Best Sarah MacLellan Podcasts (2025)

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Mortgage 101 - Unlocking Homeownership 13:56

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1d ago13:56

13:56

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 int…

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Mortgage 101 - Mortgages Without Judgement 10:24

10d ago10:24

10:24

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 …

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Mortgage 101 - Pride in Homeownership 10:54

17d ago10:54

10:54

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 face…

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Mortgage 101 - Responding to the Threat of a Data Breech 10:31

24d ago10:31

10:31

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, p…

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Mortgage 101 - The Importance of Aging in Place 14:00

1M ago14:00

14:00

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 …

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Mortgage 101 - Making Financial Freedom for Retirees 10:51

1M ago10:51

10:51

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 takin…

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Mortgage 101 - Navigating the Real Cost of Home Ownership 11:15

1M ago11:15

11:15

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 re…

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Mortgage 101 - Challenges Faced by First-Time and Foreign Buyers 9:00

2M ago9:00

9:00

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 buyer…

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Mortgage 101 - How Financial Institutions are Fighting Fraud 13:43

2M ago13:43

13:43

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 c…

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Mortgage 101 - Protecting Canadians from Financial Risks 10:34

2M ago10:34

10:34

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 als…

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Mortgage 101 - Navigating Mortgage Trends 10:32

3M ago10:32

10:32

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.By Clinton Wilkins Mortgage Team

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Mortgage 101 - The Interest Rate Impact 10:40

3M ago10:40

10:40

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 buil…

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Mortgage 101 - The Effect of Urban Sprawl 14:13

3M ago14:13

14:13

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 …

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Mortgage 101 - Transparency in Transactions 10:38

3M ago10:38

10:38

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 …

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Mortgage 101 - The Need for New Homes 10:51

4M ago10:51

10:51

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 lo…

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Mortgage 101 - Getting a Good Credit Score 10:45

4M ago10:45

10:45

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 h…

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Mortgage 101 - Home Improvement and HELOCs 14:21

4M ago14:21

14:21

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, an…

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Mortgage 101 - Spring into Homeownership! 10:57

5M ago10:57

10:57

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 h…

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Mortgage 101 - The Economic Reality of Tariffs 11:14

5M ago11:14

11:14

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…

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Mortgage 101 - Implications of the Matrimonial Property Act 10:25

5M ago10:25

10:25

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.By Clinton Wilkins Mortgage Team

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Mortgage 101 - Financial Literacy in Marriage 13:26

5M ago13:26

13:26

Clinton and Todd are joined by Leigh Davis, family lawyer with MDW Law. The three talk about what it means to practice financial literacy in a matrimonial setting, emphasizing the importance of having tough conversations before the wedding bells ring, and what services are available should matrimonial breakdown occurs.…

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Mortgage 101 - Impact of Tariffs on Mortgage Rates 9:55

5M ago9:55

9:55

The news lately has been challenging to a lot of Canadians. With the threat of tariffs looming over the economy, what can borrowers expect as far as mortgage rates go? In this episode, Clinton and Todd cut through the headlines and clickbait to give borrowers the advice they need to keep themselves and their assets safe over the next four years.…

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Mortgage 101 - Love Your Home 10:23

6M ago10:23

10:23

It's February, which means it's time to talk about loving your home! Clinton and Todd discuss the many aspects that go into loving your home, emphasizing that renovations should be enjoyed by the current owners, discouraging homeowners from renovating right before a sale.By Clinton Wilkins Mortgage Team

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Mortgage 101 - Next Steps with Tina Powell (Merry Debtmas 2025) 9:54

6M ago9:54

9:54

To wrap up their Merry Debtmas conversation, Todd and Clinton invite Tina Powell from MNP Limited to discuss the next steps borrowers need to take after filing for bankruptcy or a consumer proposal. The three explore the challenges and strategies for reestablishing credit and staying clear of additional trouble. They emphasize the importance of pay…

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Mortgage 101 - Getting Out of Trouble with Tina Powell (Merry Debtmas 2025) 13:25

6M ago13:25

13:25

Todd and Clinton continue chatting on the subject of Merry Debtmas, inviting a friend of the show to share some information that may be helpful to borrowers facing challenging financial situations. Tina Powell, a licensed insolvency trustee from MNP Limited, discusses personal insolvency options such as bankruptcy and consumer proposals. She emphas…

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Mortgage 101 - Refinancing, Renewals, and Recent Changes (Merry Debtmas 2025) 10:07

6M ago10:07

10:07

Todd and Clinton's Merry Debtmas conversation continues, this time discussing the ins and outs of mortgage refinancing and renewals, highlighting recent changes to Canadian mortgage rules. Key points include the introduction of high-ratio insured mortgages with a 30-year amortization and an increased limit to $1.5 million. They also cover the retur…

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Mortgage 101 - New Year, Same Expert Advice (Merry Debtmas 2025) 9:18

7M ago9:18

9:18

It's a new year which can only mean one thing: Merry Debtmas! Todd and Clinton discuss the challenges of home ownership and financial planning in this time of rising costs and inflation. Clinton emphasizes the importance of financial literacy and planning, noting that 60% of Canadians are facing mortgage renewals with potentially strained finances.…

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Mortgage 101 - Creditor Insurance and More Listener Q&A 8:45

8M ago8:45

8:45

Mario Cloutier from Manulife joins Clinton Wilkins and Dan Ahlstrand again to discuss risk coverage for borrowers who are looking to build and the high cost of construction today. The three wrap the show by taking a listener's call, answering the questions he had on the subject of creditor insurance.…

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Mortgage 101 - Insurance Coverage Over the Lifespan and Listener Q&A 12:53

8M ago12:53

12:53

Clinton Wilkins and Dan Ahlstrand are joined again by Manulife's Mario Cloutier. They discuss the types of insurance coverage borrowers should look into as they move through different phases of life. The three also field a range of call-in questions from Mortgage 101 listeners.By Clinton Wilkins Mortgage Team

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Mortgage 101 - Financial Protection and Mortgage Insurance 10:34

8M ago10:34

10:34

Dan Ahlstrand and Clinton Wilkins are joined by Mario Cloutier, from Manulife, to discuss how to keep your finances protected. Cloutier advises that insurance premiums are often affordable and can be maintained at a fixed rate throughout the mortgage term, recommending both creditor and life insurance for comprehensive protection.…

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Mortgage 101 - Indebtedness and Looking Beyond the Bank Balance 12:19

8M ago12:19

12:19

Clinton Wilkins and Dan Ahlstrand talk about financial literacy, highlighting the importance of understanding finances beyond just bank balances, noting that Canadians are at an all-time high of 180% debt-to-income ratio.By Clinton Wilkins Mortgage Team

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Mortgage 101 - All About The Income 9:38

8M ago9:38

9:38

Dan Ahlstrand and Clinton Wilkins discuss the changing landscape of income and housing in Nova Scotia. They focus on the recent federal government announcements allowing up to 90% home equity borrowing for secondary suites.By Clinton Wilkins Mortgage Team

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Mortgage 101 - High Mortgage Ratio Insurance with Chris Johnson 13:19

8M ago13:19

13:19

Chris Johnson from Sagen joins us on Mortgage 101 to discuss the importance of high-ratio mortgage insurance, which allows buyers to access homeownership with as little as 5% down, making it more affordable for Canadians.By Clinton Wilkins Mortgage Team

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Mortgage 101 - Real Estate Appraisals with Derek Bellefontaine 10:45

9M ago10:45

10:45

Derek Bellefontaine, Real Estate Appraiser, with Mari Tech joins us as our guest to discuss the role of appraisers in valuing homes, which is crucial for purchasing, refinancing, and separations.By Clinton Wilkins Mortgage Team

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Mortgage 101 - It's Financial Literacy Month! 10:41

9M ago10:41

10:41

Special host Dan Ahlstrand joins Clinton Wilkins to kick off Financial Literacy Month, emphasizing education on income, assets, and credit.By Clinton Wilkins Mortgage Team

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Mortgage 101 - Interest Rate Cuts in 2024 13:21

9M ago13:21

13:21

Clinton Wilkins reflects on this year's discussions of the impact of interest rate cuts on consumers, noting that rates have declined by 0.25% and are predicted to reduce further by 125 to 175 basis points by the end of next year. This could potentially bring prime rates to around 4%. Clinton also highlights the importance of being organized and pr…

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Mortgage 101 - Urban Sprawl and Prefab Homes in 2024's Housing Market Dynamics 10:21

9M ago10:21

10:21

Your host, Clinton Wilkins recaps this year's conversations with Todd Veinotte on the housing market in Halifax. Clinton reminds us of the need for densification due to urban sprawl and limited land availability. In 2024 we have multiple offers, but less frequently as in 2021-2022. Prefabricated homes are considered a potential solution to reduce h…

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Mortgage 101 - The Difference Between Qualification and Affordability 11:01

9M ago11:01

11:01

This recap episode of Mortgage 101 highlights concerns about increasing debt levels in Canada, with Equifax reporting that mortgage holders are missing payments. We look back at one of the show's guests, Sandi Burns, from Manulife Bank, who noted that BMO exited the auto loan industry due to high arrears, predicting a peak in 2025-2026. Many Canadi…

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Mortgage 101 - Recap of 2024 Real Estate Market Challenges 10:01

9M ago10:01

10:01

In early 2024, the Ontario real estate market slowed significantly, while Nova Scotia's affordability stood out with an average home price of $500,000 in Halifax. Building costs and labour have surged due to inflation, affecting both new construction and renovations. First-time homebuyers are increasingly opting for starter homes, often in need of …

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Mortgage 101 - Entering The Market 10:10

10M ago10:10

10:10

How affordable is the Nova Scotian market? Real estate is more affordable in Nova Scotia compared to other markets. Clinton and Todd reflect on the challenges of buying starter homes, citing increased property values and stagnant income growth.By Clinton Wilkins Mortgage Team

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Mortgage 101 - Location, Location, Location 13:20

10M ago13:20

13:20

So the interest rates are down, and I can finally buy a home - now where do I buy? Clinton and Todd discuss the Halifax housing market and deciding on a location in terms of housing types, commuting and fuel costs, natural disasters, insurance, and the potential for lenders to refuse mortgages in high-risk areas.…

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Mortgage 101 - Bank of Canada Interest Rate Cut 9:47

10M ago9:47

9:47

Clinton and Todd discuss the Bank of Canada's recent rate cut of 25 basis points, with predictions of further cuts in October and December, opening up the market for some buyers.By Clinton Wilkins Mortgage Team

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Mortgage 101 - Making Lending Easy for You 10:20

11M ago10:20

10:20

With 20 years in the mortgage industry, Clinton Wilkins and his team are undeniable experts, with quality relationships with lenders. Clinton, alongside his co-host Todd Veinotte, chats through why going through a mortgage broker versus a bank may be beneficial for you!By Clinton Wilkins Mortgage Team

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Mortgage 101 - Housing Starts in Nova Scotia 9:41

11M ago9:41

9:41

Are we building enough new homes in Nova Scotia? Clinton and Todd discuss housing starts, and the Halifax market, focusing on trends in new builds, affordability concerns, and demographic shifts. The two touch on a lack of inventory causing demand crunches and advocate for the need for more housing supply to meet growing demand.…

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Mortgage 101 - What You Should Know About Your Mortgage Purchase 13:28

11M ago13:28

13:28

Danielle MacLean, Clinton Wilkins, and Todd Veinotte are back to chat more on the financial aspects of real estate transactions, emphasizing the importance of proper disclosures, documentation, and transparency to ensure smooth transactions and avoid potential risks. They cover private sales, transfer taxes, joint ownership, and mortgage transfers,…

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Mortgage 101 - Real Estate Law 101 with Danielle MacLean 9:47

12M ago9:47

9:47

Expert and Real Estate Lawyer, Danielle MacLean, from DCL Law joins Todd Veinotte, and Clinton Wilkins to share insights on navigating real estate transactions. They emphasized the importance of education, organization, and flexibility in preventing unexpected problems. They discuss the significance of having the right professionals on your team an…

1
Mortgage 101 - Interest Rates Updates 10:23

12M ago10:23

10:23

Yet another Bank of Canada interest rate update means that Clinton Wilkins and Todd Veinotte are at the Mortgage 101 table to discuss what this means for Nova Scotians. They also get into the challenges of managing mortgage debt in a rising interest rate environment, and highlight the risks of negative amortization and the importance of proactively…

1
Mortgage 101 - Know Your Credit 9:50

1y ago9:50

9:50

Would you bet your house you know exactly what's happening with your credit? In this episode, Clinton and Todd emphasized the importance of monitoring credit reports, correcting errors, and being cautious when sharing credit card information online.By Clinton Wilkins Mortgage Team

1
Mortgage 101 - Anyone Can Own A Home 13:14

1y ago13:14

13:14

Blair Patterson joins your Mortgage 101 hosts once again to continue the conversation of pride in homeownership for Pride Month in Halifax! The three of them emphasize the need for support and resources to help members of the queer community fulfill their dream of homeownership.By Clinton Wilkins Mortgage Team

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Mortgage 101 - Pride in Homeownership 9:44

1y ago9:44

9:44

Clinton Wilkins, and Todd Veinotte invite Blair Patterson of Clinton Wilkins Mortgage Team to discuss some important things to note for the queer community when achieving homeownership, including affordability and safety.By Clinton Wilkins Mortgage Team