Author
Writes about Canadian mortgages: the First Home Savings Account (FHSA), portable mortgages, and CMHC programs, guiding buyers through the stress test and pre-approval process.
U.S. Federal Reserve rate changes can influence Canadian mortgage rates through bond markets and capital flows, but the Bank of Canada sets policy independently based on Canadian economic conditions.
The First Home Savings Account offers Canadian first-time buyers a triple tax advantage for down payment savings, combining the best features of RRSPs and TFSAs.
Starting November 21, 2026, Canadian homeowners with uninsured mortgages can switch lenders at renewal without passing the mortgage stress test, giving borrowers significantly more negotiating power.
OSFI has removed the stress test requirement for uninsured mortgage holders switching lenders at renewal, making it easier for Canadian homeowners to shop for better rates.
OSFI eliminated the mortgage stress test requirement at renewal for uninsured mortgages, making it easier for Canadian homeowners to renew with their existing lender or switch providers without requalifying at higher rates.
The Bank of Canada held its target overnight rate at 2.25% in December 2025. Here's what that decision means for your variable and fixed-rate mortgage.
The head of OSFI confirms that Canadian lenders want the mortgage stress test to remain in place, despite some calls for it to be loosened or removed.
A Bank of Canada analysis reveals nearly 10% of Toronto mortgage holders may not meet current stress test requirements when refinancing, raising concerns about the 2026-2027 renewal wave.
Bank of Canada analysis reveals which Canadian homeowners face the steepest payment increases at renewal in 2026, and what the data shows about managing the shock.
Understanding the tax implications of mortgage closing dates in Canada and what year-end timing actually affects.
The Bank of Canada's recent caution to homeowners addresses refinancing risks, not routine renewals. Understanding this distinction protects you from unexpected costs and helps you navigate your mortgage term intelligently.
Higher interest rates directly increase your monthly mortgage payment. Learn how much rates affect your costs and what Canadian homeowners can do.
The Bank of Canada's October rate decision directly affects variable-rate mortgage holders across Canada. Here's what the latest move means for your monthly payment and renewal strategy.
Learn how Canadian lenders use GDS and TDS ratios to determine your mortgage eligibility and how to improve your chances of approval.
A step-by-step guide to securing your first mortgage in Canada, from understanding the stress test to closing day.
Understand how the Bank of Canada's policy rate influences your mortgage payments, renewals, and qualification in Canada.
Prepayment privileges let you pay down your mortgage ahead of schedule without breaking your term. Learn how lump-sum payments and increased payment amounts can save you thousands in interest and years off your amortization.
The OSFI B-20 mortgage stress test determines whether you can still afford your mortgage if rates rise. Learn how the qualifying rate works, how it affects insured versus uninsured mortgages, and what it means for your first home purchase.
Land transfer tax rates and first-time buyer rebates vary significantly across Canadian provinces, with Ontario and British Columbia charging the highest rates while most provinces levy no transfer tax at all.
A HELOC lets you borrow against your home equity as you need it, with flexible repayment and variable interest rates tied to the lender's prime rate.
Learn proven strategies to negotiate a better mortgage renewal rate in Canada, including when to start, how to compare offers, and what leverage you have with your lender.
B lenders offer mortgage financing to Canadian borrowers with damaged credit, charging higher interest rates and fees than prime lenders but providing a path to homeownership when major banks say no.
A mortgage deferral pauses your payments temporarily, but interest keeps adding up and your amortization extends. Here's what that pause actually costs you.
Lenders accept gifted down payments in Canada but require a formal gift letter, proof of transfer, and verification that the funds are non-repayable.
Learn how the OSFI B-20 mortgage stress test works in Canada and what first-time home buyers need to know to qualify for a mortgage in 2026.
Learn how the Canadian mortgage process works for first-time buyers, from pre-approval and the stress test to down payments, CMHC insurance, and choosing between mortgage terms.
The OSFI B-20 mortgage stress test determines how much you can borrow in Canada. Learn how the qualifying rate works, what it means for your budget, and how to prepare.
A bridging loan provides short-term financing to help you buy your next home before your current property sells. Learn when to use one, how it works, and what it costs.
Understand the direct link between the Bank of Canada's policy rate and your mortgage rate, and learn which mortgage type responds faster to central bank decisions.
Compare fixed-rate and variable-rate mortgages to find the best fit for your financial goals, risk tolerance, and market outlook in Canada.
Learn to decode your mortgage amortization schedule and see exactly how much of each payment goes to interest versus principal over your loan's life.
Learn how switching to accelerated bi-weekly mortgage payments can help Canadian homeowners pay off their mortgage years earlier and save thousands in interest.
Learn how each mortgage payment is split between principal and interest, and why understanding your amortization schedule helps you save money over your loan's lifetime.
In July 2026, Canadian homeowners face a critical choice between fixed and variable mortgage rates as economic conditions shift. Here are the key factors to help you decide which rate type fits your financial situation and risk tolerance.
Morningstar's support for OSFI's mortgage stress test and loan-to-income limits reinforces that Canadian mortgage qualification rules are likely to stay cautious.
OSFI's stress test exception for certain uninsured mortgage switches has reduced one barrier for some Canadian borrowers, but it does not remove the stress test altogether. Here is what changed, what did not, and why the market is still confused.
Canadian homeowners can now switch certain mortgages at renewal without facing OSFI's stress test again. The change mainly helps borrowers who want to move lenders without increasing the loan amount or amortization.
A Bank of Canada rate hike can leave some mortgage borrowers looking less qualified than they did when they first took out their loan. Here is what that means for renewals, refinancing, and switching lenders in Canada.
Refinancing can make sense when the savings clearly beat penalties, fees, and renewed qualification rules. Use this Canadian mid-year review to compare your rate, term, amortization, and equity options before you apply.
Current mortgage rate ranges as of Monday, June 1, 2026, and the short-term outlook for fixed and variable rates across Canada.
Higher interest rates can significantly reduce how much you qualify to borrow for a mortgage, even when your income stays the same. Understanding the stress test and qualifying rate helps you plan your home purchase or renewal.
Learn the strategy for securing the best mortgage rate when planning to close on your home purchase in August, including timing, rate hold mechanics, and decision points for Canadian buyers.
Learn how to choose between a fixed-rate and variable-rate mortgage in Canada by understanding rate structures, assessing your risk tolerance, and evaluating your financial goals.
Get new articles?
Want notifications about new articles and tools? You can unsubscribe anytime, and we store no personal data about you.