Over the Hump: Life After “Quit Day”

General Cassey Bush 14 Jan

By mid-January, most people have passed what’s often called “quit day”, the point where motivation fades, and old habits creep back in. The goals that felt exciting on January 1 can start to feel heavy, but this is also where real progress begins. Big change is not built on massive moves. It’s built on small daily decisions, repeated over time. The routines you stick with now will shape your year far more than any short burst of motivation.

When it comes to money and homeownership, those small choices can create a lasting impact.

Saving for a Down Payment: Consistency Beats Perfection

Saving for a down payment can feel overwhelming, especially when home prices and interest rates dominate headlines. The key is not saving “a lot,” but saving often. Small, automatic transfers into a savings account add up faster than people expect. Even modest monthly contributions build momentum, discipline, and confidence. Over time, that consistency can turn into real purchasing power and more flexibility when the right opportunity appears.

Paying Down Debt: One Choice at a Time

Debt does not disappear overnight, but it does shrink with intention. Choosing to round up payments, apply bonuses or tax refunds, or focus on one balance at a time can significantly reduce interest costs. Paying down debt is not just about improving numbers on paper, it frees up cash flow and lowers stress. Small extra payments today can shorten timelines by years and create room for better financial decisions down the road.

Taking Advantage of Prepayment Privileges: Small Steps, Big Impact

Prepayment privileges are one of the most overlooked tools in a mortgage, yet they can make a meaningful difference over time. Making small, intentional prepayments, through annual lump sums, rounding up your monthly payment, or increasing payments when possible, goes directly toward your principal and reduces the interest you pay over the life of your mortgage. These choices don’t require major lifestyle changes, just consistency and planning. Used wisely, prepayment privileges give you control, flexibility, and a faster path to being mortgage-free, all while keeping your cash flow manageable.

Investing with a HELOC: Strategy Over Impulse

For homeowners, a HELOC can be a powerful tool when used correctly. The key is strategy. Accessing equity to invest should always be done with a clear plan, strong cash flow, and a long-term mindset. Small, well-timed decisions, rather than large, rushed ones, help manage risk while allowing your home equity to work harder for you. This is where guidance and structure matter most.

Small Choices, Lasting Impact

A great year is rarely the result of one big decision. It’s the result of hundreds of small ones. Saving a little more, paying a little extra, asking better questions, and sticking to simple routines. If you’re past quit day, you’re already doing better than you think. Keep going. Those small choices compound into meaningful progress.

2025 Mortgage Wrap-Up: Know Your Clients’ Bottom Line

General Cassey Bush 14 Dec

Wrapping up 2025 with gratitude. As the year winds down, I like to take a moment to reflect, not just on the numbers, but on the experiences, the wins, the challenges, and the lessons learned.

This year was a milestone for me professionally. I hit my business goal in October, which was a huge achievement. Alongside this, I continued working with the charitable groups I’m passionate about and maintained my position on the board of directors for CTTC, part of MOCO. Moving into the MOCO office and surrounding myself with like-minded mortgage professionals also allowed me to immerse myself in the world of mortgages fully.

Winning Some, Losing Some

Like any year, some deals went exactly as planned, and a few didn’t. One of my proudest moments was helping an older couple buy their first home. We kept money in their pockets, secured a great rate, and created a plan to pay down their mortgage faster. It wasn’t just about the transaction; it was about long-term strategy and helping them use their property as a tool for future investments and retirement security.

On the flip side, I lost a deal to the bank after working with the clients for over a year. They wanted the best deal possible and, despite my last-minute rate adjustment, they ultimately signed with their bank because it offered a promotion for ‘cash back’. Experiences like this remind me of the importance of clear communication. The reality is that sometimes clients make decisions we can’t control, no matter how much education, examples, or strategic guidance we provide.

Learning their timeline, needs, and priorities early on is key to guiding them toward the best decision. Even when I lose a deal, I continue offering ongoing support, and earning their trust for future opportunities.

Understanding Your Bottom Line

Every client is different. Some care most about rates, others about cash back, and some are focused entirely on their payments, etc. Understanding this “bottom line” is essential for building the right mortgage strategy.

For example, I recently worked with clients who wanted to put 20% down on a home purchase, but they also had debts to manage. By adjusting their plan to put only 10% down, we could pay off some debts, increase their purchasing power, and still preserve rainy-day savings. This approach required listening carefully, analyzing the numbers, and structuring the mortgage to meet both their short-term and long-term goals… Result? A happy client and a strong Google review.

The key is education without overwhelm. Clients have access to rates and numbers online and with AI, but they often miss the bigger picture: how to manage payments, minimize interest, and use their mortgage strategically. My goal is to guide them through those decisions, offering clear options and expert advice. We’re here to beat the banks and provide strategies that go far beyond the rate. That’s where I focus. The planning. The structure. The long-term savings. Let’s create an action plan.

Looking Ahead to 2026

Next year, my focus is on sustainable growth. Renewals will be a major focus, helping clients pay down debts, increase principal payments to pay down their mortgage faster, access equity, and make smart financial and investment choices.

The strategy remains simple: ask open questions, listen with intent, and always focus on the client’s bottom line. It’s about more than mortgages. It’s about helping people make decisions that improve their financial future.

Merry Christmas, everyone. You’ll catch me thriving in 2026 🙂

The #1 Mortgage Question in Alberta Right Now: “How Much Can I Really Afford?”

General Cassey Bush 12 Nov

If you’ve been thinking about buying a home in Alberta, you’ve probably asked yourself this question: “How much home can I actually afford with these interest rates?”

You’re not alone. This is the number one question we’re hearing across the province, from first-time buyers in Calgary to families upgrading in Edmonton.

With rates holding higher than what we’ve seen in the last few years, affordability has become the deciding factor in every mortgage conversation.

Why Everyone’s Asking This Question

For years, low interest rates made it easy to estimate what you could afford, and monthly payments were fairly predictable. But today’s market looks different.

Interest rates have more than doubled since 2021, and that shift has changed the math. Even a 1% difference in rate can mean hundreds of dollars more in monthly payments.

Combine that with rising property taxes, insurance costs, and tighter lending rules, and suddenly, “How much can I afford?” isn’t a simple question anymore.

The Real Answer: It Depends on More Than Just Your Rate

Your affordability is shaped by a few key factors:

  1. Your income and debts: Lenders use your debt-to-income ratio to see what you can handle comfortably.

  2. Your down payment: The more you put down, the more flexible your options.

  3. Amortization period: Spreading payments over 30 years lowers your monthly cost (but increases total interest).

  4. Type of mortgage: Fixed or variable? Insured or conventional? These choices all affect your payment and risk level.

A quick pre-approval or affordability review can show you exactly where you stand before you start shopping.

What Albertans Are Doing About It

Many buyers are adjusting their expectations, looking slightly outside the city, choosing smaller homes, or buying with family members to share the costs.

Others are taking advantage of shorter-term fixed rates, planning to refinance when the rate environment softens.

The key takeaway? You still have options, you just need to understand your numbers.

More Than Just a Mortgage Rate

When you work with me, you’re not just getting a rate, you’re getting a plan.

I’m with you through the entire life of your mortgage, not just on closing day. As your life changes, whether you’re growing your family, buying an investment property, or simply wanting to get ahead financially, I’ll be there to make sure your mortgage keeps working for you.

My goal is to save you as much money as possible along the way. Sometimes that means getting you the lowest rate, but often it means looking deeper, at terms, penalties, flexibility, and long-term strategy. Because a great mortgage is about more than the number on the rate sheet.

Final Thoughts

Buying a home in Alberta today isn’t about guessing how much you can afford. It’s about knowing.

And having someone in your corner who helps you make confident, money-smart decisions, every step of the way.

 

Added Bonus

Honouring our Heroes this Remembrance Day

Each November, we pause to remember the courage and sacrifice of those who served our country. Here in Calgary, MOCO is proud to support the Field of Crosses through our community initiatives with Connected to the Community (CTTC).

The Field of Crosses is a powerful tribute. Thousands of white crosses line Memorial Drive, each one representing a Southern Albertan who gave their life in service. Standing among them reminds us of the freedom we enjoy and the responsibility we share to keep their memory alive.

At MOCO and CTTC, giving back isn’t just a seasonal effort, it’s part of who we are. This Remembrance Day, we honour those who served, and we continue to serve our community in their memory.

As Fall Turns to Winter, It’s Time to Rethink Your Mortgage Strategy

General Cassey Bush 14 Oct

As the leaves fall and we dig out the winter coats, it’s also the season when many homeowners start thinking about locking in stability before the new year. Whether you’re buying, refinancing, or just curious about your options, there’s one simple truth worth repeating: a mortgage broker can do far more for you than your bank.

Here’s why.

1. Access to More Options, Not Just One

Your bank can only offer its own products, with a single lineup and a single set of rules, and a single interest rate sheet.

A mortgage broker, on the other hand, works with dozens of lenders (including major banks, credit unions, and monoline lenders) to find the right fit for you. That means better rates, more flexibility, and often products that the average person doesn’t even know exist.

2. Prepayment Privileges That Actually Work for You

Not all mortgages are created equal. Some lenders allow you to make lump-sum payments, double up payments, or increase your regular payment by a set amount, all helping you pay off your mortgage years faster.

Banks often advertise prepayment options, but the fine print can make them hard to use. A broker can match you with a lender whose terms make it easy to pay extra when you can.

3. Smaller Penalties, Bigger Savings

Here’s one that catches people off guard: prepayment penalties.

When you break your mortgage early, banks often calculate penalties using an interest rate differential (IRD) method that can cost thousands more than with a brokered lender.

Brokers have access to lenders who calculate penalties more fairly, and we make sure you understand those numbers before you sign.

4. Simplicity and Service

Working with a broker means no call centres, no long holds, and no taking a number at the branch. You get direct access to someone who knows your file, your goals, and your timeline.

Whether you prefer to meet in person, talk over the phone, or handle everything digitally, we make it simple, and fast.

5. It’s Free to Use a Broker

A lot of people don’t realize this, but in most cases, our services are completely free to you. We’re paid by the lender when your mortgage funds, which means you get expert advice, multiple options, and personalized service, all at no extra cost.

Bottom Line

As the season changes and we start preparing for the year ahead, it’s a great time to make sure your mortgage is working for you, not against you.

Working with a mortgage broker means more choice, more flexibility, and often, more savings in your pocket.

So before winter really sets in, let’s make sure your mortgage strategy is as ready for the season as your snow tires.

Pay Yourself First – In Every Sense

General Cassey Bush 13 Aug

Why I Didn’t Post Last Month (And Why That’s Okay)

Last month, my blog went quiet.

It wasn’t because I forgot, ran out of ideas, or didn’t care. It was Stampede season in Calgary, the most wonderful time of the year. Life was moving at full tilt, and truthfully, I was burnt out.

And here’s the thing: I didn’t want to post just to post.

Everything I share here has a purpose. Every decision, whether in business, in life, or in your finances, should be planned, reviewed, and executed with intention. Doing something simply for the sake of “keeping up” rarely serves you in the long run.

Pay Yourself First — In Every Sense

Warren Buffett famously said, “Do not save what is left after spending, but spend what is left after saving.”

It’s the core of “pay yourself first”, and it applies to more than just money.

Financially

The idea is simple: before you pay bills, buy groceries, or book your next vacation, you set aside a portion of every paycheque for yourself.

That could be a savings account, an RRSP, a TFSA, or investments that build your wealth over time.

Other notable voices echo this strategy:

  • George Clason (The Richest Man in Babylon) recommended saving at least 10% of everything you earn before spending on anything else.

  • David Bach (The Automatic Millionaire) encouraged automating transfers so the decision is made for you, because willpower alone is unreliable.

Even if it’s 5%, 10%, or $50 per paycheque, the habit matters more than the number. Over time, the compounding effect turns small steps into big results.

Physically

“Paying yourself first” also means giving your body what it needs before giving your energy away to everything else.

That could be:

  • Taking a morning walk or run before checking emails

  • Making time for a proper breakfast instead of rushing out the door

  • Scheduling workouts like appointments you can’t skip

Emotionally

Sometimes “pay yourself first” means time, not money.

It’s calling a friend, spending an afternoon with your kids, or taking a quiet hour to read. Or, my personal favourite, sitting around the kitchen table with my parents, howling at the moon and sharing the same stories we’ve told 100 times before.

A Rainy Season, A Different Kind of Reset

This year, summer in Alberta barely showed up. The rain was relentless, the sunny days were rare, and patio season felt like a blink-and-you-missed-it moment.

But here’s the upside: when you don’t get much summer, you appreciate every good-weather day even more.

I’m hopeful that warm, sunny days will carry us into November, giving us a bonus season to get outside, soak up the light, and reset before the year-end push.

Plan Now, Win Later — The Fall Market Is Coming

The fall real estate market often gets overlooked because spring gets all the attention, but September through November can be one of the most strategic times to buy, sell, or refinance. Here’s why:

  1. Serious Buyers and Sellers

    The casual browsers are gone. People in the market now are motivated, often looking to move before the snow hits or close deals before year-end.

  2. Less Competition, More Opportunity

    With fewer listings than spring, your home can stand out more. Buyers might face less bidding-war pressure, and sellers may meet more qualified offers.

  3. Investor Moves

    Many investors look to secure properties before December to lock in tax advantages for the current year.

  4. Year-End Motivation

    Life changes, job relocations, school schedules, family needs, often prompt quick decisions before the holidays.

By taking August to plan, you can enter the fall market with a clear head, a well-prepared strategy, and the energy to take decisive action. For many people, September feels like the real start of the year, kids are back in school, routines reset, and momentum builds again. Whether your next step is buying, selling, or simply reviewing your mortgage, preparation now means execution later is far smoother.

Your Turn:

How will you “pay yourself first” as we head into what might be the nicest stretch of weather all year, and the most overlooked opportunity in the real estate market?

Saving a Down Payment in Canada: Best Accounts & Strategies

General Cassey Bush 14 Mar

Best Savings Accounts for a Down Payment

Canada offers several tax-advantaged accounts that can help you grow your down payment faster. Here’s what you need to know:

1. First Home Savings Account (FHSA)

  • Designed specifically for first-time homebuyers.
  • Contributions are tax-deductible (like an RRSP), and withdrawals for a home purchase are tax-free (like a TFSA).
  • Maximum contribution of $8,000 per year, up to a lifetime limit of $40,000.
  • Can be combined with the Home Buyers’ Plan (HBP) for even more savings.

2. Tax-Free Savings Account (TFSA)

  • Contributions are made with after-tax income, but investments grow tax-free.
  • Withdrawals (including investment gains) are also tax-free.
  • No restrictions on how funds are used, making it flexible for a down payment.
  • 2024 contribution limit: $7,000 (with cumulative room from previous years if unused).

3. Registered Retirement Savings Plan (RRSP) – Home Buyers’ Plan (HBP)

  • Allows first-time buyers to withdraw up to $35,000 tax-free for a down payment.
  • Must be repaid over 15 years to avoid tax penalties.
  • Good for those who have been saving in an RRSP but need to access funds early.

4. High-Interest Savings Accounts (HISA)

  • No tax benefits, but offers easy access and higher interest than regular savings accounts.
  • Safe and liquid option for short-term saving.
  • Can be used alongside other accounts to diversify savings.

Tips to Maximize Your Savings

  • Automate Contributions: Set up automatic transfers to your savings accounts to stay consistent.
  • Reduce Unnecessary Expenses: Cut down on discretionary spending and put that money into savings.
  • Invest Wisely: Consider low-risk investments to grow your savings over time without excessive risk.
  • Take Advantage of Government Incentives: Programs like the FHSA and HBP can significantly reduce your tax burden while growing your savings.

Insured vs. Insurable Mortgages: What’s the Difference?

When saving for a down payment, it’s important to understand how your mortgage will be classified:

  • Insured Mortgage: If your down payment is less than 20%, you’ll need mortgage default insurance (CMHC, Sagen, or Canada Guaranty). This protects the lender but increases your overall cost.
  • Insurable Mortgage: If your down payment is 20% or more, mortgage insurance is not required. However, if you meet certain lender criteria, you may still qualify for lower interest rates.

Knowing which category you’ll fall into can help you set realistic savings goals and plan for additional costs.

Final Thoughts

Saving for a down payment is all about using the right tools and staying disciplined. Take advantage of tax-efficient accounts like the FHSA, TFSA, and RRSP, and keep your savings strategy on track with automated contributions and smart budgeting. The sooner you start, the closer you’ll be to homeownership!

Need help planning your mortgage? Let’s chat about your best options and how to maximize your savings for a smooth home-buying process.

Reflecting on 2024: A Year of Growth, Change, and Gratitude

General Cassey Bush 12 Dec

As 2024 draws to a close, I’ve taken some time to reflect on the milestones, challenges, and triumphs of this past year. It’s been a year filled with opportunity, hard work, and meaningful connections, both in the mortgage industry and in my personal journey.

The Year in the Mortgage Industry

The Canadian mortgage landscape saw significant changes in 2024, reflecting shifts in affordability and policy aimed at supporting homeowners and buyers:

• Higher Insured Mortgage Cap: The limit for insured mortgages increased from $1 million to $1.5 million, enabling buyers in high-cost areas to access insured mortgages with lower down payments. This change allows more flexibility for buyers, particularly in markets where housing prices remain high, making homeownership more accessible.

• Amortization Flexibility: First-time homebuyers and those purchasing newly built homes now have the option of 30-year amortization periods. While this reduces monthly payments, it also comes with higher interest costs over time.

• Renewal Rule Updates: Borrowers renewing their mortgage with a new lender no longer need to qualify with the stress test. This policy fosters competition, making it easier for homeowners to secure better rates and terms at renewal.

• Market Dynamics: Interest rates began to ease after a challenging 2023, offering some relief to borrowers. At the same time, housing shortages and high demand in many regions kept prices stubbornly high.

• Policy Updates: Anti-money laundering regulations became a major focus, with new rules enhancing transparency in the mortgage process. Brokers and clients alike adjusted to stricter compliance requirements.

• Trends in Lending: Variable-rate mortgages gained popularity again as borrowers anticipated continued rate reductions. Flexible solutions, such as HELOCs and blended mortgage products, were also in high demand.

 

While navigating these industry changes, I also focused on setting personal goals that aligned with both my values and my aspirations for the future.

 

My Personal Journey

This year, I set three significant goals for myself: one for health, one for work, and one for giving back. Each goal helped me grow in ways I’m incredibly proud of:

1. Health Goal: I committed to consistent activity, whether through soccer, hiking, or running and achieved my fitness targets while building a routine that supports my well-being.

2. Work Goal: I set an ambitious work goal, pushing myself to new limits. While I didn’t fully reach my work goal, the effort, the workload I managed, and the incredible clients I helped have set the stage for even greater things ahead. I’m already gearing up for an even higher goal in 2025!

3. Charitable Goal: Giving back has always been close to my heart. This year, I surpassed my goal through initiatives as a director of the Connected to the Community (CTTC) board at MOCO and by supporting causes my family cares deeply about. Get ready for 2025, Bullshooters will be a big one!

Setting goals isn’t just about the end result; it’s about the progress, lessons, and growth along the way. As I look to 2025, I’ve already set the bar even higher and am excited to see where the next year takes me.

 

A Note of Gratitude

At its core, my work is about people. It’s about listening to your stories, finding solutions, and seeing your dreams take shape. There’s nothing more fulfilling than hearing the excitement in a client’s voice when I say, “We can do that.”

To my clients, thank you. Your trust, your referrals, and your belief in my work inspire me daily. Every success I’ve celebrated this year is rooted in your support, and I’m so grateful to be part of your journey.

I also want to take a moment to express my deepest appreciation for my family and friends. Your unwavering support, encouragement, and belief in me have been a constant source of strength. Whether celebrating milestones or navigating challenges, your presence in my life makes all the difference. You’ve been my rock, and I’m so thankful to have each of you by my side.

Special shout-out to the folks at MOCO, an incredible group of top-tier individuals who consistently push each other to achieve greatness. My team has been my greatest support, providing unmatched knowledge, insight, and motivation throughout this year.

 

Looking Ahead

As we step into 2025, I’m energized by opportunities. Whether you’re looking to buy your first home, refinance, or explore new investment opportunities, I’m here to guide you through every step. Let’s make 2025 a year of possibilities, growth, and connection, together!

 

Cheers to 2024: the challenges we faced, the progress we made, and the goals we achieved.