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The mortgage blog.

Plain-language answers to the questions I hear most — from credit scores and down payments to getting the best rate. No jargon, no pressure.

July 20, 2026 · 2 min read

BC Housing Market Update: Is Now a Good Time to Buy?

More homes for sale, less competition, and a steady Bank of Canada rate — here's why the BC market may be tilting toward buyers, and how to be ready.

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December 1, 2023 · 3 min read

Your Credit Score: The Magic Number Behind Your Mortgage Dreams

Your credit score can make or break your mortgage. Here's what the number means, the tiers that matter, and how to give yours a boost.

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July 4, 2023 · 3 min read

Unlocking the Door to Home Ownership: Are You Ready?

Down payment sorted? Here are four signs — beyond savings — that tell you you're genuinely ready to buy your first home.

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June 5, 2023 · 3 min read

Getting the Best Mortgage Terms and Rates with a Consultant on Your Side

The market is full of lenders and products. Here's how a consultant on your side helps you land the best terms and rates — not just the first offer.

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May 12, 2023 · 3 min read

After You Buy: A Guide to Protecting Your Investment

The keys are yours — now what? Five habits that protect your home investment and keep your finances healthy after you buy.

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May 8, 2023 · 3 min read

Understanding the Role of a Mortgage Broker in Your First-Time Home Buying Journey

From your first consultation to closing day, here's exactly what a mortgage broker does — and why they're a first-time buyer's best resource.

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April 10, 2023 · 3 min read

The Benefits of Hiring a Mortgage Consultant for Your Homebuying Journey

Expertise, saved time and money, tailored advice and a simpler process — here's what a mortgage consultant brings to your homebuying journey.

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February 24, 2023 · 3 min read

10 Things to Consider When Hiring a Mortgage Broker

License, experience, lender access, communication, trust — ten things to weigh before you choose the broker for your biggest loan.

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February 8, 2023 · 4 min read

Five Tips for Getting a Mortgage

Securing a mortgage can feel daunting — but with the right prep it's far simpler than it looks. Here are five practical tips to get you ready.

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January 23, 2023 · 3 min read

Resources That Can Help You On Your Mortgage Journey

Seven trusted Canadian resources — from Equifax and CMHC to the Bank of Canada — that can help you understand and navigate your mortgage journey.

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December 16, 2022 · 1 min read

Season's Greetings From Nancy Tychowski

Warm wishes for a happy, safe holiday season and all the best for the New Year.

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November 2, 2022 · 4 min read

Essential Mortgage Terms

Fixed vs variable, trigger rates, high-ratio, PIT — a plain-English glossary of the mortgage terms you'll actually hear.

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October 7, 2022 · 2 min read

Top Five Things to Look For When Hiring a Mortgage Consultant

Not all mortgage consultants are equal. Here are the five things to look for before you trust someone with the biggest loan of your life.

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September 9, 2022 · 3 min read

Common Mistakes People Make When Qualifying for a Mortgage

A few avoidable slip-ups can sink a mortgage application. Here are five common mistakes people make when qualifying — and how to dodge them.

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August 8, 2022 · 3 min read

Meet the Face Behind Nancy Tychowski Mortgage Consultant

Fifteen-plus years in finance, a move to Victoria, and a dog named Oreo — get to know the person behind the mortgages.

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July 20, 2022 · 3 min read

First-Time Home Buyer

Buying your first home? You may need less down than you think. Here's what to ask yourself and how pre-approval sets you up to shop with confidence.

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July 7, 2022 · 3 min read

Why Use a Mortgage Broker?

One application, 200+ lenders, unbiased advice, and usually no cost to you — here are five reasons to work with a mortgage broker.

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