Mortgage Strategy Built Around Your Goals — Surrey & Lower Mainland BC

Your mortgage, done right. Every time.

We're not your average brokerage. Open Doors combines elite expertise with a genuinely human experience — so you move forward with clarity and confidence.

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In business since 2006
5 languages spoken
Pre-Approvals in 24–48 hrs
BCFSA Licensed

Trusted by thousands across BC

$1B+
Mortgages funded
7 YEARS
CMP Top 75 in a row
Hall of Fame
DLC lifetime award
550+
Google Reviews

More than just approvals — strategic guidance, clear communication, and a client experience built around trust.

— Open Doors Mortgage Team, Surrey BC

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WHY OPEN DOORS

This is not your typical brokerage.

We're in your corner from day one. Not to close a deal — to make sure you end up in the right one.

01

Strategic advice, not just approvals

Every recommendation is tailored around your goals, lifestyle, and long-term financial plans. We help you make confident decisions — not just sign documents.

STRATEGY-FIRST
02

A modern, stress-free process

Digital applications, fast communication, and proactive updates. We make the mortgage process organized and genuinely easy to navigate.

MODERN PROCESS
03

Proven expertise with a personal touch

$1B+ funded and nationally recognized — while every client still feels genuinely supported, understood, and cared for throughout.

1 BILLION + FUNDED
Team Photo
" People don't feel like a number with Open Doors."

Christian Amurao and the team are built around relationships. Surrey-based, community-first, and genuinely invested in every client outcome.

$1B+
Funded
550 +
Google Reviews
1000s
Happy Clients

⎯ What we do

Solutions for
every situation

01

Home Purchase

First home or your fifth — we find the right product and guide you through every step without the noise.

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02

First-Time Buyers

We simplify the process and help you understand every program, option, and incentive available to you.

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03

Refinancing & Renewals

Access equity, consolidate debt, or renegotiate terms. We tell you honestly when it makes sense.

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04

Self-Employed

Variable income and complex returns don't have to stand in the way. We specialize in Alt-A solutions.

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05

Investment Properties

Growing your portfolio? We structure financing around your long-term wealth goals, not one transaction.

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06

Debt Consolidation

Use your home equity strategically to simplify your finances and reduce monthly obligations.

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⎯ New to Canada

The mortgage team
newcomers trust most.

Open Doors Mortgage Team was built from day one to help newcomers own their first Canadian home. Founder Christian Amurao immigrated to Canada and built one of the country's most recognized mortgage teams with a single mission: make homeownership accessible to every family, in every language, regardless of how long they've been here.


We know which lenders accept work permits. We know how to qualify clients with limited Canadian credit. We understand the documents, the programs, and the process — and we explain all of it clearly, in your language.

Work permits accepted

You don't need PR or citizenship to qualify. Many lenders approve newcomers on valid work permits with the right guidance.

International credit recognized

Limited Canadian credit history is not always a barrier. Your home country credit and bank references can support your application.

Guidance in your language

We speak English, Tagalog, Kapampangan, Bisaya, Ilocano, because real advice means no language barriers.

Since '06
Helping newcomers
5 Lanuages
spoken
1 B+
Mortgages funded

WE SERVE CLIENTS IN

🇨🇦 English
🇵🇭 Tagalog
🇵🇭 Kapampangan
🇵🇭 Bisaya
🇵🇭 Ilocano

We thought owning a house was a pipe dream. Then we met Christian and the Open Doors team and that dream turned into reality. From start to finish they were there by our side. They explained things we didn't clearly understand and were very helpful. They made buying a property more exciting and fun. 10/10 will most definitely recommend.

Newcomer client
Surrey, BC · Google Review ★★★★★

Ready to get started?

Book a free consultation — no pressure, no jargon, in your language.

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CLIENT STORIES

What our clients say

★★★★★ 550+ Reviews One Google
"

ODMT was really helpful in assisting the refinancing my mortgage, from initiating the first contact until the process with the lawyer. The people who helped me, Christian Amurao, Kim Domingo, and Anthony Amurao, were knowledgeable and know what the client needs in providing options with all the pros and cons, so it was easy for me to decide. Thank you, God bless.

AH
A Haryo
Refinancing · Surrey, BC
"

I am grateful from the bottom of my heart to the Open Door Mortgage team for guiding me everystep of the way in buying my first house. Thank you so much for your incredible guidance and support. When I first came to you, I felt completely lost, but you took the time to answer every question and make homeownership feel achievable. Your dedication truly made a difference for me, and I will forever be grateful for your expertise! I highly recommended your team.

WS
Wyn Sagadal
First-time buyer · Surrey, BC
"

Wow and Thank you! We have been with you for more than 10 years. We are so blessed of your team and your service... so easy to talk too, responds quick, very open and supportive, very much connected even after the transactions, gives appropriate advice and updates, always on the line to connect with us anytime we need.

BV
Beth Viana
Renewal · Surrey, BC
"

The Open Doors Mortgage Team were quick to act, attentive to my needs, always operated with urgency and conveyed all documents correctly, and secured me the best mortgage possible! I would recommend them to anyone for all their mortgage needs! If you are looking for a team that goes above and beyond, Open Doors are the team you're looking for!

AR
A. Randa
First-time buyer · Surrey, BC
"

Christian, Anthony and the Open Doors Team helped me through a difficult mortgage renewal after a word of mouth referral by a family member. They answered all my questions and helped me work through the difficult portions of the application and even were kind and generous enough to answer some questions and give some advice on things that weren't necessarily part of the application. Anything that they didn't have an immediate answer to, they said so with out putting up a front, asked their resources for information and came back with an answer. I will be looking to use their services in the future and will be whole heartedly be referring them to others

ED
Earl Doando
First-time buyer · Surrey, BC
"

We thought owning a house was a pipe dream then we met Christian and the Open Doors team and that dream turned into reality. From start to finish they were there by our side. They explained things we didn't clearly understand and were very helpful. All in all they made buying a property more exciting and fun. 10/10 will most definitely recommend. Thank you Open Doors Mortgage Team — we appreciate each and every one of you.

N
Nosis
Renewal · Surrey, BC
TOP TEAM
Canada mortgage ranking
1000s
Families served in BC
5
Languages Spoken
CMP Top 75
Seven Years In A Row

⎯ Our story

Built on trust.
Driven by results.

When Christian Amurao started Open Doors in 2006, it was just him — and a genuine belief that people deserved better guidance than they were getting. Not just a rate. Not just paperwork. Real advice, in plain language, from someone who actually cared about the outcome.



That's still what this team is built around. The awards and the numbers are nice — but what we're most proud of is that clients keep referring their friends, their family, and their neighbours. That's the real measure.

Elite credentials

$1B+ funded, nationally ranked

Modern process

Digital tools, fast turnaround

Team-based support

Coordinated service, not one broker

Long-term partner

Renewals, refinancing, next moves

Team Photo
C
Christian — Team Leader
A
Aziel — Director of sales
A
Anthony — Associate
P
Pam — Office Supervisor
P
Paula — Client Specialist
K
Kim — Client specialist
MEET THE TEAM

⎯ Common questions

Straight answers.
No jargon.

  • What makes Open Doors different from going to my bank?

    A bank can only offer their own products. Open Doors works with 30+ lenders — banks, credit unions, and alternative lenders — so we shop on your behalf and find the product that genuinely fits your situation. We're focused on your long-term outcome, not a single transaction.

  • How does Open Doors help first-time buyers in Surrey and the Lower Mainland?

    We walk first-time buyers through everything — how much you can afford, what programs are available (like the First Home Savings Account), how your credit profile looks to lenders, and what the process looks like step by step. Our goal is to replace confusion with a clear, confident plan.

  • Can I get a mortgage if I'm self-employed?

    Yes — self-employed mortgages are one of our specialties. We work with lenders who understand how business income is structured and can qualify clients who don't fit standard bank criteria. Even if your declared income is lower due to deductions, there are strong options available.

  • Is there a cost to using a mortgage broker?

    In most cases, our services cost you nothing directly. We are compensated by the lender when your mortgage funds. We're always transparent about how we're paid — no surprises, no hidden fees. In some alternative lending situations a broker fee may apply, and we'll always be upfront before you proceed.

  • When does it make sense to refinance my mortgage?

    Refinancing can make sense when you want to access home equity for renovations or investment, consolidate high-interest debt, or take advantage of rate improvements. We assess your current mortgage and goals together to determine whether it's worth it for you — not just whether it's possible.

  • What areas does Open Doors Mortgage serve?

    We serve clients across the Greater Vancouver Lower Mainland — Surrey, Langley, Delta, Vancouver, Richmond, Burnaby, New Westminster, North Vancouver, and Abbotsford. We also work with clients across BC and in many cases anywhere in Canada.

  • How quickly can I get pre-approved?

    In most cases we move quickly once we have your documents — many pre-approvals are completed within 24–48 hours. Having your income documents, employment confirmation, and financial statements ready ahead of time speeds things up considerably.

  • Is Open Doors Mortgage licensed in BC?

    Yes. Open Doors Mortgage Team is licensed through the BC Financial Services Authority (BCFSA) and operates under Verico Paragon BrokerSquared, one of Canada's leading mortgage broker networks. All team members are licensed mortgage professionals.

Still have a question?

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⎯ My Mortgage App

Manage your mortgage from your phone.

Download my app to access mortgage calculators, track your application, securely upload documents, and stay connected with me throughout the process — all in one place.

Mortgage Calculators

Affordability, payment, land transfer tax, CMHC, and more

Document Upload

Securely share documents with my team at any time

Application Tracking

Stay updated on your mortgage application in real time

Direct Messaging

Reach me and my team directly through the app

⎯ Articles

Learn more

about mortgages

Down Payment Options for Canadian Homebuyers

By Christian Amaruo • August 5, 2026
For most Canadians, the down payment is the biggest hurdle to homeownership. A down payment is the initial amount you contribute toward your property purchase, while the lender covers the rest through a mortgage. By law, Canadian lenders can only finance up to 95% of a property’s value, which means you’ll need at least 5% down to qualify. If you’re putting down less than 20%, your mortgage must be insured through one of Canada’s three default insurance providers— CMHC, Sagen (formerly Genworth), or Canada Guaranty . This insurance comes at a cost, but it can be rolled into your mortgage amount. The less you put down, the higher the premium. Since saving a down payment can feel overwhelming, it helps to know the different sources you can draw from. Here are the most common options available to Canadian homebuyers: 1. Savings & Personal Resources The most straightforward source is your own savings. Lenders will ask to see a 90-day history of the funds in your account. Any large deposits outside of regular payroll must be explained with documentation—such as the sale of a vehicle or a transfer from an investment account. This requirement isn’t just red tape; it’s part of Canada’s anti-money laundering rules. 2. Proceeds from the Sale of a Property If you’ve recently sold another home, you can use the proceeds as a down payment on your new purchase. Proof of the sale—such as the final statement of adjustments from your lawyer—will be required. 3. RRSP Home Buyers’ Plan (HBP) First-time buyers can withdraw up to $35,000 each (or $70,000 as a couple) from their RRSPs to put toward a down payment under the federal Home Buyers’ Plan . The funds are withdrawn tax-free, but they must be repaid over a 15-year period. This is a popular option for buyers who have been steadily contributing to their retirement savings. 4. Gifted Down Payment With today’s housing prices, many buyers turn to family for help. A parent or immediate family member can provide a gift that makes up part—or even all—of the required down payment. The lender will require a signed gift letter confirming that the money is a true gift (with no repayment expected) and proof that the funds have been deposited into your account. 5. Borrowed Down Payment In some cases, you may be able to borrow your down payment. This option is usually available only if you have strong credit and sufficient income. The payments on the borrowed funds are factored into your debt service ratios, so affordability is key. Lenders typically use 3% of the outstanding balance when calculating the additional payment. The Bottom Line A down payment doesn’t have to come from just one source—it can be a combination of savings, gifted funds, RRSPs, or other resources. What matters most is being able to show where the money came from and that it meets lender requirements. If you’d like to explore your options or learn how much you might qualify for, it’s never too early to start the conversation. Connect with us today—we’d be happy to help you create a plan and take the first steps toward homeownership.

Stress-Testing Your Mortgage Affordability: Why It Matters

By Christian Amaruo • July 29, 2026
Buying a home is one of the biggest financial commitments you’ll ever make. That’s why lenders want to be sure you can handle your mortgage payments—not just today, but also if interest rates rise in the future. This is where the mortgage stress test comes in. Many Canadians hear the term but aren’t entirely sure what it means or how it affects them. Let’s break it down in plain language. What Is the Mortgage Stress Test? The stress test is a rule introduced by the federal government that requires all mortgage applicants to qualify at a higher rate than the one they’ll actually pay. Currently, you must qualify at the greater of your contract rate + 2% or the benchmark qualifying rate (set by the Office of the Superintendent of Financial Institutions). For example: If your lender offers you a 5-year fixed mortgage at 5.25%, you must show you could still afford the payments at 7.25% . Even if rates don’t rise that high, the stress test ensures you won’t be overextended if they do. Why Does It Matter? The stress test protects both borrowers and lenders by: Preventing over-borrowing : It ensures you don’t take on more debt than you can realistically handle. Preparing for rate hikes : With interest rates fluctuating, it’s a safeguard against sudden increases. Strengthening financial stability : It lowers the risk of defaults, protecting the housing market as a whole. While it can sometimes feel like a barrier—reducing the amount you qualify for—it’s ultimately designed to keep you from becoming “house poor.” How Does It Impact Buyers? The stress test can significantly affect your homebuying budget. For example, without it, you might qualify for a $600,000 mortgage, but with the stress test applied, you may only qualify for $500,000. That doesn’t mean your dream of homeownership is out of reach—it just means you may need to adjust expectations or explore other strategies, such as: Increasing your down payment Paying down existing debts Considering alternative lenders who may have different qualification standards Why Work With a Mortgage Professional? Every lender applies the stress test, but not every lender views your application the same way. An independent mortgage professional can: Shop multiple lenders to find the best fit Run affordability scenarios at different rates Help you understand how much house you can truly afford—without stretching your finances too thin The Bottom Line The mortgage stress test isn’t meant to stop you from buying a home—it’s there to protect you from financial strain down the road. By understanding how it works and planning ahead, you can make smarter choices and buy with confidence. If you’re thinking about purchasing a home, refinancing, or simply want to know how the stress test affects your options, connect with us today. We’ll help you stress-test your budget and find the mortgage solution that works best for you.

What to Expect in the Closing Process: A Step-by-Step Guide

By Christian Amaruo • July 22, 2026
You’ve found the right home, your offer’s been accepted, and your financing is approved—congratulations! But before you can pick up the keys and celebrate, there’s one more important stage: the closing process. Closing is the final step in your homebuying journey, where all the paperwork, legal details, and financial transactions come together. It can feel overwhelming if you don’t know what to expect, but with the right preparation, closing can be smooth and stress-free. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you understand the process. Step 1: Hire a Lawyer or Notary A real estate lawyer (or notary, depending on your province) handles the legal side of closing. They will: Review the purchase agreement and mortgage documents Conduct a title search to confirm the seller has the legal right to sell the property Ensure the mortgage lender is properly registered on the title Handle the transfer of funds between you, the lender, and the seller Your lawyer or notary will be your main point of contact during closing, so choose one you trust and who communicates clearly. Step 2: Finalize Your Mortgage Your lender will send the mortgage instructions directly to your lawyer or notary. At this stage: You’ll provide proof of property insurance (lenders require this before releasing funds) You’ll confirm your down payment and closing costs are available in your lawyer’s trust account The lawyer will prepare all documents for your review and signature Step 3: Pay Closing Costs Closing costs typically range from 1.5% to 4% of the purchase price. These can include: Legal fees Title insurance Land transfer tax (where applicable) Adjustments for property taxes or utilities prepaid by the seller Home inspection or appraisal fees (if not already paid) Your lawyer will provide a final statement of adjustments so you know exactly how much is due on closing day. Step 4: Sign the Paperwork A few days before closing, you’ll meet with your lawyer or notary to sign all the necessary documents, including: Mortgage agreement Title transfer Insurance confirmations Statement of adjustments Bring valid government-issued ID to this appointment. Step 5: Transfer of Funds On the day of closing: Your lender sends the mortgage funds to your lawyer Your lawyer combines these funds with your down payment and pays the seller Legal ownership of the property is transferred into your name The lender is registered on title as a secured creditor Step 6: Get the Keys! Once the paperwork is filed and the funds have cleared, your lawyer will confirm that the transaction is complete. You’ll then get the keys to your new home—officially making it yours. The Bottom Line The closing process is a series of important steps, but with the right team in place, it doesn’t have to be stressful. By working closely with your mortgage professional and lawyer, you’ll have guidance every step of the way—from signing the documents to turning the key in the front door. If you’d like help preparing for the closing process—or want a clear breakdown of your own closing costs— connect with us today.
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