Navigating the 2026 Mortgage Market: Fixed vs. Variable Rates and Unique Lending Solutions Ep. 69

Tim Borody is joined in the studio by mortgage broker—and newly certified yoga instructor—Julia Bernier for her third appearance on Your Life and Money. Recording in mid-July 2026, Tim and Julia explore the shifts across Canadian real estate, breaking down what fluctuating interest rates, market conditions, and alternative lending options mean for buyers, sellers, and homeowners facing renewals.Demystifying Mortgages in an Uncertain MarketA Buyer's Market Shift: Discover why the current real estate landscape is favoring first-time buyers, how conditional offers are making a comeback, and why sellers need realistic expectations in a cooling market.Decoding Interest Rates & Bond Markets: Julia breaks down the Bank of Canada's rate holds, how global trade uncertainties drive volatility in fixed rates, and why Canadian bond yields hold the secret to where mortgage rates are headed.Alternative Lending & Smart Renewal Strategies: Learn how to approach mortgage renewals 120 days out, and explore solution-based options—from "B-lending" for credit or separation scenarios to reverse mortgages for senior homeowners needing property repairs.Whether you're shopping for your first home or looking to optimize an upcoming mortgage renewal, join Tim and Julia to gain the clarity and confidence you need to make informed decisions for your financial future.