Is the CHIP Reverse Mortgage right for you?

Jamie Ushko • August 1, 2023

As a Canadian aged 55 or older, you've reached a significant milestone in your life—retirement. This phase comes with a variety of financial options to consider, but not all of them are the right fit for everyone. It's crucial to take some time for reflection and choose a financial solution that aligns with your specific retirement needs and aspirations. One versatile option worth exploring is the CHIP Reverse Mortgage by HomeEquity Bank, which can help address various financial challenges faced by Canadians in their golden years.


Is the CHIP Reverse Mortgage Right for You?

The CHIP Reverse Mortgage is a flexible financial tool that can be a game-changer for Canadians aged 55 and older.

Here are some scenarios where this financial solution might be a perfect fit:


1. Consolidating Debt and Eliminating Payments:

  • Are you retiring with debt?
  • Do you want to consolidate your debts and avoid monthly payments?

If you find yourself nodding in agreement to these questions, the CHIP Reverse Mortgage can provide a welcome relief. It allows you to use the equity in your home to pay off outstanding bills and eliminate the financial stress of monthly debt payments.


2. Dealing with Unplanned Expenses:

  • Are unexpected expenses cropping up, like home repairs, mobility-related renovations, or in-home care costs?

Life often throws unexpected financial curveballs. If you're facing short-term financial strains due to unplanned expenses, the CHIP Reverse Mortgage can offer quick access to cash to address these urgent needs.


3. Embracing Your Retirement Dreams:

  • Do you want to make the most of your retirement by traveling, pursuing hobbies, or enhancing your lifestyle?
  • Are you finding that your current income doesn't match your retirement aspirations?

For those who want to live life to the fullest during retirement but need additional funds to turn their dreams into reality, the CHIP Reverse Mortgage provides the cash flow necessary to enjoy your golden years to the fullest.


4. Maintaining Your Pre-Retirement Lifestyle:

  • Do you want to maintain the same standard of living you enjoyed before retirement?
  • Are you concerned that a decrease in income may force you to adjust your lifestyle?



Many retirees face the prospect of scaling back their lifestyles due to a reduction in income. If you wish to maintain your preretirement lifestyle but require extra financial support, the CHIP Reverse Mortgage can help bridge that gap.


The Power of the CHIP Reverse Mortgage

If you fall into any of the groups mentioned above, it's time to explore the benefits of the CHIP Reverse Mortgage. This financial solution allows Canadian homeowners aged 55+ to access up to 55% of their home's value in tax-free cash. It offers flexible withdrawal options, including a lump sum, staged withdrawals, regular intervals over a set period, or a combination of these choices.


One of the standout features of the CHIP Reverse Mortgage is that it doesn't require monthly mortgage payments. You can continue to own and live in your home without the burden of monthly loan payments. Repayment only becomes necessary when you decide to move, sell your home, or no longer reside in it.


Moreover, HomeEquity Bank provides a No Negative Equity Guarantee. This guarantee ensures that you will never owe more than the value of your home, provided you maintain the property in good condition, pay property taxes and insurance, and keep the property out of default.


Is the CHIP Reverse Mortgage Right for You?

If you're intrigued by the possibilities of the CHIP Reverse Mortgage and believe it could be the financial solution you've been searching for in retirement, it's time to explore further. Contact me to discuss your specific financial situation and explore how the CHIP Reverse Mortgage can empower you to enjoy a financially secure and fulfilling retirement. Your financial freedom is within reach!

Jamie Ushko

Mortgage Broker

Standard or Collateral Charge Mortgage. What’s best for you?

By Jamie Ushko • July 23, 2025
When arranging mortgage financing, your mortgage lender will register your mortgage in one of two ways. Either with a standard charge mortgage or a collateral charge mortgage. Let’s look at the differences between the two. Standard charge mortgage This is your good old-fashioned mortgage. A standard charge mortgage is the mortgage you most likely think about when you consider mortgage financing. Here, the amount you borrow from the lender is the amount that is registered against the title to protect the lender if you default on your mortgage. When your mortgage term is up, you can either renew your existing mortgage or, if it makes more financial sense, you can switch your mortgage to another lender. As long as you aren’t changing any of the fine print, the new lender will usually cover the cost of the switch. A standard charge mortgage has set terms and is non-advanceable. This means that if you need to borrow more money, you'll need to reapply and requalify for a new mortgage. So there will be costs associated with breaking your existing mortgage and costs to register a new one. Collateral charge mortgage A collateral charge mortgage is a mortgage that can have multiple parts, usually with a re-advanceable component. It can include many different financing options like a personal loan or line of credit. Your mortgage is registered against the title in a way that should you need to borrow more money down the line; you can do so fairly easily. A home equity line of credit is a good example of a collateral charge mortgage. Unlike a standard charge mortgage, here, your lender will register a higher amount than what you actually borrow. This could be for the property's full value, or some lenders will go up to 125% of your property's value. In the future, if the value of your property appreciates, with a collateral charge mortgage, you don't have to rewrite your existing mortgage to borrow more money (assuming you qualify). This will save you from any costs associated with breaking your existing mortgage and registering a new one. However, if you’re looking to switch your mortgage to another lender at the end of your term, you might be forced to discharge your mortgage and incur legal fees. Also, by registering your mortgage with a collateral charge, you potentially limit your ability to secure a second mortgage. So what’s a better option for you? Well, there are benefits and drawbacks to both. Finding the best option for you really depends on your financial situation and what you believe gives you the most flexibility. This is probably a question better handled in a conversation rather than in an article. With that said, undoubtedly, the best option is to work with an independent mortgage professional. It’s our job to understand the intricacies of mortgage financing, listen to and assess your needs, and recommend the best mortgage to meet your needs. As we work with many lenders, we can provide you with options. Don’t get stuck dealing with a single institution that may only offer you a collateral charge mortgage when what you need is a standard charge mortgage. So if you’d like to have a conversation about mortgage financing, please get in touch. It would be a pleasure to work with you and answer any questions you might have.

Make the Most of Summer: Outdoor Project Ideas for Every Space

By Jamie Ushko • July 17, 2025
Summer in Canada is short—but sweet. With warm weather and long evenings, it’s the perfect time to get outside and enjoy your outdoor space, no matter how big (or small) it is. Whether you have a tiny patio or a sprawling backyard, a few creative upgrades can go a long way toward turning your space into your personal summer oasis. Below are ideas for every type of outdoor space, from cozy balconies to large backyards! For Patio-Only Spaces Limited to a balcony or concrete patio? No problem! Small spaces can still offer big enjoyment. 1. Upgrade the Flooring Add interlocking tiles to give your concrete floor a more polished look—wood grain, grass panels, or composite styles are all popular, easy-to-install options. 2. Create an Outdoor Movie Zone Hang a pull-down screen or grab a portable stand, pair it with a mini projector, and voilà—your very own outdoor movie theatre under the stars! 3. Start an Herb Garden Railing planters are perfect for growing basil, mint, parsley, and more. Fresh herbs at your fingertips—and they smell amazing too! 4. Add Some Twinkle Wrap fairy lights around your railing or overhead beams to bring cozy vibes and nighttime charm. 5. Grill Like a Pro Maximize your BBQ season with a compact baby-que. Weber’s Q Series is a great option for small spaces without compromising grilling power. For Small Yards A little yard can still pack a lot of personality. Here are ways to make the most of every square foot: 1. Game Time! Add a mini putting green or an axe-throwing target (just be safe!) for quick bursts of backyard fun that don’t take up much space. 2. Warm Up Your Nights Add a heating lamp or portable fire bowl to keep your evenings cozy well into the fall. 3. Grow Your Own Produce Build or buy a raised garden box to grow tomatoes, cucumbers, lettuce, or other easy vegetables. Gardening is relaxing—and delicious! 4. DIY Bird Bath Make a pedestal bird bath using an old vase, a platter, and strong glue. You likely have everything you need already at home—and the local birds will thank you! For Big Yards If space isn’t an issue, the sky’s the limit! Here are some larger-scale projects to take your yard to the next level: 1. Build a Catio Yep, it’s a “cat patio”! Give your feline friends a safe way to enjoy the outdoors with a screened-in enclosure attached to your home. 2. Create a Permanent Fire Pit Use stones and a fire ring to build a beautiful, safe fire pit. You can even add airflow cutouts to reduce smoke—perfect for those marshmallow roasts! 3. Tile a Dining Area Install paving stones or tiles to define an outdoor dining space. Add a table, some string lights, and enjoy al fresco meals all summer long. Need More Inspiration? If none of these projects quite fit your vision, check out Home Depot’s DIY backyard ideas—complete with step-by-step instructions and material lists to help you bring your outdoor dreams to life. Soak It Up While It Lasts No matter the size of your space, there’s always something you can do to enhance your outdoor experience. So get out there, get creative, and make the most of these sunny summer days. See you back here in August—with more tips, tricks, and homeowner insights!