Homeowner AF: The Canadian First Time Homebuying Podcast

Hosted by Brianna Goslin

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Aug 2026

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Welcome to Homeowner AF: The Canadian First Time Homebuying Podcast, the ultimate resource for first-time homebuyers in Ontario and across Canada. Hosted by experienced mortgage agent Brianna Goslin, each week she breaks down the barriers to homeownership, offering practical, easy-to-digest advice that will help you navigate the complexities of buying your first home, while de-mystifying your entry into Canadian Real Estate. Brianna covers topics like: Why do I need a pre-approval? What happens in the mortgage pre-approval process. How much cash do I need to close? How to expedite your down payment savings. What you should know when purchasing your first home after a divorce. What you need to know about credit scores. Housing market trends. Interest rates and how they affect you. Essential information about home insurance for new buyers and so many more first-time homebuying questions! This podcast supports Canadian first-time homebuyers at every stage of the homebuying journey, from real estate curious to ready to buy househunters- Homeowner AF will keep you motivated, inspired, and well-informed about the Canadian homebuying process. Tune in weekly for fresh insights that will make your home-buying journey feel less overwhelming and more empowering.

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56 recent

August 11, 202613 min

Should I Take on a Longer Mortgage for Lower Payments? 25 vs. 30-Year Amortization for First-Time Home Buyers

If you’re a first-time home buyer in Ontario trying to decide between a 25-year and 30-year amortization, this episode will help you understand what that choice actually means for your mortgage, monthly cash flow, and long-term homeownership goals. Today, I’m breaking down the pros and cons of a 30-year amortization, why it can improve affordability and borrowing power, and how you can still build a strategy to pay your mortgage off faster.In this episode, I cover:How the 30-year amortization option works for eligible first-time homebuyers with less than 20% down and why it can make qualifying for a mortgage easierHow a longer amortization can lower your monthly or bi-weekly mortgage payment, improve cash flow, and give you more breathing room as you adjust to the full cost of homeownershipThe trade-offs of choosing a 30-year amortizationWhy a higher mortgage pre-approval does not automatically mean you should spend moreThe strategy I recommend for first-time homebuyers who want more flexibility now while still working toward paying their mortgage off soonerWhat to look for in a mortgage and lender if paying down your balance faster is part of your long-term planIf you still have questions, book a free call with me and let's discuss your specific situation. Please leave a like on the episode and I'll see you next week!Download Brianna's mortgage app: https://cma.me/brianna-goslin/downloadSpecific Questions? Ready to get started?Book a free call with Brianna: www.Bricallme.comJoin my mailing list: https://briannagoslinmortgages.myflodesk.com/mortgagebitesWebsite: http://www.briannagoslinmortgages.comInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/briannagoslinmortgagesFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/brianna.goslin.mortgagesLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/briannagoslinmortgages

August 4, 20268 min

The Mortgage "Stress Test" Explained: Everything Ontario First-Time Home Buyers Need to Know

Today on Homeowner AF, I’m breaking down the Canadian mortgage "stress test", including what it is, why it was introduced, and how it affects your borrowing power. I’ll also share my honest perspective on whether this qualification rule helps or hurts first-time home buyers in Ontario.Stay tuned to hear:How the mortgage stress test fits into your mortgage pre-approvalThe qualifying rate lenders use and how your contract interest rate can change the calculationHow the stress test can reduce your maximum mortgage amount, even when the actual payment appears affordableWhy some Canadians believe the rule keeps qualified buyers out of the real estate marketHow the stress test can provide protection when interest rates increase or your mortgage comes up for renewalIWhy a conservative home loan can create more flexibility and help you avoid becoming house poorUnderstanding how the stress test works can help you feel more prepared, make informed decisions, and move one step closer to becoming a homeowner. If you still have questions, leave me a comment or send me a voice note on Instagram @briannagoslinmortgages for a chance to have your question answered on the podcast. I’ll see you next week!Specific Questions? Ready to get started?Book a free call with Brianna: www.Bricallme.comJoin my mailing list: https://briannagoslinmortgages.myflodesk.com/mortgagebitesWebsite: http://www.briannagoslinmortgages.comInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/briannagoslinmortgagesFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/brianna.goslin.mortgagesLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/briannagoslinmortgages

July 28, 202610 min

Declined by the Bank? Reasons You Could Still Get Approved for a Mortgage in Ontario

Have you been turned down for a mortgage by your bank? Today on Homeowner AF, I share why a mortgage decline doesn't necessarily mean your homeownership journey is over. I walk you through the differences between working with a bank mortgage specialist and an independent mortgage agent, why lending decisions can vary, and how the right strategy can open doors that you may not have realized were available. If you're a first-time home buyer in Ontario who's been told "no," this episode will help you understand your options and show you what steps to take next so you can keep moving toward your homeownership goals.In this episode, I cover:Why being declined by your bank is more common than you think and why it doesn't mean you've failedThe key differences between a bank mortgage specialist and an independent mortgage agent, and how each approaches your mortgage applicationWhy self-employed Canadians, buyers with unique income situations, or those rebuilding credit often have more lending options outside of the major banksHow taking a strategic look at your finances helps create a personalized plan instead of relying on a simple yes or no decisionWhat you should and shouldn't do immediately after a mortgage declineHow having the right mortgage strategy can move you closer to homeownership, even if you're not quite ready todayA mortgage decline is not the end of your story. With the right guidance, a clear plan, and the right lending strategy, homeownership may be much closer than you think. If you're ready to explore your options as a first-time home buyer in Ontario, book a free discovery call with me and keep tuning into the podcast for more expert homeowner insights.Specific Questions? Ready to get started?Book a free call with Brianna: www.Bricallme.comJoin my mailing list: https://briannagoslinmortgages.myflodesk.com/mortgagebitesWebsite: http://www.briannagoslinmortgages.comInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/briannagoslinmortgagesFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/brianna.goslin.mortgagesLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/briannagoslinmortgages

July 21, 202610 min

Is Now the Right Time to Buy a Home in Ontario? What Canadian Home Buyers in 2026 Need to Consider

Everyone wants to know if now is the right time to buy. This is one of the most frequently asked questions I get as a mortgage broker and my answer might surprise you. In today’s episode, you’ll hear why the answer has less to do with the current market and more to do with your personal financial situation. I’ll be sharing the framework I use to help first time home buyers in Ontario cut through headlines and determine their personal readiness. If you’re thinking about buying, you'll leave this episode with a clearer understanding of what "the right time" looks like for you.Keep listening to learn:The questions you should be asking yourself before deciding to buyHow supply, demand, and buyer confidence influence the Canadian real estate market and what that could mean for your home searchThe truth about interest rates, what I expect moving forward, and why waiting for rates to fall may not be the strategy you think it isThe one financial exercise that can quickly tell you whether homeownership is realistic right nowWhy a mortgage pre-approval is one of the most powerful tools you can use before starting your home buying journeyIf your goal is becoming a homeowner, this episode will help you focus on the factors you can control instead of trying to predict the market. Give this episode a like and send me a DM over on Instagram @briannagoslinmortgages to have your question featured on a future episode of the podcast. I’ll see you next time!Specific Questions? Ready to get started?Book a free call with Brianna: www.Bricallme.comJoin my mailing list: https://briannagoslinmortgages.myflodesk.com/mortgagebitesWebsite: http://www.briannagoslinmortgages.comInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/briannagoslinmortgagesFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/brianna.goslin.mortgagesLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/briannagoslinmortgages

July 14, 202610 min

What's Included in My Mortgage Payment? How to Save Thousands as a First Time Home Buyer in Ontario

The way you set up your mortgage payment can have a bigger impact than you might think. Today on Homeowner AF, I break down what’s actually included in your mortgage payment, including the different payment options available to first-time home buyers in Ontario. Tune in to learn how the right mortgage payment strategy can save you thousands and accelerate your path to building equity. In this episode, you'll learn:Why your mortgage payment frequency matters and how accelerated bi-weekly payments can help you pay off your mortgage soonerWhat's actually included in your mortgage payment and how property taxes may be collected by your lender The difference between fixed, variable and adjustable rate mortgagesA simple but often overlooked tip that could save you money by avoiding unnecessary charges hidden in your mortgage commitmentWhat questions to ask before signing your mortgage documents so your mortgage supports your long-term homeownership goalsIf you found this episode helpful, please leave a like! For those of you getting ready to buy your first home, renew your mortgage, or simply want to better understand your options, book a free call with me at www.Bricallme.com for advice tailored to your situation. I’ll see you next week! Specific Questions? Ready to get started?Book a free call with Brianna: www.Bricallme.comJoin my mailing list: https://briannagoslinmortgages.myflodesk.com/mortgagebitesWebsite: http://www.briannagoslinmortgages.comInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/briannagoslinmortgagesFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/brianna.goslin.mortgagesLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/briannagoslinmortgages

July 7, 202613 min

Fixed vs. Variable: Which Mortgage Rate Is Right for Me?

Choosing between a fixed and variable mortgage is one of the biggest financial decisions you'll make as a first-time home buyer, and it's about more than just getting the lowest rate. Today on the podcast, I break down how each option works, what it could mean for your budget, and how to choose the best fit for your long-term goals and changing interest rates. As always, my goal is to help you understand your options so you can make a confident decision that supports your homeownership journey.What you’ll hear today:How fixed mortgage rates and variable mortgage rates are determined in Canada and what causes them to changeThe pros and cons of a fixed versus variable mortgage for first-time home buyers in OntarioHow interest rate changes can affect your monthly mortgage payment, cash flow, and long-term financial planWhat mortgage penalties look like if you need to refinance, sell your home, or break your mortgage before the end of your termWhen it makes sense to choose a fixed rate for payment stability versus a variable rate for greater flexibilityWhat to know before switching from a variable mortgage to a fixed mortgage, or vice versa, during your mortgage termIf you found this episode helpful, please leave a like and share with me any questions you’d like me to answer in future episodes. For those of you who are ready to create a mortgage strategy that works for your goals, book a free call with me and let’s get you a step closer to being a homeowner. I’ll see you next time.Specific Questions? Ready to get started?Book a free call with Brianna: www.Bricallme.comJoin my mailing list: https://briannagoslinmortgages.myflodesk.com/mortgagebitesWebsite: http://www.briannagoslinmortgages.comInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/briannagoslinmortgagesFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/brianna.goslin.mortgagesLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/briannagoslinmortgages

June 30, 20268 min

3 Ways Flexible Homebuyers Are Winning in Today's Market

Today on Homeowner AF, I walk through three real-life examples that have successfully made my clients Ontario homeowners in 2026. If you’re feeling as though your budget just isn’t enough, this episode will help you navigate your mortgage qualification and today’s rising home prices. You may need to rethink your buying strategy, but in the end, these steps could open up homebuying opportunities that were previously out of reach.Here’s what I cover:Real examples of how buyers are making smart trade-offs in 2026 to get into the Ontario housing marketThe kind of flexibility that can make a major difference when your budget isn’t lining up with your marketStrategies to increase your mortgage qualification and support your monthly cash flowHow “house hacking” may help you qualify for a higher purchase price without increasing your down paymentWhy adjusting your expectations in one area could open the door to homeownership sooner than you thinkIf you’re a homebuyer in Ontario feeling discouraged by today’s market, this episode will help you think more strategically about what’s possible. If you found this episode helpful, please leave a like and send me a message with your questions for future podcast episodes. I’ll see you next time!Specific Questions? Ready to get started?Book a free call with Brianna: www.Bricallme.comJoin my mailing list: https://briannagoslinmortgages.myflodesk.com/mortgagebitesWebsite: http://www.briannagoslinmortgages.comInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/briannagoslinmortgagesFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/brianna.goslin.mortgagesLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/briannagoslinmortgages

June 23, 202610 min

How To Plan Your Purchase Price: A Guide to Building Long-Term Financial Wealth as a First-Time Homeowner in Ontario

Just because a lender says you can spend a certain amount on a home, does that mean you actually should? Today on Homeowner AF, I’m breaking down how to plan your home purchase price as a first-time home buyer in Ontario, and why your pre-approval amount should never be the only number guiding your decision. We dive into what lenders look at, what they don’t look at, and how to build a purchase plan that supports your long-term homeownership goals without stretching your monthly budget too thin.In this episode, I cover:Why your maximum pre-approval amount is not the same thing as your ideal home purchase budgetThe real-life expenses lenders don’t include in debt ratios and why those missing pieces matter when planning your first home purchaseHow to use your current rent payment as a starting point to figure out what kind of mortgage payment actually fits your lifestyle and financial goalsHow to factor interest rates, your down payment, and mortgage qualification to create a comfortable monthly payment and realistic purchase price What to do if your safe price point doesn’t line up with the current marketWhy affordability and long-term sustainability should be at the centre of every home buying decisionBuying your first home in Ontario is about more than qualifying for a mortgage. It’s about making sure your payment still leaves room for the rest of your life, your future goals, and the kind of homeownership experience you actually want. If you want help figuring out your own numbers, book a free call with me and let’s map out a purchase plan that works for you. Specific Questions? Ready to get started?Book a free call with Brianna: www.Bricallme.comJoin my mailing list: https://briannagoslinmortgages.myflodesk.com/mortgagebitesWebsite: http://www.briannagoslinmortgages.comInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/briannagoslinmortgagesFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/brianna.goslin.mortgagesLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/briannagoslinmortgages

June 16, 202610 min

How Does My Debt Affect My Application? A First-Time Home Buyer's Guide to Mortgage Qualification in Ontario

With rising living costs and more Canadians carrying balances on credit cards, student loans, and lines of credit, understanding how debt impacts your ability to buy a home has never been more important. Today on the podcast, I break down exactly how debt affects your mortgage qualification and what every first-time home buyer in Ontario needs to know before applying for a mortgage. In this episode, I cover:How lenders assess credit cards, lines of credit, loans, and other liabilities when reviewing your mortgage applicationWhat debt ratios are and why your existing monthly payments directly impact how much home you can affordWhy taking on new debt after a mortgage pre-approval can reduce your buying power and affect your home purchase plansHow student loans are calculated during the mortgage qualification processThe connection between debt management, credit health, and securing the best mortgage interest rates availableWhy paying down high credit balances before purchasing a home can help strengthen your application and position you for long-term financial successStill have questions? Leave me a comment on this episode or send me a DM over on Instagram @briannagoslinmortgages. I'll see you next time!Specific Questions? Ready to get started?Book a free call with Brianna: www.Bricallme.comJoin my mailing list: https://briannagoslinmortgages.myflodesk.com/mortgagebitesWebsite: http://www.briannagoslinmortgages.comInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/briannagoslinmortgagesFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/brianna.goslin.mortgagesLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/briannagoslinmortgages

June 9, 202610 min

What Happens At My First Mortgage Renewal? Why Strategizing Before You Sign Can Help Build Long-Term Wealth

Have you ever thought about how much money you might be leaving on the table at your mortgage renewal? Most Canadians simply sign on the dotted line without realizing that this is the perfect moment to reassess, save, and take greater control of their financial future. Today on Homeowner AF, I break down exactly how to turn your mortgage renewal into an opportunity to set yourself up for long-term wealth without unnecessary stress or hidden fees.In this episode, I cover:How to lock in the best mortgage rates before your renewalThe importance of strategizing before you signThe benefits of consolidating debt into your mortgageWhy your renewal is an ideal time to remove consignors and guarantorsHow accelerated payment options can help you save on interest and build wealth soonerThe cost of waiting until midterm and why acting at renewal keeps more money in your pocketIf your renewal is coming up, book a free call with me at www.Bricallme.com and let’s explore what makes the most sense for your household. The right advice at the right time can move you closer to homeownership and long-term wealth. Thanks for listening, and I’ll be back next week with another practical tip for first-time homebuyers in Ontario. Specific Questions? Ready to get started?Book a free call with Brianna: www.Bricallme.comJoin my mailing list: https://briannagoslinmortgages.myflodesk.com/mortgagebitesWebsite: http://www.briannagoslinmortgages.comInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/briannagoslinmortgagesFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/brianna.goslin.mortgagesLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/briannagoslinmortgages

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Homeowner AF: The Canadian First Time Homebuying Podcast

About the show

Listen to episodes

Should I Take on a Longer Mortgage for Lower Payments? 25 vs. 30-Year Amortization for First-Time Home Buyers

The Mortgage "Stress Test" Explained: Everything Ontario First-Time Home Buyers Need to Know

Declined by the Bank? Reasons You Could Still Get Approved for a Mortgage in Ontario

Is Now the Right Time to Buy a Home in Ontario? What Canadian Home Buyers in 2026 Need to Consider

What's Included in My Mortgage Payment? How to Save Thousands as a First Time Home Buyer in Ontario

Fixed vs. Variable: Which Mortgage Rate Is Right for Me?

3 Ways Flexible Homebuyers Are Winning in Today's Market

How To Plan Your Purchase Price: A Guide to Building Long-Term Financial Wealth as a First-Time Homeowner in Ontario

How Does My Debt Affect My Application? A First-Time Home Buyer's Guide to Mortgage Qualification in Ontario

What Happens At My First Mortgage Renewal? Why Strategizing Before You Sign Can Help Build Long-Term Wealth

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