Unlocking Opportunities with Equity Takeouts: What You Need to Know

Josh Perez • December 20, 2024

Hi, Josh Perez here, and today I want to talk about something that’s on the minds of many homeowners and investors: equity takeouts. Whether you're looking to fund a renovation, consolidate higher-interest debt, or grow your wealth, equity takeouts are a powerful financial tool that could help you achieve your goals.


Let’s dive into how equity takeouts work and why they might be the right option for you.

"The right equity takeout product can let you access $100,000 to $200,000—or more—for renovations, investments, or debt consolidation, all without moving your low-rate mortgage. It’s about finding the right lender to make your financial goals happen."

Taking Control of Your Financial Goals

The first step is getting clear on what you want to achieve. Maybe you're feeling the pinch of rising costs and inflation, and you’re thinking, I need to invest to keep pace. Whether it’s building wealth, paying off high-interest debt, or upgrading your home, equity takeouts are a strategic way to access the value locked in your property without completely overhauling your existing mortgage.


Flexible Options Without Touching Your Low-Rate Mortgage

One of the most common concerns I hear is, I don’t want to lose my low-rate mortgage. If you’re sitting on a mortgage with a rate of 2-3%, you’re not alone. The good news? You don’t have to move your mortgage to access your equity.

There are lenders who specialize in second mortgages or home equity loans, allowing you to keep your existing low-rate mortgage intact while giving you the flexibility to tap into your property’s value. This can be especially useful if you need $100,000 to $200,000 (or more) for a down payment on an investment property, major renovations, or other financial goals.


Partnering with the Right Lender

It’s not just about the bank you’re with right now. We work with a variety of lenders who are willing to come in behind your current mortgage holder and offer solutions tailored to your needs. These options open up new possibilities, even if your primary lender isn’t the right fit for your current goals.

For example, if your bank won’t approve the equity pull you’re looking for, there are other lenders who can step in, providing the financing you need to move forward.


Why Equity Takeouts Matter

In today’s financial climate, many people view investing as a necessity to stay ahead. Inflation erodes the value of your money and assets, so putting your equity to work—whether through real estate investments, renovations, or acquiring new assets—is a way to build and preserve your wealth over time.


Is an Equity Takeout Right for You?

If you’re considering an equity takeout, here are a few key questions to ask yourself:

  1. What are my financial goals?
  2. How much equity do I need to access?
  3. What will I use the funds for?
  4. Am I comfortable exploring options beyond my current lender?


At the end of the day, the right strategy depends on your unique situation. As mortgage brokers, our job is to help you navigate these options and connect you with the best lender for your needs—whether it’s for your first investment property, a big renovation, or simply making your financial picture more manageable.


Let’s Talk

If you’re ready to explore your options for an equity takeout, I’m here to help. Together, we can review your goals, assess your property’s equity, and find the solution that works best for you. Don’t let untapped potential sit idle—let’s put your equity to work.

Reach out today, and let’s start building toward your financial goals.

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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.