Mortgage Matters with Catherine
Empowering You with Knowledge, Insights, and Expert Advice on Home Financing, Mortgages, and Wealth-Building Strategies.
The Cultivated Perspective: November 2026
A changing season brings fresh perspective. This month, Catherine shares a personal lesson in financial fraud prevention, answers common mortgage questions, and explores the latest interest rate and housing market developments. Plus, meet First National and a local Okanagan business we're proud to highlight.
Lender in Focus: First National
Your mortgage broker has recommended First National, but what should you know before signing? We explore one of Canada's largest non-bank mortgage lenders, including payment flexibility, prepayment penalties, portability, adjustable-to-fixed conversions, and online mortgage management. Discover what makes First National worth considering and which features matter most when choosing a mortgage that fits your life.
Beyond the Headlines: What We Learned About Canada's Housing Outlook
What's really shaping Canada's housing market? Following an industry presentation by economist Stéfane Marion, Madeline shares key takeaways on interest rates, population growth, regional housing trends, and the economic outlook for 2027. We explore what these forecasts may mean for homeowners and buyers.
Your Mortgage Questions Answered: 7 Things Worth Knowing
Can you qualify for a mortgage while on parental leave? What if you've recently become self-employed? Is a fixed or variable rate better for you? Catherine answers seven questions we're hearing from Canadian homeowners and buyers, with practical guidance for making informed mortgage decisions.
Fraudsters Are Getting Smarter: Here's Why I'm Sharing My Experience
Even mortgage professionals can be caught off guard by sophisticated financial scams. After two fraud attempts in just two weeks, Catherine shares what happened, what raised the alarm, and six important reminders to help protect your banking information.
A Little Village of Advice: What I’m Learning as a New Mom
The first few weeks with Ancia have been full of change, cuddles, sleepless moments, small victories, lots of help, and more advice than I expected to genuinely use. Here are a few things I’m learning along the way.
The Cultivated Perspective: Baby News, Fall Reset & Rate Updates
September brings a new season, a new rhythm, and a very special arrival for Catherine and the Cultivate + Evolve Financial team. In this edition of The Cultivated Perspective, we’re celebrating baby Ancia, talking about fall mortgage planning, reviewing lender strategy, sharing a Bank of Canada update, and reflecting on how financial decisions can better align with the life you want to build.
When Debt Pressure Rises and Rates Stay Put
Canadian households are still under pressure, and rising insolvency numbers show that many people are running out of room. At the same time, rate relief may not arrive quickly. Here’s why planning ahead matters more than waiting and hoping.
Catherine Named One of Canada’s Top 50 Women of Influence
Catherine Ellis has been named one of Canadian Mortgage Professional’s Top 50 Women of Influence for 2026, recognizing more than 16 years of mortgage expertise, thoughtful leadership, and a genuinely caring approach to helping clients make confident financial decisions.
Affordability in Canada: What the Numbers Are Telling Us
Affordability is still one of the biggest challenges facing Canadian homeowners and buyers. New data shows growing pressure around renewals, payments, and qualification, but also highlights why planning ahead can make a meaningful difference.
Reasons for Cautious Optimism in Canada’s Housing Market
Affordability is still one of the biggest challenges facing Canadian homeowners and buyers. New data from Mortgage Professionals Canada shows rising pressure around renewals, payments, and qualification, but also highlights why planning ahead can make a meaningful difference.
What Recent Housing & Economic Reports May Be Telling Us
Economic headlines have been everywhere lately, but what’s actually happening beneath the surface of Canada’s housing market? We’re breaking down a few of the key trends we’re watching right now — from rates and inflation to housing supply and mortgage strategy — and what they may mean moving forward.
April Newsletter: Spring Market, Personal News, and a Few Things You Should Know
Spring has a way of making everything move at once — and this edition of the Cultivate + Evolve newsletter is no exception. Catherine shares some personal news, walks through the variable vs. fixed conversation that's on everyone's mind right now, and breaks down what BC homeowners should know about the land title uncertainty emerging in parts of the province. There's also a timely note on renewal strategy, rate holds for spring buyers, and a warm shoutout to Angela at The Tidy Co. — the woman who helped make two of Catherine's own moves a lot less chaotic. If any of this touches your situation, it's worth a read.
Economic Update: What We’re Watching and What It Means for Your Mortgage
Canada's growth has softened, unemployment sits at 6.8%, and global uncertainty is creating economic drag — but inflation remains near target. If you're renewing or buying in 2026, the advantage isn't prediction. It's preparation.
2026 Housing and Interest Rate Outlook: What We’re Watching
Canada is entering 2026 with a steadier housing market, but ongoing uncertainty around rates, employment, and affordability. This outlook breaks down what we’re watching from the Bank of Canada, why bond yields still matter, and what major forecasters expect for home prices and sales this year.
Budget 2025: What Canada's $280 Billion Housing Push Means for You
Budget 2025 commits $280 billion to housing, affordability, and growth — but comes with a $45 billion deficit. Here's what the ambitious spending means for homeowners, first-time buyers, and your mortgage strategy.
Aboriginal Title and B.C. Property Ownership: What the Cowichan Ruling Means for You
A B.C. Supreme Court ruling recognized Aboriginal title over parts of Richmond, challenging how property ownership is understood under the provincial system. Here's what it means for homeowners, buyers, and lenders — and why most properties remain unaffected.
What the Bank of Canada's Latest Rate Cut Means for Your Mortgage
The Bank of Canada lowered its overnight rate to 2.25% on October 29, 2025. Here's what's driving the decision and how it affects your mortgage strategy — whether you're on a variable rate or considering locking in.
Understanding the New GST Housing Rebate in 2025
The Canadian government has introduced a powerful update to the GST housing rebate in 2025—one that could save first-time buyers up to $50,000. If you’re purchasing a newly built home, here’s everything you need to know about eligibility, how to apply, and how this rebate could make your dream home more attainable.
What the Bank of Canada’s Rate Pause Means for You
The Bank of Canada’s decision to hold rates steady at 4.75% offers more than relief—it offers opportunity. Whether you're exploring a new purchase, considering refinancing, or approaching renewal, this moment of stillness is your chance to reassess, realign, and take confident steps forward. Here’s how to turn today’s pause into tomorrow’s strategy.