For North Vancouver mortgage broker Sabeena Bubber of Xeva Mortgage, helping people has always been top priority. Indeed, in a career spanning more than 25 years, she has served over 3,000 clients across Canada and funded close to one billion dollars of mortgages.
Beyond business, Sabeena is a celebrated philanthropist and community leader. In 2016, she founded Brokers Who Care, an organization of Canadian mortgage professionals that provides financial support to families and causes in need. Sabeena is also the founder of Divorce.Mortgage, an online resource to educate individuals who are going through divorce and help them navigate the process.
The CMBA-BC recently had the pleasure of speaking with Sabeena about her inspiring journey, personal aspirations, and the wisdom she’s gained throughout her career.
- Why did you pursue mortgage brokering?
I became a mortgage broker long before many people even knew what the role entailed. My journey began as an underwriter for consumer finance companies, where I had the opportunity to work closely with the mortgage broker community. When I transitioned to being an RBC mortgage specialist, I thought I had found the perfect path to help clients achieve their homeownership dreams.
It didn’t take long for me to realize a critical misalignment between my values and the corporate priorities. My role wasn’t to do what was best for the borrower — it was to do what was best for the bank. I’ll never forget a pivotal moment early in my career: Despite achieving success as one of the top specialists in the province, my sales manager spent an hour not congratulating me, but berating me for not selling enough HomeProtector insurance. That experience was a turning point.
I knew then that if I wanted to build genuine, long-term relationships with my clients and stay true to my mission of truly serving their best interests, I had to become a mortgage broker. My goal became clear: to be my client’s “Mortgage Partner for Life.”
Since becoming a broker, I have never looked back. The freedom to educate my clients, guide them with honesty, and help them achieve their financial and homeownership goals is incredibly fulfilling. It’s not just about closing deals — it’s about building lasting relationships and, in many cases, lifelong friendships.
Being a mortgage broker allows me to put people first, align my work with my values, and make sure my clients always receive the best possible guidance. It’s a decision I’m grateful for every day.
- What’s a skill you’ve always wanted to learn?
I’ve always wanted to be fluent in multiple languages. I have friends who seem to pick up new languages effortlessly, but for me, it hasn’t come as easily, and I know I haven’t dedicated enough time to it. If I could choose, I’d love to speak Hindi, Punjabi, French, and Spanish. Hindi and Punjabi would help me connect more deeply with certain friends, while French and Spanish would be incredibly useful for travel.
- What’s your top travel destination in BC?
I can’t narrow it down to one! I love Tofino, Sunshine Coast, Victoria, Whistler… I moved to BC from Saskatchewan more than 25 years ago and I never get tired of this province and all it has to offer.
- What book are you currently reading?
I’m reading Let Them by Mel Robbins for the second time. I love it! There are some great takeaways from that book and I am applying it in both my personal and professional life.
- What’s the best piece of advice you’ve ever received?
Your thoughts create your reality. By changing your thoughts, emotions, and energy, you can change your life. Focus on the future you want; not the past you’ve experienced. Live as if your dreams have already come true, and your mind and body will align with that new reality.
Thank you, Sabeena, for taking the time to chat with us! If you know a CMBA-BC member who you think should be spotlighted in this column, please contact Samantha at samantha.ashenhurst@cmbabc.ca.