This month on The Mortgage Show on CKNW, we had the privilege of interviewing David Chilton, author of The Wealthy Barber. I first read his book at 17, and his common-sense approach to money continues to help Canadians build confidence in a time where everything costs more. We discussed simple strategies that can make a real difference, including: – Saving and investing using the FHSA, TFSA, RRSP, RESP and RDSP – How a 5% down payment and 30-year mortgage can be a smart starting point – When debt consolidation through your mortgage may improve cash flow – Why living at home longer can be a financial advantage – The importance of protecting income with the right insurance Whether you’re planning a purchase, a renewal, a debt reset, or helping a young adult get started, this conversation is worth sharing. Watch or Listen: Video: Youtube – Angela Calla & David Chilton Podcast: Spotify – The Mortgage Show If you’d like help applying any of these ideas or connecting with one of our trusted financial advisors, we’re here simply reply to this email.

Today, the Bank of Canada released its latest interest rate update. As expected, rates did not change. Read the press release HERE

 Even with rates holding steady, this remains one of the most important times to plan ahead. The households that prepare now will be in the strongest position going into 2026.

 Here are three strategic steps you can take today—regardless of rate movement—to strengthen your cashflow, reduce financial stress, and make confident decisions about your next move.

 1. Review your tax-efficient accounts

 We can connect you with our trusted financial planning partners to ensure your savings and investment accounts are structured correctly and maximizing your tax advantages.

 Key opportunities include:

FHSA (First Home Savings Account):

Ideal for first-time buyers planning to purchase within the next 15 years.

 RRSP contribution strategy:

Whether you’re a homeowner or a future buyer, RRSP contributions can reduce your tax bill. If you receive a refund, you can use it to:

 Reduce outside debt

 Boost savings

 Pay down your mortgage

 Small adjustments today can lead to significant long-term benefits.

 2. Review outside debt and improve monthly cashflow

 If you’re carrying debt outside your mortgage—such as a car loan, credit cards, or a line of credit—this may be the right time to reassess your overall strategy.

 By restructuring the mortgage for many clients, we’ve improved monthly cashflow by $500 to $2,000 per month, without requiring them to move or take on additional work.

 A short review may reveal opportunities you have not considered.

 3. Start your 2026 mortgage renewal plan early

 If your mortgage is renewing in 2026, beginning your planning now provides a major advantage.

 Early renewal preparation allows you to:

 Understand your full range of options

 Avoid pressure from quick-deadline lender offers

 Choose a strategy with clarity and confidence

 Potentially save thousands over the next term

 The more time we have, the more we can do for you.

 Set yourself up for a successful 2026

 We’re here to help you understand your options, protect your cashflow, and make smart financial decisions that support your long-term goals.

 If you would like a mortgage review, a debt consolidation review, or an introduction to our financial planning partners, simply reply to this email or give us a call.

Angela Calla is a mortgage renewal and debt elimination expert with over 20 years of industry experience. She is also a multi-award-winning mortgage professional. Since beginning as a mortgage broker in 2004, Angela has helped thousands of Canadians optimize their mortgage strategies, eliminate debt, and build wealth through real estate.

She is the best-selling author of The Mortgage Code, which equips readers with the tools to make informed financial decisions. Additionally, she is the host of Canada’s longest-running finance radio show on CKNW, where she simplifies mortgage advice and empowers listeners to take control of their financial futures.

Angela has been recognized as Business Leader of the Year (2020) by the Tri-Cities Chamber of Commerce and Entrepreneur of the Year (2019) by the City of Port Coquitlam. She is also a sought-after speaker and educator, delivering accredited training for real estate boards across Greater Vancouver.

Angela is a frequent go-to source for media and publishers across the country. For media interviews, speaking inquiries, or personal mortgage assistance, please contact Angela at hello@countoncalla.ca or at 604-802-3983.

Click here to view the latest news on our blog. 

 

Bank of Canada Holds Policy Rate Steady Today, the Bank of Canada held the policy rate steady at 2.25%. This is the bottom of the Bank’s estimate of the neutral overnight rate, where monetary policy is neither expansionary nor contractionary. With inflation hovering just above 2% and core inflation between 2.5% and 3%, the Governing Council sees the current overnight rate as “about right.” According to the press release, “The Bank expects final domestic demand to grow in the fourth quarter, but with an anticipated decline in net exports, GDP will likely be weak. Growth is forecast to pick up in 2026, although uncertainty remains high and large swings in trade may continue to cause quarterly volatility.” In the United States, economic growth is supported by strong consumption and a surge in AI investment. The US Federal Reserve is likely to cut its policy rate by 25 bps to 3.5%-3.75% as President Trump lobbies Chair Jay Powell for more dramatic rate cuts. Bottom Line The Bank of Canada has shown its willingness to bolster the Canadian economy amid unprecedented trade uncertainty. At the same time, Canada is working hard to establish alternative trade partners. Even the vast Chinese market cannot replace the US in terms of proximity and cost-effectiveness, given the high transport costs. China has stepped up its purchases of Canadian oil to record levels. There is no market the size of the US market to replace exports of steel and aluminum. The US will also suffer economic impacts from withdrawing from the Canada-US-Mexico free trade deal. A renegotiation of the contract is likely to come before the end of next year. As of now, the US is signalling their desire to exit the agreement. We can only hope that cooler heads will prevail. These are challenging times, the surprisingly strong economic data notwithstanding. Consumer and business confidence is down, and the housing market is still weak, especially in the Greater Goldeen Horseshoe. In this environment, market-driven interest rates have risen sharply. The 5-year bond yield is once again attempting to break through 3%. The 2-year bond at 2.67% is well above the overnight rate, and the Canadian dollar is rising. Lenders have recently increased fixed mortgage rates, which will be more popular if people generally expect rates to rise. The key to the outlook is the continuation of CUSMA. We will likely suffer several more months of uncertainty before we know the fate of the trade agreement. Dr. Sherry Cooper Chief Economist, Dominion Lending Centres drsherrycooper@dominionlending.ca

 

 

Angela Calla is a mortgage renewal and debt elimination expert with over 20 years of industry experience. She is also a multi-award-winning mortgage professional. Since beginning as a mortgage broker in 2004, Angela has helped thousands of Canadians optimize their mortgage strategies, eliminate debt, and build wealth through real estate.

She is the best-selling author of The Mortgage Code, which equips readers with the tools to make informed financial decisions. Additionally, she is the host of Canada’s longest-running finance radio show on CKNW, where she simplifies mortgage advice and empowers listeners to take control of their financial futures.

Angela has been recognized as Business Leader of the Year (2020) by the Tri-Cities Chamber of Commerce and Entrepreneur of the Year (2019) by the City of Port Coquitlam. She is also a sought-after speaker and educator, delivering accredited training for real estate boards across Greater Vancouver.

Angela is a frequent go-to source for media and publishers across the country. For media interviews, speaking inquiries, or personal mortgage assistance, please contact Angela at hello@countoncalla.ca or at 604-802-3983.

Click here to view the latest news on our blog. 

Some financial books make an impact — and then there are those rare few that change the way an entire country thinks about money.

For millions of Canadians, David Chilton’s The Wealthy Barber is that book.

I was only 17 years old when I read it for the first time, and it completely reshaped how I thought about financial security, decision-making, and preparing for the future. I had no idea then that the lessons I learned from those pages would become the foundation of both my personal financial journey and the career I built helping Canadians navigate home ownership with confidence.

And today, that story has come full circle.

I’m thrilled to share that David Chilton joined me on The Mortgage Show to discuss the newly revised edition of The Wealthy Barber — updated for today’s economy, today’s challenges, and today’s opportunities.

 Watch the Interview HERE

Whether you’re a first-time buyer, a seasoned homeowner, or someone finally ready to take control of your financial future, this episode is packed with perspective-shifting conversation.

 What We Talked About

• David and I explored the financial habits that still matter most — even as markets, interest rates, and tools evolve. Some of the key themes we covered include:
•  Why timeless lessons still matter more than market noise
• Chasing trends rarely builds wealth — but discipline, consistency, and calm decision-making do.
•  The surprising new tools Canadians can use to get ahead
• We touched on FHSAs, TFSAs, longer amortizations, and how strategic mortgage planning can support long-term wealth.
•  The difference between surviving financially and building true freedom
• We explored the idea that smart financial decisions aren’t about luck — they’re about systems, mindset, and accessible advice.
•  Why good advice doesn’t have to be complicated

David’s signature message is as relevant today as it was decades ago:

Small, repeatable decisions — done well — create lasting results.

 Why This Matters for Homeowners (and Future Homeowners)

Today’s mortgage landscape can feel overwhelming — rates change, rules shift, and headlines don’t always offer clarity.

But conversations like this remind us: you don’t need to navigate it alone.

Working with trusted professionals — whether it’s a mortgage broker, planner, or advisor — can help you:

• Reduce financial stress
• Avoid costly mistakes
• Build a mortgage strategy, not just a payment
• Create long-term security, not short-term survival
• Financial literacy is the foundation.
• Smart guidance is the structure.
• Your goals are the blueprint.

 Resources Mentioned

The Wealthy Barber (Revised Edition) — by David Chilton

The Mortgage Code — by Angela Calla (available on Amazon or at CountOnCalla.ca)

Together, these books offer simple, relatable, actionable strategies that Canadians can use immediately to improve their financial lives.

This conversation isn’t just an interview — it’s a reminder that the most powerful financial transformations often start with one moment, one mindset shift, or one piece of advice.

If this episode sparks your curiosity, inspires questions, or makes you rethink your mortgage, debt strategy, or long-term plan — I’d love to support you.

Want Guidance on Your Mortgage Strategy?

Book a complimentary review with our team:

 CallaTeam@CountOnCalla.ca

 angelacallca.ca

 Instagram & Facebook: @AngelaCallaMortgageTeam

No pressure. No confusing jargon.

Just clear, caring, Canadian-focused advice.

Angela Calla is a mortgage renewal and debt elimination expert with over 20 years of industry experience. She is also a multi-award-winning mortgage professional. Since beginning as a mortgage broker in 2004, Angela has helped thousands of Canadians optimize their mortgage strategies, eliminate debt, and build wealth through real estate.

She is the best-selling author of The Mortgage Code, which equips readers with the tools to make informed financial decisions. Additionally, she is the host of Canada’s longest-running finance radio show on CKNW, where she simplifies mortgage advice and empowers listeners to take control of their financial futures.

Angela has been recognized as Business Leader of the Year (2020) by the Tri-Cities Chamber of Commerce and Entrepreneur of the Year (2019) by the City of Port Coquitlam. She is also a sought-after speaker and educator, delivering accredited training for real estate boards across Greater Vancouver.

Angela is a frequent go-to source for media and publishers across the country. For media interviews, speaking inquiries, or personal mortgage assistance, please contact Angela at hello@countoncalla.ca or at 604-802-3983.

Click here to view the latest news on our blog. 

Welcome to the December issue of my monthly newsletter! December is the month of holidays and festive traditions – and also the season of incredibly high stress levels. If you need some fresh ideas on how to destress, give one of these a try: Forget Perfection! Getting something 90% done and letting go of the 10% of perfecting can help check things off your to-do list. Besides, no event is perfect… and that’s what makes great memories! Keep the mantra ‘water off a duck’s back’ in your mind for all the hiccups you encounter. Set Boundaries! Remember – it’s okay to say no to things. You don’t have to attend everything, make every recipe, shop for every person, and so on. Set a boundary that balances showing up for others and maintaining your own well-being. Share Tasks! Don’t try to do everything yourself! If you’re hosting, have guests bring things like food items, drinks, or whatever else you need – or invite a few to come early and help set up or stay late to help clean up. Hopefully these tips help keep you grounded during this busy season. Now on to this month’s content! 2026 Financial Resolutions: Set Yourself Up for Success  December is a great time to start thinking about your 2026 finances. We have three big questions to ask yourself which will help course correct and set you up to meet your financial goals in the New Year. But before we get that deep, let’s cover a few financial basics – and know that it’s okay if you’re still working on these steps: Prioritize paying off high interest debt. That means credit cards with 20% rates and similar items. Consider a consolidation loan if you have multiple debts with rates over 15%. Automate your savings. If you don’t already have an automatic withdrawal from your main checking account, set one up! Even just $50 a pay cheque can make a difference. Forgive yourself for past mistakes. If you haven’t been responsible financially in the past, it’s okay! Let go of that and know you can do better, starting right now and building better financial habits. Check your credit score. If you have a blemish or need to build it up, work on paying bills on time, in full, every time. Close unused credit cards or other form of debt. Now let’s dive into the three big questions we mentioned at the beginning. Question 1: When was the last time you reviewed your accounts?  Looking at your accounts on a monthly or quarterly basis is a great financial habit. A few action items: Check your statements for unauthorized or unrecognized transactions Identify preauthorized debits and cancel things you really don’t use Question 2: What are you saving for?  Saving in general is great, but having specific goals and seeing progress as you work towards them is even better. You likely want to save for retirement, go on vacation, buy a new home, have an emergency reserve, etc. Once you’ve established what you’re saving for, it’ll be easier to make sacrifices when you really need to. Here are two ways to get and stay on track in 2026: Get organized: Some folks like to have more than one account; others have a spreadsheet or app that tracks progress. Either way, keeping track and visualizing your progress is important. Build on your success: Investing what you save will help compound your success. For short term savings, you’ll want to take less risk, so a savings account with low interest is probably a good bet. But for longer term goals, investing will bring you higher returns. Your best bet is to speak to a financial advisor or licensed professional for tailored advice. Question 3: Do your spending habits need an audit (or an edit)?  More of a statement than a question here, as it’s a great way to better understand your financial habits and motivations. Start by reviewing your last three months of credit card and bank statements. Pay attention to spending patterns and see if you notice anything you’d like to improve on. Maybe you want to eat out less, ban yourself from Sephora… whatever your vice is, take note of it. Another aspect of a successful edit is improving your own financial literacy. Pick topics you’re interested in and listen to a few podcasts or videos. A few to consider: Maximizing different types of investment accounts Asset classes (fixed income, equities, commodities) Alternative asset classes (real estate, collectibles, cryptocurrencies) Compounding interest (both on debt and investments) Improved financial literacy = more informed financial decisions. As we wrap up this discussion on financial resolutions, here’s one last piece of advice: take the emotion out of your finances. Identifying your goals, improving your knowledge, and setting up a plan to succeed will take your goals to the next level.

A DIY Holiday: Creative Ideas for Homemade Gifts These days, a homemade gift is a real treasure. The ideas below require a few crafting basics, small (mostly online) purchases, or thrift store trips – but they’ll leave great impressions on any recipient! If you try any of them out, I’d love to see a picture of the results!   Clay Magnet Sets: Get some white air-dry clay and a few basic colours of paint from a craft store or online. Roll the clay out to 1-2cm thickness and use cookie cutters to punch out shapes. Paint the shapes as ornaments, snowflakes, trees, or whatever other festive items you like. If you want a durable finish, you can seal the dried and painted clay with a coating like varnish, mod podge or acrylic sealant. Once dry, super glue some strong magnets to the back. Make as many sets as you want to give! Custom Potato Prints: Make a custom stamp out of a potato and look out world! All you need to do is cut a potato in half and carve the inside to the shape you want (a star, tree, holly, stocking, whatever). Make it easier by using a cookie cutter and punching an outline in the half-potato – then cut off the excess. Get some paint and use your potato stamp on anything from a canvas tote bag to denim to blank cards. Or, make custom wrapping paper by stamping the large sheets of crumpled paper from your last online shopping order. Teacup Candles: Get yourself a candle making kit – which needs to include wax, wicks, and a melting vessel at minimum. Pillage your unused China cabinet or visit a thrift store and pick out some teacup and plate sets (or other mugs or jars you want to use). Finally, you’ll want some dried herbs, dried flowers, essential oils, or other candle enhancers. Once you have everything, melt the wax in the vessel using a double boiler method. Dip the wick into the wax and stick it to the bottom of the teacup. Pour the melted wax into the teacup and add your scents or whatever else you’re using – stir gently. Leave it to firm up for 24 hours, trim down the wick if it’s too long, and you’re ready to wrap these up! Hand Painted Bottle: Upgrade the classic wine gift by painting the bottle itself! You can use some basic craft paints and brushes (from a dollar store, craft store, or Amazon) and design a beautiful pattern of holly, a string of lights, a winter scene, write their names, a nice message, or whatever else you want. This small gesture will make your gift instantly more memorable and is still a great consumable for the person who has everything. Homemade Bath Bombs: Get a silicone mold in a cute shape. Combine 1 cup baking soda, ½ cup each of Epsom salts and citric acid, scents (like ground cinnamon or ginger by the teaspoon, or essential oils a ½ teaspoon at a time), and 2 tablespoons of melted coconut oil. Combine the ingredients, using a spray bottle with water to gradually moisten the dough until it forms a dry-ish paste that will hold a shape. Smush it into the silicone mold until the shapes are about ¾ full and let them dry for 24 hours. Pop the shapes out, package a few together, and you’ve got a great gift! Economic Insights from Dr. Sherry Cooper The Canadian housing market is showing a cautious recovery, though regional differences remain stark. Affordability has improved slightly as mortgage rates ease, yet high prices in major cities continue to shape buyer behaviour. Regional Conditions BC & Ontario (Buyer’s Markets): These remain the least affordable provinces, with softer sales, declining prices, and slowing condo construction due to weaker investor demand. Ontario’s slowdown is further pressured by U.S. tariff impacts. Alberta (Balanced): Construction is easing from previous highs but remains stable. Prices are steady, driven mainly by resident buyers rather than investors. Quebec (Balanced, Fast-Growing): Prices are up 8.2% year-over-year with strong sales. Momentum is expected to continue into 2026. Prairies – SK & MB (Seller’s Markets): Low inventory and strong job growth are driving significant gains. Saskatchewan is expected to close out the year up 9.3% and Manitoba up 7%. Atlantic Canada (Seller’s Markets): Nova Scotia, New Brunswick, and Newfoundland continue to outperform with 5%–10% price gains fueled by steady demand and limited supply. National Trends Home sales expected to fall 1.1% in 2025, driven by softness in BC, AB, and ON. National average price projected to decline 1.4% to $676,705, largely due to BC/ON weakness. Outside those provinces, most regions are seeing 4%–9% price growth. Market tightness in Quebec, the Prairies, and Atlantic Canada is helping maintain price strength. A rebound is anticipated in 2026, with prices rising 3.2% and sales climbing more than 7%. What’s Driving the Market? Slower population growth due to reduced immigration levels. Lower mortgage rates and updated lending rules. Declining investor activity, particularly in due to the condo crisis in Toronto and Vancouver. Provinces Poised for the Strongest Price Growth in 2026 The strongest gains are expected in regions with tight supply, strong in-migration, and better affordability – specifically Saskatchewan, Manitoba, Quebec, New Brunswick and Nova Scotia all have over 5% projected growth. In BC and Alberta, you can expect normalizing market conditions without nominal growth, if any at all. Demographic Trends Behind 2026 Growth A wave of interprovincial migration is reshaping the housing map. Canadians are moving from high-cost provinces like Ontario and BC toward more affordable regions such as Saskatchewan, Manitoba, and Atlantic Canada. Even with reduced immigration targets, newcomers continue to add pressure to family-oriented markets—especially in Quebec and the Atlantic provinces. Younger buyers and families are gravitating to provinces with better affordability and job prospects, while retirees are increasing demand for accessible, lower-cost housing. Persistent supply shortages in these fast-growing regions amplify price pressures. And that’s a wrap for December! Wishing you and yours all the best this festive season. Happy holidays!

Angela Calla is a mortgage renewal and debt elimination expert with over 20 years of industry experience. She is also a multi-award-winning mortgage professional. Since beginning as a mortgage broker in 2004, Angela has helped thousands of Canadians optimize their mortgage strategies, eliminate debt, and build wealth through real estate.

She is the best-selling author of The Mortgage Code, which equips readers with the tools to make informed financial decisions. Additionally, she is the host of Canada’s longest-running finance radio show on CKNW, where she simplifies mortgage advice and empowers listeners to take control of their financial futures.

Angela has been recognized as Business Leader of the Year (2020) by the Tri-Cities Chamber of Commerce and Entrepreneur of the Year (2019) by the City of Port Coquitlam. She is also a sought-after speaker and educator, delivering accredited training for real estate boards across Greater Vancouver.

Angela is a frequent go-to source for media and publishers across the country. For media interviews, speaking inquiries, or personal mortgage assistance, please contact Angela at hello@countoncalla.ca or at 604-802-3983.

Click here to view the latest news on our blog.