Keep Your Eyes on the Prize: Why Timing the Market is a Losing Game

Josh Perez • February 13, 2025

One of the most common concerns I hear from clients and investors is, "When is the perfect time to buy real estate?" My answer? Stop chasing perfect timing—it doesn’t exist. Instead, keep your eyes on your long-term goals and build a plan that works for you.


The Illusion of Perfect Timing

If there’s one thing the last few years have taught us—especially since COVID and the economic uncertainty that followed—it’s that even the experts can’t predict the market with absolute accuracy. They might get the general direction right, but the timing? That’s nearly impossible to nail down.


Waiting for the absolute perfect moment to buy, sell, or invest is a risky strategy. The truth is, there will always be market fluctuations, changes in interest rates, and external factors beyond our control. What matters most is focusing on your specific goals and making smart, well-informed decisions based on what’s right for you, rather than getting caught up in market noise.


Build a Plan, Not a Prediction

Rather than stressing over when rates will drop or if the market will shift in your favor, focus on building a solid real estate plan. Ask yourself:

  • What are your short-term and long-term real estate goals?
  • What kind of property best fits your financial situation and lifestyle?
  • Are you in a position to qualify for the right mortgage today?

A structured plan ensures that you stay on track, regardless of market fluctuations. And just as importantly, it should be a dynamic plan—one that gets updated as market conditions change.


Why Staying Informed Matters

While perfect timing isn’t realistic, staying informed is essential. Take recent changes in bond rates, for example. Fixed mortgage rates have decreased by more than one percent in the last 90 days—this kind of movement can significantly impact:

  • Your mortgage qualification amount
  • Your monthly payments
  • The type of home you can afford

For instance, a lower mortgage rate could mean the difference between affording a $700,000 home vs. an $800,000 home, or having a $1,500 monthly payment vs. an $1,800 one. These shifts in affordability can have a huge impact on your financial future, making it crucial to monitor the market and adjust your strategy accordingly.



The Bottom Line

At the end of the day, real estate success isn’t about guessing the market—it’s about preparing for it. Work with an experienced mortgage professional who can help you navigate changes, analyze the numbers, and find the best path forward.


If you're ready to stop waiting for the “perfect” time and start making smart, strategic moves toward your real estate goals, let’s connect. The best time to take action is when you're prepared—and that starts with having the right plan in place.

"Keep your eyes on the prize, not all the noise. Perfect timing is impossible—what matters is building a plan for your real estate goals and refreshing it often."

Josh Perez
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Divorce and Your Mortgage: What You Need to Know

By Josh Perez • November 12, 2025
Going Through a Separation? Here’s What You Need to Know About Your Mortgage Separation or divorce can be one of life’s most stressful transitions—and when real estate is involved, the financial side of things can get complicated fast. If you and your partner own a home together, figuring out what happens next with your mortgage is a critical step in moving forward. Here’s what you need to know: You’re Still Responsible for Mortgage Payments Even if your relationship changes, your obligation to your mortgage lender doesn’t. If your name is on the mortgage, you’re fully responsible for making sure payments continue. Missed payments can lead to penalties, damage your credit, or even put your home at risk of foreclosure. If you relied on your partner to handle payments during the relationship, now is the time to take a proactive role. Contact your lender directly to confirm everything is on track. Breaking or Changing Your Mortgage Comes With Costs Dividing your finances might mean refinancing, removing someone from the title, or selling the home. All of these options come with potential legal fees, appraisal costs, and mortgage penalties—especially if you’re mid-term with a fixed-rate mortgage. Before making any decisions, speak with your lender to get a clear picture of the potential costs. This info can be helpful when finalizing your separation agreement. Legal Status Affects Financing If you're applying for a new mortgage after a separation, lenders will want to see official documentation—like a signed separation agreement or divorce decree. These documents help the lender assess any ongoing financial obligations like child or spousal support, which may impact your ability to qualify. No paperwork yet? Expect delays and added scrutiny in the mortgage process until everything is finalized. Qualifying on One Income Can Be Tougher Many couples qualify for mortgages based on combined income. After a separation, your borrowing power may decrease if you're now applying solo. This can affect your ability to buy a new home or stay in the one you currently own. A mortgage professional can help you reassess your financial picture and identify options that make sense for your situation—whether that means buying on your own, co-signing with a family member, or exploring government programs. Buying Out Your Partner? You May Have Extra Flexibility In cases where one person wants to stay in the home, lenders may offer special flexibility. Unlike traditional refinancing, which typically caps borrowing at 80% of the home’s value, a “spousal buyout” may allow you to access up to 95%—making it easier to compensate your former partner and retain the home. This option is especially useful for families looking to minimize disruption for children or maintain community ties. You Don’t Have to Figure It Out Alone Separation is never simple—but with the right support, you can move forward with clarity and confidence. Whether you’re keeping the home, selling, or starting fresh, working with a mortgage professional can help you understand your options and create a strategy that aligns with your new goals. Let’s talk through your situation and explore the best path forward. I’m here to help.

The Strategy Beats the Rate: Why Smart Mortgage Planning Matters More Than Falling Rates

By Josh Perez • November 5, 2025
Mortgage rates in Canada have been falling for most of the past year—and while that sounds like great news, I always encourage clients to pause and look deeper. A quarter-point rate drop might sound huge in the headlines, but in reality, it only saves the average buyer less than $100 a month . Don’t get me wrong—every bit helps—but that small difference isn’t what’s going to change your financial future. “The strategy beats the rate every single time.” — Josh Perez What really matters is how your mortgage is structured—because that’s where the long-term wins happen. Here’s how I approach it with my clients: Focus on Affordability Don’t just chase the lowest rate on paper. The real goal is a monthly payment that fits your lifestyle today while still leaving room for savings, investments, and emergencies. That’s what keeps you comfortable, not stressed. Think Beyond the Mortgage Your mortgage can be more than a payment—it can be a wealth-building tool . Smart amortization choices, extra payments, or using equity strategically later on can make a massive impact on your financial growth. “The right mortgage choice depends on your long-term plan, not just today’s rate.” — Josh Perez Plan for Flexibility If you choose a fixed term, understand the penalties that come with breaking it early. If you prefer variable, be sure you’re comfortable with the payment swings and how they impact your principal over time. The truth is, the “best” mortgage isn’t the one with the lowest rate—it’s the one that’s aligned with your goals, timeline, and flexibility needs . So yes—let’s enjoy the benefits of lower rates, but don’t let the headlines distract you from the bigger picture. The structure of your mortgage—and how it fits into your overall financial plan—is what really moves the needle. If you want to see how this looks with your actual numbers, let’s build a custom strategy together. Schedule a call with me today and I’ll show you exactly how to make your mortgage work smarter for you.