As one of Ourboro’s valued Referral Partners, Mehakpreet blends deep financial expertise with a genuine passion for helping clients succeed. Get to know the person behind the process, and why so many buyers trust him to help turn their homeownership goals into reality.
Walk us through your background and how you got started in the mortgage industry.
My journey in the financial world began in India, where I worked as an Audit Assistant with a Chartered Accountant. That experience gave me a strong foundation in financial analysis, compliance, and understanding how money moves through businesses and households. After moving to Canada, I joined TD Bank where I worked as a Mortgage and Investment Specialist. This role gave me direct exposure to the Canadian lending landscape and, more importantly, helped me understand the real financial challenges people face when trying to buy a home or build wealth.
Over time, I realized that the best way to truly serve clients with flexibility, choice, and tailored advice was by becoming a mortgage broker. As a broker, I’m not tied to a single lender, which allows me to offer more personalized and strategic solutions that align with my clients’ long-term goals.
What aspect of your work brings you the most satisfaction?
The most rewarding part of my work is seeing first-time homebuyers achieve their dream of owning a place they can truly call home. That moment of joy, relief, and pride on their faces…it’s unmatched. It reminds me why I do what I do.
In addition, being a mortgage broker gives me the opportunity to help clients who may be going through financial stress. Whether it’s consolidating high-interest debt or finding a solution to get them back on track, playing a key role in their financial turnaround is incredibly fulfilling. Knowing that my support made a real difference in someone’s life is what keeps me motivated every day.
How did you discover Ourboro, and what drew you to become a Referral Partner?
I discovered Ourboro during one of our weekly training sessions at AKAL Mortgages. These meetings are a key part of staying sharp and successful as a broker. Ourboro delivered a presentation that really stood out. It introduced us to a powerful tool that helps bridge the gap for homebuyers who are struggling with down payments.
What drew me in was the unique approach Ourboro takes. They offer a true partnership model that makes homeownership more accessible without adding debt. It’s a creative and practical solution, and as a broker, it’s incredibly valuable to have something like this in your toolkit.
What’s the most significant hurdle you’re seeing buyers face in today’s market?
One of the biggest challenges buyers are facing today is saving for a down payment. With the cost of living continuing to rise, it’s becoming harder for many to set aside enough to meet the minimum requirements, especially for first-time buyers.
Another major hurdle is qualifying with a prime lender. Many clients, despite having stable income, are falling short due to stricter lending criteria. As a result, more buyers are turning to alternative lenders who offer greater flexibility and can accommodate unique financial situations. While the rates may be slightly higher, it allows clients to get into the market sooner!
What patterns are you noticing among first-time buyers? Any recurring mistakes to avoid?
A common pattern I’ve noticed among first-time homebuyers is that once they reach a certain income level, many begin to overspend on lifestyle upgrades like luxury cars or expensive vacations. While it’s natural to want to reward yourself, I’ve seen these financial decisions become roadblocks for clients when trying to qualify for a mortgage.
My advice to first-time buyers is to focus on building a strong financial foundation first. Owning a home is one of the most powerful steps toward long-term wealth, and short-term lifestyle upgrades can wait.
What’s one myth about homebuying that you find yourself debunking regularly?
One of the most common myths I encounter is the belief that you need a huge income or a large amount of money saved to buy a home. While income and savings are important, it’s not always about how much you have; it’s about having the right strategy.
With proper planning, guidance, and access to the right programs, like Ourboro, many clients are surprised to learn they’re closer to homeownership than they think. As a broker, my job is to help them get prepared, build a plan, and turn that dream into a reality.
How do you see the real estate landscape evolving in the coming years?
I expect the market to shift toward more diverse financing options and ownership models. As affordability pressures continue, I think homebuyers will be more likely to explore creative alternatives like shared equity, rent-to-own, and flexible down-payment support programs. At the same time, tighter lending standards will push more clients toward non-traditional lenders. Brokers who stay adaptable, informed, and proactive will be best positioned to help clients navigate these changes.
Share a standout moment from your career – what made it special?
One standout moment for me was helping a first-time homebuyer purchase their home after being turned down by multiple banks and brokers. The clients were new to Canada, earning good income, but unfamiliar with the financial system, so they had made a few mistakes that impacted their file.
Instead of giving up, we built a clear strategy, worked closely with them to clean things up, and found a solution that worked. Seeing them finally get the keys to their own home after so many rejections was incredibly special and a reminder of the real impact we can make as mortgage brokers.
If you had to sum up your client philosophy in just three words, what would they be?
Commitment. Transparency. Solutions.
How do you like to spend your time outside of work?
Outside of work, I like to keep myself active and energized through fitness. Whether it’s hitting the gym or going for a run, staying fit helps me stay focused and balanced. I also enjoy travelling whenever I get the chance. It’s a great way to reset, explore new places, and come back with a fresh perspective.
Which GTA area do you find yourself recommending most often, and why?
I often recommend Hamilton to my clients. It’s close enough to Toronto for commuters, but offers much more affordable housing compared to the core GTA. The city has been growing rapidly, with great schools, parks, and a strong sense of community making it ideal for both families and first-time buyers. Plus, with continued development and investment in infrastructure, Hamilton has a lot of long-term potential!
What’s one piece of guidance you consistently share with your clients?
Always make financial decisions with the long-term in mind. Whether it’s choosing the right mortgage, managing your credit, or planning your next investment, focus on sustainability, not just short-term gains. A home is more than a purchase; it’s a financial foundation. With the right strategy and discipline, it can become the starting point for building real wealth.
