Alternative & B-lender mortgages

When the bank says no

Canada’s big banks approve a narrow profile: salaried income, spotless credit, textbook ratios. Real life is messier — and an entire, well-regulated market exists for it. Alternative (B) lenders — trust companies and smaller banks — serve strong borrowers who simply don’t fit the A-lender box:

• Self-employed or commission income that looks smaller on paper than in reality
• Bruised or rebuilding credit after divorce, illness, or a business setback
• New to Canada with limited credit history
• Non-traditional properties, rural homes, or unique situations
• Bridge needs: stopping a power of sale, paying CRA arrears, or closing fast

How I protect you

I disclose every fee in writing before you commit, and — most importantly — structure every alternative mortgage with an exit strategy: a realistic 12–24 month plan to graduate you back to an A lender at mainstream rates.

One thing I will always tell you plainly: my licence is Mortgage Agent Level 1, which permits mortgages with financial institutions — banks, credit unions and trust companies — and does not permit arranging private mortgages (MICs, syndicates or individual investors). If a private mortgage is genuinely the right tool for your situation, I will say so and refer you to a Level 2 colleague rather than pretend otherwise.