What does a mortgage broker in Kelowna do?

A Kelowna mortgage broker like Ash Simpson shops your mortgage application across 50+ banks and lenders to find the best rate and terms for your situation. Unlike going directly to one bank, a broker gives you access to the full market — at no cost to you, since brokers are paid by the lender.

Can self-employed people get a mortgage in BC?

Yes. Self-employed Canadians in BC can qualify for mortgages through stated income programs, bank statement mortgages, and Alt-A lenders. Traditional banks often decline self-employed applicants because their taxable income appears low on paper. Ash Simpson at Insight Mortgage specializes in self-employed mortgage solutions that work around this.

Can I get a mortgage in BC with bad credit?

Yes. Ash Simpson works with alternative and private lenders in BC who offer mortgages to borrowers with damaged or limited credit. These solutions can also help you rebuild credit over time and transition back to a traditional lender at renewal.

What areas does Insight Mortgage serve?

Insight Mortgage is based in Kelowna, BC, and serves clients throughout British Columbia and Alberta. Ash Simpson is a licensed mortgage broker in both provinces and works with clients remotely across the country.

How much does it cost to use a mortgage broker in BC?

In most cases, using a mortgage broker in BC is completely free to the borrower. Ash Simpson is paid a commission by the lender when your mortgage closes. For certain alternative or private lending situations, a broker fee may apply — this would always be disclosed upfront.

What is the difference between a mortgage broker and a bank?

A bank can only offer its own mortgage products at its own rates. A mortgage broker like Ash Simpson has access to dozens of lenders — banks, credit unions, trust companies, and alternative lenders — and can shop your application across all of them to find the best fit.

First-Time Home Buyer Mortgage BC — Get Approved

Buying your first home in British Columbia is one of the biggest financial decisions of your life. Ash Simpson at Insight Mortgage is Kelowna’s award-winning mortgage broker who specializes in helping first-time buyers navigate mortgage rules, down payment requirements, and government incentives.

How Much Down Payment Do You Need for a First Home in BC?

In BC, the minimum down payment depends on the purchase price. For homes under $500,000, the minimum is 5%. For homes between $500,000 and $999,999, you need 5% on the first $500,000 and 10% on the remainder. For homes $1,000,000 and over, the minimum is 20%. Most first-time buyers use a 5–10% down payment and purchase mortgage default insurance through CMHC, Sagen, or Canada Guaranty.

First Time Home Buyer Incentives in Canada 2026

The First Home Savings Account (FHSA) lets you contribute up to $8,000 per year in tax-deductible savings for your first home purchase. The Home Buyers’ Plan (HBP) allows you to withdraw up to $60,000 from your RRSP tax-free. The First-Time Home Buyers’ Tax Credit provides up to $1,500 in federal tax relief. BC also offers the Property Transfer Tax exemption for first-time buyers on homes up to $835,000. Ash will walk you through every program you qualify for at no cost.

Getting Pre-Approved for Your First Mortgage in BC

Mortgage pre-approval is the essential first step. A pre-approval tells you exactly how much you can borrow, locks in your interest rate for up to 120 days, and shows sellers you are a serious buyer. Ash handles the full pre-approval process and shops your file to the right lenders to find the best rate. Most pre-approvals are completed within 24 to 48 hours.

Frequently Asked Questions — First-Time Home Buyer BC

Can I get a first-time home buyer mortgage with a small down payment?

Yes. With as little as 5% down you can purchase a home in BC with a high-ratio insured mortgage.

What credit score do I need as a first-time buyer?

Most lenders require a minimum of 680 for insured mortgages, though Ash has access to alternative lenders for buyers with credit challenges.

Start Your First Home Purchase — Free Consultation

Ready to buy your first home in BC? Ash Simpson provides free, no-obligation mortgage consultations for first-time buyers across Kelowna, BC, and Alberta. Lenders pay Ash’s fee directly — this service costs you nothing.