Buying a home is exciting — but getting approved for a mortgage can feel overwhelming if you don’t know what lenders need from you. The good news? You don’t have to figure it out on your own.
I’ve created a FREE Mortgage Readiness Checklist (PDF) that you can download today. It walks you through every step to make sure your finances, documents, and credit profile are ready for the mortgage approval process.
Whether you’re a first-time buyer in Pickering or upgrading to your forever home anywhere in Ontario, this checklist will help you save time, reduce stress, and increase your chances of getting approved — with the best rate possible.
What’s Inside the Free PDF Checklist
Here’s what you’ll get when you download the guide:
- Income & Employment Prep
- How to make sure your job letter and pay stubs meet lender requirements.
- What counts as “qualifying income” for salaried, hourly, and self-employed buyers.
- Credit Readiness
- Minimum credit scores you’ll need for A lenders, B lenders, and private lenders.
- Tips to quickly boost your score in the 90 days before applying.
- Down Payment Verification
- How to source your down payment (savings, RRSP, gift letter).
- What paperwork lenders need for each source.
- Debt & GDS/TDS Ratios
- Simple explanation of Gross Debt Service (GDS) and Total Debt Service (TDS) ratios.
- How to calculate your maximum mortgage affordability.
- Closing Costs & Budget Planning
- Breakdown of legal fees, land transfer tax, title insurance, and more.
- Recommended “buffer fund” to avoid last-minute stress.
- Document Checklist
- A printable list of everything you need to send your mortgage broker.
- Space to check off each item as you gather it.
Why This Checklist is a Game-Changer
Most buyers scramble to get their documents together after they make an offer — which can delay approval and put deals at risk.
This checklist:
- Prepares you early – so you know exactly what’s required.
- Reduces surprises – by highlighting overlooked details (like void cheques, property tax estimates, or NOAs).
- Speeds up approval – because your broker can submit a complete, clean file to lenders right away.
Who Should Download This Checklist
- First-time homebuyers – learn what lenders expect before house hunting.
- Move-up buyers – get organized before selling and buying simultaneously.
- Self-employed borrowers – see exactly which documents you’ll need.
- Anyone planning a 2025 purchase – start preparing months in advance for the smoothest approval.
How to Get Your Free Checklist
It’s simple — just click the button below, enter your email, and you’ll instantly get a downloadable PDF.
[Download the Free Mortgage Readiness Checklist PDF Now]
You can save it to your phone, print it out, or even share it with your spouse or real estate agent.
Extra Tips for 2025 Buyers
- Get pre-approved early. Don’t wait until you find the perfect home — rates and qualifying rules can change.
- Watch your credit. Avoid new car loans, credit card applications, or big purchases before closing.
- Save a buffer. Aim for at least 1.5% of the purchase price in cash for closing costs.
- Talk to a mortgage broker. A good broker (like me!) can shop multiple lenders, find the best rate, and guide you through the entire process.
Conclusion: Your Stress-Free Path to Homeownership
Being mortgage-ready doesn’t have to be complicated. With this free checklist, you’ll be organized, confident, and one step closer to getting the keys to your dream home.
Don’t wait until the last minute — download the PDF now and take the first step toward homeownership.