Shannon McMaster Mortgage Agent Level 1

It's no surprise that the BOC is holding their rate again. A hold is better than i hike though! Variable rate mortgages will remain the same. The next announcement will be on October 28th.

Another beautiful Friday on the course! Have fantastic weekend all 😀

Mortgage rates have come down from their recent highs, but that doesn’t necessarily mean they’ll keep heading lower.

Fixed mortgage rates are closely tied to Canadian bond yields, and what happens in the U.S. can have a big impact here. Inflation, Federal Reserve decisions and heavy government borrowing can push bond yields higher on both sides of the border.

That could mean upward pressure on Canadian fixed mortgage rates heading into 2027.

Nobody can perfectly time the market. If you’re buying, renewing or refinancing, focus on the mortgage that makes sense for you today — including the rate, term, flexibility and penalties.

Source: Financial Post — “Window for cheap mortgage money may be narrowing”

Wednesday Wisdom 💡

Don't like the number you see? It doesn't always mean homeownership is out of reach.

There may be options to improve your affordability, such as:
Purchasing a home with a rental suite
Buying with a friend or family member
Exploring a Purchase Plus Improvements mortgage

Every situation is unique, and the best solution depends on your goals and finances.
If you're wondering what you might qualify for, let's chat. I'd be happy to walk you through your options and help you create a plan that works for you.

On Sundays we play Euchre!

Thank you for an amazing afternoon Lightcaster Taphouse + Eatery ! We met some new friends, enjoyed a couple pints and shared appetizers and many laughs.

I'm definitely looking forward to playing again! I'd love to see some of my fellow Orangeville locals come out and join us on Sundays at 12:30! 😊

If anyone doesn't know me in person, I'm the shawty on the right standing on the stage, my Husband Hugh is beside me and we are with our new friends Carolyn and Bubba 😀

Question for you all.... Do you know how to play Euchre? If so, when did you learn, and who taught you? I learned as a teenager growing up in a really small remote town. Nothing to do there but play cards and/or cause a ruckus. Luckily I chose the right path. These days, its all work and a reasonable amount of play on the weekends. 🍺🃏

Wednesday Wisdom 💡

The interest rate is important... but it's only one piece of the mortgage puzzle.

The mortgage with the lowest rate isn't always the one that will save you the most money or give you the flexibility you need.

Here are a few things to consider:
🏡 Amortization – A longer amortization lowers your monthly payment, while a shorter one helps you pay off your mortgage faster.
💰 Prepayment privileges – The ability to make extra payments can save you thousands in interest.
🚚 Portability – If you move before your term is up, being able to take your mortgage with you could save you a significant penalty.
🔄 Flexibility – Some variable-rate mortgages let you switch to a fixed rate if your needs change.
⚠️ Penalties – A low rate isn't a bargain if it comes with expensive penalties or restrictions when life changes.
🏠 Future plans – If you think you may need to refinance later for renovations, debt consolidation, or other goals, keep in mind that refinance rates are often higher than renewal or switch rates.
📊 Not all rates are available to everyone – The lowest advertised rates are usually reserved for insured mortgages. Conventional mortgages often have slightly higher rates, and your credit history also plays a role in the rate you qualify for.

The best mortgage isn't always the one with the lowest rate—it's the one that fits your goals, your budget, and your future plans.
That's why I spend more time learning about my clients than simply quoting rates. My job is to help you find the mortgage that's the best fit for you. 😊

🏡 This Week in Mortgages

Mortgage rates aren't driven by the housing market alone. This week, a sharp increase in global oil prices reminded us that world events can have a direct impact on borrowing costs here in Canada.
Why does that matter? Higher oil prices can push bond yields higher, and bond yields are one of the biggest influences on fixed mortgage rates. It doesn't necessarily mean rates will rise immediately, but it does show how quickly the economic picture can change.
Whether you're buying your first home, renewing your mortgage, or just keeping an eye on the market, it's another reminder that timing isn't everything—having a strategy is.
Have questions about what today's market means for your situation? I'd be happy to help.

Source: MortgageLogic.news, Daily Mortgage Memo, July 17, 2026.

Rock Capital Annual Slow Pitch Tournament recap!

It's been a week and a day since this tournament and I've got to say that is is the funnest day that I've had in a while.

It was a fantastic day that brought so many great people together, including Rock Executives, Brokers, Agents, Lenders and our family members.
This is the best part of being an agent with Rock Capital. We are a part of a team. We work together and we also get to play together.

Full "disclosure" though... I hadn't played any form of Baseball since probably 1996. I don't really know how to play (especially in the outfield). I honestly thought I was in relatively good shape, but I quickly learned that I am in fact, not in good shape. I could hardly walk for a few days, and I'm just not starting to feel like my body has fully recovered from the experience. I guess I'm no Spring Chicken anymore. 🤣🤣

Has anyone else been humbled like this lately? ⚾️

This Week in Mortgages 🏡

The Bank of Canada held its overnight rate steady this week, but there's more good news beneath the surface. Recent forecasts suggest Canada's economy is beginning to strengthen, with improving consumer spending, stabilizing housing activity, stronger exports, and growing business investment. While challenges remain, many economists believe we're moving toward a more stable environment for homebuyers and homeowners alike.

If you're wondering what these changes could mean for your mortgage or future plans, I'd be happy to chat!

Sources: Bank of Canada Monetary Policy Report (July 2026) and RBC Economics Monthly Forecast Update (July 2026)