News

Fixed vs Variable Mortgage Rates in Alberta: Which One’s Right for You?

Choosing the right mortgage rate is one of the biggest decisions you’ll make as a homeowner. For residents in Fort McMurray and across Alberta, understanding the difference between fixed and variable mortgage rates can help you save money and feel confident about your home financing decisions. At Charlene Elliott Mortgages, we help Alberta homeowners evaluate their […]

How Much House Can You Really Afford in Canada?

The Truth Behind Pre-Approvals Most homebuyers start their journey with a mortgage pre-approval, assuming it’s a green light to shop for homes within that amount. But in reality? That number might be misleading and can quickly unravel if you don’t understand the full picture. Let’s unpack what that pre-approval actually means and what you still need to […]

Why Waiting to Buy Might Cost You More Than You Think

The Real Price of Delaying Homeownership in Canada “Maybe next year.” “It’s not the right time.” “Let’s just wait and see.” Sound familiar? Many prospective buyers in Canada hit pause on purchasing a home hoping for a better deal, a dip in interest rates, or simply waiting until life feels more settled. But delaying your […]

What Is Mortgage Portability and When Should You Use It?

When selling your home and buying a new one, you might face hefty penalties for breaking your mortgage early. That’s where mortgage portability comes in, a feature offered by many Canadian lenders that can save you thousands. But what exactly is it, and when should you use it? In this post, we’ll break down mortgage […]

What You Didn’t Know Could Affect Your Mortgage Approval in Canada

When applying for a mortgage in Canada, most people focus on the obvious: credit score and income. But mortgage lenders consider a wide range of lesser-known factors that can impact whether your application is approved—or denied. Understanding these hidden variables could make the difference between moving into your dream home or going back to the […]

The Truth About Mortgage Penalties in Canada and How to Avoid Them

Breaking a mortgage before its term ends can come with a hefty price tag in Canada. Whether you’re selling your home, refinancing, or paying off your mortgage early, understanding mortgage penalties is crucial to avoid costly surprises. In this post, we’ll uncover the truth about mortgage penalties in Canada and share practical tips to minimize […]

How to Refinance Your Mortgage in Canada And When You Should

Refinancing a mortgage is more than just replacing your old loan with a new one, it’s a powerful financial strategy that, when done right, can help you unlock equity, lower your interest rate, and streamline your overall financial picture. In Canada, refinancing typically involves breaking your existing mortgage contract and replacing it with a new […]

Can You Really Buy a Home with 5% Down in Canada?

Purchasing a home is a significant milestone, but for many Canadians, the biggest hurdle is saving for a down payment. With soaring property prices in cities like Toronto and Vancouver, the idea of buying a home with just 5% down sounds almost too good to be true. Is it really possible? The short answer is […]

Six Home Upgrades That Will Make Spring Even Better.

As the days get longer and your flowers begin to bloom, there’s no better time to transform your house into your dream home. If you want to unlock your home’s full potential, here are six renovations that can boost both your lifestyle and property value.   Kitchen Transformation Imagine having a kitchen that not only […]

First-Time Buyers: 5 Summer Mortgage Tips to Get You in a Home Before Fall

If you’re thinking about buying your first home in Fort McMurray, summer is the perfect time to get serious. With more listings on the market, flexible schedules, and a few months before winter sets in, the season offers a great window of opportunity—especially if your goal is to move in before fall. At Charlene Elliott […]

Proudly Rated 5/5 Stars by Our Clients

Five Stars

Charlene embodies professionalism. Charlene is organized, educated and well rounded with all things mortgage related. You’re in good hands working with Charlene!

Tara Proskiw