Mortgage advice you can trust

by Michael Q. Blair, AMP, Mortgage Planner 
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Michael Q. Blair

Mortgage Planner

Michael (Quinton) Blair has been helping clients just like you understand mortgage financing since 2011. Mike is known for taking the time necessary to understand his clients' needs, and focuses on providing customized mortgage planning strategies. These include accelerated debt repayment and strategic retirement advice and long term client partnership.  Mike is an Accredited Mortgage Professional, and a member of Mortgage Professionals Canada. Mike has won many awards in the mortgage industry.


Joining Mike in late 2019 is his licensed assistant Ludmila Muczij.  A long tenured and successful mortgage broker in her own right, with a strong background working with many local credit unions around Winnipeg. As a team, Mike and Ludmila will ensure you get the best mortgage considering your personal financial situation.


Mike has also invested years into the Canadian Country and Folk music communities under his second name Quinton Blair.  As a touring musician, the 4 time Manitoba Country Music Association award winner has toured North America and worked with some of the biggest names in Canadian Country Music.  You can find his music on all streaming platforms and on local and satellite radio.  He also spends his rest time in the backcountry with his horses and his family exploring remote locations of this beautiful province he calls home.

What people say about working with me

Understanding mortgage financing can be difficult, it doesn't have to be. Here's the plan!

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The process starts when you get in touch. Let's take a look at your financial situation and put together a plan to find the best mortgage for you!

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When it comes to mortgage financing, you have options! Let's clarify those options, so you can make the decision that best suits your needs.

Arrange the paperwork

Paperwork is the nitty gritty of mortgage financing. Let's make sure you know exactly what is required at every step, limiting any delays.

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 As long as you need a mortgage, be assured that you'll receive ongoing professional mortgage advice. Connect anytime!

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John Doe's Image
I met Michael during one of the toughest periods I've ever gone through. My home is my sanctuary and also plays a huge role in my professional life. Without it, I don't know what I'd do. When I was put in contact with Michael, everything fell into place. He put me at ease and explained so much to me in such a clear, easy to understand way.

I'll cut to the chase and just say that after I had gotten nowhere with so many other places and people I'd gone to, Michael made things happen when I felt like there was no hope. I feel like he saved my life. I'll be forever grateful.

Barry G. Player

John Doe's Image
During the process of a Real Estate transaction I am often asked for a referral to a mortgage professional. Mike is genuinely one of the nicest people I have had the pleasure of meeting and working with. His commitment to his clients & professionalism, combined with his extensive knowledge of the mortgage industry makes it easy for me to recommend him to my clients. He ensures that they experience a stress free, smooth transaction every time. If you are looking for a mortgage professional that truly cares about YOU, and can give you the best financing options for your future home purchase, I highly recommend contacting Mike today!

Tina August, Royal LePage Top Producers Real Estate

John Doe's Image
Took care of everything for us and got us a great rate.

Steven Pauls

John Doe's Image
Our realtor Tina Plett, recommended us Mike Blair to get our Mortgage. The whole process was a wonderful experience! Since the beginning Mike explain us the process and help us to easily go through each step. Mile always responded timely and professional. We are very satisfied with his help and services provided. I highly recommend him.

Nelly B

John Doe's Image
I couldn't be happier with the process, and would love to pass it up the food chain how sensational you have been. We had no friggin clue about anything, and working with you has been super smooth.

Dave T

Articles to keep you learning

By Michael Q. Blair 08 Oct, 2024
If you’re going through or considering a divorce or separation, you might not be aware that there are mortgage products designed to allow you to refinance your property and buy out your ex-spouse. If you’re like most people, your property is your most significant asset and is where most of your equity is tied up. If this is the case, it’s possible to structure a new mortgage that allows you to purchase the property from your ex-spouse for up to 95% of the property’s value. Alternatively, if your ex-spouse wants to keep the property, they can buy you out using the same program. It’s called the spousal buyout program. Here are some of the common questions people have about the program. Is a finalized separation agreement required? Yes. To qualify, you’ll need to provide the lender with a copy of the signed separation agreement, which clearly outlines asset allocation. Can the net proceeds be used for home renovations or pay off loans? No. The net proceeds can only buy out the other owner’s share of equity and/or pay off joint debt as explicitly agreed upon in the finalized separation agreement. What is the maximum amount that you can access through the program? The maximum equity you can withdraw is the amount agreed upon in the separation agreement to buy out the other owner’s share of the property and/or retire joint debts (if any), not exceeding 95% loan to value. What is the maximum permitted loan to value? The maximum loan to value is the lesser of 95% or the remaining mortgage + the equity required to buy out other owner and/or pay off joint debt (which, in some cases, can total < 95% LTV. The property must be the primary owner-occupied residence. Do all parties have to be on title? Yes. All parties to the transaction have to be current registered owners on title. Your solicitor will be required to confirm this with a title search. Do the parties have to be a married or common-law couple? No. Not only will the spousal buyout program support married and common-law couples who are divorcing or separating, but it’s also designed for friends or siblings who need an exit from a mortgage. The lender can consider this on an exception basis with insurer approval. In this case, as there won’t be a separation agreement, a standard clause will need to be included in the purchase contract to outline the buyout. Is a full appraisal required? Yes. When considering this type of mortgage, a physical appraisal of the property is required as part of the necessary documents to finalize the transaction. While this is a good start to answering some of the questions you might have about getting a mortgage to help you through a marital breakdown, it’s certainly not comprehensive. When you work with an independent mortgage professional, not only do you get a choice between lenders and considerably more mortgage options, but you get the unbiased mortgage advice to ensure you understand all your options and get the right mortgage for you. Please connect anytime; it would be a pleasure to discuss your needs directly and provide you with options to help you secure the best mortgage financing available. Also, please be assured that all communication will be held in the strictest of confidence.
By Michael Q. Blair 30 Sep, 2024
Starting November 21, 2024, borrowers switching lenders with uninsured mortgages will no longer face the stress test, thanks to a new policy from OSFI. Previously, uninsured borrowers needed to prove they could afford their mortgage at a higher rate, which created barriers to switching for better terms. This change encourages competition among lenders and aligns the rules with insured mortgages, providing more flexibility and choice for homeowners. The decision responds to concerns raised by the Competition Bureau and reflects shifting risk management trends in the mortgage market. Key Points: Applies to Straight Switches: This policy is for borrowers switching lenders while maintaining their loan amount and amortization schedule. Stress Test Removed: No more proving affordability at higher rates during switches, allowing for easier access to competitive offers. Supports Borrower Flexibility: Homeowners now have more options to find the best mortgage rates at renewal without the stress test obstacle. Why the Change? OSFI initially maintained the stress test to manage risk but has now reversed this stance after evaluating that the original concerns have not significantly materialized. This move is designed to balance fairness for borrowers and enhance competition in the mortgage market. How It Affects You For those with uninsured mortgages approaching renewal, this policy change is a win. You'll now have the opportunity to seek out better mortgage rates without facing a stress test, making it easier to reduce financial strain, especially in a rising interest rate environment. Stay informed and take advantage of these changes by reviewing your mortgage options today!
By Michael Q. Blair 24 Sep, 2024
One of the benefits of working with an independent mortgage professional is having lots of great financing options! Rather than dealing with a single lender with one set of products, independent mortgage professionals work with multiple lenders who offer a wide selection of mortgage financing options that provide more choice. Increased choice in mortgage products is beneficial when your situation isn’t “normal,” or you don’t quite fit the profile of a standard buyer. Purchasing a new construction home through an assignment contract would be a great example of this. Purchasing a new construction home through an assignment contract can be tricky as not every lender wants the added perceived risk of dealing with this type of transaction. Most of these lenders won’t come out and say it; instead, they add a significant list of qualifying conditions to make the process harder. The good news is, there are lenders available exclusively through the broker channel that have favourable policies for assignment purchases. Here are some of the highlights: All standard purchase qualifications apply, including applicable income verification, established credit, and required downpayment Assignments can be at the original purchase price or current market value Minimum 620 beacon score with no previous bankruptcies or consumer proposals The full downpayment must come from the purchaser and not include any incentives from the seller. As far as documentation goes, the lender will want to see the original purchase agreement signed by all parties, the MLS listing, the assignment agreement signed by the builder, the original purchaser, and the new buyer. The lender will also want to see the side agreement between the original purchaser and the new buyer, including the amended purchase price. The lender will want to substantiate the value through a full appraisal. Now, as every situation is different, this list of conditions is in no way exhaustive but meant to show that assigning a new construction purchase contract is doable while highlighting some of the terms necessary to secure financing. If you’re looking to purchase new construction through an assignment contract, or if you’d like to discuss purchasing a home through traditional means, please connect anytime! It would be a pleasure to outline the mortgage products on the market that won’t limit your financing options!
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