Planning Your Home Sale

Josh Perez • May 1, 2024

Today I want to talk to you about something crucial if you're thinking about selling your home within the next 18 months. Trust me, it's never too early to start planning.



Let me break it down for you. Selling your home isn't just about putting up a "For Sale" sign and waiting for offers to roll in. It requires strategic planning and constant evaluation, especially in today's ever-changing market. That's why I recommend refreshing your plan every three to four months to stay ahead of the game.

"If you're planning on selling your home in the next 18 months, you need to start to plan now."

Why so frequent, you ask? Well, there are countless variables at play that can impact your affordability when transitioning from selling to buying. From market trends to personal finances, it's essential to keep a close eye on the evolving landscape.



So, how do you build the right plan? It starts with anticipating different outcomes and understanding how they'll shape your financial options for your next home. Whether it's allocating funds for a down payment, covering closing costs, or even setting aside money for moving expenses, every detail counts.

Flexibility is key here. As you navigate the selling process, be prepared to adjust your criteria for your next home based on your evolving priorities. Whether it's location, size, schools, or price, each factor plays a role in shaping your future abode and neighborhood.


The bottom line? Let's kickstart your plan today. By mapping out every detail and staying proactive, we can ensure you land in the home and neighborhood that truly fits your family's needs and desires.

Ready to take the first step? Reach out to me, Josh Perez, and let's craft a personalized roadmap to your dream home. Your future starts now!


Cheers,

Josh Perez


Josh Perez
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What You Need to Know About Mortgages and Parental Leave

By Josh Perez • July 8, 2026
If the title of this article caught your attention, chances are your family is growing. Congratulations. If you’re thinking now is the right time to move into a home that better fits your growing family—but you’re unsure how parental leave affects your ability to qualify for a mortgage—you’re in the right place. Here’s the good news. Qualifying for a mortgage while on parental leave is possible when it’s done correctly. When you work with an independent mortgage professional, lenders can often qualify you based on your return-to-work income , as long as you can provide documentation confirming you have guaranteed employment waiting for you. A word of caution If you walk into a bank branch and disclose that you’re currently on parental leave, there’s a chance the bank will only allow you to qualify using your parental leave income. That can significantly reduce your borrowing power. Parental leave income is typically limited to 55% of your previous earnings, up to a weekly maximum. Qualifying on that amount alone can restrict your options and impact the type of home you can purchase. Why lender choice matters One of the biggest advantages of working with an independent mortgage professional is choice . You’re not limited to one lender’s rules or products. Some lenders will allow you to qualify using 100% of your confirmed return-to-work income , which can make a meaningful difference in your approval amount and overall options. What you’ll need to qualify Most lenders will require an employment letter that includes: Employer name (preferably on company letterhead) Your job title Original start date (to confirm probation has been completed) Confirmed return-to-work date Guaranteed salary upon return Lenders want reassurance that your income will resume once parental leave ends. You may also be asked to provide income history from the past couple of years, which is standard for most mortgage applications. One important note Whether or not you actually return to work after parental leave is entirely your decision. From a mortgage perspective, qualification is based on having a confirmed position available to you at the time of approval. If you have questions about qualifying for a mortgage while on parental leave—or anything mortgage-related—please connect anytime. I’d be happy to walk you through your options and help you plan with confidence.
Suburban two-story house with a front porch, two-car garage, and a large tree-lined lawn.

Gifted Down Payment in Ontario? Don't Skip This Step

By Josh Perz • July 7, 2026
Using a gifted down payment to buy a home in Ontario? Learn exactly what lenders require — and the common mistakes that can delay or derail your approval.