After 21 wonderful years as a chiropractor in Royal Oak, a career change certainly wasn’t in the plans for Natasha Smith(Kipot). But a bad car accident in 2018 and shoulder surgery in 2021 left her physically unable to continue her practice.
“That was tough, really tough. I lost my passion. I also didn’t get to say goodbye to my patients — I’d seen kids grow up, known their parents and grandparents. We didn’t get any closure.”
One of her biggest regrets is that she wasn’t able to smoothly transition her patients to other practitioners, but her own sudden health changes made that impossible. Two years later, she’s completed her studies and found a new career as a mortgage broker with the Mortgage Depot.
“I’m so happy to be back helping people! I get to work with the same community, and I get to problem solve — now it’s mortgages instead of the musculoskeletal system,” she says.
A good mortgage is more than just a good rate
Smith has been immersed in the world of Saanich Peninsula real estate since she was a child — many members of her family have worked in the industry — so she feels well-equipped to help her neighbours with their mortgage needs. And it’s more complicated than many people think.
“Most people focus on the interest rate, but that’s not the only thing you should consider. Ultimately my job is to understand my client’s needs, research their options from over 50 lenders and give them the knowledge to make an informed decision.”
The interest rate may be the same, but the terms and conditions can cost you more in the long run.
“These are volatile times, and that’s meant that a lot of my clients are looking to consolidate debts to lower monthly expenses. If you used a line of credit for renovations, it may be helpful to roll that into your mortgage,” Smith says.
Some are looking for short term solutions so they can see what rates look like a year from now, while still ensuring their mortgage fits with longer term financial plans. Retirees who’ve been relying on investment income to cover monthly expenses may want to use a mortgage to increase their cashflow, as a way to combat inflation.
“My first priority is customer service. I built over 20 years of trust with my chiropractic clients, and I don’t take that lightly. I’m hoping we can continue those trusting relationships now, through mortgages.”
To speak with Natasha Smith about your mortgage needs or to start planning for the future, call 250-880-0808 or email natasha4mortgages@gmail.com. Find her online at natasha4mortgages.com and in person at 109 - 3550 Saanich Rd., Victoria.