Finding the right mortgage is just as important as finding the right home. CalgaryListings Group works alongside Al Zayat, BComm to help Calgary buyers understand their purchasing power, compare available lender options and build a financing strategy that works with the property they're trying to buy.
Multiple Lender OptionsPre-Approval Support5.0 ★ Google Rating · Verified August 2026
When you're buying a home in Calgary, your mortgage strategy matters just as much as the home you choose. That's why CalgaryListings Group works alongside Al Zayat, BComm — a Senior Mortgage Associate with deep experience helping Calgary buyers navigate rates, lenders, and financing options.
Al shops your application across multiple lenders to find the best rate and terms for your specific situation — whether you're a first-time buyer, self-employed, new to Canada, or moving up to a larger home. His goal is simple: get you the right mortgage at the right rate, with no surprises.
As a trusted partner to CalgaryListings Group, Al understands the Calgary market, works closely with our team throughout the buying process, and is known for being responsive, transparent, and genuinely focused on your best interests.
Ready to know your buying power? Getting pre-approved before you start searching for Calgary homes for sale puts you in a stronger position with sellers and gives you a clear, realistic budget. Many straightforward applications can be processed within approximately 2–3 business days once all documentation is in; more complex applications may take longer.
Going directly to your bank means talking to one lender. Working with Al means accessing dozens — and letting an expert find the best fit for your situation.
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Access to Multiple Lenders
Al works with banks, credit unions, and private lenders — shopping your application to find the best rate and terms available for your profile, not just what one institution offers.
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Usually Free to You
In most cases, the lender pays the broker's fee once your mortgage is funded. You get expert guidance and rate shopping at no direct cost — and Al will always be transparent about compensation.
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Faster Pre-Approval
Al knows what lenders want to see and how to present your application for the fastest, strongest approval. Many straightforward applications are completed within approximately 2–3 business days once documentation is complete.
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Complex Situations Welcome
Self-employed? New to Canada? Rebuilding credit? Al has experience navigating situations that banks often decline — and finding lenders who will work with your specific circumstances.
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Rate Hold Protection
Depending on the lender and mortgage product, a pre-approval may include a rate hold for a specified period while you shop. Availability, duration and how future rate changes are handled depend on the lender and product. right Calgary home. If rates drop, you get the lower rate.
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Works With Your REALTOR®
Al works closely with your Calgary REALTOR® throughout your purchase — coordinating timing, conditions, and financing so your deal moves smoothly from offer to possession.
How It Works
Getting Your Mortgage Done Right
Al makes the mortgage process straightforward. Here's what to expect from first call to funded.
1
Initial Conversation
Call, email, or apply online here. Al will learn about your situation, goals, and timeline — and give you a clear picture of what to expect before you move forward.
2
Document Collection
Al will tell you exactly what documents you need — income verification, employment confirmation, down payment proof, and credit consent. He keeps this process as painless as possible.
3
Lender Shopping
Al submits your application to the lenders best suited to your profile and negotiates on your behalf. You'll see the options and make the final call — no pressure, no surprises.
4
Pre-Approval in Hand
With pre-approval confirmed, you have a locked-in rate and a clear budget. Now you're ready to shop for Calgary homes for sale with confidence — and sellers will take you seriously.
5
Offer Accepted — Financing Condition
Once you've found a home and your offer is accepted, Al coordinates with the lender to fulfill your financing condition quickly — so you don't lose the property over delays.
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Funded & Possession Day
Al works with your lawyer to ensure funds are in place for possession day. From first call to keys in hand — he's with you every step of the way.
Client Experiences
What Calgary Buyers Say About Al
"I had an excellent experience working with Al as my mortgage broker. From start to finish, he was incredibly knowledgeable and guided me through every step with confidence."
Brittany DeMone — Google Review · 2026 · ★★★★★
"Al made the whole process of getting a mortgage so smooth and stress free. Definitely the best mortgage experience we've ever had. We appreciate all that Al has done for us and will definitely use him again. Highly recommend him!"
Vanessa Bradley — Google Review · 2026 · ★★★★★
"We had the pleasure of having Al as our mortgage broker, and I can't recommend him enough! He was super knowledgeable through out the process answering all our questions along the way."
Jordan Walker — First-Time Buyer · Google Review · 2026 · ★★★★★
From Al Zayat's public Google Business profile — rated 5.0 ★ across 75 client reviews.
CalgaryListings Group and Al Zayat share the same values — honesty, transparency, and putting clients first. Whether you're buying your first home or your fifth, we work together to make sure your financing and your property search are perfectly aligned.
Rate Tracker
What Rates Are Actually Doing
These are the benchmarks a Calgary mortgage is priced off,
straight from the Bank of Canada and refreshed daily. They are not a
rate quote — what you would actually be offered depends on your file, the lender
and the day. Ask Al for a real
number.
Bank of Canada policy rate
2.25%
▼ -0.50 over 12 months
The overnight target. Everything else prices off it.
as of 14 Sep 2026
Prime rate
4.45%
▼ -0.50 over 12 months
What variable-rate mortgages and HELOCs move with.
as of 9 Sep 2026
5-year Government of Canada bond yield
3.65%
▲ +0.92 over 12 months
What lenders fund 5-year fixed mortgages against.
as of 14 Sep 2026
Variable-rate mortgages move with prime; 5-year fixed mortgages are funded against the
5-year Government of Canada bond. That is why the two can move in opposite directions
— and over the past year they have. Why the lowest number still isn’t the
whole story: rate is only part of it.
Source: Bank of Canada Valet API.
Market Update
Bank of Canada holds policy rate at 2.25%
As of 2 September 2026 · from Al Zayat, Vibe Mortgage
The Bank of Canada left its benchmark rate unchanged at 2.25% at its most recent announcement, made on a Wednesday morning. That rate is the reference point for variable mortgage pricing in Canada, and the decision was widely expected by financial markets. Variable mortgage rates and home equity line of credit rates are tied to the benchmark; fixed rates are not directly set by it. This is a market observation as of the announcement date, not a quote or an offer.
In its statement, the Bank pointed to a broadening recovery, with second-quarter GDP growing 3.3% on an annualised basis after a soft start to the year, alongside gains in consumer spending, housing activity, exports and business investment. It also flagged that new U.S. tariffs and Canadian counter-tariffs cloud the outlook. Headline inflation has been running near 3%, largely on higher petrol prices, while inflation excluding petrol was 2.2% in July and core measures stayed close to 2%. The Bank said it is prepared to adjust policy as it assesses the recovery and the inflation outlook.
Benchmark rate held at 2.25%; variable and HELOC rates unchanged by the decision.
Second-quarter GDP grew at an annualised 3.3% after a weak first quarter.
Headline inflation around 3%; 2.2% excluding petrol in July, core near 2%.
Two further rate decisions are scheduled for 28 October and 9 December.
Market commentary only — not a rate quote, an offer of credit, or advice. Rates and lender policies change; confirm anything current with Al before relying on it.
The Lowest Advertised Rate Isn't Always the Best Mortgage
Rate matters. It is not the only thing that matters.
Depending on the mortgage, the terms attached to it can affect you as
much as the number on the front page — especially if your plans
change:
Prepayment privileges
Penalties
Portability
Refinancing restrictions
Product limitations
Lender policies
Your future plans
The goal isn't to find the lowest number. It's to find
financing that works for the purchase and for what you plan to
do next.
Before You Shop
Know Your Buying Power Before You Fall in Love With the House
A mortgage pre-approval can help establish a realistic purchasing range
before you start seriously shopping.
The listing price is only one part of affordability. Income, existing
debt, down payment, interest rates, property taxes, condo fees where
applicable and lender requirements can all affect qualification.
Pre-approval is not final mortgage approval.
The lender must still approve both the borrower and the
property. Changes in your financial circumstances between pre-approval
and closing can also affect final approval.
Rate hold options
Depending on the lender and mortgage product, a pre-approval may include
a rate hold for a specified period while you shop. Availability, duration
and how future rate changes are handled depend on the lender and the
product.
Mortgage approval is only one part of planning a Calgary home purchase.
Your down payment, monthly comfort level, closing costs, available buyer
programs and the property itself can all affect the strategy.
A First Home That Could Do More Than Provide a Place to Live
A first-time buyer wanted to enter the Calgary market but was hesitant
about purchasing a conventional apartment condo given the market
conditions at the time.
Instead of buying something simply to get into the market, we looked at
the longer-term strategy.
We found a new-construction townhouse-style condo in the Marda Loop
area with a legal basement suite, and negotiated an excellent purchase
price.
The buyer could live in the upper portion while potentially renting the
legal basement suite to help offset some of the ongoing ownership
costs.
Because the property was qualifying new construction, the buyer may
also be eligible for the federal First-Time Home Buyers' GST/HST
Rebate, subject to current program requirements.
First-Time BuyerNew ConstructionLegal Basement SuiteNegotiated Purchase PricePotential Rental Income
A Calgary mortgage broker like Al Zayat shops your mortgage application across multiple lenders — banks, credit unions, and private lenders — to find the best rate and terms for your situation. Unlike going directly to your bank, a broker works for you, not the lender.
Is it better to use a mortgage broker or go directly to my bank?
Neither is universally better — they are different. A bank offers its own products; a broker can compare options across a range of lenders. Which suits you depends on your circumstances, the property, and whether your situation fits the bank's own lending policies. If your application is straightforward and your bank's product works for you, that may be the right answer. Where it helps to see more than one lender's view, a broker can do that.
How much does it cost to use a Calgary mortgage broker?
In most cases, using a mortgage broker is free to the borrower. The broker is compensated by the lender once a mortgage is funded. Al will always be transparent about how he is compensated before you proceed.
How do I get pre-approved for a mortgage in Calgary?
Contact Al Zayat directly at al@alzayat.ca or 403.870.6843, or apply online here. You'll need proof of income, employment verification, credit consent, and details on your down payment. Many straightforward applications can be processed within approximately 2–3 business days once all required documentation has been received; more complex applications may require additional time. Depending on the lender and mortgage product, a pre-approval may include a rate hold for a specified period while you shop.
What is the minimum down payment to buy a home in Calgary?
The minimum down payment in Canada is 5% for homes under $500,000, 5% on the first $500,000 and 10% on the remainder for homes between $500,000 and $999,999, and 20% for homes $1 million and over.
What is CMHC mortgage insurance and do I need it?
CMHC mortgage default insurance is required when your down payment is less than 20% of the purchase price. The premium ranges from 2.80% to 4.00% of your mortgage amount and is added to your mortgage balance. Al can walk you through exactly what this means for your monthly payment.
Can I use the First Home Savings Account (FHSA) with a mortgage broker?
Absolutely. Al is familiar with the FHSA and Home Buyers' Plan (HBP) and can help you structure your mortgage to make the most of these programs. The FHSA lets first-time buyers save up to $40,000 tax-free for a home purchase, and the HBP allows withdrawals of up to $60,000 from your RRSP.
What credit score do I need to get a mortgage in Calgary?
Most lenders require a minimum credit score of 600–620 to qualify for a standard mortgage. A score of 680+ qualifies you for most competitive rate products. Above 720 typically gets you the best available rates. If your score needs work, Al can advise you on how to improve it before applying.
How quickly can I get MLS® alerts once I'm pre-approved?
Instant. Once your budget is confirmed, CalgaryListings Group sets up MLS® alerts so you see matching Calgary homes the moment they hit the market. Pre-approval plus instant alerts is the strongest position a buyer can be in.
The complete buying playbook — financing, FHSA, CMHC, down payments, pre-approval, and every step from first conversation to possession day. Sign up free — or log in — and read it instantly.
Connect with Al Zayat for a no-obligation mortgage consultation — or reach out to CalgaryListings Group to start your home search. Either way, you're in good hands.
Everything we give our clients, before you're one.
One free account opens the whole toolkit — the guides we
write for Calgary buyers and sellers, the checklists we actually use on deals, the
video library, and a concierge that answers your questions any time of day.
Every guideBuying, selling, condos, downsizing, relocating — written for this market.
The checklistsThe same possession, walkthrough and prep lists we run with clients.
Video libraryShort, plain answers to the questions that come up on every deal.
Portal conciergeAsk anything about a listing, a street or a step — day or night.
Members Resource · Free
The Calgary Home Buyer Guide
The complete Calgary buying playbook — create a free account, or log back in, and read the full guide instantly.
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No. A pre-approval is an assessment based on the information available at the time. The lender must still approve both the borrower and the property, and changes in your financial circumstances between pre-approval and closing can affect the outcome. More on what pre-approval does and doesn't do →
Can I use the FHSA and the Home Buyers' Plan together?
Yes — the two federal programs can generally be used for the same qualifying purchase. The FHSA allows contributions of up to $8,000 per year to a $40,000 lifetime limit, with up to $8,000 of unused room carried forward. The Home Buyers' Plan allows an eligible withdrawal of up to $60,000 per person from a RRSP, repaid over 15 years beginning the second year after withdrawal. Eligibility rules apply to both, and program details can change — see the FHSA guide and the Home Buyers' Plan guide.
Can rental income from a legal basement suite help me qualify?
It may. Lenders differ in how — and how much — rental income they will use, and the treatment often depends on whether the suite is legal, whether it is already tenanted, and what documentation exists. Some lenders apply only a portion of the rent. This is a question to put to Al with the specific property in hand. Legal suites and financing →
Can Al help if I'm self-employed?
Yes. Self-employed applications are common and are one of the situations where working with a broker across multiple lenders can help, because lender policies on income documentation vary considerably. It generally means more documentation rather than a different outcome, but no approval can be promised in advance of an application.
What happens with financing after my offer is accepted?
The property details go to Al and the lender, and the lender completes its review of both you and the property — which can include an appraisal. That is why financing conditions exist in the purchase contract, and why the condition period needs to be realistic. We coordinate this with Al so the timeline on the contract matches what the lender actually needs.
Can I finance a Calgary condo?
Generally yes, though lenders may look at the condominium corporation as well as the unit and the borrower. Some buildings, and some types of condo ownership, receive more scrutiny than others. If you are buying a condo it is worth reading the condominium documents carefully alongside arranging financing. Calgary condo documents →
What is bridge financing?
A short-term financing solution that may allow qualified homeowners to access equity from a firm sale before the proceeds are available on closing — useful when your purchase completes before your sale funds. Eligibility, lender requirements, rates and maximum terms all vary. Bridge financing explained →