Meet Rita Cousins
Your Nanaimo Mortgage Broker
Rita Cousins is a Nanaimo mortgage broker with Mortgage Architects, bringing over 45 years of experience in the mortgage industry.
Rita helps buyers and homeowners across Vancouver Island and the Lower Mainland compare mortgage options with clarity, care, and confidence. Whether you are purchasing, renewing, refinancing, or exploring alternative lending, she provides personal guidance every step of the way.


WHO WE ARE
Our Mission
A Mortgage Experience You Can Feel Good About
Rita Cousins is based in Nanaimo and serves buyers and homeowners in Nanaimo, Courtenay Comox, Parksville, Ladysmith, Duncan, and surrounding Vancouver Island communities. We provide mortgage solutions for all kinds of clients, from first-time buyers to those seeking alternative lending.
With over 45 years of experience in the mortgage industry, Rita brings practical knowledge and steady guidance to each mortgage decision. Rachel supports the paperwork and organization behind the scenes, while Rita is your main contact for mortgage advice and options.
We know that getting a mortgage isn’t just a transaction; it’s a life moment. That’s why we take the time to truly listen, offer clear advice, and walk with you through every step.
Whether you're buying your first home, refinancing, or investing in property, our goal is simple: to make you feel confident and cared for every step of the way.
Why Work With Rita?
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Independent Mortgage Brokers: We’re not tied to one bank. We shop around to find what’s best for you.
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Local & Personal: We’re based in Nanaimo, but we proudly serve clients across Vancouver Island and the Lower Mainland, including Courtenay Comox, Duncan, Parksville, Port Alberni, and the Fraser Valley. Whether you’re local or looking to buy in these regions, we’re here to help you find the right mortgage solution. We love serving our community and building lasting relationships.
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Expertise You Can Trust: With decades of experience, we’ve seen it all, and we still believe in doing things the right way.
Connected to a trusted National Network
As a mortgage broker with Mortgage Architects, Rita combines the resources of a national brokerage with personal, local service. Access to a wide range of lenders allows her to compare mortgage options and explain the rates, terms, flexibility, and costs that matter to you.
Ready to Chat?
Let’s make your mortgage experience feel easy and empowering. Contact us to get started. We’re here to help every step of the way.
Community Involvement
Rita and Rachel believe in giving back to the community that supports them. Their commitment to service goes beyond mortgages; it’s woven into everything they do.
Rachel has been an active volunteer in Nanaimo’s school community since 2013 and served as vice president and Secretary for the Cinnabar Valley Elementary School and John Barsby Secondary School Parent Advisory Council until 2026 when her youngest graduated. Her involvement reflects a long-standing dedication to supporting youth and education.
Together, Rita and Rachel helped relaunch the Nanaimo Women’s Business Network in February 2024, where they now serve on the board, Rita as President and Rachel as Secretary. As proud members of the network, they champion local women in business and help create space for collaboration and connection.
They are also active members of the Nanaimo Chamber of Commerce and serve on the Women of Influence Nanaimo Awards Committee, helping recognize and elevate outstanding women across the region.
Whether it's through mentorship, advocacy, or event planning, this mother-daughter duo is committed to building a stronger, more connected community.
Awards and Recognition
Our roots run deep in Nanaimo. We actively volunteer with community groups like the Nanaimo Women’s Business Network, Beacon, and The Women of Influence Nanaimo Awards, and we’re proud to support local businesses and events that strengthen our community.

Top Mortgage Professional
Bronze, 2018

Top Mortgage Professional
Gold, 2019

Top Mortgage Professional
Gold, 2020

Top Mortgage Professional
Gold, 2021
Top 5%

Top Mortgage Professional
Gold, 2022
Top 7%

Top Mortgage Professional
2023
Top 10%

Top Mortgage Professional
Gold, 2024
Top 7%


Nanaimo Chamber Business Awards
Nominee – Women in Business
– Financial Services
– Community Builder of the Year

Best of the City — 2nd Place,
2023

Best of the City — 2nd Place,
2024