Author
Quebec-based bilingual mortgage writer. Covers fixed versus variable rate strategies under the OSFI B-20 stress test, helping Canadian homeowners decide between renewal, refinance, and lender switch.
The Bank of Canada's September 2026 policy rate decision creates distinct trade-offs for autumn home buyers choosing between fixed and variable-rate mortgages.
A step-by-step guide to navigating the Canadian mortgage process as a first-time home buyer, from credit checks to closing.
The stress test usually does not apply when you renew with your current lender, but it kicks in if you switch lenders or refinance.
Learn the real costs of switching lenders when your mortgage term ends in Canada, including discharge fees, legal costs, and appraisal expenses.
Comparing a HELOC and mortgage refinancing for accessing home equity in Canada, with guidance on which product fits specific financial situations.
Understand how CHIP reverse mortgages let Canadian homeowners 55+ access home equity without monthly payments, what you'll pay in setup and interest costs, and how to calculate your proceeds.
A tax strategy that converts non-deductible mortgage debt into deductible investment debt through a readvanceable mortgage and disciplined reborrowing.
Compare insured and uninsured mortgages in Canada and understand how the 20 per cent down payment threshold determines your mortgage insurance costs, rates, and qualification rules.
Self-employed Canadians face stricter income verification when applying for a mortgage, as lenders require detailed documentation to assess true earning capacity under OSFI rules.
The OSFI B-20 stress test determines how much you can borrow. Learn the qualification rules, how the test affects your budget, and what first-time buyers need to know before applying.
Learn how the OSFI B-20 mortgage stress test affects your home purchase approval and what qualifying rate you need to meet as a first-time buyer in Canada.
Use the Home Buyers Plan to withdraw up to $60,000 from your RRSP for a down payment, then repay it over 15 years. The calculator shows your exact repayment timeline and annual obligations.
Switching from monthly to accelerated biweekly mortgage payments can save you thousands in interest and shave years off your amortization in Canada. Understand the math and find out how much you could save.
Learn how CMHC mortgage insurance premiums are calculated based on your down payment and purchase price, and use our calculator to estimate your cost.
Deciding between a mortgage broker and going direct to your bank? Learn the key differences, pros and cons of each option, and which route typically saves Canadian borrowers money.
Ontario charges land transfer tax on every property purchase. Learn how the progressive tax rates work and whether you qualify for the first-time buyer rebate.
Learn how to choose between a 1-year and 5-year mortgage term renewal when interest rates are declining, and what Canadian borrowers should consider.
Comparing HELOCs and mortgage refinancing to help Canadian homeowners choose the right way to access their home equity.
Learn how to choose between open and closed mortgages in Canada by weighing prepayment flexibility against interest rate costs.
Compare Canadian mortgage brokers and direct bank lending to find the best mortgage rate and service for your home purchase or refinance.
Compare fixed and variable rate mortgages to understand which rate structure fits your financial situation, risk tolerance, and timeline in the Canadian market.
A practical guide to mortgage refinancing in Canada, including when to refinance, costs to expect, and how to decide if it's worth it.
The RRSP Home Buyers Plan lets first-time buyers withdraw up to $60,000 from their RRSP tax-free to buy or build a qualifying home, with 15 years to repay.
Canada's major banks reduced their prime lending rates to 5.70% after the Bank of Canada lowered its policy rate, affecting variable-rate mortgages and home equity lines of credit.
Many Canadian homeowners can switch mortgage providers at renewal without redoing the federal mortgage stress test. The key condition is that the move must be a straight switch, not a refinance.
The Bank of Canada held its policy rate in June 2026, but that does not make buying automatically better than waiting. The right move depends on your payment comfort, local market conditions, and whether a rate hold protects you while you shop.
Learn how a HELOC works in Canada, the regulations that govern borrowing limits, and smart strategies for accessing your home equity responsibly.
Canadian mortgage rates dropped again today, with five-year fixed rates now averaging 4.39% and variable rates at 5.15%. Find out what today's rate changes mean for your mortgage decisions.
Canadian mortgage rates climbed this week after three months of decline, with fixed rates rising 15 to 25 basis points across major lenders.
Canadian mortgage rates declined this week following geopolitical developments that eased inflation concerns and pushed bond yields lower.
Learn when and how to refinance your mortgage in Canada, including costs, qualification requirements, and strategies to save money on your home loan.
Get new articles?
Want notifications about new articles and tools? You can unsubscribe anytime, and we store no personal data about you.