Alex Thomson, Penticton mortgage broker, smiling with arms crossed

Alex Thomson, Penticton Mortgage Broker

Expert Guidance for Homebuyers & Refinancing

Looking for a mortgage solution that fits your needs? I work with 50+ lenders to secure the best rates, from fast preapprovals to personalized mortgage strategies. Let’s make the process simple and stress-free.

Why not just use a bank?

Banks can offer mortgage products, but their pre-approval process is often slow and limited to their own options. Here’s the difference, side by side.

Going to your bank

  1. Lenders comparedOne: theirs
  2. Pre‑approvalCan take weeks
  3. Cost to youFree
  4. At renewalThe rate they offer you
  5. Who you deal withA branch or call centre

Working with me

  1. Lenders compared50+ banks, credit unions and private lenders
  2. Pre‑approvalUsually within 24 hours
  3. Cost to youFree; the lender pays me
  4. At renewalTheir offer, compared with the market
  5. Who you deal withMe, from first call to closing
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How the mortgage pre‑approval process works

Most of it is handled by me. You’ll know your budget and have a rate held before you start viewing homes.

  1. Initial consultation

    We’ll discuss your financial situation to understand what you’re looking for.

  2. Submit documentation

    Proof of income, ID and credit information. I tell you exactly what’s needed.

  3. Lender matching

    I compare options from my network of 50+ lenders to find the best fit for you.

  4. Receive your pre‑approval

    In about 24 hours you’ll have your letter: how much you can borrow and your rate.

More about pre-approvals

Alex, your trusted local mortgage expert

First-time homebuyers, refinancing, renewals and more, serving the Okanagan Valley and beyond. As a trusted Penticton mortgage broker, I work with 50+ lenders to help you secure the best mortgage rates available, with unbeatable service. From preapprovals in under 24 hours to personalized mortgage solutions, I make the process simple and stress-free.

Alex Thomson with colleagues at an A Better Way Mortgage event
Alex with colleagues at A Better Way Mortgage

Navigating the uncertain market? I’ve got you covered

With interest rates shifting and market conditions constantly in flux, it’s more important than ever to have a Penticton mortgage broker on your side. No guesswork, just clear advice tailored to your unique financial goals.

  • Expert guidance

    Through shifting interest rates and market changes, whether you’re buying, renewing or refinancing.

  • Clear, tailored advice

    You’ll understand your options and make informed, confident decisions.

  • Local knowledge

    Of Penticton and the Okanagan Valley, and lenders across BC.

Simplifying mortgages across Canada

A Better Way is one of the largest brokerages in Canada, with over 450 experienced agents partnered with us and generating over $21 billion in mortgage volume since 2013.

What Alex’s clients say

Helping first-time homebuyers, refinancing clients and homeowners in the Okanagan achieve their mortgage goals with clarity, trust and personalized solutions.

Mortgage & financing guide

What is the difference between a fixed and variable rate?

It comes down to predictability versus flexibility.

  • Fixed rate: locks in your interest rate and payment for the whole term, so your payments never change.
  • Variable rate: moves with your lender’s prime rate. Depending on your contract, a change either adjusts your payment or changes how much of it goes to your principal.
What happens at the end of my mortgage term?

When your term ends, the balance is technically due, but you don’t have to pay it all off. You renew for a new term instead. It’s your chance to negotiate a new rate with your current lender, or switch to a new lender if they offer a better deal.

Can I pay off my mortgage faster?

Yes. Most lenders offer prepayment privileges that let you pay down your mortgage ahead of schedule without penalties, usually through lump-sum payments or by increasing your regular payment (often up to 15% or 20% of the original amount each year).

What is a “high-ratio” mortgage?

Any mortgage where your down payment is less than 20% of the purchase price. These require mortgage default insurance (from organizations like CMHC), which protects the lender if you default. The premium is usually added to your mortgage amount.

What are the penalties for breaking a mortgage?

If you break a closed mortgage before the term ends, the lender charges a penalty. How it’s calculated depends on your rate type:

  • Fixed rate: usually the Interest Rate Differential (IRD), based on current rates. It can be expensive if rates have dropped since you signed.
  • Variable rate: much more predictable, typically three months of interest.

Take control of your mortgage

Whether buying, renewing or refinancing, I’ll help you make informed decisions. Request a call back and I’ll contact you at a convenient time, any day from 6am to 9pm.

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