Under One Roof

Hosted by Under One Roof

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Jun 2026

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About the show

Under One Roof, hosted by Robyn Flynn, featuring LJ Aguinaga (LJ Realties), Martin Spalding and Fred Pichette (Fred et Martin Hypothèques), expertly guides listeners through the intricate maze of home buying and financing, while revealing key factors that significantly impact a home's value. Whether you're a first-time homebuyer or a seasoned investor, this is the show for you.

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60 recent

September 13, 202633 min

Pricing Your Home & Refinancing to Consolidate High Interest Debt

Is it ever a good idea to list your home high just to "see what happens"? This week on Under One Roof MTL , we're looking at why an ambitious asking price can backfire, how buyers react to stale listings and price drops, and why getting the price right from day one matters. Plus, tariffs, inflation and economic uncertainty are creating some big questions for Canadian homeowners. We look at what the current trade war could mean for mortgage rates and Montreal real estate, and Fred and Martin explain how refinancing your mortgage can be used to consolidate high-interest debt. In This Episode What's Happening in the Market: Tariffs, Mortgage Rates & Montreal Real Estate The trade war is no longer just about tariffs. We look at how higher costs and economic uncertainty could make their way into your mortgage and the housing market. Why homeowners with a mortgage should care about tariffs How tariffs can contribute to inflation while simultaneously slowing the economy Why economic uncertainty doesn't automatically mean mortgage rates will fall The difference between what drives variable and fixed mortgage rates What the latest Montreal housing numbers are telling us about buyers, sellers and inventory Why growing economic and employment uncertainty can cause buyers to put their plans on hold Real Estate: Pricing Your Home Right From Day One LJ Aguinaga breaks down why "testing the market" with an overly ambitious asking price can end up hurting sellers. How a realtor determines what a home is actually worth in the current market Why listing high and planning to reduce the price later can backfire Why the first week or two on the market is so important How buyers react to stale listings and multiple price reductions Whether competitive pricing can generate more interest and potentially multiple offers What happens when a seller believes their home is worth more than the comparable sales suggest When and how to correct the price if you got it wrong the first time Mortgages: Refinancing to Consolidate High-Interest Debt Could the equity in your home help you get expensive debt under control? Fred and Martin explain how mortgage refinancing for debt consolidation works and who it may make sense for. Why homeowners might consider refinancing to consolidate debt How debt consolidation through a mortgage refinance actually works Why a lower monthly payment doesn't automatically mean refinancing is the right decision The advantages of working with a mortgage broker instead of simply calling your bank Who makes a good candidate for refinancing Property of the Week This week's featured property takes us to the 19th floor of 1500 René-Lévesque Ouest in downtown Montreal . Unit 1911 features floor-to-ceiling windows with sweeping city views, a luxury kitchen, two bedrooms, two bathrooms and a heated indoor garage. Residents also have access to a rooftop terrace, heated pool, spa and gym, with the metro and downtown Montreal just steps away. Listed at $825,000. Trivia Question of the Week Question: What is the difference between a mortgage term and an amortization period? Answer: The term is the length of your current mortgage contract, while the amortization is the total amount of time planned to pay off the mortgage. Get in Touch LJ Aguinaga – Real Estate 514-500-4040 ljrealties.com @ljaguinaga | @ljrealties Plex Dr Property Management plexdr.com Fred & Martin – Mortgage Experts FredAndMartin.com Under One Roof MTL underoneroofmtl@gmail.com

June 16, 202635 min

Which Exterior Improvements Are Worth the Money?

Thinking about tackling some exterior projects this summer? Before you spend thousands on landscaping, paving stones, or a backyard makeover, it's worth knowing which upgrades actually add value to your home—and which ones don't. This week on Under One Roof MTL , LJ Aguinaga breaks down the exterior improvements that make the biggest impact on curb appeal, resale value, and buyer interest. Plus, Fred and Martin answer another round of frequently asked mortgage questions from listeners. In This Episode: What's Happening in the Market Right Now The Bank of Canada holds interest rates steady once again What the latest rate decision means for homeowners and buyers What happens if a landlord stops making mortgage payments? Could tenants be forced out if a rental property is repossessed? Real Estate: Summer Upgrades That Actually Add Value (and the Ones That Don't) Thinking about improving your home's exterior? LJ shares where homeowners should—and shouldn't—spend their money: How driveway resurfacing, paving stones, and walkway repairs influence first impressions The landscaping upgrades that boost curb appeal without breaking the bank Whether decks, patios, pergolas, gazebos, and outdoor kitchens actually increase value Summer projects that homeowners often overspend on The best exterior improvements for homeowners working with a limited budget How outdoor spaces can help a home sell faster and stand out from the competition Mortgages: Frequently Asked Mortgage Questions Fred and Martin answer another round of listener mortgage questions, covering topics such as: Interest rates and mortgage strategy Renewals and refinancing Borrowing options in today's market Common misconceptions homeowners have about their mortgages Practical advice for navigating today's lending environment Trivia Question of the Week Question: What is a bridge loan? Answer: A bridge loan is a short-term financing solution used to bridge the gap between purchasing a new property and selling an existing one. It provides temporary access to funds until longer-term financing is in place. Get in Touch LJ Aguinaga – Real Estate 📞 514-500-4040 📱 Instagram & Social Media: @ljaguinaga | @ljrealties Plex Dr Property Management 📞 514-709-6397 Fred & Martin – Mortgage Experts 🌐 FredAndMartin.com 📧 underoneroofmtl@gmail.com

June 9, 202638 min

Selling One Home & Buying Another + YOUR Mortgage Questions Answered

Trying to buy a new home while selling your current one? It can feel like a logistical nightmare. This week on Under One Roof MTL , LJ Aguinaga shares practical strategies for coordinating a purchase and sale at the same time, from timing closing dates to using bridge financing. Plus, Fred and Martin answer some of the mortgage questions they hear most often from homeowners and buyers. In This Episode: What's Happening in the Market Right Now Canada has officially entered a technical recession for the first time since 2020 What a slowing economy could mean for home prices, interest rates, and borrowing costs Equifax reports a rise in homeowner insolvencies as more Canadians struggle with mortgage payments Why homeowners facing financial pressure should explore their options sooner rather than later Real Estate: Selling and Buying at the Same Time Without Losing Your Mind Buying and selling simultaneously is one of the most stressful situations homeowners face. LJ breaks down how to make the process manageable: The biggest mistakes homeowners make when trying to coordinate both transactions Whether it's better to sell first or buy first How to line up closing dates and avoid costly overlaps Conditions and clauses that can help protect buyers and sellers What bridge financing is and when it makes sense Common stress points and how to avoid them How to start preparing now if you're planning a move within the next year Mortgages: Frequently Asked Mortgage Questions Fred and Martin answer some of the questions they hear most often from listeners: Should you choose a fixed or variable mortgage? Is a 3-year term better than a 5-year term? Will mortgage rates come down this year? Should you renew with your current lender or shop around? Can self-employed borrowers qualify for a mortgage? How much home can you realistically afford? Trivia Question of the Week Question: What is a special assessment? Answer: A special assessment is an additional one-time fee charged to property owners to cover major unexpected expenses or capital improvements. It is most common in condos where reserve funds are insufficient to cover significant repairs. Get in Touch LJ Aguinaga – Real Estate 📞 514-500-4040 📱 Instagram & Social Media: @ljaguinaga | @ljrealties Plex Dr Property Management 📞 514-709-6397 Fred & Martin – Mortgage Experts 🌐 FredAndMartin.com 📧 underoneroofmtl@gmail.com

May 31, 202638 min

How much is your home really worth?

Zillow-style estimates and online home value calculators are everywhere. But how accurate are they when it comes to determining what your home is actually worth? This week on Under One Roof MTL , LJ Aguinaga explains why online estimates often miss the mark, what truly drives a home's value, and how sellers can get a realistic picture of what their property is worth in today's Montreal market. Plus, we're joined by Marc Bissell of Castleton Finance to discuss private lending, who it's for, and how it can help homeowners and borrowers who don't fit the traditional bank model. In This Episode: What's Happening in the Market Right Now Could running a business from your home impact your mortgage or insurance? Investment in housing construction continues to decline despite Canada's housing shortage What the appointment of a new U.S. Federal Reserve Chair could mean for interest rates in Canada Real Estate: How Much Is Your Home Really Worth? Online Estimates vs Reality LJ Aguinaga breaks down the difference between online valuations and actual market value: How accurate are online home value estimates? What algorithms miss when valuing a property Why two seemingly similar homes can sell for dramatically different prices The impact of renovations, layout, natural light, parking, and overall feel The difference between assessed value, asking price, and market value The best way to determine what your home is truly worth today Special Guest: Marc Bissell, Castleton Finance What exactly is private lending, and who is it designed for? Marc Bissell, President and Owner of Castleton Finance, joins the show to explain: What private lenders do and how they differ from banks Who typically turns to private financing solutions Common misconceptions about private lending How quickly private lenders can approve and fund deals Real-world examples of borrowers helped through private financing When homeowners should consider speaking with a private lender Property of the Week 📍 LaSalle, Montreal 518-522 33e Avenue — a fully vacant triplex featuring a spacious 3-bedroom owner's unit with garage, finished basement, and backyard deck, plus two income-generating one-bedroom apartments ready for immediate occupancy. Located steps from Angrignon Park and the metro. Listed at $1,100,000. Open house from 2–4 PM. Trivia Question of the Week What is a fixed-rate mortgage? Answer: A home loan where the interest rate remains the same for the entire mortgage term. Get in Touch: LJ Aguinaga – Real Estate 📞 514-500-4040 🌐 LJ Realties 📱 Instagram & socials: @ljaguinaga / @ljrealties Property Management (Plex Dr) 📞 514-500-5222 🌐 Plex Dr Fred & Martin – Mortgage Experts 🌐 FredAndMartin 📧 underoneroofmtl@gmail.com

May 24, 202640 min

Selling Your Home in Montreal? Here's Why the First Week Matters

The first few days after your home hits the market can completely shape the outcome of your sale. This week on Under One Roof MTL , LJ Aguinaga explains why the first 7–10 days of a listing are so important, what buyers are thinking when a property sits too long, and the biggest mistakes sellers make right out of the gate. Plus, Fred and Martin answer more of your frequently asked mortgage questions, including reverse mortgages, alternative lenders, and self-employed borrowing. In This Episode: What's Happening in the Market Right Now Retirees across Canada are delaying downsizing plans as the housing market softens Desjardins warns inflation could climb above 3% if tensions in the Middle East continue escalating What rising inflation could mean for interest rates and the Montreal real estate market Real Estate: The First 10 Days on Market — Why They Matter More Than You Think LJ Aguinaga explains why momentum matters when selling your home: The average amount of time homes are currently spending on the Montreal market Why the first week of a listing is often the most important The biggest mistakes sellers make during those early days How quickly sellers and agents should react if a listing isn't getting attention What buyers subconsciously think when they see a home sitting for 30, 60, or 90 days Mortgages: Frequently Asked Mortgage Questions — Part 3 Fred and Martin answer another round of listener mortgage questions: What do alternative or "B" lenders actually do? What's the biggest mistake self-employed borrowers make? How do reverse mortgages work? Can you lose your home with a reverse mortgage? Trivia Question of the Week What is the term for the legal document that outlines rules and responsibilities in a condo building? Answer: Declaration of Co-ownership Get in Touch: LJ Aguinaga – Real Estate 📞 514-500-4040 🌐 LJ Realties 📱 Instagram & socials: @ljaguinaga / @ljrealties Property Management (Plex Dr) 📞 514-709-6397 🌐 Plex Dr Fred & Martin – Mortgage Experts 🌐 FredAndMartin 📧 underoneroofmtl@gmail.com

May 17, 202636 min

Inspection Report Red Flags + More Frequently Asked Mortgage Questions

Home inspection reports can be intimidating, especially for first-time buyers. But how do you know which issues actually matter… and which ones are just part of owning a home? This week on Under One Roof MTL , LJ Aguinaga breaks down the biggest mistakes buyers make after reading an inspection report and explains which findings should truly raise concern. Plus, Fred and Martin answer another round of frequently asked mortgage questions, including refinancing, renewals, penalties, and credit scores. In This Episode: What's Happening in the Market Right Now Consumer insolvencies in Canada are now at their highest levels since 2009 Mortgage delinquency rates continue to climb as economic uncertainty grows Canada's commercial real estate market remains surprisingly strong as investors return to stable, income-generating assets Real Estate: The Inspection Report — What Actually Matters (and What Doesn't) LJ Aguinaga explains how buyers should approach inspection reports without panicking: The biggest mistake buyers make after reading an inspection report Which findings should immediately raise red flags How to separate cosmetic issues from structural or safety concerns When to renegotiate, request repairs, or walk away from a deal Common issues in older Montreal homes that may not be as serious as they sound Mortgages: Frequently Asked Mortgage Questions — Part 2 Fred and Martin answer more of the questions they hear most often from homeowners and buyers: What's the difference between renewing and refinancing a mortgage? How does your credit score affect mortgage approval? What's the difference between using a bank versus a mortgage broker? Why are mortgage penalties sometimes so expensive? Property of the Week 📍 Fabreville, Laval 3730 Rue Gaston-Miron — a stunning 2015-built two-storey home backing directly onto 50 hectares of protected woodland. Features include four bedrooms, a spa-style ensuite, two-storey atrium, fully finished basement with gym, and an inground saltwater pool. Listed at $1,050,000 through LJ Realties . Trivia Question of the Week What is the name of the document that legally transfers ownership of a residential property in Quebec? Answer: Deed of Sale (Acte de Vente) Get in Touch: LJ Aguinaga – Real Estate 📞 514-500-4040 🌐 LJ Realties 📱 Instagram & socials: @ljaguinaga / @ljrealties Property Management (Plex Dr) 📞 514-709-6397 🌐 Plex Dr Fred & Martin – Mortgage Experts 🌐 FredAndMartin 📧 underoneroofmtl@gmail.com

May 10, 202634 min

Investment Properties, Interest Rates & Mortgage Questions Explained

How do you know when it's finally time to sell your investment property? This week on Under One Roof MTL , LJ Aguinaga shares the story behind selling one of his first investment properties, a 4-plex he held for nearly a decade. Plus, Fred and Martin answer some of the mortgage questions Canadians are asking most right now, from fixed vs variable rates to renewing with your bank versus shopping around. In This Episode: What's Happening in the Market Right Now The Bank of Canada warns interest rates could rise if inflation continues climbing Retirees across Canada are delaying downsizing plans as housing markets soften Why Quebec continues to behave differently than many other Canadian markets Real Estate: Knowing When It's Time to Sell Your Investment Property LJ Aguinaga opens up about recently selling one of his first investment properties, a 4-plex he owned for roughly 9 years: Why he originally bought the property The strategy behind holding it long-term Why he ultimately decided now was the right time to sell Lessons learned about investment real estate over nearly a decade of ownership What he would do differently if he could start over today Mortgages: Your Frequently Asked Questions, Answered Fred and Martin tackle some of the biggest mortgage questions Canadians are asking in 2026: Should you choose a fixed or variable mortgage rate? Is a 3-year fixed better than a 5-year fixed? Will mortgage rates go down this year? Should you renew with your current bank or shop around? Can self-employed borrowers still qualify for mortgages? How much house can you realistically afford? Trivia Question of the Week What is a closing date? Answer: The final step in a real estate transaction where ownership officially transfers from seller to buyer, funds are exchanged, and documents are signed. Get in Touch: LJ Aguinaga – Real Estate 📞 514-500-4040 🌐 LJ Realties 📱 Instagram & socials: @ljaguinaga / @ljrealties Property Management (Plex Dr) 📞 514-709-6397 🌐 Plex Dr Fred & Martin – Mortgage Experts 🌐 FredAndMartin 📧 underoneroofmtl@gmail.com

May 3, 202635 min

What Selling Your Home Actually Looks Like + Mortgage Paydown Strategy

Thinking about selling your home? Wondering what the process actually looks like behind the scenes? This week on Under One Roof MTL , we walk you through the real seller's journey, from pricing and prep to accepting an offer. Plus, we break down whether paying down your mortgage faster is always the smart financial move. In This Episode: What's Happening in the Market Right Now The Bank of Canada holds interest rates steady Mortgage debt is rising fastest among Canadians nearing retirement More homeowners are leveraging equity to help younger buyers, raising long-term financial considerations Real Estate: The Seller's Journey — What Selling Your Home Actually Looks Like Seller consultation, pricing strategy, and reviewing comparables Gathering documents, warranties, and setting inclusions/exclusions Decluttering and preparing the home for market Managing showings and adapting based on buyer feedback Accepting an offer after 16 days, within target price and preferred closing timeline What sets LJ Aguinaga and his team apart in a competitive market Mortgages: Paying Down Your Mortgage Faster — Smart Move or Trade-Off? Why many homeowners want to pay down their mortgage early The trade-off between prepaying your mortgage and maintaining liquidity How prepayment privileges actually work Increased scrutiny around borrowing and financial planning Practical advice for borrowers deciding where to allocate their money Property of the Week 📍 Anjou, Montreal 7421 Avenue des Halles — 1-bedroom, move-in-ready condo on the 4th floor with hardwood floors, private balcony, in-unit laundry, indoor parking, and walk-in closet. Listed at $299,000 — perfect for first-time buyers looking to stop renting. Trivia Question of the Week What is the word for the amount of money you've built up in your home as its value increases and your mortgage decreases? Answer: Equity Get in Touch: LJ Aguinaga – Real Estate 📞 514-500-4040 🌐 LJ Realties 📱 Instagram & socials: @ljaguinaga / @ljrealties Property Management (Plex Dr) 📞 514-709-6397 🌐 Plex Dr Fred & Martin – Mortgage Experts 🌐 FredAndMartin 📧 underoneroofmtl@gmail.com

April 26, 202637 min

What to Do If Your Home Isn't Selling + Mortgage Myths Explained

If your home has been sitting on the market with no offers, you're not alone… and you're not out of options. This week on Under One Roof MTL , we break down what sellers should do when a listing isn't getting traction, including how to adjust your price strategically without losing leverage. Plus, we tackle some of the most common mortgage myths that continue to confuse buyers and homeowners in 2026. In This Episode: What's Happening in the Market Right Now Inflation rises to 2.4%, driven in part by higher gas prices Housing affordability and job security are now top concerns for Canadians Many homeowners are preparing for mortgage renewals at higher rates Real Estate: What to Do If Your Home Isn't Selling How to tell if it's a pricing issue or a presentation problem The psychology behind price drops and buyer perception Whether to make one major price adjustment or multiple smaller ones When to consider pulling and re-listing a property How to reposition your home to attract new interest Mortgages: Dispelling Common Mortgage Myths "My bank will automatically give me the best renewal offer" "If you're self-employed, you can't get a mortgage" "A pre-approval guarantees financing" "Mortgage brokers only help if the bank says no" "Paying off debt always improves your approval" Property of the Week 📍 Griffintown, Montreal Two-bedroom condo with private balcony, in-unit laundry, and low condo fees ($173/month), listed at $475,000. Walk to the metro, the Lachine Canal, Atwater Market, and some of Montreal's best restaurants and cafés. Trivia Question of the Week What is the name of the tax you pay when you purchase a property in Quebec? Answer: Welcome Tax (land transfer tax), now reimbursable for some first-time homebuyers. Get in Touch: LJ Aguinaga – Real Estate 📞 514-500-4040 🌐 LJ Realties 📱 @ljaguinaga / @ljrealties Property Management (Plex Dr) 📞 514-709-6397 🌐 Plex Dr Fred & Martin – Mortgage Experts 🌐 FredAndMartin 📧 underoneroofmtl@gmail.com

April 20, 202635 min

Quebec introduces a welcome tax credit for first-time homebuyers

This week on Under One Roof, we're talking about the new initiative announced by the Quebec government to reimburse the welcome tax for first-time home buyers. Plus, LJ has some advice on whether now is the right time to buy. And, Fred and Martin break down which insurance products are mandatory, nice to have, and optional.