Resources & Insights

No-Nonsense, Just Real Mortgage

Advice from a Broker Who Cares

As a mortgage expert and advocate for smart homeownership, I’m here to provide you with the insights, tools, and guidance you need. Buying a home, investing in real estate, or refinancing your mortgage all come with important decisions, and this resource hub is packed with expert advice, real stories, and market updates to help you move forward with confidence.

I’m here to help you make the best financial decisions for your future.

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Helen Gonda

Associate Mortgage Broker

License #3000601

Expert Insights

Get access to up-to-date market trends, mortgage tips, and expert advice tailored to help you make informed financial decisions.

Real Stories & Advice

Learn from real-life experiences, success stories, and case studies that provide actionable takeaways for homebuyers, investors, and homeowners.

Tools & Resources

Take advantage of mortgage calculators, downloadable guides, and exclusive industry events designed to simplify your mortgage journey.

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New Construction Loan Buyer’s Guide

Your Ultimate Guide to Financing Your Dream Home

Don’t navigate construction financing alone. Our comprehensive guide walks you through.

  • Understanding construction loan types and how they work

  • The step-by-step loan process from pre-approval to completion

  • Budget planning with cost breakdowns

  • Timeline expectations for your construction project

  • Choosing between a mortgage broker and bank

  • Selecting the right builder and avoiding common pitfalls

Download Your Free Guide

Things to ask a mortgage broker

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes Gonda Mortgages different from banks and other mortgage brokers?

Unlike banks with one-size-fits-all programs, we offer customized mortgage solutions based on real experience. Helen combines financial expertise with hands-on construction and real estate investment experience, having flipped five properties herself. We fight persistently for approvals, structure applications creatively, and provide advice based on practical, in-the-field knowledge that comes from actively investing in properties and managing construction projects ourselves - not just reading about it in textbooks.

Do you specialize in particular types of mortgages?

Yes, our primary specialty is construction loans for both individual homeowners and small builders. We also excel in purchase plus improvement mortgages over $40K, investment property financing, newcomer mortgages, and self-employed mortgage solutions. With our connections to multiple specialized lenders, we can often secure approvals that banks would deny.

How much do I need for a down payment on a construction loan?

It depends on your situation. If you already own your land, you may be able to start building with no additional down payment by using your land equity to fund the project. For turn-key construction, expect a down payment of around 5%. We'll explore all options to minimize your upfront costs.

How long does the construction loan process take?

The entire process typically takes 6-12 months: 3-6 months for pre-construction (land acquisition, permits, planning) and 6-12 months for construction itself. Our clients usually receive pre-approval within 24 hours, allowing you to start planning with confidence right away.

What's the difference between a construction loan and a regular mortgage?

A construction loan provides funding in stages (draws) as your build progresses, with interest-only payments on disbursed amounts during construction. Once your home is complete and you receive an occupancy permit, the construction loan converts to a standard mortgage with regular principal and interest payments.

Can I get a construction loan if I'm self-employed?

Absolutely. We work with specialized lenders who understand self-employed individuals and their unique income situations. We'll help structure your application to highlight your financial strengths and ensure lenders see the complete picture of your financial stability.

Do you work with newcomers to Canada who want to secure a mortgage?

Yes, we have specific expertise helping newcomers navigate the Canadian mortgage system. As an immigrant herself, Helen understands the challenges you're facing. We offer bilingual services in English, Russian, and Ukrainian, and work with lenders who have programs designed for new Canadians.

Can you help with renovation mortgages for properties that need significant work?

Definitely. We specialize in Purchase Plus Improvements mortgages with no $40K cap like most lenders impose. Whether you're buying a fixer-upper or wanting to renovate your current home, we can help you access funding that covers both the purchase price and renovation costs in one mortgage.

What information do I need to provide for a mortgage pre-approval?

For an initial consultation, we'll need information about your income, assets, debts, and credit history. For a formal pre-approval, you'll need to provide documentation including identification, proof of income (T4s, NOAs, pay stubs), proof of down payment, and details about the property or construction project. We'll guide you through exactly what's needed.

How do construction loan draws work?

Construction loans typically involve 4 draws (though this can vary based on your project and lender). Each draw represents a stage of home completion—such as foundation, lock-up, drywall completion, and final completion. Funds are released after each stage is inspected and approved. We'll help you understand the draw schedule and plan your cash flow accordingly.

Still Have Questions? Let’s Talk!

If you didn’t find the answer you were looking for, reach out today, I’m here to help with expert advice and personalized solutions!

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Download our Canadian Mortgage App and get access to all premium tools to help plan your mortgage. It’s designed to help you quickly and easily navigate the complexity of mortgages.

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Homebuyer Resources

Mortgage Pre-Approval Checklist

Everything you need to get pre-approved quickly.

Mortgage Terminology Cheat Sheet

Simple explanations of key mortgage terms.

Hidden Costs of Buying

a Home

A breakdown of closing costs, fees, and expenses.

Free Downloads

Refinancing & Equity

Mortgage Renewal Checklist

Know your options before signing your renewal.

Debt Consolidation Worksheet

See how much you can save by consolidating debt into your mortgage.

Free Downloads

Investor & Commercial Resources

Real Estate Investment Guide

Strategies for building wealth through property.

Commercial Mortgage Basics

What you need to know about financing commercial properties.

Rental Property Cash Flow Calculator

Estimate your rental income and expenses.

Free Downloads

Mortgage Planning Tools

Self-Employed Mortgage Guide

Tips to get approved as a business owner.

Credit Score Improvement Checklist

Steps to boost your score for better rates.

Moving Checklist

Stay organized before, during, and after your move.

Resource Links

Trusted Sources From Other Websites

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We’ve Got You Covered!

(902) 414-2872

helen@gondamortgages.com

Halifax , Nova Scotia Canada

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