Lucas CloutierWhen I was first looking for a home, I attempted to secure a mortgage on my own and found myself in bidding house wars that could rival the Hunger Games, with rates, terms, and negotiations that looked more like ancient languages to me.
I naively believed that Google and sheer willpower could replace years of industry experience and professional networks. Spoiler alert: it couldn’t.
So if you’re looking into purchasing a home, all of us on the Waterview team are here to help! We did some digging around town and found the best top-notch mortgage brokers in Vancouver who’ll secure a mortgage deal that won’t leave you drowning in tears.
| How much does it cost to hire a mortgage broker in Vancouver? Expect most mortgage broker fees in Vancouver to be at least 0.5% of the mortgage amount. However, this fee is just an estimate and will vary depending on the broker and the amount of work required to get approval for loans. |
How We Chose
1. Pinsky Mortgages
Address: 2608 Granville St #550, Vancouver, BC V6H 3V3, Canada
Contact Details: +17789908950
Operating Hours:
- Monday to Friday – 9 AM to 7 PM
- Saturday – 10 AM to 5 PM
Website: Pinsky Mortgages
From what we’ve heard, Pinsky Mortgages negotiates with lenders like they’re hashing out a peace treaty. Whether you’re looking at fixed or variable rates, refinancing, or navigating the choppy waters of being self-employed and getting a mortgage, they’ve got you.
Their website is like an encyclopedia of mortgages—but actually fun to read. Need to know the latest market updates? Check. Wondering about variable vs. fixed rates? Got you.
And if reading’s not your thing, hit up their YouTube channel. It’s like Netflix, but for mortgage knowledge bombs.
The experience with them is great. They walk you through the application process and get you at least three lenders to choose from upfront, along with a free mortgage appraisal.
Pros
- Strong negotiation skills
- Multiple lenders available
- Free mortgage appraisal
Cons
- Advanced booking is recommended
Customer Reviews
Knowledgeable, informative, hardworking, and super friendly.
“Our experience with Eitan and his team at Pinsky Mortgages has been nothing short of amazing. Knowledgeable, informative, hardworking, and super friendly. We really enjoyed working with them and would highly recommend them!!”‘
– Craig Russel, Google Reviews
A smooth and stress-free transaction
“I recently worked with Eitan and team and I can’t recommend them highly enough! They were always available to address any questions I had and went above and beyond to ensure a smooth and stress-free transaction. Not only is Eitan professional, but he is also genuinely caring and personable. I’m looking forward to working together with them again in the future!”
– Anastasia Hepburn, Google Reviews
2. Micah Verceles
Address: 833 Homer St #1903, Vancouver, BC V5Z 3H6, Canada
Contact Details: +16048978927
Operating Hours: Open 24 hours
Website: Micah Verceles
Many former clients of Micah Verceles told us that working with him was like finding a beacon of light in the often murky waters of mortgage brokering. And we can understand why after speaking with him ourselves.
During our initial conversation, it became evident that Micah is there to guide, explain, and assist in finding the best fit for all of his client’s needs. And his approach to shopping around with various lenders for the best rates felt like a breath of fresh air in an industry that can sometimes feel stifling.
Plus, Micah’s prowess doesn’t just stem from his ability to navigate rates and lenders. It’s bolstered by his extensive background in finance and his nationwide clientele.
And his availability? We’ve been told he’s reachable for queries outside the standard range of 9 to 5, which makes the whole mortgage process less of an ordeal.
That said, we’ve also heard from some people that there may be room for a dash more aggression in the rate negotiations to satisfy those who equate a mortgage broker with a savings maximizer.
Pros
- Flexible availability
- Competitive rates
- Extensive expertise
Cons
- Negotiation style
Customer Reviews
Prompt, friendly and efficient
“Micah was awesome to deal with. Prompt, friendly and efficient. It was our first home purchase and he was always available to answer any questions we had. Strongly recommended.”
– Franco C, Google Reviews
Very knowledgeable and was able to help us secure a great rate for our mortgage
“We had the best experience working with Micah. He is very knowledgeable and was able to help us secure a great rate for our mortgage. He was available at all times to answer any questions we had and was great at communicating with us. Would 100% recommend Micah for your mortgage needs!”
– May Lin, Google Reviews
3. Carol Cheng & Associates Mortgages
Address: 2608 Granville St #550, Vancouver, BC V6H 3V3, Canada
Contact Details: +16047168011
Operating Hours: Monday to Sunday – 9 AM to 5 PM
Website: Carol Cheng & Associates Mortgages
After speaking with several people and observing Carol Cheng & Associates Mortgages in action, it’s clear why they’re a top pick in Vancouver’s mortgage broker scene.
Carol and her squad cut through the often overwhelming mortgage jargon, offering clear, comprehensible guidance that many find invaluable.
She goes beyond the usual broker spiel, diving deep into the details of each mortgage option to ensure her clients feel not just satisfied but empowered in their choices.
Kelley, another star on the team, brings a solid finance game, pairing her expertise with timely, clear communication that keeps everything moving smoothly.
However, if we had to nitpick, some of Carol’s former clients told us they had to deal with longer waits for consultations or follow-ups than they’d like. But we think this is just a minor hiccup compared to the high-quality broker services Carol provides.
Pros
- Clear and understandable mortgage guidance
- Empowers clients
- Efficient communication
Cons
- Longer wait times
Customer Reviews
Expertise and dedication made the mortgage process smooth sailing
“Carol and Kelley were really great to work with. Their expertise and dedication made the mortgage process smooth sailing. From explaining complex details to securing a great deal, they went above and beyond to make sure we had the best options lined up. We are so grateful for their support and would recommend them to anyone looking for a reliable and knowledgeable mortgage advisor!”
– Lucie Jassigneux, Google Reviews
11/10 – highly recommend especially for first time home buyers
“11/10 – highly recommend especially for first time home buyers like us that need a little extra hand holding. Probably the fastest mortgage broker I’ve met and, most importantly, supportive and very honest. She explained everything SO thoroughly and worked around the clock for us as we had a quick closing (3 business days). Quality of work was not compromised despite the quick work. Our family really appreciated her efforts to make our dream home come true. Highly recommend !!! Thanks Carol – will keep in touch!”
– Sharon M, Google Reviews
4. Ryan Zupan Mortgage
Address: 55 E Cordova St #322, Vancouver, BC V6A 0A5, Canada
Contact Details: +16042506122
Operating Hours:
- Monday to Friday – 9 AM to 9 PM
- Saturday & Sunday – 10 AM to 9 PM
Website: Ryan Zupan Mortgage
From our conversation with Ryan, he was like the Rosetta Stone of mortgage terms, breaking down the financial gibberish into something we could actually understand.
And from what we’ve heard from others, Ryan’s at the top of his game when it comes to responsiveness. It’s like he’s got clones or doesn’t sleep, but either way, his quick-draw response is nothing short of professional.
He also understands that Vancouver’s housing market waits for no one. Many have expressed to us that he zips through the application process with the finesse of a pro, ensuring you don’t miss out on your dream pad. Fast, efficient, but thorough—like a mortgage ninja.
But hey, we also noted that Ryan’s a sub-mortgage broker, meaning his pool of lenders isn’t as big as other brokers. This could be a concern for those on the hunt for competitive rates, but considering the level of service and customization, he still made it onto our list.
Pros
- Simplifies mortgage terms
- Highly responsive and professional
- Efficient in the application process
Cons
- Limited pool of lenders
Customer Reviews
Ryan Zupan is definitely a player that you want on your team
“My partner and I worked with Ryan on the purchase of our new (and first) home.
His expertise, communication and overall work ethic made a potentially overwhelming and confusing experience, almost enjoyable. When purchasing a home, Ryan Zupan is definitely a player that you want on your team. We’re so grateful that we had him on ours!”
– Samena Hart, Google Reviews
Expertise and attention to detail made the entire process seamless
“I had an outstanding experience with Ryan and his team. Their expertise and attention to detail made the entire process seamless. They guided us through every step, ensuring we understood all aspects of the mortgage. They went above and beyond to secure the best possible terms for our loan, and their communication was consistently transparent and timely. I highly highly recommend Ryan’s services for anyone seeking a smooth and stress-free mortgage experience.
Thank you Ryan!!”
– Saw Joseph Kyi, Google Reviews
5. McKay Wood Mortgage Monk
Address: 1059 E Pender St, Vancouver, BC V6A 4H9, Canada
Contact Details: +16046906584
Operating Hours: Monday to Sunday – 8 AM to 10 PM
Website: McKay Wood Mortgage Monk
McKay Wood, affectionately dubbed the ‘Mortgage Monk,’ is the guide many homebuyers told us they didn’t know they needed—until they did. We spoke with a choir of his former clients and witnessed his mortgage magic firsthand.
Over the phone, he had a calming demeanour, and he made the daunting world of mortgages seem less like rocket science and more like common sense.
We also observed that McKay’s not just a smooth talker. He’s tailored in his approach, dedicating ample time to truly getting the measure of his clients’ dreams and fears.
From conquering vicious bidding wars to deciphering the most cryptic of mortgage rejections, many we spoke to went on and on about McKay’s excellent adaptability and dedication. And others mentioned his ability to bargain for the lowest rates, even on the toughest of properties.
However, McKay’s popularity means you might find yourself enduring suspenseful waits that could test the patience of a saint.
Pros
- Customised mortgage plans
- Secures low interest rates
Cons
- Lengthy wait times
Customer Reviews
McKay made what seemed impossible, possible
“We recently had the pleasure of working with McKay Wood and his team from The Mortgage Monk, and we couldn’t be more satisfied with the experience. McKay made what seemed impossible, possible and with so much diligence and integrity. His dedication to providing excellent customer care was evident throughout our interactions. McKay and his team were able to secure amazing rates for us in a challenging market. We’re incredibly grateful for his dedication and guidance in making our dream home a reality. Highly recommended!”
– Ewa, Google Reviews
McKay Team found us the lowest possible interest rate
“McKay, Karla and the whole team are outstanding! They never stopped working for us. From the day we met them, to the day we signed closing papers with our lawyer, they were there and responsive to every question and challenge. They are kind, considerate and knowledgeable. The Team presented us with several financing options on a property that proved to be a huge challenge to finance. The McKay Team found us the lowest possible interest rate. Thank you! We can hardly wait to move into our dream home next week.”
– Gay Stephenson, Google Reviews
