When it comes to securing a mortgage in Ontario, choosing the right lender can make a big difference in the rate, terms, and flexibility available to you. Strive Capital Mortgages is one of the lenders that mortgage brokers may work with to help clients secure the financing they need.
Whether you’re a first-time buyer, looking to refinance, or navigating a complex income situation, here’s what to know about working with Strive Capital.
Who Is Strive Capital?
Strive Capital Mortgages is a Canadian-based mortgage lender offering residential mortgage products through the broker channel. They focus on providing alternative lending options for borrowers who may not qualify under traditional bank guidelines. Strive works with licensed mortgage brokers across Ontario and other provinces to deliver flexible lending solutions for a wide range of clients.
Their goal is to “strive” to find common sense solutions — particularly for borrowers who fall outside of conventional lending boxes.
Types of Mortgage Products Offered
Strive Capital primarily focuses on:
- Alternative mortgages for clients with bruised credit or inconsistent income
- Self-employed mortgage solutions
- Refinancing and equity take-out mortgages
- New purchase and switch transactions
- Owner-occupied and rental properties
Their programs are often geared toward helping clients who may have trouble securing financing through large banks due to credit issues, income documentation challenges, or higher debt service ratios.
Ideal Clients and Use Cases
Strive Capital may be a good fit for:
- Self-employed individuals who cannot provide traditional income documentation
- Borrowers with credit issues, including past bankruptcies or consumer proposals
- Homeowners seeking to refinance and access equity
- Buyers with non-traditional income sources
- Clients seeking short-term lending options while rebuilding credit or preparing for bank qualification
Their underwriting approach often considers the “story” behind a borrower’s file, and they may offer more flexibility than traditional lenders when assessing risk.
Potential Benefits
Working with Strive Capital may offer several advantages:
- Flexible underwriting criteria, including stated income for self-employed applicants
- Quick turnaround times on approvals and funding
- Broker-focused service, which can translate to smoother communication during the application process
- Custom-tailored lending options based on borrower profiles
Because they are focused on alternative lending, Strive is often able to help when banks and credit unions cannot.
Considerations and Potential Downsides
- Interest rates and fees may be higher than those offered by traditional banks, especially for higher-risk borrowers
- Shorter mortgage terms are more common, which may not suit those looking for long-term rate security
- Appraisals and property conditions may be scrutinized more closely for non-traditional properties
- Not all borrowers will qualify, and some loan scenarios may not be supported
It’s important to work with a knowledgeable mortgage broker who can evaluate whether Strive is the right fit based on your full financial picture.
Not All Lenders Work With All Brokers
Keep in mind, not all mortgage brokers have access to every lender, and not all borrowers will be eligible for financing through Strive. Lender guidelines change frequently, and different brokers may have access to different lending channels.
If you’re unsure whether a lender like Strive is the right fit, talking to an experienced mortgage broker can help clarify your options.
At The Local Broker, we work with a range of lenders — including alternative options like Strive — to help our clients find the right mortgage solution, whether they’re buying, refinancing, or dealing with unique financial circumstances.
Get in Touch
If you’re exploring your mortgage options and want to understand whether Strive Capital or another lender is the right fit for your situation, we’re happy to help. You can contact us here to start the conversation.
