Program

Matt Imhoff, Prepayment Penalty Mentor
The 2026 Mortgage Penalty Playbook: How Top Brokers Win Deals Others Walk Away From - The Hidden Leverage Inside Every Mortgage Penalty

2026 is expected to bring one of the largest mortgage renewal cycles on record, creating unprecedented opportunity for brokers who engage clients early and strategically. While many brokers wait for renewal dates, top brokers use mortgage penalty insights to determine when to engage, how to position options, and where real opportunity exists.

In this session, Prepayment Penalty Mentor Matt Imhoff, Canada’s mortgage penalty expert, will break down how mortgage penalties actually work and why they matter even when a client ultimately chooses not to break their mortgage.

The session combines penalty education, client psychology, and proven real-world strategies used by top brokers to drive earlier conversations, uncover hidden opportunities, and win renewal, refinance, and move-up business that others miss in 2026 and beyond.

What attendees will learn:

• How top brokers use penalty math to engage clients months or even years before renewal
• How to identify high-rate mortgages where breaking early may cost less than staying put
• How to clearly demonstrate when interest savings outweigh the cost of a penalty
• How to evaluate “break now vs. wait” scenarios and time decisions more effectively
• Practical frameworks brokers can apply immediately to capitalize on record renewal volumes

About the speaker: Matt Imhoff is a leading expert on prepayment penalties, dedicated to helping mortgage brokers understand and navigate Interest Rate Differentials (IRDs). With years of hands-on experience, Matt has become a trusted resource for top brokers across Canada, helping them anticipate IRDs and develop strategies to protect their clients. Since entering the mortgage industry in 2015, Matt has been known for his deep knowledge, sharp analytical skills, and passion for empowering brokers through education. His expertise in IRDs and mortgage penalties makes him a sought-after mentor in the industry. Before entering the mortgage industry, Matt served as a Marine Technician in the Royal Canadian Naval Reserves. He embarked on a 3,500 km hike along the Appalachian Trail with his dad in 2010. Now based in Downtown Vancouver, he continues sharing his knowledge and supporting brokers in making informed mortgage decisions.

Heather Thoma, FCT
Renewals, Readiness & Results: Strategies to Thrive in 2026’s High-Stakes Market

The Canadian mortgage landscape is changing quickly, shaped by shifting consumer expectations, digitization, regulatory updates, and evolving risk dynamics. Mortgage professionals are being asked to do more with less, deliver faster with greater accuracy, and maintain trust in a competitive, compliance-driven environment.

This session will provide attendees with practical, actionable strategies to navigate these pressures while improving operational performance, customer experience, and long-term business resilience. Drawing on real-world examples and emerging industry trends, the presentation will give participants a clear sense of where the industry is heading and how to position themselves for success.

About the speaker: Heather Thoma is a seasoned financial services professional with more than 20 years of industry experience, including over a decade supporting the mortgage ecosystem at FCT. Her background spans residential and commercial lending, insurance, and strategic account management, giving her a comprehensive understanding of the end-to-end mortgage lifecycle. In her role at FCT, Heather works closely with brokers, lenders, and legal professionals to improve closing efficiency, reduce risk, and enhance the borrower experience. She is known for her practical insight, collaborative approach, and ability to translate complex processes into actionable guidance for front-line mortgage professionals.

Larry Westergard — President & CEO, REALTORS® Association of Edmonton
Inside the Edmonton Real Estate Market: What Mortgage Professionals Need to Know

Larry is President & Chief Executive Officer of the REALTORS® Association of Edmonton (RAE), bringing nearly 30 years of experience as both a REALTOR® and association executive. He previously served as Executive Officer of the Central Alberta REALTORS® Association and has held senior leadership roles with the Canadian Real Estate Association, Alberta Real Estate Association and the RAE. Larry holds a Bachelor of Arts from the University of Alberta and multiple association leadership designations, reflecting his strong commitment to effective governance and member service.