Mortgage 101 with Clinton Wilkins
Mortgage 101 with Clinton Wilkins is a monthly radio show hosted by Clinton Wilkins and his mortgage team. The program covers everything listeners need to know about getting a mortgage, from application basics to financing options. It also features listener phone-in questions, with the hosts offering practical answers and advice. The show is heard on CityNews, and more information is available through the Clinton Wilkins Mortgage Team at teamclinton.ca.
Episodes
Mortgage 101 - Mortgage Strategies for a Shaky Economy
Clinton and Dan discuss the economic impact of trade wars and provide strategic financial advice for mortgage holders.
Mortgage 101 - Real talk for uncertain times
Clinton and Dan announce the expansion of the Mortgage 101 radio show via a new broadcasting syndicate across Atlantic Canada.
Mortgage 101 - Riding out the Rate
Clinton Wilkins and Dan Ahlstrand discuss the ins and outs of mortgage brokering, focusing on refinancing and managing mortgage rates.
Mortgage 101 - Inside the Mortgage Broker’s Office
Clinton Wilkins and Dan Ahlstrand discuss the process of working with a mortgage broker, emphasizing the importance of pre-approval and the role of realtors.
Mortgage 101 - Avoid Heartbreak Before You House Hunt
Dan Ahlstrand and Clinton Wilkins discuss the potential impact of U.S. Canada trade tensions on Canadian mortgage rates, with Bank of Montreal suggesting rate cuts might be necessary.
Mortgage 101 - What Today’s Uncertainty Means for Homebuyers
Dan Ahlstrand and Clinton Wilkins discuss the evolving landscape of mortgage lending.
Mortgage 101 - What Canada’s Economy Means for Homebuyers
Dan Ahlstrand and Clinton Wilkins discuss the current mortgage rate environment, emphasizing the importance of celebrating Pride Month.
Mortgage 101 - Nova Scotia’s Most Inclusive Neighbourhoods
Clinton Wilkins and Dan Ahlstrand welcome on Blair Patterson to highlight the importance of community and security for the LGBTQ+ community.
Mortgage 101 - Pride in Homeownership
Clinton Wilkins and Dan Ahlstrand welcome Blair Patterson to discuss the importance of community involvement and the challenges faced by the LGBTQ+ community in home ownership.
Mortgage 101 - The Future of Mortgage Education
Clinton Wilkins and Dan Ahlstrand discuss Rogers' decision to shut down six radio stations, including their own in Halifax while reflecting on the evolution of their Mortgage 101 show.
Mortgage 101 - Why Pre‑Approval Is Your Secret Weapon in Today’s Market
Clinton Wilkins and Dan Ahlstrand discuss the importance of early conversations with mortgage brokers.
Mortgage 101 - Is Nova Scotia Finally a Balanced Housing Market?
Clinton Wilkins and Dan Ahlstrand discuss the current real estate market with realtor Megan Landry.
Mortgage 101 - Why Atlantic Canada Is Beating the Housing Bust
Dan Ahlstrand and Clinton Wilkins discuss the Canadian mortgage market and real estate trends.
The Bank of Canada Update: June 10th
Dan Ahlstrand and Clinton Wilkins discuss how The Bank of Canada has kept its key overnight rate steady, which has no immediate impact on variable rate mortgages.
Mortgage 101 - Is a Busy Summer Real Estate Wave Coming?
Dan Ahlstrand and Clinton Wilkins discuss the impact of weather and market uncertainty on the real estate market, noting a softer-than-anticipated spring season.
Mortgage 101 - Financing your Recreational Property
Dan Ahlstrand and Clinton Wilkins discussed an upcoming event on May 24 focusing on reverse mortgages.
Mortgage 101 - Living Better in Retirement
Dan Ahlstrand and Clinton Wilkins discuss reverse mortgages with special guest Trevor, highlighting common misconceptions and the benefits for seniors.
Mortgage 101 - The truth about reverse mortgages
Clinton Wilkins and Dan Ahlstrand discuss reverse mortgages with Trevor Gordon from Home Equity Bank. They highlight the benefits of reverse mortgages for seniors.
Mortgage 101 - Why the Real Estate Market Just Woke Up
Dan Ahlstrand and Clinton Wilkins discuss the impact of the Bank of Canada's decision to hold the key overnight rate steady on the Canadian real estate market.
Mortgage 101 - How Spring Weather Impacts the Housing Market
Dan Ahlstrand and Clinton Wilkins discussed alternative lending, emphasizing that there are multiple mortgage products available.
Bank of Canada Update: April 29th
Dan Ahlstrand and Clinton Wilkins discussed how the Bank of Canada held its interest rate as anticipated amidst geopolitical tensions.
Mortgage 101 - City Condo or Country Acreage?
Dan Ahlstrand and Clinton Wilkins welcome Alex Lavender discuss the complexities of property tax assessment caps and their impact on homebuyers.
Mortgage 101 - Halifax Housing Crunch
Dan Ahlstrand and Clinton Wilkins discuss the current housing market with mortgage broker Alex Lavender.
Mortgage 101 - Why More Homebuyers Are Choosing Variable Rates This Spring
Clinton Wilkins and Dan Ahlstrand break down why more homebuyers are choosing variable-rate mortgages this spring, exploring rate volatility, inflation pressures, and how to match mortgage strategy with risk tolerance.
Mortgage 101 - Approved vs. Affordable
Clinton Wilkins and Dan Ahlstrand discuss the importance of hiring professionals for home renovations and obtaining a pre-approval for mortgages.
Mortgage 101 - The One Cheap Upgrade Buyers Love
Clinton Wilkins and Dan Ahlstrand discuss strategies for selling a home in the spring market, emphasizing the importance of staging.
Bank of Canada Update: March 18th
Dan Ahlstrand and Clinton Wilkins discussed how the Bank of Canada maintained its key interest rate at 2.25%, reflecting economic uncertainties.
Mortgage 101 - Why Spring is the Best Time to List Your Home
Clinton Wilkins and Dan Ahlstrand discuss the busy spring real estate market with guest Alex Tremblay from Century 21 Optimum.
Mortgage 101 - Spring Into Homeownership
Dan Ahlstrand and Clinton Wilkins discuss the upcoming spring housing market, noting it as the busiest time of year.
Mortgage 101 - Love Your Home
Dan Ahlstrand and Clinton Wilkins discuss the concept of "loving your home" and provide advice on home ownership at different life stages.
Mortgage 101 - The Real Cost of Ending a Marriage
Dan Ahlstrand and Clinton Wilkins welcome on Derek Sonnichsen from MDW Law to discuss on protecting yourself during divorces, especially regarding property division.
Mortgage 101 - Safeguarding Your Home and Heart
Dan Ahlstrand and Clinton Wilkins welcome on Derek Sonnichsen from MDW Law to discuss the importance of having open discussions about money and debts before entering into a relationship.
Mortgage 101 - What Nova Scotia’s New 2% Down Program Really Means
Dan Ahlstrand and Clinton Wilkins discuss the new Nova Scotia first-time homebuyers program, which reduces the required down payment from 5% to 2%.
Mortgage 101 - Refinance Reality Check
Dan Ahlstrand and Clinton Wilkins discuss refinancing mortgages, emphasizing the importance of understanding the process and considering it when a mortgage comes up for renewal.
Bank of Canada Update: January 28th
The Bank of Canada has decided to keep its key interest rate at 2.25%, a move that aligns with economic projections and expectations.
Mortgage 101 - How to Get a Mortgage After Bankruptcy
Clinton Wilkins and Dan Ahlstrand welcome Tina Powell to discuss the misconceptions surrounding bankruptcy and consumer proposals.
Trailer: Mortgage 101 2026
Mortgage 101 with Clinton Wilkins is back for 2026. As heard on CityNews, this show is a weekly podcast where the guys discuss everything there is to know about getting a mortgage, as well as answering listener phone-in questions.You can find more information about Clinton Wilkins and the Clinton Wilkins Mortgage Team at www.teamclinton.ca
Mortgage 101 - Bankruptcy Isn't a Dirty Word
Dan Ahlstrand and Clinton Wilkins welcome guest Tina Powell, a licensed insolvency trustee from MMP, to discuss the current state of consumer insolvency in Nova Scotia.
Mortgage 101 - Merry Debtmas
Dan Ahlstrand and Clinton Wilkins discuss Merry Debtmas, urging consumers to review their finances and consider refinancing to lower borrowing costs.
Mortgage 101 - Beyond the Bank
Dan Ahlstrand and Clinton Wilkins discuss the value of mortgage brokers, emphasizing their ability to offer a wide range of lenders and products, unlike banks with guest Adrian Schulz.
Mortgage 101 - Protecting Your Future With the Right Insurance
Dan Ahlstrand and Clinton Wilkins welcome Mario Cloutier from Manulife to explain the importance of mortgage protection, noting that 83% of Canadians are underinsured.
Mortgage 101 - Make Your Move in Canada’s Market
Dan Ahlstrand and Clinton Wilkins welcome Jim Spitalli, COO of Sagen, to explain how Sagen provides mortgage insurance for those with less than 20% down payment, allowing them to enter the market sooner.
Mortgage 101 Live - Financial Fitness for First-Time Homebuyers
Dan Ahlstrand and Clinton Wilkins discussed the need for Canadians to understand income, assets, and credit, especially amidst economic challenges like recession and high inflation.
Mortgage 101 - Building Wealth Through Homeownership
Clinton Wilkins and Dan Ahlstrand discuss the importance of financial literacy, focusing on assets. They highlight the significance of home ownership, noting that it's often the largest asset for Canadian families.
Mortgage 101 - Credit Myths Busted
Dan Ahlstrand and Clinton Wilkins discuss credit scores and financial literacy, emphasizing the importance of understanding credit usage and management.
Mortgage 101 - Bank of Mom and Dad & Beyond
Clinton Wilkins and Dan Ahlstrand discuss the impact of self-employment on income and mortgage qualification.
Mortgage 101 - Financial Literacy Month
Dan Ahlstrand and Clinton Wilkins discuss the importance of financial literacy, especially during Financial Literacy Month. They emphasize the need for education on credit, income, and assets, noting that schools often lack this instruction.
Mortgage 101 - Building Your Path to Homeownership
Clinton Wilkins and his team take to the streets to answer real questions from listeners about homeownership, saving for a down payment, and navigating the ever-changing mortgage landscape.
Mortgage 101 - Navigating Canada’s Changing Mortgage Landscape
Clinton Wilkins and guests dive deep into the evolving landscape of mortgage lending in Canada. From the rise in mortgage fraud and the tightening of regulations to the increasing role of family support in helping first-time buyers.
Mortgage 101 - How to be a Smart Borrower
In this special "Best of 2025" episode of Mortgage 101, Clinton Wilkins breaks down the year’s biggest trends in homeownership and mortgage lending. Clinton shares candid advice on the responsible use of home equity lines of credit, emphasizing the importance of not treating your home as an ATM.
Mortgage 101 - What’s Next for Homeowners?
Clinton Wilkins recaps this year by diving into topics like: Canadians facing renewals, the decision whether to refinance, consolidate debt, or just extend your amortization.
Mortgage 101 - Back to School, Back to Savings
Clinton and Dan discuss financial literacy, mortgage rates, and housing market trends. They note that while other provinces like Ontario and BC see housing price declines, Atlantic Canada's property values rise by about 3% annually due to high demand. They highlight the affordability issues, with $29.40/hour needed to live in HRM, equating to around $60,000 annually. They also discuss the
Mortgage 101 - Rates, Risks & Real Estate
Clinton and Dan discuss the current state of the mortgage market, focusing on interest rates and home ownership. Clinton mentions a Bank of Montreal economist's projection of a 75 basis point reduction in the key overnight rate by early next year, which could lower mortgage rates to the 3% range. They debate the pros and cons of variable vs. fixed rates, with Clinton noting a shift toward
Mortgage 101 - Student Mortgages Unlocked
Dan and Clinton discuss the challenges of student housing in Halifax, noting the high cost and limited availability. They observe a shift from parents buying properties for their children to more student housing being sold. Clinton highlights the impact of reduced foreign student numbers on the market. They debate the financial viability of buying a condo for students, considering factors
Mortgage 101 - Atlantic Advantage: Why Our Market Stays Strong
Clinton is joined by Dan Ahlstrand, and the two discuss the current state of the housing market in the fall. Clinton notes that while the market is still busy, it's more balanced than in previous years, with listings above $600,000 staying longer on the market. He predicts a 25 basis point cut by the Bank of Canada, which could increase demand and potentially drive prices up. He also ment
Mortgage 101 - What Happens After The Smoke Clears
Todd and Clinton discuss the impact of recent fires on insurance costs, noting that insurance premiums have risen due to increased risk factors. They also address the high costs of new home construction, citing labor and material expenses, and the challenges of new home construction, including overruns and scope creep. Clinton explains that most new construction mortgages are turnkey, wit
Mortgage 101 - Refinancing The Right Way
Clinton and Todd discuss the impact of inflation on interest rates and the housing market, noting that rates are expected to stay higher for longer. They explain the concept of net worth, including what assets and liabilities to include, such as real estate, TFSAs, and life insurance. The conversation shifts to refinancing, highlighting that it often occurs at renewal but can happen mid-t
Mortgage 101 - Advice for Modern Buyers
The guys discuss the impact of inflation and rising debt on home ownership. Clinton notes that Canadians are heavily indebted, with mortgages averaging $400,000, often supported by dual incomes of $100,000. Food prices have doubled, affecting household budgets significantly. They highlight the disparity between real estate prices, which have doubled, and stagnant incomes. Wilkins advises
Mortgage 101 - The Mortgage Mindset
Todd and Clinton discuss the evolution of their mortgage show, emphasizing their dynamic approach to mortgage lending and broader topics. Clinton, with nearly21 years of experience, highlights his passion for the industry and his role as the Atlantic director for Mortgage Professionals Canada. He shares his business growth, handling $500 million in transactions this year, and the challeng
Mortgage 101 - Pride, Politics, and Property
Todd and Clinton regroup to wrap up their discussion on Pride in Homeownership. They touch on the impact of political uncertainties, such as trade wars and interest rates, on the housing market. They noted that while rates have decreased, the market remains high, affecting affordability. Clinton highlighted the trend of younger buyers receiving large family gifts, often $100,000, to make
Mortgage 101 - Unlocking Homeownership
Clinton and Blair are back to answer more mortgage questions from listeners. The two explain that mortgage payments are relatively stable, with a portion going to interest and the rest to principal. They emphasize the importance of the stress test in ensuring affordability and protecting borrowers from financial shocks. Clinton notes that while interest rates have risen from sub-2% to aro
Mortgage 101 - Mortgages Without Judgement
Todd, Clinton, welcome guest Blair Patterson to address questions from listeners, including how to prepare for buying a home in 10 years, the importance of automatic savings, and the impact of interest rates on mortgage payments. They emphasize the significance of credit scores, the benefits of automatic payments, and the challenges faced by queer clients in the housing market. Blair shar
Mortgage 101 - Pride in Homeownership
Clinton Wilkins and Todd Veinotte discuss the intersection of Pride Month and home ownership. They highlight the importance of continuing to address issues of equality, noting that the percentage of homes owned by queer people is lower than that of straight people. Clinton shares his experiences as a mortgage broker, emphasizing the challenges faced by the queer community, such as socioec
Mortgage 101 - Responding to the Threat of a Data Breech
Clinton Wilkins and Todd Veinotte discuss the importance of credit monitoring, especially in light of the recent Nova Scotia Power cyber breach affecting 200,000 customers. They recommend using free apps like Borrowell (Equifax) and Credit Karma (TransUnion) for weekly updates, which do not impact credit scores. For more comprehensive monitoring, paid services from Equifax and TransUnion
Mortgage 101 - The Importance of Aging in Place
Todd Veinotte, Clinton Wilkins, and Trevor Gordon (of Home Equity Bank) discuss the importance of aging in place for retirees. They explore the benefits of a reverse mortgage, highlighting its flexibility and the freedom it provides to clients who use it. The program is equity-driven, not credit-driven, and caters to seniors with strong credit but limited cash flow. The three discuss elig
Mortgage 101 - Making Financial Freedom for Retirees
Todd Veinotte and Clinton Wilkins welcome Trevor Gordon, Business Development Manager at Home Equity Bank, to discuss reverse mortgages. Trevor explains that Home Equity Bank has been providing reverse mortgages for over 30 years. He highlights that the average client and dispels common misconceptions about reverse mortgages, such as the bank taking the property, stressing their role in h
Mortgage 101 - Navigating the Real Cost of Home Ownership
Clinton Wilkins and Todd Veinotte discuss the impact of the new government's financial policies on the mortgage market, highlighting the HST exemption on homes valued at $1.5 million or more, which could save homeowners up to $250 monthly. They also address the rising costs of home ownership, including unexpected expenses like a $3,000 heat pump repair. They also touch on the challenges o
Mortgage 101 - Challenges Faced by First-Time and Foreign Buyers
Todd and Clinton discuss the evolving landscape of mortgage lending, highlighting its complexities and the importance of staying informed. They emphasize the necessity of monitoring credit and bank accounts to avoid fraud. They also discuss the challenges faced by first-time homebuyers and the impact of regulatory changes, such as the foreign buyers ban, on the Halifax market. The convers
Mortgage 101 - How Financial Institutions are Fighting Fraud
Sandi Burns, Chief Credit Officer at Manulife Bank, discusses the increasing prevalence of mortgage fraud, particularly in Atlantic Canada. She highlights "fraud for shelter," where individuals alter documents to qualify for mortgages, and "fraud for profit," involving organized crime. The conversation also touched on the importance of regulatory compliance and the evolving landscape of m
Mortgage 101 - Protecting Canadians from Financial Risks
Todd and Clinton are joined by Sandi Burns, Chief Credit Officer at Manulife Bank, to discuss her role in setting mortgage guidelines and managing the lending portfolio. She highlights Manulife's unique mortgage product, the Manulife One, which combines a checking account and mortgage, allowing customers to pay down their mortgage faster. Burns also notes the impact of economic uncertaint
Mortgage 101 - Navigating Mortgage Trends
Todd Veinotte and Clinton Wilkins discuss the impact of the federal election, economic factors, such as interest rates, inflation, and tariffs, and their effects on the housing market and construction materials.
Mortgage 101 - The Interest Rate Impact
Todd Veinotte and Clinton Wilkins discuss the current state of the mortgage market, highlighting the busy spring real estate season and the impact of interest rates. Clinton notes that interest rates are trending downward but are influenced by various factors, including federal government policies and inflation. He emphasizes the importance of building long-term relationships with clients
Mortgage 101 - The Effect of Urban Sprawl
Todd Veinotte and Clinton Wilkins discuss the Halifax real estate market with special guest Keith Kenny, a realtor from Century 21 Optimum. They highlight Dartmouth downtown and Fairview as good investment opportunities, noting the city's urban development and infrastructure challenges. They discuss the impact of urban sprawl on municipal services and the importance of transit and road in
Mortgage 101 - Transparency in Transactions
Keith Kenny, a realtor from Century 21 Optimum with 13 years of experience, discussed the Halifax real estate market. He noted a slight increase in inventory, cautious optimism among buyers, and the impact of political and economic uncertainties. Buyers are now more cautious, with many offers being rejected. The average home price in HRM is around $633,000, with anything below $600,000 be
Mortgage 101 - The Need for New Homes
Todd Veinotte and Clinton Wilkins discuss the mortgage industry and its challenges. Clinton talks about managing his 20,000+ clients, and the impact of external factors like elections and tariffs on client mental health. They explore the potential impact of political promises to reduce GST on new homes under $1.3 million, explaining how it could lower purchase prices. Clinton notes the ne
Mortgage 101 - Getting a Good Credit Score
Todd Veinotte and Clinton Wilkins discuss the role of a mortgage broker, emphasizing their ability to offer tailored mortgage advice and access to multiple lenders. Clinton highlights his extensive experience, having managed $2 billion in mortgages, and notes the shift from branch-based mortgages to broker-assisted ones, especially for first-time homebuyers. The two also talk about the im
Mortgage 101 - Home Improvement and HELOCs
Todd Veinotte and Clinton Wilkins discuss the benefits of home equity lines of credit (HELOCs) for renovations and investments. Clinton explains the role of CMHC insurance for those with less than 20% down payment, and the associated premiums. Clinton also discusses the advantages of energy-efficient upgrades, such as heat pumps and mini-splits, and the potential to refinance up to 80% of
Mortgage 101 - Spring into Homeownership!
Todd Veinotte and Clinton Wilkins discuss the upcoming spring real estate market, noting it as the busiest time of year due to improved weather and increased buyer activity. They also discuss the impact of lower interest rates on mortgage renewals, with buyers focusing more on monthly payments than rates. The two also talk about the popularity of home equity lines of credit (HELOCs) for h
Mortgage 101 - The Economic Reality of Tariffs
Todd Veinotte and Clinton Wilkins discuss the potential economic impact of tariffs on the Canadian housing market, noting the uncertainty caused by political volatility in the U.S. They also discuss the upcoming Canadian federal leadership race, comparing the economic strategies proposed by Liberal frontrunner Mark Carney with those of Conservative Leader Pierre Poilievre. The conversatio
Mortgage 101 - Implications of the Matrimonial Property Act
Clinton and Todd are joined again by special guest Leigh Davis, family lawyer from MDW Law. This time, they're digging into the Matrimonial Property Act, it's provisions, and what kinds of relationship arrangements are covered under this legislation.
