Owning the dream: How this naturopathic doctor brought his vision to life

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After years of working solo, I knew I had to scale up because the need was outpacing what just one doctor could offer. I wanted to bring on more naturopaths, grow the clinic and own the space we were in.

To offer the level of care we were striving for, it was very important for us to own the building where our practice was located. We wanted to plan our future and not worry about what could happen at the end of a five-year lease. We already owned the building in Yarmouth, but in 2023, we also had an opportunity to purchase the Halifax property.

Although we had an existing mortgage on our Yarmouth location with a different financial institution, our goal was to streamline the finances and combine the mortgages.

But to do that, we needed financial support and strategic advice. That’s when I met Claudine at CIBC. 

Right away, I could tell she understood me and my business.

“When I first met Ben, I was immediately struck by his passion — not just for medicine, but for helping people,” recalls Claudine, Relationship Manager, CIBC Business Banking. “He had this clear, strong vision and I could see he was building something much bigger than just a business.”

But interestingly, when I first talked with Claudine about purchasing the building and moving my existing mortgage from a different financial institution, she said I should wait. 

“When he first considered purchasing his building, I gave Ben the honest advice not to switch to us at that point,” says Claudine. “The penalties he would have had to pay to the other financial institution would have cost him too much. And for me, it’s not about making the sale, it’s about doing what’s right for the client and putting them first."

A few months later, I decided to make the move. I didn’t look at it as a penalty, but as an investment in my business. It was surrounding myself with people who were going to help lift me and our business.

Claudine walked me through every step of buying the building, from the financials and paperwork to the strategy. She matched my communication style and respected how I work. I’m with my patients all day, so she provided the information I needed by email or voicemail, which allowed me to stay focused on my business.

One of the things that’s gotten me to where I am in life is trusting my gut, especially when it comes to people. First impressions can change. But with Claudine, I never wavered. She saw my dream and wanted to help make it happen.

“It wasn’t about getting his business, it was about supporting his dream,” says Claudine. “And I truly believe in what he’s doing. Helping Ben build this practice and seeing the way it touches lives — that makes me proud to be a small part of it.”

Buying the Halifax building felt like a massive risk and a big commitment, but it gave us control over our space, our energy and our future. Now, every room in the building has the same warm, holistic and inviting feeling. 

Owning the building wasn’t just a business decision, it was also a personal one. Because I’m self-employed, I don’t have the safety net of a pension plan. This was about long-term stability for my family, my team and the future of Cornerstone.

Thanks to Claudine’s help, we've streamlined our cash flow, become better at managing our time and we’re still growing. If I have any questions at any point, I know she’s only an email away.

Think beyond basic banking

As your business grows, so will your needs. Explore services like payment processing, tax filing and account management with tools like CIBC’s Government Payment and Filing Service (GPFS). It’s free to use and complements your CIBC Business Operating Account.

Trust your gut

Look for a bank relationship that feels right, goes beyond just transactions and fits your communication style. At CIBC Business Banking, you’ll find Relationship Managers who care about your goals, offer tailored advice and leadership guidance and can connect you with experts.

Manage your cash flow

Ensuring there’s enough cash to cover operational costs and loan payments while continuing to grow a healthy business is critical. Whether you’re investing in growth or navigating a challenge, having a bank that helps you optimize cash flow can make all the difference.

Invest in advice

Your business needs will evolve. Having an advisor in your corner to help with things long-term financial strategy — and who understands your long-term vision — is incredibly valuable.