The Power of Intent and Influence: Building Wealth Wisely

Josh Perez • September 7, 2023

Are you eager to build your wealth but hesitant to spend money in the process? It's a common dilemma, and one that many individuals face as they embark on their financial journey. In this blog post, we'll delve into a conversation between Josh and an individual seeking advice on wealth building without breaking the bank.

You're a reflection of the five closest people around you. You have to be able to talk about your wealth building goals, your financial goals, if they're a priority for you with the people around you.

The Quest for Wealth Without Excessive Spending


Imagine this scenario: You're determined to build your wealth, but you're cautious about spending money on expensive courses, seminars, or investment opportunities. What should you do? Josh, our wealth-building advisor, shares some valuable insights:


Education and Networking as Keys to Wealth Building

Josh starts by highlighting the importance of education and networking in the wealth-building process. Attending conferences, social events, and educational workshops can provide you with a wealth of knowledge and valuable connections. These opportunities often require an investment, but they can be worthwhile for your financial future.


The Role of Intentionality

Moving beyond education and networking, Josh emphasizes the role of intentionality in wealth building. To make wealth accumulation a priority, you need to set clear goals and make a conscious effort to pursue them. It's not just about attending events; it's about taking the knowledge and connections you gain and applying them to your financial objectives.


The Power of Your Inner Circle

Perhaps the most profound point Josh makes is about the influence of your inner circle. He highlights the idea that you are a reflection of the five closest people around you. This means that the individuals you spend the most time with can significantly impact your financial mindset and progress.


Open Conversations About Wealth Goals

Josh suggests that for your wealth-building journey to flourish, you must be able to openly discuss your financial goals with the people closest to you. This includes sharing your aspirations, challenges, and strategies for wealth accumulation. If those around you understand and support your objectives, it can provide you with the motivation and accountability needed to stay on track.


Adjusting Your Circle

Lastly, Josh acknowledges that sometimes, to align with your financial priorities, you may need to adjust the composition of your inner circle. Surrounding yourself with like-minded individuals who share your passion for wealth building can be instrumental in achieving your goals.

In conclusion, building wealth doesn't always require lavish spending. It begins with a commitment to learning, networking, and setting clear intentions. Moreover, it involves engaging in open conversations with your closest connections about your wealth-building journey. Remember, you have the power to shape your financial future, and your circle of influence plays a pivotal role in that journey.


Want to talk about building wealth? Book a call with Josh

Josh Perez
GET STARTED

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.