Beer(s), Bike(s) & Mortgage(s)
Michael Hallett • October 6, 2015
I'm sure the only reason why you clicked on this blog link was because of the title as it seemed a bit strange, I too would be curious. Why would a Mortgage Expert publish a blog about BEER, BIKES and MORTGAGES! Simple, all 3 share a common thread with me...they all interest me for various different reasons and plus I felt the need to spice up my website content. Now that you are here, it's my job to keep you reading until the end. I was tired of writing about the norm; comparing mortgage products, saving thousands of dollars, the dos and don'ts of... and 'this' vs 'that.' So here in lies the blog I started writing a few months back that covers BEER, mountain BIKE(ing) and MORTGAGE financing. They have each intertwined themselves into my life and really do go hand in hand...or hand to mouth as one might say. Bear with me, if you do stick around to the end, I will connect the dots.
For me, all three are gratifying on an individual levels. Once you have acquired a taste for beer, tasting a new beer for the first time is exciting; will I enjoy it or not? How visually captivating is the packaging? What lasting memory will be connected as beer is usually enjoyed in a social setting. Riding bikes provides me with a platform for exploration, something I have loved since childhood. Setting my tires into to uncharted dirt instantly provokes an unwipeable smile on my face as I navigate each and every corner of the unknown. Needless to say I've had a few social beers after riding numerous bike trails across this fine province of ours. The Mortgage financing industry is very similar to the riding uncharted territory and enjoying a new flavor of beer, as I never know when or from where I will receive my next client referral. With every new client comes a new challenge of uncharted territory; no mortgage or scenario is the same as the previous one. I have to gather all the clients intel and to compile their data which will enable me to structure their mortgage application accordingly. While at the same time listening to their needs and wants so that they can attain their goals while pursuing a certain lifestyle. Much like riding bikes, we have to react quickly to what is around the next corner. Being a expert mortgage consultant requires the same tactic as we react to the marketplace on a daily basis.
To address 'the elephant in the room'...NO, I don't drink excessive amounts of beer. I do however like to try various flavors, especially nowadays with the whole craft beer scene upon us in Vancouver and the surrounding areas. We as consumers have been able to step away from the 'big-box' tasteless beers into something way more palatable. I'm sure we will soon see restaurateurs pairing beer with meals, just like the wine industry does so well. I once asked a friend 'what' beer I could grab him from the fridge, his response was, "cold," that has since stuck with as there is nothing better that a cold beer. As I am not here to shame or promote brands, I must say there are a few exceptions to that rule.
Another trait that three topics share are the huge choice of options within each space. There are thousands of different beer brands with each producing several within. How is one supposed to choose, as not all beers are going to be liked by every taste bud. It's a good thing the providers have come up with tasting flights. This is a way to try multiple flavors of the same brand. The same issue comes with buying a bike, which brand? Which model, as each model caters to a different type of discipline in the world of mountain biking. Not every bike engineered will suite every riders personal riding style. For me it is easy, I have a friend who spends thousands of dollars on bikes each year and countless hours reading forums and articles about bikes; whatever he does...I do as we enjoy the same type of riding! I guess I need to buy the Santa Cruz Nomad (OK, there my one shameless plug). For now I'm stuck with 1 bike that does everything well, kinda like a variable rate mortgage. I call it my Swiss Army knife of bikes, it climbs and descends like a dream.
Being a mortgage expert I have access to countless different lenders that cover endless mortgage scenarios and solutions. First and foremost I educate myself on the wants and needs of the client, then advise. All mortgage consumers should create a relationship with one mortgage expert. Once that is set in stone the stress of 'shopping,' knowing if you are getting the best product or having to re-explain your story along with goals again and again goes out the window. Not every mortgage is designed to fulfill each financing consumers needs. That's why each industry described in this piece has professionals to guide us through the options.
The ultimate situation for me is when I can tie all 3 of these topics into one scenario. On numerous occasions I've had the opportunity to ride a bike trail that I have never ridden before, while at the end enjoying a crisp refreshing beer all the while sharing the moment with a new client. I've had the chance to do this several times in my mortgage career and it's an awesome feeling. You know you have a client for life when you can connect with them on a social level. This business isn't about spending thousands of dollars on marketing, it's much simpler...business filters down through friendship and commonality. A good beer, a fresh new loamy trail and a proven mortgage expert should never be kept a secret. As humans we should be socially responsible to educate each other and share information.
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One of the most common questions, “how long does it take to get pre-qualified?” My response, “how fast can you provide the information I need.”
Playing in the forest today. Always fun exploring. #mountainbikingmortgagebroker
Mortgage Brokering meets mountain biking and craft beer. A couple months ago I set for a bike ride with the intention of answering few mortgage related questions, mission accomplished. Any good bike ride pairs nicely with a tasty beer which we enjoyed @parksidebrewery. Hope you see the passion I have for brokering, biking and beer. @torcabikes #mountainbikingmortgagebroker
My thighs were cold all day, it was ‘that’ deep. I was choking on snow all day.
The weather report was 36 cm of new snow, it was more like 45-50 cm of light deep powder. Insane day of skiing.
Spotted a ski-bunny today @kirstinjhallett so I trapped ‘er. 📸 credit @troy.hartley
Aidan leading the pack up the Lemming Line in seek of fine fresh powder.
Beautiful British Columbia! A cold winter day at its finest.
Aidan and I braved the -19C temperature and windy conditions for the boot to knee deep turns...it was a no-brainer.
Happy Holidays. Seasons Greetings. Merry Christmas. All the best from Kirstin, Aidan and Michael. Enjoy your family time.
Snow report for today was boot to knee deep in places. Simply an awesome day rippin’ with the kids, I had to show them that I still got it. 📷 credit @jhalskiing
It’s that time of year for my annual post, the Christmas Tree pilgrimage. The only that changes year after year is that Aidan gets taller! Not to worry though, the Canadian tuxedo jacket remains the same. HAPPY HOLIDAYS everyone. Much love to all.
Fresh wood in the morning...where is this treasure trail going to take me?
TEASER alert...at thats what I think they call it in the business. Years ago a wrote a blog called BEERS BIKES AND MORTGAGES. I some how (in my head) blended all 3 topics into 1 blog. Simply put, I enjoy aspects of all 3 with each of them providing something different. I re-united with the talented Regan Payne on a project that I think will shed a bit more light on who I am and what I do. #craftbeer #mountainbike #mortgagebrokerbc #dlccanadainc
Here is to looking forward past injuries, feels good to be riding again. It was a 18 week grind!
Extreme tubing, watch until the end. Aidan manages to hold on.
Lake life as a passenger is a good life. Captain @kirstinjhallett . #woodlake #kalamakalake
Yet another reason why our license plates say BEAUTIFUL BRITISH COLUMBIA on them. An evening enjoy the view on Pitt Lake.
Surfing! Don’t need functioning hands to surf. It was nice to do something active. Thanks @jordspring #sakinaw
Good thing there were a few other vehicles with winches on the front.
He was OK, thumbs up. The roll cage and 5-point seat belt did its job.
My sons intro to operating a side-by-side on his own. Watch to the end.
The Lookout over looking Tulameen BC. Took some 4x4ing to get there, but we did it.
The day started out great. Exploring the back country roads of BC, Stave Lake area. Views of Alouette Lake in the background
Impromptu ride on Burke. I dreamed of the day Aidan would ask to go for a ride...today was the day, “Dad do you want to go for a ride?” Heck ya, let’s go! This was a fun feature at the end.
An afternoon of exploring the Stave Lake zone. Planning to return soon once the snow melts to get some vertical.
Found a fun little gap-drop to session. I have my moments when I like my tires leaving the ground.
This would have been a fun stunt once upon a time!
And so it begins...another tool for adventuring! So different so fun!
You know it’s steep when your hand is touching the snow, high risk high reward.
The snow report suggested 8 cm had fallen, it was more like 25-30 cm.
Now that he has a dirt bike the hunt is on for me too. This is the first ride trying to figure out the timing of the throttle, clutch and brake...second ride was even better.
Exploring Pinecone Burke Provincial Park a month ago with @troy.hartley. Standing in the site of the old ski lodge.
A well weathered tree coming through yet another winter with Yak Peak 2,039 metres in the background. Putting my limited artist talent to the test, these iPhones and filters making anybody a photographer.
A successful reconnaissance mission we crossed Falls Lake, ski toured up towards Zopkios Peak 1921 m. It was a exceptional picnic destination. The skiing was shit!
Who’s is going to go first?...I’ll go if you don’t! No friends on a powder day! @j_penner70 📷 @sheascottcolpitts
An epic day. Everything was perfect. Depth of Snow. Visibility. Temperature. Even the company.
In the green room today on the best coast amidst winter...not a bad place. 📷 @dgm_images
I saw this hat on Instagram, that very moment I knew I needed it. As a BC boy born and bred The Outdoorsman hat needed to be added to my collection. As someone who loves BC and most things outdoor, I’m now glad I have a cool hat to wear and fly the flag of BEAUTIFUL BRITISH COLUMBIA. It will be in my bag for all post-exploration celebratory cold pints. If you want to check them out or add one to your collection go to @nineoclockgun ...and yes my facial hair matches the hat as well.
When two of your ski buddies are 13 years old, you know you’re raising rippers. @paigerriley
My ski buddy getting untracked turns. It was knee to thigh deep all day for him, only shin to knee for me.
We went for a snowshoe this afternoon, but we probably should have considered taking our flippers instead. Our timing was off by one day.
From sea to snow capped peaks, it’s obvious why Vancouver and BC continue to be one of the best places to live. It’s engraved on our license plates, BEAUTIFUL BRITISH COLUMBIA.
Ancient blue glacier ice craving out deep valleys. It’s pretty cool standing underneath one...photo credit @dustanwoodhouse
This is a great start to the day!
No better way to share the great outdoors than with friends. @troy.hartley @mike_ilic711 @j_penner70
The ski out back to the truck was more of an adventure than we bargained for...
Exploring the BC backcountry, it did not disappoint...it never really does.
Thank god we are all narcissistic and have the ability to take pictures of ourselves 🤪. This is taken pre-turkey dinner, I’m sure we will all be back in our comfy clothes soon! Merry Christmas!
The crew shredding some turns , it was a 23,000 vertical foot kind of day.
Happy belated Hanukah, Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays to all. Be sure to enjoy the festivities.
Top of Swan Falls. I’ve said it many times before and I will say it again, our license plates say it all. BEAUTIFUL BRITISH COLUMBIA. #gooutside
The coveted annual mission to get our Xmas tree, with of course my Canadian tuxedo jacket on.
Yet another reason (unlimited really...) of why the Left Coast is the best coast! @tami0777
Moss, a non-vascular plant and Mother Nature’s carpet reclaiming the forest.
Capitalizing on a break in the wet coast rain storms.
Just follow the brown line switchbacking through Mother Nature. She’s so damn beautiful!
Day 3 for Black Magic was a bit snowier than initially expected. Thanks to the person who took a few minutes to build a snow creature.
Beauty day for a ride! I should have considered bringing my touring skis.
The West Coast is the Best Coast. #nofliter at sunset.
This was Day 1 on my @yt_industries Capra Pro 29. I thought the last bike was the best, it was a Capra Pro 27. I never thought the small differences in geometry and wheel size would have such a huge positive impact on my riding. Boy was I wrong! Best bike ever!
Oh boy! See a toy...buy a toy! New steed! YT Capra Pro 29 hitting the trails soon.
A tasty beverage while on the water yesterday from @backcountrybrewr and @backcountrybrewing
Epic ride with boys yesterday. Into the Mystic, Last Call, Happy Hour and Lord of the Squirrels. 5 hrs 15 mins, 31 km and 1,397 vertical metres.
Whistler slick rock is my favourite.
Wood to wood gap in Whistler.
Passing underneath the Ironworkers Memorial Bridge on the return journey of dinner-by-boat. No filter.
And now the training starts for Paris 2024 summer olympics.
Archery target: before, during and finished.
Aidan’s first day in the Whistler Bike Park, he had a blast and we rode trails I didn’t think we’d ride 😳. I’m sure we’ll return soon enough.
A rare sighting at the Whistler Bike Park, it’s been at least 10 years.
When the opportunity presented itself, I couldn’t pass up one of my favourite slick rock rolls.
Pre-dinner antics...it’s totally safe!
Aidan is captaining the watercraft, mom in just the passenger. Kalamaka Lake.
#Drewmboat camo @parksidebrewery
Safety first when roasting marshmallows.
Great place to press snooze for 20 minutes. Chez Labowka.
Raw kale. Just not the same as a kale caesar salad.
Saratoga Beach fire.
Canadian tuxedo.
Happy Canada 🇨🇦 Day to everyone near and far. I hope it’s a kick ass day. Play safe.
The @yellowdogbeer squirrel chaser or otherwise known as the chew toy was a hit with me and Moka Labowka
It’s always fun to start the trail with a repel. #mountainbike #climbing
It only took me a half dozen or so tries but I managed to cross the halfway line. This old guy still has it! Fun times.
Follow your path, at times you never know where it’s going to take you. Trust the outcome. Having fun in The Green Room.
This old guy was collecting a few air miles today.
Going vertical. #slickrock
I have a ski buddy, now it’s time to train a biking buddy.
I’m really looking forward to riding this gem once it re-opens. #burkeinmybackyard
Enjoying a distanced beverage with @senorwad @yellowdogbeer
Aidan and a couple buddies are now members at the Pitt Meadows Golf Club. @greggmcnally @genevemcnally @wendy22boddy @jaradboddy @kirstinjhallett
Raw and unedited. Old school skinny with a drop at the end.
I’m still HOME ALONE! Looking forward to the day when I’m able to have some friends over to share these @backcountrybrewing Widowmaker IPAs. #backcountryphotocontest
Zoa Peak, Coquihalla summit 1,500 vertical metres of skiing.
Distancing myself from the real world!
The dry land version of the @andrei_svechnikov37 lacrosse-style goal executed Aidan.
Skis or bike? Bike. The snow won’t stop me.
Does anybody need or want any firewood? It’s free...you come pick it up.
I needed to buck up the trees they fell in the last wind storm. Task complete.
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There is no doubt about it, buying a home can be an emotional experience. Especially in a competitive housing market where you feel compelled to bid over the asking price to have a shot at getting into the market. Buying a home is a game of balancing needs and wants while being honest with yourself about those very needs and wants. It’s hard to get it right, figuring out what’s negotiable and what isn’t, what you can live with and what you can’t live without. Finding that balance between what makes sense in your head and what feels right in your heart is challenging. And the further you are in the process, the more desperate you may feel. One of the biggest mistakes you can make when shopping for a property is to fall in love with something you can’t afford. Doing this almost certainly guarantees that nothing else will compare, and you will inevitably find yourself “settling” for something that is actually quite nice. Something that would have been perfect had you not already fallen in love with something out of your price range. So before you ever look at a property, you should know exactly what you can qualify for so that you can shop within a set price range and you won’t be disappointed. Protect yourself with a mortgage pre-approval. A pre-approval does a few things It will outline your buying power. You will be able to shop with confidence, knowing exactly how much you can spend. It will uncover any issues that might arise in qualifying for a mortgage, for example, mistakes on your credit bureau. It will outline the necessary supporting documentation required to get a mortgage so you can be prepared. It will secure a rate for 30 to 120 days, depending on your mortgage product. It will save your heart from the pain of falling in love with something you can’t afford. Obviously, there is nothing wrong with looking at all types of property and getting a good handle on the market; however, a pre-approval will protect you from believing you can qualify for more than you can actually afford. Get a pre-approval before you start shopping; your heart will thank you. If you’d like to walk through your financial situation and get pre-approved for a mortgage, let’s talk. It would be a pleasure to work with you!
If you’re a first-time homebuyer eyeing a new build or major renovation, there's encouraging news that could make homeownership significantly more affordable. The federal government has proposed a new GST rebate aimed at easing the financial burden for Canadians entering the housing market. While still awaiting parliamentary approval, the proposed legislation offers the potential for thousands in savings —and could be a game-changer for buyers trying to break into today’s high-cost housing landscape. What’s Being Proposed? Under the new legislation, eligible first-time homebuyers would receive: A full GST rebate on homes priced up to $1 million A partial GST rebate on homes between $1 million and $1.5 million This could mean up to $50,000 in tax savings on a qualifying home—a major boost for anyone working hard to save for a down payment or meet mortgage qualification requirements. Why This Matters With interest rates still elevated and home prices holding steady in many regions, affordability remains a challenge. This rebate could offer meaningful relief in several ways: Lower Upfront Costs: Removing GST from the purchase price reduces the total amount of money buyers need to save before closing. Smaller Monthly Payments: A lower purchase price leads to a smaller mortgage, which translates to more manageable monthly payments. Improved Mortgage Qualification: With a reduced purchase amount, buyers may find it easier to meet lender criteria. According to recent estimates, a homebuyer purchasing a $1 million new home could see monthly mortgage payments drop by around $240 —money that could go toward savings, home improvements, or simply everyday expenses. Helping Families Help Each Other This proposal also offers a win for parents who are supporting their children in buying a first home. Whether through gifted down payments or co-signing, a lower purchase price and more affordable monthly costs mean that family support can go further—and set first-time buyers up for long-term success. Is This the Right Time to Buy? If you’re thinking about buying a new or substantially renovated home, this proposed rebate could dramatically improve your financial position. Now is the perfect time to explore your options and make sure your mortgage strategy is aligned with potential policy changes. 📞 Let’s connect for a free mortgage review or pre-approval. Whether you’re buying your first home or helping someone else take that first step, I’m here to help you make informed, confident decisions.
