Under One Roof

This week on Under One Roof MTL, Fred, Martin, LJ and Robyn try to predict what will happen with interest rates and the Canadian economy in 2026. We also explain what condo fees are, where that money goes, and why condo owners sometimes end up with 4 and 5 figure special assessments. 

We're also joined by Robert Hogue, assistant chief economist at RBC, to break down where Canada's economy is headed in 2026, and what this means for the national housing markets. 

This week on Under One Roof, we're taking a look back at some of the biggest mortgage and real estate stories of 2025. From changes to condo and mortgage rules, to shifts in the Montreal real estate market, LJ, Fred and Martin break everything down for you, and tie it up with a neat little bow, just in time for the holidays!

This week on Under One Roof, LJ, Fred and Martin try to predict what the Bank of Canada will do with its final interested rate announcement this week. Plus, why are so many first-time homebuyers in the dark when it comes to closing costs?

We also discuss downsizing, and how to know if it's the right move for you. And, we're joined by best-selling author Jessica Moorhouse, to talk about the financial future of young Canadians, and how they can best set themselves up for success.

This week on Under One Roof MTL, LJ, Fred, Martin and Robyn discuss the average age of first time homebuyers creeping up past 40, as well as how Montreal's rental market has shifted recently. 

Plus, is flipping or long-term holding the better investment strategy in real estate right now? LJ has some advice for you on that front. 

And, Fred and Martin explain how you can use cryptocurrency (like Bitcoin) as a down payment on a home. 

This week on Under One Roof, Fred and Martin play couples counsellors, offering some solid advice for couples who are thinking about moving in together. 

LJ also breaks down what it looks like when a homebuyer submits a formal offer to purchase, and how they can protect themselves with conditions.

This week on Under One Roof, we're discussing 50 year mortgages, and just how much interest a homeowner would pay over the lifetime of a 50 year loan. And, could this product eventually become available in Canada?

LJ also takes a look at the Montreal real estate market, reviewing the October numbers that just came out. And, he has some advice for staging and showcasing your property so that it SELLS. 

Fred and Martin share some information that lenders don't tell you, AND we've got a ton of additional info about notaries that you don't want to m...

This week on Under One Roof MTL, we're exploring all of the different options available to the nearly 50% of Canadians whose mortgages are coming up for renewal in the next year. Should you renew, refinance, or consider a reverse mortgage?

We also look at the hottest neighbourhoods in Montreal real estate, and what makes these areas so hot right now.

And, Pattie Lovett-Reid, chief financial commentator at Home Equity Bank joins us to talk about CHIP reverse mortgages and whether they could be the right option for you.

This week on Under One Roof MTL, LJ is talking CURB APPEAL, and how maintaining the exterior or your home can help increase its resale value (and just make it a more pleasant place to live!). Plus, Fred and Martin explain how credit reports work, and what you need to be mindful of in the 60-90 days before a mortgage application to make sure you get approved and get the best possible interest rate. Speaking of interest rates, how's everyone feeling about the latest Bank of Canada decision to slash rates by .25%?

This week on Under One Roof MTL, LJ is back, and he's taking us along for the ride on the buyer's journey. Then, Fred and Martin break down the ABCs of pre-approvals. By the end of this episode, you'll know exactly what to expect, either as a first-time homebuyer, or as someone who is looking to get back into real estate investing for the first time in a long time. 

This week on Under One Roof, Fred and Martin are taking us to SCHOOL, to discuss housing uncertainty in Canada, answering YOUR mortgage questions, and explaining the stress test and pre-approval process.

This week on Under One Roof MTL, Robyn, Fred and Martin are joined by Montreal notary Anna Kamateros, to discuss a story out of Ontario that left a woman with a $660,000 tax bill. Could this situation have been avoided, and how can you make sure that you're setting up your kids for success with your will?

Plus, we talk about the changing face of first-time home buyers, as well as why so many Canadians are defaulting on their mortgage payments.

This week on Under One Roof MTL, Robyn, Fred, and Martin are once again joined by Thierry Bourbonnais from the Plex DR, to find out some of his craziest property management stories. 

We also discuss reverse mortgages and the pros and cons of using this product to improve your cash flow.

This week on Under One Roof, Fred, Martin and Robyn are joined by special guest Thierry Bourbonnais from the Plex DR to talk about property management, and how hiring a property manager can make life easier for landlords. 

They also discuss refinancing, and how homeowners can leverage the equity in their homes to consolidate debts, make home repairs, or even help their adult children buy their first home. 

This week on Under One Roof, LJ, Fred and Martin are talking about the Bank of Canada's most recent decision to slash interest rates by 25 basis points, and what this says about the current state of the Canadian economy. 

They also tackle the Statistics Canada report that finds more and more Canadians are falling into debt, how long consumer proposals remain on your credit report, which investment property offers the best return on investment, and whether you should go with a fixed or variable rate mortgage right now. 

In our first show back from the summer break, Robyn, Fred, Martin and LJ try to guess what the Bank of Canada will do with its remaining three interest rate announcements, based on the current states of the economy, the real estate market, employment, and more. 

Plus, we outline new rules for co-ownership in the province of Quebec, and how these new regulations impact condo owners, specifically.

And, we chat about bidding wars, and the sticker shock that 60% of mortgage holders in Canada will be facing when their mortgage comes up for renewal in 2025-2026. 

This week on Under One Roof MTL, LJ has a Montreal real estate market update for you. Plus, Fred and Martin will look at different strategies for paying down your mortgage and getting ahead. And, LJ walks us through the home buying process, from start to finish.

This week on Under One Roof MTL, we're tackling interest rates, and a new survey that finds many Canadians are prioritizing travel over home ownership. Plus, why it's important to stay on top of and understand what's in your credit report, and a breakdown of the real estate broker rules in Quebec.

This week on Under One Roof MTL, we're talking about reverse mortgages. How they work, who benefits most, etc. Plus, we're just a month away from moving day in Quebec. What do you need to know, both as a landlord and a tenant, to be ready?

This week on Under One Roof MTL, we're tackling the latest inflation numbers and what this could mean for the Bank of Canada's next interest rate announcement. We're also discussing the new federal housing minister's approach to the housing affordability crisis, and have some concrete tips for purchasing a cottage or vacation property. And, if you're interested in investing in a duplex, triplex, or multiplex, you won't want to miss LJ's advice!

This week on Under One Roof MTL, we're looking at the state of Montreal rental market, as well as what fixed rate mortgages are looking like right now. We also tackle why the rate isn't the most important part of your mortgage, AND home renovations you can make that actually add value to your property.

This week on Under One Roof MTL, we're talking about interest rates, mortgage renewal sticker shock, investment properties, and more. 

This week on Under One Roof MTL, we're recapping the results of Canada's federal election and the impact that might have on the Bank of Canada's interest rate announcements moving forward.

We also break down the difference between TDS and GDS ratios, AND outline why investing in real estate is a solid retirement strategy.

This week on Under One Roof MTL, we're joined in studio by Plex DR COO Thierry Bourbonnais, to discuss everything you ever wanted to know about property management. 

This week on Under One Roof MTL, we're discussing the Bank of Canada's decision to hold interest rates this week. We also talk about the "Quebec Effect" in Canadian real estate, offer advice on what to do if your mortgage is up for renewal, AND we dispel some common mortgage and real estate myths floating around on social media.

This week on Under One Roof MTL, we predict what the Bank of Canada will do with interest rates this week. Plus, a new report shows that condo sales are way up in Quebec. What's the situation in Montreal? And, everything you need to know about alternative lenders.

This week on Under One Roof, we're looking at what the federal political parties in terms of housing, including Mark Carney's ambitious promise to build 500,000 homes a year!

We also tackle mortgage penalties, and how to avoid them, as well as understanding all of the hidden costs that come with buying a home.

This week on Under One Roof, we run down what each federal party is promising on housing. We also go over the importance of credit scores, and how you can make sure your credit report is mortgage-ready. And, LJ has some tips for getting top dollar for your property when you sell, without sitting on the market for too long.

This week on Under One Roof, we discuss inflation ticking up to 2.6% for the month of February, and how this could impact interest rates and the real estate market. 

We also give advice on how to shop around for a mortgage like a pro, and how to be a great landlord who also makes some money, too.

This week on Under One Roof, we tackle the Bank of Canada's latest interest rate cut, and try to predict what they might do with their next few announcements. 

We also discuss refinancining your mortgage at length, specifically to pay down bad debts and get your finances back on track. 

And, we look at whether short or long-term rentals are the better investment for property owners. 

This week on Under One Roof, we talk about the economic uncertainty that Canada is facing, in light of tariffs from the US. We also discuss the Bank of Canada's upcoming interest rate announcement, different lending options available to Quebec borrowers, and give you some KEY insights and advice on purchasing investment properties. 

This week on Under One Roof, we explain the difference between a pre-approval and a pre-qualification. We also offer tips and tricks for first-time homebuyers to save up for their down payment, leveraging all of the programs and accounts available to them.

This week on Under One Roof, we talk about reverse mortgages, and whether this could the right option for homeowners who are either looking to fund their retirement, pay down some debts, increase their cash flow, or even help their adult children to pay for college or a down payment on a house of their own.

This week on Under One Roof MTL, LJ, Fred, Martin and Robyn talk about the CMHC's latest report, as well as January's home sale numbers for the month of January.

We also walk you through the homebuying process, from putting in an offer, to getting your keys.

This week on Under One Roof MTL, we discuss interest rates, and the impact that the continued threat of tariffs from the United States could have on Canada's economy. 

We also get into everything first-time homebuyers should know before they start looking for a house or condo. From the right questions to ask, to scheduling consultations with real estate and mortgage brokers, to repairing damaged credit, Fred, Martin and LJ have you covered!

This week on Under One Roof MTL, we discuss the 25% tariffs that Donald Trump levied against Canada over the weekend, and what sort of impact they might have on the Canadian economy, and interest rates. 

We also discuss the Bank of Canada's most recent interest rate announcement, a 25 basis point cut, and predict what might happen with the rest of their announcements this year.

This week on Under One Roof MTL, we discuss inflation dipping to 1.8% in December, and how this might impact the Bank of Canada's next interest rate announcement. 

We also talk about whether your interest rate or your loan conditions are the most important part of your mortgage, as well as rising Montreal rents, and the luxury real estate market boom.

This week on Under One Roof MTL, we offer advice for the 1.2 million Canadians whose mortgage comes up for renewal in 2025. What should you do to prepare, and how soon should you speak with a mortgage broker about your refinancing options?

Plus, we take a look at the Q4 real estate market numbers for Montreal, and answer YOUR questions!

We're baaaack! Join LJ Aguinaga (LJ Realties), Martin Spalding (Fred and Martin Mortgages) and Robyn Flynn (Robyn Flynn Media) for our first episode of Under One Roof MTL for 2025. 

This week, we try to predict what will happen with interest rates in 2025, as well as what we think home prices will do this year. And, how will the political uncertainty here in Canada and across the globe impact the Canadian real estate market... and yes, we do also discuss president-elect Donald Trump's threats to make Canada the 51st state. Could this actually happen!?

2024 was a busy year for mortgages and real estate. Homeowners saw decreasing interest rates, changes to the rules surrounding purchasing and selling homes. This week on Under One Roof MTL, we recap everything that happened in 2024, and look ahead to what we expect in 2025.

This week of Under One Roof MTL is a very special edition: home economics class is in session!

Among the topics covered in this week's show:

Household budget management - tips on allocating income, tracking spending, and using tools to stay financially organized.

Credit and debt management - insights on responsible credit use and debt management to maintain a healthy financial standing - building good credit, avoiding high-interest debt, and borrowing wisely.

Mortgages and homeownership - help individuals determine affordability, compare mortgage options, and plan for successful homeownership.

Insurance...

This week on Under One Roof MTL, we discuss the federal government's planned two-month GST break for Canadians, as well as the $250 checks they'll be cutting in the new year. Plus, with inflation up, what do we expect the Bank of Canada to do with their final rate announcement for 2024? And, everything you need to know about refinancing your mortgage to consolidate your debts.

This week on Under One Roof MTL, we talk about the current mortgage landscape, and whether or not the big banks are headed for a mortgage war. Also, we go over the pros and cons of a 10-year fixed mortgage, and discuss what will happen to all of the vacant office space now that most people either work from home, or only go into the office a few days a week.

This week on Under One Roof MTL, we discuss the impact of the US presidential election on the global economy, as well as the real estate market here in Canada. Plus, over 1.2 million mortgages are coming up for renewal next year. We help walk you through what to expect as homeowners. And, we chat about the difference in net work between homeowners and renters. The difference is staggering and might shock you!

This week on Under One Roof MTL, we discuss why variable rates are falling but fixed rates aren't. Plus, everything you need to know about mortgage penalties (ALWAYS READ THE FINE PRINT!). And, why multi-generational living is becoming more and more popular in Canada.

This week on Under One Roof MTL, we break down the financial implications of the Bank of Canada's latest interest rate cut, decreasing the overnight lending late by an additional 50 basis points, bringing the key rate to 3.75%. How will this cut impact the Canadian economy, and the real estate market?

Plus, we dive in (no pun intended) to recent changes in Montreal's flood zone map, and what this means for homeowners who now find themselves situated in flood zones. 

This week on Under One Roof MTL, Robyn, LJ and Martin discuss the latest inflation data, and try to guess what the Bank of Canada will do with interest rates this week. 

Plus, do Boomer and Gen X parents owe it to their Millennial and Gen Z kids to help them purchase their first home? 

And, everything you need to know about down payments!

This week on Under One Roof MTL, we try to predict what will happen with interest rates in Q4 2024. Plus, as interest rates keep coming down, should you go with a fixed or variable rate right now? Meanwhile, the bond market is heating up. What does this mean for homeowners, or people who are looking to buy a house right now?

We also explain what it means to break your mortgage, and go over the pros and cons of doing so, in addition to discussing how to get out of your lease, AND we have valuable tips...

We're baaaaack! Fred Pichette and Martin Spalding, of Fred and Martin Mortgages, are joined by LJ Aguinaga, of LJ Realties, to recap some of what happened in the housing market this market, including by not limited to a significant decrease in interest rates, changes to the stress test, and other rule changes by the federal government to (hopefully) make homeownership a little more attainable for young Canadian adults. 

This week on Under One Roof MTL, the gang chats about the capital gains tax rule changes that go into effect this week. Plus, they look at how the bond market impacts fixed rate mortgages, AND whether or not homeownership is realistically attainable for young adults without assistance from the bank of mom and dad.

This week on Under One Roof MTL, we're joined by Jean-Philippe Saumure from Equifax Canada, to discuss the latest Canadian consumer credit trends. Plus, we do a deep dive into whether a fixed or variable rate mortgage is the best option for homeowners right now, AND chat about the payment shock that many Canadians are experiencing as their mortgages come up for renewal at much higher interest rates.

This week on Under One Roof MTL, the team tackles the Bank of Canada's HUGE announcement this week to drop the overnight lending rate by 25 basis points. Plus, we'll tell you everything you need to know about credit reports, and fixing your credit score, as well as explain what a bridge loan is and when you might use one.

This week on Under One Roof MTL, we're joined by Mario Cloutier from Manulife, to talk about the different kinds of insurance products available to homeowners, and how they can determine which products are right for them and their families. 

We also chat about the Bank of Canada's upcoming interest rate announcement, as well as what Canadian home values continuing to increase means for both first-time homebuyers trying to enter the market, as well as retirees whose financial plans are tied up in their homes.

This week on Under One Roof MTL, we tackle the latest Canadian inflation data, and what this means for interest rates and the real estate market. Plus, we tackle how first-time homebuyers can improve their credit before applying for mortgage pre-approval. 

This week on Under One Roof MTL, we tackle interest rates, and (try to) predict what the Bank of Canada will do. Plus, we have tips and advice for firt-time homebuyers who are ready to enter the real estate market.

This week on Under One Roof MTL, we're joined by John Lambrinos, a Chartered Investment Manager and Financial Planner with BLD Wealth Management within National Bank Financial, to discuss succession planning. 

We'll also chat a little about the CMHC's annual report, as well as what a tenant's legal rights and responsibilities are when they decide not to renew their lease. 

This week on Under One Roof MTL, we're joined by David Siscoe, a Montreal tenant who found out he owes the CRA $43,000... because his landlord hadn't been paying her taxes. How did this happen? We'll break it down for you. 

Plus, is real estate a savvy investment strategy for retirement? And, is Montreal in trouble as the July 1st moving date approaches?

This week on Under One Roof MTL, we're joined in studio by Montreal real estate photographer, Corey Kaminski, to talk about the importance of working with an experienced professional when listing your property. Plus, is it a good idea to sell off your entire portfolio to purchase your dream home?

This week on Under One Roof MTL, we unpack the federal budget and how changes could impact the Canadian real estate market. Some of those changes include changes to the capital gains tax, an increase to the mortgage amortization period on new builds, and the maximum allowance for RRSP withdrawls. 

This week on Under One Roof MTL, we're joined in studio by Fred Abiaad, Business Development Manager with First National Financial, to discuss why your interest rate isn't the most important piece of your mortgage puzzle. 

This week on Under One Roof MTL, we chat about the federal government's plan to have rent payments be reflected on credit reports. We also dive into whether or not Canada is avoiding a recession, AND we're joined by Jean-Philippe Saumure from Equifax, to discuss credit delinquincies increasing in Canada. 

For more information, please check out our website at www.underoneroofmtl.com

This week on Under One Roof MTL, we discuss how remote work has changed the real estate market. We also speak about the benefits of working with a property manager to oversee your investment properties, AND we offer up some suggestions on the best ways to help your adult children purchase their first home.

On this week's episode of Under One Roof MTL, we're joined by Curtis Killen, President of KBD Insurance, to discuss the different kinds of insurance products available to both homeowners and tenants, as well as the benefits that come with having various policies, and the risks associated with foregoing insurance altoghether. 

This week on Under One Roof MTL, we're joined by Walter Assi, president of Renovco, to discuss eco-friendly upgrades you can make to make your home a little more GREEN. 

Plus, we'll discuss the growing popularity of intergenerational living, as well as how to prepare for your mortgage renewal.

This week on Under One Roof MTL, we're joined in studio by Joanne Vroom, the president of Unique Home Solutions, to discuss the advantages of staging your home prior to listing. Plus, we explain the benefits of refinancing your home to consolidate your debts and keep your finances in order. 

This week, we're joined in studio by Eric Cherbaka, Business development manager at HomeEquity Bank, to discuss reverse mortgages, how they work, and who benefits the most from them. Plus, will the Bank of Canada REALLY cut interest rates in HALF by the end of next year?

This week on Under One Roof MTL, we answer YOUR questions about housing, mortgages and rentals. We also tackle the latest news on Bill 31 and how Quebec's new housing law impacts both tenants and landlords. Plus, what the average cost of rent across Canada means for tenants. 

This week on Under One Roof MTL, Robyn, Fred, Martin and LJ are joined by Arnie Zwaig, Portfolio Manager & Senior Wealth Advisor at Scotia Mcleod, to discuss what's the most effective way to save for a down payment for your first home. Plus, we'll take a look at how the way we park our cars could be impacting the housing shortage, AND how high interest rates are negatively impacting Canadians' love lives.

This week on Under One Roof MTL, registered home inspector Charles Cobden joins us in studio to answer YOUR questions on home inspections. Plus, we'll address whether or not housing affordability will ever return to pre-pandemic levels, and explain what title insurance is. 

This week on Under One Roof MTL, why you should ALWAYS do your due dilligence before buying a property, what to look for when you choose a real estate broker, AND the differences between variable and fixed rate mortgages.

Under One Roof MTL is a weekly one-hour radio show and podcast focused on demystifying the often intricate realm of home ownership. The show is hosted by Robyn Flynn with regular expert insights from LJ Aguinaga, Fred Pichette, and Martin Spalding. 

Under One Roof is a weekly one-hour radio show and podcast focused on demystifying the often intricate realm of home ownership. The show is hosted by Robyn Flynn with regular expert insights from LJ Aguinaga, Fred Pichette, and Martin Spalding. This week, we try to predict what will happen with interest rates, as well as explain the difference between pre-qualification and pre-approval. Under One Roof is brought to you by Fred and Martin Mortgages and LJ Realties