As we continue to struggle with the impact of COVID-19, and are constantly reminded to “practice social distancing” and prepare for the “new normal”, I think it’s fair to say that many everyday practices are becoming more frustrating to accomplish. This is perhaps more apparent in the finance and banking world. It has been brought to my attention by many clients that the process of going to the bank and not only has their day to day banking changed, but so to has the way that they get advice pertaining to their investment and lending accounts. Wait times are longer, and in many cases, much longer. The fact that you are required to call well in advance to book an appointment in order to speak with a bank representative, and then only be given a short time to discuss your concerns, can be and has been very frustrating for most.
While COVID-19 has and continues to impact how many everyday processes are implemented, as a mortgage broker, the reality is, the quality of advice and service provided essentially hasn’t changed at all. In fact, availability and accessibility not only for myself, but the lending partners I work with are still fully intact. I am able to continue offering a high level of service, as well as the convenience of completing any mortgage financing transactions in a manner that offers ultimate convenience to the client, but also respects the contactless measures required by our Government and health professionals.
For most people, a mortgage is generally the single largest and perhaps most important loan they will ever have. Unlike banking representatives who are expected to know all of the bank’s products and services, I am committed to knowing and understanding all of the mortgage products and options that are available to help you save money and pay off your mortgage as quickly as possible. The one thing that most clients are not aware of is the variance in payout penalties that can be charged by certain lenders. With a combined 28 years of banking and brokering experience, at the end of the day, it is my commitment to my clients, and determination to work on their behalf to find them the best interest rates and mortgage products available, based on their individual needs and requirements, while reducing their costs as much as possible. Remember…I work for YOU and NOT the BANK!
If you are looking for a change, and/or would like to experience the convenience and value of working with a dedicated mortgage professional, please ensure that they have their proper accreditation. As a mortgage specialist working with Axiom Mortgage Solutions, I am governed by the Alberta Mortgage Brokers Association (AMBA), the Real Estate Council of Alberta (RECA) and Mortgage Professionals Canada (MPC).
As always, I welcome any questions or comments you may have regarding the information contained in my articles.
Jason Eldridge B.Admin, PFP
Mortgage Specialist
Axiom Mortgage Solutions