Rebecca Harrap
I was born and raised in Cloverdale, BC. I studied finance at Simon Fraser University and graduated in 2001 with a degree in commerce/business administration. While studying, I worked at CIBC in various capacities, including small business and underwriting and when I graduated, I started working for MCAP mortgage corporation. I
worked there for several years, and subsequently with another successful broker as an underwriter.
Over my career I have raised 2 boys, who are now 18 and 16.
2009 was a big year, as it was when I first met and began working with Wendy Whiting, an industry veteran and an exceptional business women. We worked together for over 10 years. Her knowledge, integrity and generosity helped shape not just my career but the careers of many other young brokers.
The loss of Wendy, my business partner, mentor and friend in 2023 was very difficult but I feel incredibly lucky to have learned so much from her. Her legacy will live on in the lessons and knowledge she shared, and the standard of excellence she set.
STEP ONE
Start the conversation.
The best place to start is to connect with us directly. The mortgage process is personal, and it can be daunting. Our commitment to you is that we'll listen to all your needs, assess your financial situation, and provide you with a plan to move forward.
STEP TWO
Choose the best option.
Once we’ve had a look at your financial situation, we’ll consider a variety of mortgage options. We'll outline what documents are necessary to qualify you for a mortgage, negotiate with the lenders on your behalf, and arrange the mortgage that best suits your needs.
STEP THREE
Sit back and relax.
Once we’ve arranged the mortgage product that best suits your needs, you’re not alone. We're your mortgage professional for life. If you’ve got questions in the years to come, we're always available to make sure that your mortgage is working for you, and not the other way around!
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We've developed excellent relationships with many lenders across the country.
Let's figure out which one has the best product for you.
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Mortgage Articles
Owning a vacation home or an investment rental property is a dream for many Canadians. Whether it’s a cottage on the lake for family getaways or a rental unit to generate extra income, real estate can be both a lifestyle choice and a smart financial move. But before you dive in, it’s important to know what lenders look for when financing these types of properties. 1. Down Payment Requirements The biggest difference between buying a primary residence and a vacation or rental property is the down payment. Vacation property (owner-occupied, seasonal, or secondary home): Typically requires at least 5–10% down, depending on the lender and whether the property is winterized and accessible year-round. Rental property: Usually requires a minimum of 20% down. This is because rental income can fluctuate, and lenders want extra security before approving financing. 2. Property Type & Location Not all properties qualify for traditional mortgage financing. Lenders consider: Accessibility : Is the property accessible year-round (roads maintained, utilities available)? Condition : Seasonal or non-winterized cottages may not meet standard lending criteria. Zoning & Use : If it’s a rental, lenders want to ensure it complies with municipal bylaws and zoning regulations. Properties that fall outside these norms may require financing through alternative lenders, often with higher rates but more flexibility. 3. Rental Income Considerations If you’re buying a property with the intent to rent it out, lenders may factor the rental income into your mortgage application. Long-term rentals : Lenders typically accept 50–80% of the expected rental income when calculating your debt-service ratios. Short-term rentals (Airbnb, VRBO, etc.) : Many traditional lenders are cautious about using projected income from short-term rentals. Alternative lenders may be more flexible, depending on the property’s location and your financial profile. 4. Debt-Service Ratios Lenders use your Gross Debt Service (GDS) and Total Debt Service (TDS) ratios to determine if you can handle the mortgage payments alongside your other obligations. With investment or vacation properties, lenders may apply stricter guidelines, especially if your primary residence already carries a large mortgage. 5. Credit & Financial Stability Your credit score, employment history, and overall financial health still matter. Since vacation and rental properties are considered higher risk, lenders want reassurance that you can handle the additional debt—even if rental income fluctuates or the property sits vacant. 6. Insurance Requirements Rental properties often require specialized landlord insurance, and vacation homes may need coverage tailored to seasonal or secondary use. Lenders will want proof of adequate insurance before releasing mortgage funds. The Bottom Line Buying a vacation property or rental can be exciting, but financing these purchases comes with extra rules and considerations. From higher down payments to stricter property requirements, lenders want to be confident that you can handle the responsibility. If you’re considering a second property, the best step is to work with a mortgage professional who can compare lender requirements, outline your options, and find the financing that works best for you. Thinking about making your dream of a vacation or rental property a reality? Connect with us today.
The Bank of Canada announced today that it is holding its target for the overnight rate at 2.25%, with the Bank Rate at 2.5% and the deposit rate at 2.20%. While Canada's economic recovery is broadening, a new layer of uncertainty has entered the picture. Here is what happened and what it means for your mortgage.
Owning a home feels great—carrying a large mortgage, not so much. The good news? With the right strategies, you can shorten your amortization, save thousands in interest, and become mortgage-free sooner than you think. Here are four proven ways to make it happen: 1. Switch to Accelerated Payments One of the simplest ways to reduce your mortgage faster is by moving from monthly payments to accelerated bi-weekly payments . Instead of 12 monthly payments a year, you’ll make 26 half-payments. That works out to the equivalent of one extra monthly payment each year, shaving years off your mortgage—often without you noticing much difference in your budget. 2. Increase Your Regular Payments Most mortgages allow you to boost your regular payment by 10–25%. Some even let you double up payments occasionally. Every extra dollar goes directly toward your principal, which means less interest and faster progress toward paying off your balance. 3. Make Lump-Sum Payments Depending on your lender, you may be able to make lump-sum payments of 10–25% of your original mortgage balance each year. This option is ideal if you receive a bonus, inheritance, or other windfall. Applying a lump sum directly to your principal immediately reduces the interest charged for the rest of your term. 4. Review Your Mortgage Annually It’s easy to put your mortgage on auto-pilot, but a yearly review keeps you in control. By sitting down with an independent mortgage professional, you can check if refinancing, restructuring, or adjusting terms could save you money. A quick annual review helps ensure your mortgage is always working for you—not against you. The Bottom Line Paying off your mortgage early doesn’t require a massive lifestyle change—it’s about making smart, consistent choices. Whether it’s accelerated payments, lump sums, or regular reviews, every step you take helps reduce your debt faster. If you’d like to explore strategies tailored to your situation—or want a free annual mortgage review—let’s connect. I’d be happy to help you find the fastest path to mortgage freedom.
Wendy and Rebecca provide unparalleled expertise and service to their clients, whether for large commercial lending, any size of residential mortgage, or private lending - fairly assisting both the mortgagor and mortgagee. Very quick response times and factual and reassuring communication takes the worry out of home buying and investing for their clients. As Wendy always says, "I never worry about fees; my concern is what's best for my clients." For well over a decade, they have provided the best possible solutions for all of my transactions and I recommend them in the strongest possible terms.
