How we work
About Our Process
Getting a mortgage shouldn't feel complicated. Here's how our team walks you through it, one simple step at a time.
At Dominion Lending Centres Mortgage Excellence, you're not handed off to a call centre. You work with a dedicated team of account managers, in-house underwriters and support staff, led by mortgage broker Nathan Lawrence. We're based in Thunder Bay and help clients anywhere in Ontario.
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Whether you're buying a home, an investment property, a cottage or camp, or a second home, or you're looking to refinance or set up a HELOC, the process below is how we get you from "where do I start?" all the way to closing day, and beyond.
Our Process, Step by Step
STEP 1
Start with a conversation
Every file starts with a chat. Tell us what you're working toward and what's on your mind. There's no pressure and no obligation. Prefer to talk first? Request a free consultation through our Contact page and someone from our team will call you back, usually within one business day. You can also reach us at 807-695-5331 or nathan.lawrence@dlcme.ca, Monday to Friday, 9am to 5pm.
STEP 2
Apply online in about 15 minutes
When you're ready, fill out our secure online application through Velocity. It takes about 15 minutes, and you can do it from your couch, your camp or your lunch break. Not sure how to answer something? Just do your best.
STEP 3
Meet your account manager
However you reach us, whether through the website, a phone call, an email or your online application, an account manager will get in touch, usually by email, to introduce themselves and walk you through the next steps.
STEP 4
Gather your documents
Next, we'll send you a clear, personalized checklist of what we need, such as proof of income, ID and details about the property. You can email your documents straight to our team or upload them through our secure document portal, whichever is easier for you. Our support staff keep track of what's in and what's still missing, so you're never left guessing. We'll give you a nudge if something's outstanding.
STEP 5
In-house review by our underwriters
When it's time to send your application to a lender, our dedicated in-house underwriting team makes sure we have everything the lender needs. That means fewer back-and-forth requests, fewer surprises and a complete, well-prepared file going out the door.
STEP 6
We shop lenders for you
Instead of going bank to bank yourself, we compare options from our network of lenders and look for a mortgage that fits your goals, your budget and your timeline. We'll walk you through your options in plain language, including the pros, the cons and the fine print, so you can choose with confidence.
STEP 7
Approval and commitment
Once a lender approves your mortgage, we'll go over the commitment with you line by line before you sign. If there are conditions to meet, we'll explain exactly what's needed and help you check them off. This is also when we'll tell you about our optional Mortgage Protection Plan, which offers life and disability insurance alongside your mortgage. It's completely your choice, and we'll explain how it works so you can decide what's right for your family.
STEP 8
Closing, and beyond
Our team works directly with your lawyer and realtor, keeping everyone updated throughout the entire process, right through to closing day. And we don't disappear after that. We'll check in ahead of your upcoming renewal, and you can always reach out sooner if you have questions or your plans change, whether that's a renovation, a refinance or your next property.
What You Can Expect From Our Team
A real team on your file
Account managers, in-house underwriters and support staff all working together.
Honesty about costs
Usually no cost to you; if a fee applies we'll tell you up front, in writing.
Plain-language answers
No jargon, no guesswork, just clear explanations.
Options, not pressure
We lay out your choices and let you decide.
Quick follow-up
We'll usually get back to you within one business day.
Help anywhere in Ontario
Based in Thunder Bay, working with clients across the province.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Do I need to live in Thunder Bay to work with you?
A: Not at all. We help clients anywhere in Ontario, and most of the process can be done by phone, email and online.
Q: How much does it cost to work with you?
A: Usually no cost to you; if a fee applies we'll tell you up front, in writing.
Q: Will I be approved?
A: Every situation is different, and all mortgages are subject to lender approval. What we can promise is that our team will review your file carefully, be honest about where you stand and work to find options that fit.
Q: Can you help with a cottage, camp or investment property?
A: Yes. Along with home purchases, we help with investment properties, vacation properties, camps and cottages, second homes, refinances and HELOCs.