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

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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.