness when you apply for a loan. Credit scores above 660 are generally considered good, very good, or excellent. These individuals receive lower rates, and can get loans easier than those that do not fit into this range.

Those with less than average scores or with lower scores who fall into the “poor” credit range may face higher interest rates, difficulty getting better loan terms or qualifying when applying for a mortgage. Buyers with poor credit may have to put down a larger initial down payment or require a co-signer to be able to qualify for the mortgage they need to get into their dream home.

Your mortgage professional can review your situation and coach you on how best to improve your credit over time. That's why it's a good idea to talk to a mortgage broker as soon as you can. As your good credit history becomes established, your borrowing options will increase. If you wish to get a mortgage while you work on bettering your score, we can help!

At Mortgage Alliance we are committed to helping Canadians realize their dream of home ownership. Our brokers have access to many lenders, from banks to private lenders, and a multitude of mortgage solutions. Even if you have poor credit, you have options and our brokers will work with you to find the right solution that best meets your needs. Call for a free consultation.

Alternative Lending

With the ever-changing market and a stricter stress test, many Canadians are finding it harder to qualify for a mortgage through traditional financial institutions “A-Lenders” and are turning to alternative lending solutions for their mortgage. At Mortgage Alliance we work with many alternative lenders, who can offer excellent mortgage options with more flexible criteria and more lenient qualification requirements.

Alternative lenders are great for individuals who have non-traditional forms of income for example, capital gains, room rental income, child tax benefits and others or for self employed applicants who may not have the minimum required number of years being self employed.

These lending solutions are also a good option for those with lower credit scores. While the rate they offer is slightly higher than what you will see posted by an A-Lender, they are nothing out of the ordinary when compared to traditional rates posted in Canada. They also generally have shorter terms, meaning that you can get into the home of your dreams while being able to rebuild your credit at the same time.

Buyers who don’t qualify under the mortgage stress test can also take advantage of the expanded debt service ratios allowed by alternative lenders to qualify for a mortgage and get into the home of their dreams. If you have a very unique situation, we also have access to various private lenders who are even more flexible and lenient in requirements and may be able to offer you mortgage options that fit your situation. In today’s environment, we’re seeing more private lenders helping Canadians with their mortgages.

Call your Mortgage Alliance professional to find out about the different options available to you. They are experts when it comes to mortgage products and different solutions and will provide you with unbiased advice. They work for you, not the lender.