Darryl Kraemer
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Self‑Employed in Ontario? January Is the Month That Sets Your Mortgage Up for the Whole Year
January 14, 2026
For self‑employed homeowners and buyers, January isn’t just a fresh start—it’s a strategic window. Decisions you make right now around income, structure, and timing can dramatically affect what you qualify for (and how comfortably) later in 2026.
Why January matters more for the self‑employed
Unlike salaried borrowers, self‑employed clients don’t get a clean snapshot. Lenders look backward—often two years—and January is when those numbers are still flexible enough to plan ahead.
With rates relatively stable and lender appetite returning after the holidays, this is the best time to align tax planning and mortgage planning instead of letting them fight each other.
Key planning areas to focus on this month
1. Income strategy vs. qualification reality
Many self‑employed borrowers optimize taxes without considering the mortgage impact. January is the time to decide:
- Which year’s income you’ll rely on for qualification
- Whether showing slightly higher income meaningfully improves options
- If alternative programs or lender types make more sense than forcing a perfect A‑lender fit
This is about net benefit, not about blindly maximizing or minimizing income.
2. Buying in 2026? Build the timeline now
If purchasing later this year:
- Decide whether 2025 or 2026 income will be used
- Identify when documents will be cleanest for underwriting
- Avoid spring or summer surprises when deals are time‑sensitive
A calm purchase starts with an intentional timeline.
3. Refinancing or restructuring
January is an ideal time to review:
- Whether your current mortgage still fits your business cash flow
- If amortization changes could improve monthly flexibility
- How upcoming business investments or slow seasons affect payment comfort
Refinancing isn’t just about rate—it’s about resilience.
4. First‑time self‑employed buyers
If this will be your first purchase:
- A strategy beats a simple pre‑approval
- Understanding lender tolerance, add‑backs, and acceptable income patterns early prevents frustration later
- Early planning often opens doors that seem “closed” in rushed spring applications
What a smart January mortgage strategy includes
- Clear qualification plan tied to income reporting
- Multiple lender paths (not just one “hopeful” option)
- Conservative payment comfort analysis
- Flexibility built into the mortgage structure
Bottom line
For self‑employed Ontarians, January decisions echo all year. A little planning now can mean smoother approvals, better structure, and far less stress when it matters most.
What Today’s Bank of Canada Rate Decision Means for You
December 11, 2025
The Bank of Canada released its final interest rate update of 2025 this morning, and as expected, the benchmark lending rate remains unchanged at 2.25%.
This “rate hold” reflects the Bank’s view that borrowing costs are currently right where they need to be based on how the Canadian economy is performing. Recent economic indicators like GDP, inflation, and employment have shown encouraging signs of stability, which contributed to today’s decision.
Why the Bank Chose to Hold Rates
- Economic data has been improving, including lower inflation and unemployment edging down for the second month in a row.
- After four rate cuts earlier this year (January, March, September, and October), the Bank believes it has reached the “right level” to support both consumers and the broader economy.
- With mixed signals and uncertainty heading into 2026, the Bank is being cautious and keeping policy steady for now.
What This Means for You
A stable overnight rate generally means:
- No immediate changes to variable-rate mortgage payments
- Continued stability across lending products
- A positive signal that inflation is moving closer to the Bank’s 2% target
If you’re planning a renewal, refinance, or future home purchase, this steady environment can help with clearer planning.
Every household’s situation is unique, and I’m always happy to review your mortgage strategy, run a savings comparison, or discuss what this economic outlook could mean for you in 2026.
If you’d like to chat, just send me an email, always happy to help.
Why Planning Ahead Pays Off
November 24, 2025
WHAT’S HAPPENING IN THE MARKET?
More than 20% of Canadian mortgage holders are set to renew within the next 12 months, according to Mortgage Professionals Canada, and many will be coming out of the ultra-low rates secured during the pandemic.
With the Bank of Canada lowering its overnight rate to 2.25% and inflation continuing to ease, both fixed and variable rates are beginning to show signs of relief.
Fixed rates, tied to movements in the bond market, have been gradually trending downward, and borrowers approaching renewal may see more competitive options than they did earlier this year.
Markets can still shift quickly in response to global events, so planning ahead remains essential, especially for anyone renewing in early 2026.
THINKING ABOUT BUYING? NOW’S THE TIME TO GET PRE-APPROVED
With rates beginning to ease, future buyers have a unique window of opportunity.
Whether you’re a first-time buyer or planning your next move, getting pre-approved now can set you up for success.
A pre-approval or rate hold gives you a real advantage while you shop. Here’s why it matters:
- Lock in today’s rates for up to 120 days
- Shop with confidence, knowing exactly what you can afford
- Move quickly if the right home becomes available
- Understand your monthly payments ahead of time
- Strengthen your offer, since sellers prefer pre-approved buyers.
If purchasing is on your radar for 2026, now is an ideal time to connect. A simple pre-approval today could make a big difference tomorrow.
IS YOUR MORTGAGE COMING UP FOR RENEWAL? HERE’S WHY IT DESERVES A SECOND LOOK
If your mortgage renewal is approaching, it may feel easiest to accept the offer your lender sends, but that quick signature could end up costing you.
You’re never obligated to take your lender’s first offer, and with today’s shifting market, taking a moment to review your options can make a meaningful impact on your long-term finances.
A renewal is an ideal time to reassess whether your current mortgage still aligns with your goals.
You may be able to negotiate a more competitive rate, adjust your term or mortgage type to suit your lifestyle better, or even use your home equity to tackle renovations, consolidate debt, or pursue new investment opportunities.
In some cases, you can also switch to a new lender without needing to requalify under the Stress Test, giving you even more flexibility.
This process doesn’t have to feel overwhelming, and you don’t have to navigate it alone.
I can compare options across multiple lenders, walk you through the pros and cons of fixed and variable choices, help you explore ways to improve cash flow, and secure a rate hold while you evaluate your next steps.
Most importantly, I can ensure your mortgage continues to support your evolving financial plan rather than work against rising costs.
LET’S BUILD YOUR 2026 STRATEGY TOGETHER
Whether you’re renewing, planning ahead, or considering a purchase, now is the perfect time to explore your options.
The proper guidance today can make a significant difference tomorrow.
Reach out anytime, I’m here to help you make the most informed decision for your next mortgage chapter.
How Parents Can Play a Role In A First Home Purchase
November 13, 2025
Buying a first home in Ontario has never required more strategy. Higher prices, tighter qualification rules, and stretched savings mean even well-prepared first-time buyers often look for creative (and responsible) ways to boost their buying power.
One approach that’s gaining traction—especially among my clients—is bringing parents into the process in a structured way.
Let’s break down the strategies that are working.
Why Involving Parents Works Today
Parents often want to help, but they’re unsure of the safest path. With the right structure, they can support their kids without risking their own retirement or financial stability.
The most common and effective strategies:
1. A Gifted Down Payment
The simplest approach. Parents gift funds to help with the down payment.
Why it works:
- Immediately reduces CMHC/default insurance costs
- Boosts purchase power
- Strengthens the offer in a competitive market
- Zero ongoing obligation for the parent
Where it’s most effective: Buyers looking to jump from a condo to a townhouse, or to get out of renting faster.
2. The Parental Co-Sign Strategy
Parents add their income and credit strength to the application to help the child qualify.
Why it works:
- Forces no upfront cash investment
- Helps when income is strong but debt-service ratios are tight
- Can be temporary—parents can be removed later through refinance once the buyer’s income grows and they qualify on their own
3. Joint Ownership, Done Properly
Some parents prefer a more formal investment role.
Why it works:
- Parents treat the down payment as an investment
- Children get into the market sooner
- Everyone benefits from value appreciation
Best for: Professional families thinking long-term—e.g., buying a property the child may later rent out.
4. Short-Term Equity Loan to Boost the Down Payment
Often overlooked but extremely practical.
Parents lend—rather than gift—down payment funds for 1–3 years.
Why it works:
- Keeps parents’ retirement plans intact
- Helps the child reach 20% to avoid CMHC fees
- Can be repaid once income increases or property is refinanced
If you or someone you know is considering involving a parent in a home purchase, I can map out the best strategy for the situation.
Whether it’s gifting, co-signing, lending, or joint ownership, we can evaluate the best way forward.
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