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At
MortgagesInCanada.com, we are constantly working to provide more
value for Canadians. We
need your support. If you have benefited from this site, or the
discussion group, please take a few seconds to add
a short testimonial to this page. Your input will help
maintain and improve this service.
We
appreciate your support!
Andy
MacDonald
MortgageBroker Inc.
Please take
the time to review some of the testimonials from several satisfied
Canadians.
Thank you Karen...you`re amazing. We were very satisfied with how you helped us understand the mortgage process.
D Lucas
Burlington,
Ontario - Saturday, December 11, 2027 11:04:30 PM
Excellent customer service, and the best mortgage rates I found. Highly recommended.
D. Sy
Toronto,
ON - Saturday, December 04, 2027 12:18:31 AM
This is my second time enlisting the services of Mortgages in Canada and the dedicated people behind it. I looked all over for a decent mortgage rate and my banker himself told me he couldn`t match the rate given here and told me to jump on it right away. The service was outstanding, quick, and helpful. Karen guided me along every step of the way! I am completely satisfied with Mortgages in Canada and will definitely be coming back. I also have no hesitation in recommmending them to anyone I know who is seeking a great mortgage, the lowest rate, solid guidance and excellent service. Thanks again Andy and Karen.
Danielle
Kanata,
On - Monday, October 29, 2007 8:14:15 PM
Karen was very helpful, i wasn`t sure if i could get a mortgage and she took the time to explain what i had to do, to get pre-approved, and all through the process she answered all my questions, and i had alot. Thank You very much for all your hard work and help.
Tammy Widmeyer
Harriston,
Ontario - Thursday, September 20, 2007 10:30:55 PM
I am extremely happy with the efforts of Karen Allen! I have been in the process of rebuilding my credit rating, and had used a mortgage company that had a higher interest rate and less than desirable pay back options. I tried to find a more suitable mortgage on my own, but was turned down after getting my hopes raised. I found this website, and decided to see if someone somewhere would be willing to offer me a better mortgage. I told Karen my situation, and she found at least 3 lenders willing to refinance my mortgage! I`m happy to say that everything has gone through, and I now have a new mortgage (with additional funds for renovations) at half the rate I was being charged before! As well, I will be able to pay bi-weekly, and pay down my mortgage faster! I strongly recommend this company to anyone looking at acquiring a mortgage!
Deidra Roberts
Regina,
Saskatchewan - Wednesday, August 15, 2007 12:42:14 AM
Just wanted to write a quick note to thank Karen Allen for all her help with our mortgage. As first-time home buyers, we were initially nervous about going with someone we found online. Karen was always available with very prompt responses to our questions and she made the whole process completely stress-free! It was an absolute pleasure to work with her and we`d recommend her completely!
Lisa and Graeme Hamilton
Ottawa,
Ontario - Thursday, July 19, 2007 3:03:56 PM
Thank you, MortgageBroker Inc! Having never applied for a mortgage on my own before, I was somewhat worried I would be able to qualify and about all the criteria I would have to meet. Karen Allen was a wonderful help to me - she made the entire process so easy, and got me an excellent rate.
We have just moved into our new home and love it. Thanks, Karen, for all the help.
Linda Toth
Calgary,
Alberta - Friday, June 22, 2007 3:31:23 PM
Just an update to say we are very pleased with the mortgage you have arranged for us and our family. The excellent rate and ease of completing the process was appreciated. I would and will recommend you to anyone that inquires and will look to you for our future
mortgage requirements. Thank-you again!
Shayne & Renee Fagel
Ajax,
Ontario - Monday, June 18, 2007 5:20:00 PM
Dear Karen,
It has been my distinct pleasure to have worked with you this past month, and I mean this sincerely. You showed me a rare warmth and eagerness to do your very best to fulfill our needs; you followed up on my varied requests (and there were many) without any hesitation, promptly and cheerfully. Unfortunately (or fortunately) certain economic forces intervened so that it was not advantageous for us to obtain a mortgage at this time.
Elene and I would be happy to seek out your services again whenever that need arises.
Cordially - Richard Randall
Richard Randall & Elene Seguiin
Sainte-Adele,
Quebec - Tuesday, June 05, 2007 11:24:46 PM
Once again Andy and Karen make things easier. This is second mortgage that they have setup for me and they always take my wish list into account. Whether you are just wanting the lowest rate or the ability to pay down early and don`t want to have to travel to arrange the mortgage, they will find the best mortgage for you. Again, my thanks to you both for making life a little easier.
Murray Hooper
Cambridge,
On - Tuesday, April 24, 2007 1:04:10 PM
Among my friends and co-workers I have become know as the "go to guy" for real estate related information (i.e. agents, appraisers, lawyers, mortgage brokers, property managers, etc.). The geek in me enjoys researching and following-up on real estate info and professionals. Only select friends and acquaintances get my researched referral information. I do it not for money but because I remember how frustrating it was meeting a lot of "sharks" out there when I was preparing to build my "power team" for buying real estate. Meeting you was a breath of fresh air. You were very professional, tenacious and fair. You believed in me and came through for me during a crucial time of my first deal I never forgot that. To this day I continue to testify to the great service
Mortgages In Canada has provided to my friends, colleagues and myself. Each person I have referred has confirmed with me all of the good things I have said about you.
Jerome Reid
Mississauga,
Ontario - Tuesday, February 27, 2007 12:16:32 AM
Being a first time home buyer, I didn`t really know what to expect when I went shopping around for mortgages. I am extreemly happy with the professional service and incredible rate that I received. I constanly get reminded of how good it is every day when everyone I tell says "Wow, that is a great rate".
Thanks again!!!
Brian Gandell
Mississauga,
Ontario - Saturday, February 24, 2007 7:21:03 PM
Let me start by saying "WOW. I have dealt with many different people and organizations. Sometime we come across a few people that really make a difference. That one person for me was Karen Allen. She was such a wonderful person to do business with. Mortgages In Canada are very lucky to have such an individual working for them. I would recommend this company to ANYBODY without hesitation. They are very patient and helpful and most importantly PROMPT. Once again, I would like to THANK you so much for all the time and effort you have put in for me! Thank you Karen...
Peter
Oshawa,
Ontario - Monday, May 08, 2006 9:58:47 PM
We bought a house in Canada while we were living in another country. With Andy McDonald`s help, it turned out to be a very easy process as he basically did all the work for us-finding a mortgage for non-residents, arranging the paperwork and all the other things that go into obtaining a mortgage.
They did an excellent job for us-the words that come to mind regarding them are `integrity` and `competence` and we would certainly recommend them to anyone who needs that extra help with buying a home.
Renie
London, Ontario
Renie McKee
London,
ON - Monday, May 09, 2005 5:52:57 PM
I am very impressed with the service I got from Andy and Karen. They saved me thousands of dollars by finding a better rate than I would have gotten on my own. They took care of almost all the paperwork for me. They even managed to do all this even though I was living in a different city, with no access to a fax machine. I was very lucky to find them.
The Web site is nice too. The point is, though, that I didn't need a Web site or a thick manual to get my mortgage - Andy took care of all the details. Thanks Andy!
Silviu T.
Ottawa,
Ontario - Friday, June 11, 2004 3:20:43 AM
My partner and I decided to buy our first home in 2003. Without
knowing anything about securing a mortage - we took a chance, went
on the Internet and found MortgagesInCanada.com. I cannot believe
my good fortune that my first phone call to Karen Allen was the first
and all important step in moving into our dreamhome.
Andy McDonald has put together a great team because Karen Allen
was amazing. She made the process smooth and was always
gracious and ready help my partner and I inform ourselves the whole
way along. This team can serve home-owners in any community
across the country - we live in Montreal and the service we recieved
was first-rate regardless of the distance. I cannot recommend this
company enough. When I think of the happy times we`ve already had
in our new home and of course the ones to come, I am thankful to
Karen Allen, MortgagesInCanada.com and Mortgage Broker Inc.
Dana Inkster
Montreal,
QC - Thursday, May 13, 2004 11:13:27 PM
Andy gave me excellent advice on my unusual financial situation and got me a preferred rate where I might have had difficulty qualifying had my husband and I arranged matters differently in the purchase of our home. Shortly before closing, he found a lower rate with a competing bank which we locked in, saving us hundreds of dollars per year. Thanks for patiently, professionally answering all my questions and going the extra mile.
Dawn Keenan
Kitchener,
Ontario - Wednesday, May 05, 2004 3:35:26 PM
You made our first home purchase which can be overwhelming completely worry free with your superior customer service. But what really impressed me was your honest advice with my questions a couple of years later. This on going committment to service is something that sets you apart and keeps customers coming back for life. I know I will continue to contact you and recommend you to my family, friends and colleagues in the future. Keep up the great work!
Robert Mills
Mississauga,
Ontario - Monday, March 22, 2004 4:16:09 PM
Just wanted to say thank you to Andy for giving great advice and options that you won't usually get from the banks or much place else for that matter. He takes the time to understand your needs and gives advise you can understand and use to make the best descion for your mortgage situation. Your coloum in Money Sense has saved me thousands.
Thanks alot Jackie Morra
Jackie Morra
Pickering,
Ontario - Friday, February 06, 2004 8:34:26 PM
Our first mortage application was a nightmare, until we contacted Andy and Karen at Mortgage Broker Inc. It was a pleasure working through my first mortgage process with Andy. He had prompt answers to all my questions, and delivered mortgage approval in lightening time. Outstanding customer service...especially when we need it most. We recommend their services without hesitation, and look forward to refinancing through their company when it comes due.
Judy Narine/John Assee, St. Catharines, Ontario, October 29, 2003
Judy Narine
Mississauga,
Ontario - Thursday, October 30, 2003 3:44:33 PM
I wanted to take this opportunity to thank Andy for his professional and knowledgable approach to my mortgage needs. He really went the extra mile to get the best deal and put it together quickly. Thanks Andy!
Roy Sampson
Oakville,
Ontario - Thursday, October 02, 2003 9:12:28 PM
We want to thank Andy and Karen for great job they did for us finding the best rate for our first mortgage. They offered very professional, fast and reliable service.
We will definitely call them again in 5 years for mortgage renewal.
Anna & Dimitri
Anna Khvedantsevich
Toronto,
Ontario - Saturday, August 09, 2003 6:16:31 AM
I am very grateful to Andy and Karen at MortgagesInCanada.com for making it so easy to obtain the best available mortgage renewal. I recommend their services, unconditionally.
martin brooks
wakefield,
quebec - Friday, August 01, 2003 3:39:53 PM
It was a pleasure working through my first mortgage process with Andy. He had answers to all my questions, and was always good at getting back to me promptly. Outstanding customer service...plus he got me the best rate I could find!
Jeff Green
Toronto,
Ontario - Tuesday, July 22, 2003 8:08:04 PM
Excellent Service. Andy and Karen got us the best mortgage rate in the market. They also gave us very good advice about the various mortgage options and the fine print associated with each mortgage product.
We highly recommend getting a mortgage through Andy.
Amit & Ellen
,
Ontario - Thursday, July 03, 2003 2:52:37 PM
I just wanted to send a note to thank Andy in his speed of response and in helping me achieve a great interest rate for five years.
Al
Al
,
- Monday, May 12, 2003 8:04:50 PM
Just a quick note to say how pleased I was with Andy`s help and advice as I struggled to decide what rate and term to choose. Andy was very patient and helpful, and I ended up with a great rate. All best, MW
Murray Whyte
Toronto,
Ontario - Tuesday, April 08, 2003 4:01:17 PM
I am thoroughly pleased and appreciative with the responsive manner in which peoples questions and problems are answered. I have learned quite a lot about the finance world and certainly makes one more open minded as to the options that are available for financing properties and consolidating debts (i.e refinancing).Andy thanks for setting up the mortgage discussion group..its a truly helpful and insightful experience.
Henry Asztemborski
Omemee,
Ontario - Thursday, February 13, 2003 4:34:15 PM
I just joined this list a few days ago. Absolutely amazing! What a goldmine of information. I was looking at potentially breaking my mortgage and had some refinancing issues too. The information I got from the members of this list was so in depth. I heard about options I didn`t know existed, and also go flagged on some consequences attached to other options I had no idea about. Guess who I`ll be calling when my mortgage comes up for renewal ;-)
Allison
Allision
Toronto,
Ontario - Monday, February 10, 2003 2:45:23 PM
Andy:
Thanks for confirming my “gut” feel with my dilemma to either buy or rent at this point of my life. Plus, I enjoy reading your articles. Cheers!
Regards,
SR
S.R.
Toronto,
ON - Thursday, January 09, 2003 2:58:42 PM
With 120 days left until our mortgage renewal my husband and I were nervous that we wouldn`t be able to take advantage of low mortgage rates. But once we talked to Andy we were confident we`d get a great rate... and we did! Andy kept in constant contact with us, ensuring that we would benefit from the low rates before they climbed upward. Better service than any bank I`ve dealt with regarding my mortgage. I will be sure to recommend him to all my family and friends.
Carolyn and Jim Morris
Mississauga,
Ontario - Friday, September 13, 2002 5:58:10 PM
I subscribed to the mailing list about 4 years ago. The most valuable information I got is that you can negotiate 1 percent off your rate. I didn`t believe it at first, but 1 percent is exactly what I got from my bank. I also worked with Andy briefly. At the time my bank refused to give me a mortgage because I hadn`t sold my existing home. I emailed Andy and he promptly called me. Next day or so, he confirmed that he could arrange a mortgage for me. I finally sold my house and took a mortage from my bank, but I still sent Andy a small amount just because of the good work he did and the peace of mind he gave me.
Gary Zuo
Richmond Hill,
ON - Sunday, April 07, 2002 5:18:56 PM
I too have benefited by reading the digest for several months. Having gone back to school and now the IT market is a bit dry, I reviewed my mortgage. With this site, I was able to arm myself quickly to look at my options. The banks are very competitive. The good news is that I was able to obtain a Line of Credit at prime and in June I will endeaver to switch to a mortgage with a variable rate. Over the years I have been on the hook for thousands in penalties due to the 5 yr closed feature. I say never again!! I learned here that the variable rate is almost always 2% below 5 yr rate and worth the risk. Another thing I learned is set your payment for the 5 yr rate and watch your principle shrink. A WIN WIN situation.
Thanks Andy for this informative site. Highly recommended!!
Percy Densmore densmper@nb.sympatico.ca
Saint John,
NB - Monday, March 25, 2002 12:47:54 PM
This is a very informative and helpful sight for the experienced and inexperienced.We are planning to build this spring and I look forward to reading the latest questions and advice. Congratulations on this fine service, we recommend you to all our friends and associates.
Bill & Laura Nelson
William
Orillia,
Ontario - Wednesday, January 30, 2002 2:19:35 AM
My wife and I are currently shopping for our first home, and despite my typical "first-timer" questions and my lack of experience, Andy made sure to explain everything patiently and thoroughly so that we'd be sure to understand. He made our entire pre-approval process very comfortable, very educational, and we're happy that we used him as a broker. Thank you for your help, Andy.
Brian M. toredge@yahoo.com
Mississauga,
ON - Tuesday, December 11, 2001 5:21:29 AM
Andy realized after a few minutes of our first conversation that he was probably not going to be able to improve on the terms of my existing mortgage. He still took the time to answer all my mortgage questions - questions I have never been able to get precise answers to. Although we are unable to do business at this time,I will refer my friends and relatives to Andy, for all their mortgage needs. I was left with the feeling that I could contact Andy at any time for no obligation professional advice.
Dr. Philip Little margaret@golden.net
Waterloo,
Ont - Friday, November 30, 2001 6:34:52 PM
PAINLESS! What more could I ever ask for cosidering how hectic my life is? Email, fax or brief calls set everything up at rates better than the big banks. Highly recommended.
M.Meiners michellem62@hotmail.com
Toronto,
Ontario - Tuesday, October 30, 2001 11:38:36 PM
Excellent source of information. I’m your reader for more then three months. Finaly, I bought a four units house and have good rate of mortgage (actually two mortgages). I certainly couldn’t buy this house without your help. While I never asked a question, what I read from your site is already very helpful. I’m pretty sure, I’ll ask your help in three years when I’ll have my refinancing and, probably will buy my family house. Thanks a lot Andy.
Serghei Kandikov kandikov@home.com
Windsor,
Ontario - Sunday, September 09, 2001 3:17:07 AM
This site helped me a lot. Thanks.
Brian W. brianw@hotmail.com
Oakville,
Ontario - Thursday, August 30, 2001 3:12:17 PM
Although I still rent, and plan to do so for the forseeable future, I find the discussion group a very helpful preparation tool against the time I do decide to buy. Thanks!
Michelle mellis@microworks.ca
Ottawa,
ON - Wednesday, August 29, 2001 1:16:39 PM
Invaluable information from this site.Just finished a mortgage renewal with a major bank.Armed with the latest info, a solid offer from another institution I negotiated 1.40 percent lower than the posted rate with no renewal fees as well as having 1 per cent deducted from my current unsecured credit line.....
Keep the info coming......
Mike mpdawes@home.com
Nanaimo,
BC - Wednesday, August 29, 2001 1:55:00 AM
The Mortgage-ca mailing list is a gem! I discovered it while looking for a mortgage for our first home and over the years it has proved it's value again and again. I have learned a great deal from listening to all the knowledgable people who post.
And it's not just mortgages. Mortgage-ca is the best place to get information about anything relating to the financial aspects of homeownership, buying and selling. When we were considering selling a home versus renting it out, Mortgage-ca provided some very thoughtful points for us to consider that helped us make the right decision.
Julian Egelstaff as300@ncf.ca
Ottawa,
Ontario - Wednesday, August 29, 2001 1:19:47 AM
Excellent, excellent source of informations. I have learned so much about many issues regarding morgages in the last 18 months from this site. Thanks so much.
Milos.
Milos milos.obradovic@alcatel.com
Ottawa,
ON - Tuesday, August 28, 2001 5:29:09 PM
I have arranged my mortgage through Andy few months ago. Although I have offers from other banks with a lower rate than Andy just before my closing, I went with him. I found Andy are very helpful and prompt. He took his time to answer my questions. I will recommend Andy to anyone who are shopping for a mortgage any time.
Andy, keep up the good work. I love to see the discussion group conitnue to grow and maintain as a useful tools for all of us.
Richard Chan chanr@home.net
Richmond Hill,
Ontario - Tuesday, August 28, 2001 4:43:20 PM
The mortgage-ca group is one of the best sources of information on the real estate situation in Canada. When I joined my family was planning a move to Canada, but knew nothing about the real estate market, or the mortgage market in Canada. Thanks to Andy and the discussion group we were able to find and purchase a fine house with a great mortgage. And we did it without any active participation in the group. All we did was read the postings.
Andy`s input from time to time provided the most useful insight of all and we have personally recommended his firm to friends, although we have never met him or even exchanged e-mail with him. We have been that impressed.
Max Wynter mwynter@cwjamaica.com
Richomnd Hill,
Ontario - Tuesday, August 28, 2001 3:45:52 PM
Basically, my wife and I were in a fairly desperate situation when I approached Andy. Our finances were a mess and we needed a new second to consolidate our debts. Frankly, I didn't think it could be done but Andy kept hope and was able to arrange a second at a good interest rate and with the hope that the future will be even brighter. While it was a difficult process, Andy kept the faith and did a great job. My thanks to Andy and all the people at Mortgages in Canada.com.
Michael Nixon Michael.Nixon@hrdc-dhrc.gc.ca
Ottawa,
Ontario - Wednesday, May 23, 2001 1:39:08 PM
I have arranged my last two mortgage renewals
through Andy. The first year Andy set me up
and got me a 1% discount off the Banks Posted
Rate, dealing with Andy and the Bank was very
simple with no negotiation required. The next
year I got a renewal form from the Bank
indicating the Posted rate and an $85 fee. One phone call to Andy and the mortgage was re-arranged with no fee and 1% off the posted rate. Thanks Andy. I'll be back this year.
Richard Abraham abrahamdick@aol.com
Peterborough,
Ontario - Wednesday, May 16, 2001 7:33:25 PM
Thank you very much Andy!
With your help I was able to get a commercial mortgage with 15% down after being in Canada for three months only.
I will definitely ask for your advice in future dealings.
Alex Spirin alexander.spirin@sympatico.ca
Kingston,
Ontario - Wednesday, March 14, 2001 7:13:30 PM
Thank you Andy for a wonderful website. I used this as a valuable resource when setting up my first mortgage back in June 2000. I posted a few questions to the site and had many responses that answered all of my questions. I've also used this site to learn about topics I would not have thought about myself and have passed this information on to several of my friends that are currently trying to get mortgages set up themselves.
Cheers.
Todd Strilchuk todd@alumni.uvic.ca
Vernon,
BC - Monday, March 12, 2001 2:40:28 PM
A quick note to say that Andy did a great job in our recent renewal. Not only did we get a great rate, but Andy was a great source of information and answered all of our questions. Andy also ensured we had the flexibility we need for an upcoming upgrade. We did this all by email, and/or fax so the fact that we were in different cities was not an issue. Will definitely use Andy again.
Peter Valters Peter.valters@xwave.com
Kanata,
Ont - Friday, February 23, 2001 12:27:42 PM
So far I`ve just been sitting back and reading the discussions, but I have learnt so much in the last 6 months. I now have the knowledge to question my bank and know what I want.
Thanks so much!
Jackie
Jacqueline Kohut jacquelinekohut@hotmail.com
Stony Plain,
Alberta - Friday, February 16, 2001 10:48:02 PM
As a Realtor®, we have to take some courses on the basics of mortgage finance, so we tend to come out of our courses thinking we know enough to give our clients good advice when it comes to getting a mortgage.
Having been a subscriber to Andy`s list for the past 18 months, I can say that I`ve learned far more real-life, usable information from this list than I did from the courses I had to take to get my real estate license.
Thanks, Andy, for providing such a valuable service to people. I`ve had the pleasure of answering real estate specific questions for a few people from the list, and it is always gratifying to know that homebuyers are going into the process as informed as possible!
Chris Newell Real Estate Agent chris@new-all.com
Milton,
Ontario - Friday, February 16, 2001 9:46:03 AM
I've subscribed to the discussion group for quite some time and although I have not had to obtain a mortgage during this time, I have found the discussion group to be very informative! Just by reading the questions and answers I have learned a great deal. When the time comes when I'll need mortgage financing I will definitely contact Andy. I'm positive he could negotiate a better rate than I could on my own.
Mike Simpson comndrmichael@netscape.net
Mississauga,
Ontario - Tuesday, February 13, 2001 9:54:49 PM
I have found the discussion group to to be most informative.The knowledge I have gained to this point will be most beneficial to myself with regards to my forthcoming mortgage renewal. Thankyou, and keep up the good work.
Mike Dawes mpdawes@home.com
Nanaimo,
BC - Tuesday, February 13, 2001 7:54:41 PM
MortgagesInCanada.com was how I found out about mortgage brokers in the first place. I subscribed to the mailing list well in advance of renewing my mortgage. It sure was a much better-informed decision than for my mortgage`s first term! I did renew via Andy, choosing from among the much better range of mortgage products than the big banks offered. I continue to read the mailing list articles, mostly because private individual keep asking "what if?" questions on topics that never occurred to me (and usually they get good answers!).
J. Cramer
Ottawa,
Ontario - Tuesday, February 13, 2001 1:22:59 PM
Great discussion group.
Learn a lot from it.
Recommend to everyone who has or going to have a mortgage.
Richard Chan chanr@home.net
Scarborough,
Ontario - Tuesday, February 13, 2001 1:07:28 PM
Hi Andy,
It is my pleasure to add my comments to your excellent site. I have been following you for well over a year, and although I don`t contribute often, I find this forum a valuable source of information. I have been selling real estate in Toronto for over 16 years and continue to learn every day. Thanks for the opportunity.
Susan Wainstock susanwainstock@home.com
Toronto,
ON - Tuesday, February 13, 2001 12:56:09 PM
When mortgage renewal time came around, I came to Andy and he provided me with a better rate than I could find anywhere else. Unfortunately (fortunately?) my bank came through at the last minute and matched his rate so I stayed with them to keep things simple (sorry Andy).
If starting from scratch, I would definitely recommend going through MortgagesInCanada.com. You probably won't be able to beat the rates, any they're providing an excellent communication and consulting service - for free!
Harry Don harry.don@compaq.com
Ottawa,
Ontario - Tuesday, February 13, 2001 12:16:06 PM
Very helpful site and saves you money! It's hard to believe the great info you get and what your real options are...all without a fuss. Keep up the great work!!
Julius ggranata@speedware.com
Montreal,
Quebec - Tuesday, February 13, 2001 12:13:06 PM
My wife and I are planning on buying a home in
the next few months. "Everyone knows" that
mortgages are handled through banks, and what
they say goes, and I was no different before
subscribing to the list.
With what I`ve learned on the mortgages in
Canada mailing list, I expect to save at least
0.50% over the bank`s `best discounted` rates,
on a mortgage that`s better suited for us, and
without all of the hard-sell extras like more
insurance (our current insurance covers us both
quite well).
This list has saved me between 10 and 25
thousand dollars on my mortgage, and given me
peace of mind. It doesn`t get much better than
that!
Colin Bigam
Calgary,
Alberta - Tuesday, February 13, 2001 12:09:44 PM
Great Forum! I learned a great deal and the information certainly helped in getting the best mortgage for our first house -- and it happened that Andy was the broker who found us the best deal of what we were looking for. Thanks Andy!
Helen htluu@hotmail.com
Toronto,
ON - Thursday, July 13, 2000 5:40:53 PM
Great work - in a matter of days, with a pending interest rate hike Andy was able to get me a locked in rate 100 basis points below posted rates with no strings attached. Thanks!
Jason Roth jroth@heidelberg.ca
Brampton,
Ontario - Thursday, June 08, 2000 10:44:34 PM
I found this website to be very helpful and informative. We did get our mortgage through one of the brokers listed and are very pleased with the service and time spent in assisting us. I now know more about how mortgages work and understand the process a lot better. Thank you. Donna Stockley
Donna Stockley donna.stockley@sympatico.ca
Brampton,
Ontario - Tuesday, May 30, 2000 4:06:33 PM
Mortgage-ca discussion group has provided a "wealth" of information and understanding of both the providers and of mortgages. No questions are are seen as "too dumb to ask" when it comes to the largest investment we make.
Glenn Thurston gthurston@city.oshawa.on.ca
Pickering,
ON - Tuesday, May 30, 2000 10:31:23 AM
This discussion group provided a ton of information from not only qualified staff but from fellow homebuyers with previous experience. It was extremely helpful in negotiating for our first home and the updates keep me informed of the market trends. Thanks for all your help Andy (and gang)!
E. Gonzalez
Brampton,
Ontario - Wednesday, May 24, 2000 9:38:31 AM
I have been "listening in" on this discussion group for the past few months and have learned a great deal. Certain questions and issues that were dealt with would never have occured to me had it not been for this group. My wife and I have just bought our first home and, thanks in part to what I have learned from this group, we are confident that we have obtained the best possible mortgage available at this time. Many thanks John
John Kelly john.kelly@nrc.ca
Ottawa,
Ontario - Monday, May 22, 2000 12:22:07 PM
Once again I have no hesitation in commenting on the value of this, discussion group. In 1999 it was most informative in helping me assist my daughter renew her morgtgae with her existing lender at a much lower rate than posted on the wall of the institution! Also the complexity of anything financial and especially Canada's Income Tax system makes this forum invaluable. A current example is the discusion on whether and how to withdraw funds from one's RRSP etc. Andy; once again many thanks. Very glad I found this discussion area back in 1998 (I think?). Pleas keep up the good work. I wish there were one like this on personal financial planning! Terry sanford.
Terry Sanford tsanford@roadrunner.nf.net
Torbay,
Newfoundland - Friday, May 19, 2000 12:24:26 AM
Hi Everyone, Just giving my 5 cents worth. I have only to say that this discussion group helped me in many ways during my search for a home. Now that I have found one I just want to thank Andy and everyone who writes on here.
T. Rustam
Toronto,
ON - Thursday, May 18, 2000 6:22:24 PM
This is one of the most useful resources for mortgage buyers and sellers in Canada.
Arik Kapulkin arie@passport.ca
Vaughn,
Ontario - Wednesday, May 17, 2000 10:38:04 PM
Reading all the e-mails for a couple months helped us when we were ready to renew our mortgage. Thanks you saved us money....
Norris krisnic@home.com
Newmarket,
Ontario - Wednesday, May 17, 2000 8:41:16 PM
I have found many of the comments and suggestions very informative in this discussion group.
Ken Millar ellen.m@sympatico.ca
Kanata,
Ontario - Wednesday, May 17, 2000 6:42:59 PM
The Mortgages in Canada discussion has been my primary source of information on mortgages and related financial activities that is independent of the big banks. Unlike books, it is always up-to-date. Essentially anyone can contribute. Unlike with my first mortgage, my recent renewal was done after comparing a number of vendors. I went with the best one, which was from a vendor brokered by Andy. Thanx, Andy!
J. Cramer
Ottawa,
Ontario - Wednesday, May 17, 2000 6:11:59 PM
I have been monitoring the group for about 2 months and although I have not been a contributor, I find the questions interesting and the responses thoughtful. As soon as I have something useful to add..or ask, I will jump right in!
susan susanwainstock@home.com
Toronto,
ON - Wednesday, May 17, 2000 1:53:48 PM
MortgagesInCanada.com has served me largely by raising my consciousness, making me aware of options. In particular, knowing that options are available and knowing what is reasonable placed me in a much stronger position when renegotiating recently. Saved me at least a thousand or so.
der Mouse
Montreal,
QC - Wednesday, May 17, 2000 10:38:04 AM
As someone who just recently purchased a new home, I found the information I was able to access through the newsgroup absolutely invaluable. All prospective home-owners should subscribe to this newsgroup!
Paul Ferreira paulf@icmto.com
Toronto,
ON - Wednesday, May 17, 2000 10:15:53 AM
As a residential real estate agent, I have been recommending to my clients for years that they use the services of a mortgage broker, both for the best rates and the best advice. Andy's Mortgage-ca discussion list is an invaluable asset to homeowners and would-be homeowners alike, in that it provides excellent and little known insights into how to go about arranging the best mortgage for your circumstances. I don't know of anything else like it! Keep up the great work, Andy!
Tony Hicks info@tonyhicks.com
Toronto,
ON - Friday, April 28, 2000 10:30:00 AM
I have just about finished building my house. I will be left with a $130,000 mortgage (approx). I did not make the 3 months completion date the bank wanted for me to carry over my mortgage, so I have to renew. I was at 7% on 95,000 when we started. How can I negotiate an open term. I think that would be the best way to go. Will the bank negotiate on open. I am with the Royal Bank? Do you think open is the best way to go? Thank you.
Chris Stewart cstewart@sd62.bc.ca
Victoria,
BC - Tuesday, April 25, 2000 12:06:11 PM
Hi Andy, Thanks for the referral to Denis Brunet. We are currently in the process of completing the paperwork for the private lender that was found for our mortgage application. Interesting process! Also good to know that the banks are not necessary for absoluting everything! Anne Schäfer
Anne awschaef@mb.sympatico.ca
Morden,
Manitoba - Thursday, January 20, 2000 1:34:23 PM
In February 99 Motgage.ca published information on the possible benifits of paying the penalty on your mortgage and obtaining a lower interest rate. I followed the advice and saved $9000.
Dave Bingham dbingham@axion.net
Canada
- Saturday, December 04, 1999 1:42:40 PM
Your site brings together people on both sides of the table and is most useful. I would recommend it to anyone who wants to be well informed before they buy. Keep up the good work.
Ray Liu rklliu@yahoo.com
Toronto,
Ontario - Thursday, December 02, 1999 3:37:43 PM
I think the site is great! I regularly check the site for advice on mortgages. My mortgage is up for renewal in July 2000 so I will need all the help I can get to ensure I get the best rate and service. I have spoken with brokers as a result of reading some of the messages posted here. These brokers have "opened my eyes" in some areas of mortgages that I was not aware. Keep it going! You are guaranteed at least one subscriber...that's for sure!
Brian Mallard bmallard@morgan.ucs.mun.ca
Mount Pearl,
Newfoundland - Thursday, December 02, 1999 12:23:18 PM
Excelent source of information Our first choice for help on "how to?" from dealing with Real State to negotiating with the Bank. The information is always there, what and when you need it. It help us to take the best option. Way to go Andy! larrua@hotmail.com
Lily and Bob larrua@hotmail.com
Toronto,
Ontario - Thursday, December 02, 1999 12:12:19 PM
Andy MacDonald has arranged 3 Mortgages for us. He has exceeded my expectations, he shines where others fail- he's my broker of choice and is always recommened. As a Real Estate investor the mortgage-ca newsgroup has kept me well informed, I use it as a resource of options for future planning.
Lou Drumonde drumonde@globalserve.net
Toronto,
Ontario - Wednesday, December 01, 1999 10:54:27 PM
I was so impressed with this forum that I have previuosly sent a congratulation to Andy. Originally got involved to be better informed in asssisting my daughter with the first (5 year) renewal of her morgtgage. She did so, at an excellent rate; we know that because of our participation in this forum. Also it didn't do any harm to let the bank individual we were dealing with know that we "were looking around" and were 'on the internet' and were aware of rates and trends! So have been 'following" the morgtgae-ca forum with interest and learning something all the time both from the initial questions which range from the basic to somewhat more complex; also from the comment, discussion and advice rendered by the group. As a bottom line this forum in my opinion provides a valuable service in helping and educating us as consumers, morgtgagors, customers, borrowers, lenders or whatever. Surely the better informed we become the better understood, better used, less criticised, more productive and better service providing this part of the financial system will be. Have probably posted to the forum three/four times. But have read and digested hundreds. Again, well done Andy. Thankyou. Keep up the good work. Terry S.
Terry sanford. tsanford@roadrunner.nf.net
Torbay,
Newfoundland - Wednesday, December 01, 1999 10:16:27 PM
We have been participating in your discussion group for a few months now and the information we have received has helped us to prepare to purchase our first home. Everone is very helpful and the wealth of knowledge is excellent.
Jodi Terpstra rjterp@telusplanet.net
Taber,
Alberta - Wednesday, December 01, 1999 5:47:54 PM
Andy, I find your service to be quite informative, with respect to what the current mortgage rates are, and how much better one can do when dealing with a broker versus a bank. I also appreciate the rapid answers one receives when one poses a question about mortages, or even banking services. I only wish that all banking services were available to all Canadians. Unfortunately, this is not the case, as there seem to be differences in the banking regulations among the provinces. For instance, we are still waiting here in Quebec for banks like Presidents Choice and ING to set up shop over here....
George Szatmari george.szatmari@umontreal.ca
Montreal,
Quebec - Wednesday, December 01, 1999 11:50:36 AM
I am new to Canada and plan to buy a property 2 years or so down the road. This newsgroup is a great source of information and of different point of views. Right now I am just an eager reader of postings, but will certainly post questions and comments come the time I am buying by myself. Great job, Andy!
Ruedi Birenheide
Nanaimo,
BC - Wednesday, December 01, 1999 11:45:40 AM
Andy, I am not buying any property now but would certainly use you as a resource of first choice when I do so. MORTGAGE-CA is very useful on a subject where the consumer has little ability to find his own way.
John McKay mckay@cs.concordia.ca
Montreal,
PQ - Wednesday, December 01, 1999 11:40:20 AM
As a Realtor, MORTGAGE-CA is of tremendous value to me to : 1. see the kinds of questions that may be representative of the questions my clients may have but feel uncomfortable asking (the old "there is no dumb questions" refrain) 2. The answers that are provided or often the thought provoking discussion that is often provided is illuminating to me as well as I am sure the person asking the question.
Frank Peters Frank
Lindsay,
Ontario - Wednesday, December 01, 1999 11:34:09 AM
I am not presently looking for a new mortgage. However, I still want to know what the rates are, what others are doing to obtain mortgage money, some of the problems generally, and some of the suggested solutions. I do enjoy receiving these e-mails. Thanks.
Brian Cunningham brian@freenet.carleton.ca
Ottawa,
Ontario - Wednesday, December 01, 1999 11:17:01 AM
I find the information provided in this site and via email to be extremely informative and useful. Keep up the good work!
Lynn Beattie beal@bank-banque-canada.ca
Calgary,
Alberta - Wednesday, December 01, 1999 9:25:32 AM
Great idea!
Julius Granata sabres99@hotmail.com
Montreal,
Quebec - Wednesday, December 01, 1999 8:37:17 AM
Andy MacDonald helped me with my mortgage. After visiting 4 financial institutions and being given the usual nonsense ("We want to provide for all your financial needs -- bring your mutuals here and we can negotiate a better mortgage", and my favourite "If you get a better quote, let us know and we'll see what we can do"), Andy cut through the bull and got me the best rate available, no strings. Mortgages.ca keeps me current, and the discussions are interesting and engaging.
Mark Luscher Mark.Luscher@UToronto.ca
Toronto,
Ontario - Wednesday, December 01, 1999 8:28:49 AM
This discussion group is an effective tool for information gathering.
Mary-Ann edokpayi@calcna.ab.ca
Calgary,
Alberta - Tuesday, November 30, 1999 8:42:22 PM
I've benefited immensely from the knowledge of others in the group. While I continue to save for a down payment, I hope to gain even more knowledge of the housing and financial markets. Thanks Andy and others for sharing your skills and expertise.
Ed Kennedy edkennedy@roadrunner.nf.net
Mt. Pearl,
Newfoundland - Tuesday, November 30, 1999 8:25:56 PM
Mortgage.ca is great for renewing mortgages or first time owners. It gives you information that arms you to deal with whomever you get your mortgage from.
Murray Hooper m-hooper@home.com
Cambridge,
Ontario - Tuesday, November 30, 1999 4:57:11 PM
I would have thought that I could walk into any bank and get a mortgage for 20% of the value of my home. Not so since I am self employed and my home has a small commercial storefront. My frustration grew when another broker and appraiser were adament that I would need a commercial mortgage, which of course is more expensive. However, Andy was able to get me my residential mortgage with a full point off the posted rate. It was a pleasure dealing with him....even my lawyer commented! Highly recommended! Andy, you THE MAN!
robert zorzos
toronto,
ont - Wednesday, November 17, 1999 7:05:03 AM
Thanks for the mailing list Andy. The rates quotes are a great help when renewing and the other stuff is interesting if not helpful as well. Thank you as well for setting up my initial mortgage with the bank at the lowest rate possible (4% !! do you believe that?). Keep up the great work! I look forward to doing business with you in the future. Best regards, Bruce Voss
Bruce Voss brucevos@nortelnetworks.com
Ottawa,
Ontario - Tuesday, May 18, 1999 11:30:01 AM
Thanks for a most helpful web site. Your discussion group provides a forum for information that is not available elsewhere. Keep up the great work!
Ray Liu rklliu@yahoo.com
Toronto,
Ontario - Tuesday, May 11, 1999 9:36:11 PM
Andy provided my wife and I with excellent information and helped us secure an unheard of rate with our existing institution (5yrs at 5.3%) Thank you Andy it was a pleasure dealing with you.
Robert Sproat robert.sproat@hrdc.drhc.gc.ca
Toronto,
Ontario - Thursday, April 29, 1999 10:19:03 PM
Several weeks ago you re- published an article out of the National Post. The article talked merits of refinancing a mortgage. I followed the article and will now owe approx 8k less after 4 years - even paying the penalty. I wrote a note to the author thanking him but it was mortgage.ca where I learned the info. Thank you also.
Dave B dbingham@axion.net
North Vancouver,
BC - Monday, April 05, 1999 9:58:54 PM
This site provided info to assist my daughter in renewing their mortgage with Royal Bank in Jan 1999. The Royal knew she/we were looking at competitive rates with other institutions, some of whom offered incentives such as no fees to switch, $2000 'cash to spend as you like' etc. It enabled her, in my opinion, to get a decent rate. Reviewing the info they decided that around 6% (3 years) would be OK. The bank offered 5.9% (3 yrs. about $110 000) which they accepted. Please note the "they accepted"; they were in something of a driver's seat position! Be better informed.Eh? Thanks Andy:
Terry Sanford tsanford@roadrunner.nf.net
Torbay,
Newfoundland - Monday, April 05, 1999 11:57:35 AM
This is a very useful site: it enables people to ask the questions (about mortgages) that concern most of us. One thing, however, is that it seems that our educational system/s don't teach us about money and its use in our society. Here we have people who are very obviuosly smart, aware and asking the right questions who have not received training in how to compare various financial alternatives. Since a mortgage is probably the biggest debt most of us will take on, surely our school training should help to equip us. In addition to the financial (money) aspects of a big debt, such as a mortgage, there are also the intangibles. Intangibles includesuch things as the comfort/security (keep up the payments) of "owning one's own home", even if it takes 25 years to do so! Can one sell it if necessary? Will it "hold its value"? "Will it increase in value"? Will that increase "keep up with inflation"? Is house near schools, shopping etc.? Keep this site going, please. Best of luck to all Canadian prospective and potential 'homeowners'! Also can we persuade the Canadian Government to allow tax reduction in respect of personal home owner mortgagae payments, as I believe, the US (or certain states) do? Would someone care to comment on this? Torbay, Newfoundland, Canada.
Terry Sanford tsanford@roadrunner.nf.net
Torbay,
Newfoundland - Monday, April 05, 1999 10:52:29 AM
Right now, we are just beginning to think about buying our first home. I find this list really helpful - we are learning a lot of things we didn't know before, and being informed consumers will help us a great deal when we have to make final decisions. And you can feel free to submit "naive" questions - you will get the answers you need!
Kirsten Voss & Eric Granger
Montreal,
Quebec - Sunday, February 14, 1999 5:33:00 PM
Well, I guess I don't have much to say yet 'coz I just joined the mailing list but after receiving only a few message, I have become more realistic and aware of mortgages. Its definitely very useful for first time planners like me.
Muhammad Bin Ikram muhammad@idirect.ca
Toronto,
ON - Saturday, February 13, 1999 4:27:20 PM
The old saying "Knowledge is Power" is soo right. With all the information I got from Andy's discussion group, empowered me to get 1% off a five year mortage. My bank manager was suprised with all the information I had at my disposal thanks to Andy.
Claudio Cusin
Montreal,
Quebec - Wednesday, February 10, 1999 7:59:03 AM
Participating in the Mortgage-CA discussion group helped me to negotiate an excellent deal with my current bank. Speaking to Andy McDonald helped me to ensure that I was being offered a good deal. Thanks Andy for the input and for your work on the discussion group. This is a great service. Glen Shaw
Glen Shaw glenshaw@idirect.ca
Pickering,
Ontario - Saturday, February 06, 1999 8:48:59 PM
Thanks to Andy by wife and I were able to secure a mortgage 1% below the going rate for a 5 year term.... Once again thank you very much Andy for the money you were able to save us... Dale and Linda Lukens
Dale Lukens dlukens@telusplanet.net
Lethbridge,
Alberta - Wednesday, January 13, 1999 11:09:54 PM
My mortgage came up for renewal January 1, 1999. After talking to Andy and a few other people in the mortgage business I was able to go back to my bank and renegotiate at a competitive rate. Anyone looking for a mortgage is a fool not to shop around to get the best deal. Thanks Andy and best wishes for '99.
Lorne Smith lornesmith@home.com
Saskatoon,
SK - Saturday, January 02, 1999 5:11:34 PM
Andy is the first mortgage specialist who began my deal with an absolutely free pre-approval. I met some brokers before, but only had some talks (sure interesting but only talks). Thank you Andy ! Elvira .
Elvira Routchkina elvira@webwurx.com
Toronto,
Ontario - Tuesday, December 29, 1998 12:25:31 PM
Glad to meet Andy MacDonald, great professional in financial service as well in running Web-server (I'm a programmer and I'm impressed). He's a nice man too. Proper approach to make proper things. I got help andI got hope. Alex Semenov.
Alex Semenov semenov@rocketmail.com
Etobicoke,
Ontario - Tuesday, December 29, 1998 12:23:42 PM
Andy arranged my first mortgage. I am a first-time buyer and knew nothing about mortgages or how to go about getting the best rate. Andy did all the legwork for me and has secured a fantastic rate for me. He was even able to secure this rate for 6 months. Apparently that is rare! Andy MacDonald is a great mortgage broker and I would highly recommend him to anyone looking for a low mortgage rate.
Sue
Toronto,
Ontario - Saturday, December 26, 1998 8:05:09 PM
The discussion group has proven highly informative and useful. I find it to be a painless way to gain knowledge on mortgages.
Tim Blackmore Tim.Blackmore@cnpl.enbridge.com
Edmonton,
Alberta - Friday, December 18, 1998 11:04:59 AM
Having dealt with Andy Macdonald recently I found him to be extremely helpful, knowledgeable and forthright. The services he provides, especially through the discussion list forum, allows mortgagees to become more informed and therefore find their way through the home buying process more effectively.
Robert Ganzhorn rob@greenware.com
Toronto,
Ontario - Friday, December 18, 1998 10:12:44 AM
I have been a subscriber to the mortgage_ca mailing list since May 1, 1995. The information I have gleaned from this list over the years has allowed me to get a much better interest rate on my mortgage. Thank you Andy.
Roger Horner Roger_Horner@Mitel.com
Ottawa,
ON - Friday, December 18, 1998 8:56:53 AM
I have found the discussion group and the related website to be rich in information. I would recommend to anyone who onws a home or is considering a purchase that they spend some time on the group. Thank you very much, Andy.
Cameron Bennett buttsneeze@hotmail.com
North York,
Ontario - Friday, December 18, 1998 8:33:48 AM
Andy's discussion group is a great, regular source of reliable information on mortgages, and Andy has been very responsive and helpful with individual questions as well.
Brenda Belokrinicev bbelokrinicev@sprint.ca
Edmonton,
Alberta - Thursday, December 17, 1998 11:31:14 PM
I have enjoyed being apart of the Discussion Group for the past several months and would like to extend my gratitude in offering this free service. I will continue to do all my mortage financing with your organization.
David Melhuish
Toronto,
ON - Wednesday, December 16, 1998 5:40:46 PM
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