What Is a Ratio Mortgage? In the context of conventional and high ratio mortgages, the ratio mortgage refers to the relationship between the size of the mortgage loan and the amount of the down payment the investor is willing to place when purchasing a property. It is also known as the loan-to-value ratio. The down payment is…
Where to Get Your Mortgage Loan When shopping for mortgage options, home buyers mainly choose between a direct bank lender (or another financial institution) and a licensed mortgage broker. These two primary mortgage providers, which account for an almost even split of the market, offer different access to rates, terms, and approvals, which can appeal to…
Why Get a Mortgage? The price of a home is often more than what a single individual or household can save. Therefore, many choose to buy a home or an investment property by putting down a deposit of typically 20% of the home’s purchase price, and obtaining a loan for the remaining amount. This assistance…
What Is the Process of Paying off a Mortgage? When you get a mortgage, you’re not just agreeing to pay back the amount you borrowed (principal). You also agree to pay interest on the money you still owe. How much you’ll pay in interest depends on a variety of factors, including your loan type, how much you borrowed,…
When it comes to buying a home, most buyers instinctively think the bigger the down payment, the better. It seems logical—reduce your mortgage and pay less interest over time. But what if there’s a smarter way to allocate your down payment? One that enhances your purchasing power and even improves your lifestyle, without costing more…
When shopping for mortgages, you’re likely to come across terms like insured, insurable, and uninsured mortgages. These classifications impact the type of property you can purchase, how much you need for a down payment, and the interest rates available to you. Let’s break down what these terms mean, their requirements, and examples to clarify how…
How to calculate how much you’re spending now, what you can afford and your future expenses. Are you financially ready to own a home? Look into these 5 calculations and questions before you meet with your broker or lender. QUALIFYING FOR A MORTGAGE There are 2 affordability rules that determine how much you can spend on housing without…
Alternative payment arrangements when facing financial difficulties. Unforeseen financial circumstances happen. Sometimes, they affect your ability to make regular mortgage payments. The good thing is that you have options. It’s important for you to take quick action quickly. If you can’t pay your mortgage, you need to get in touch with your mortgage professional at…
How Canada’s evolving trade tensions and economic conditions could influence mortgage rates—and what borrowers should consider when choosing between fixed and variable products. Introduction Mortgage shoppers in Canada are facing one of the most unpredictable rate environments in years. The recent escalation in U.S.-Canada trade tensions, combined with inflation risks and a slowing economy, has…