Knowing Your Credit Score

Your credit score plays a major role in determining your mortgage rate and how much you can borrow. I recommend connecting with a trusted mortgage broker early in the process. They will review your credit report and help clarify your borrowing power, and also identify any issues that need to be addressed.

I work with several excellent mortgage professionals in Greater Vancouver and am happy to make a referral.

Keeping Your Finances Steady

The period leading up to and during your home purchase is not the ideal time for major financial changes. Avoid switching jobs, making large discretionary purchases, or taking on new debt.

Lenders want to see stability, and any sudden changes could affect your pre-approval or final mortgage terms.

Assembling Your Financial Documents

Before you begin looking at properties make sure to have your financial paperwork organized. Lenders require a comprehensive look at your finances, so gathering the documents early will give you strength and confidence as you start to explore:

• Recent pay stubs and employment verification
• Two years of Notices of Assessment in Canada
• **Bank and investment account statements**
• Details of existing debts including credit cards, auto loans, and lines of credit
• Copies of current lease agreements if you own rental properties
• **RRSP, TFSA, and other registered account statements**