Maximizing Income vs. Using Business Write-Offs: A Balancing Act for Self-Employed Mortgage Qualification

Maximizing Income vs. Using Business Write-Offs: A Balancing Act When Qualifying for a Mortgage

If you’re self-employed and planning to buy a home, refinance, or transfer your mortgage, balancing income and tax write-offs is crucial when tax season arrives. Your financial profile plays a significant role in mortgage qualification, and understanding how lenders assess self-employed income can make a big difference in determining how much you can borrow. In this article, we’ll explore how lenders evaluate self-employed income and how your net business income impacts your mortgage eligibility.

The Importance of Income When Qualifying for a Mortgage

Higher Income Equals a Larger Loan Amount

Lenders base their mortgage approval decisions largely on income. Simply put, the more you earn, the more you can borrow. A higher reported income increases your borrowing power and enhances your chances of getting approved for the loan amount you need.

A key factor in mortgage qualification is your Gross Debt Service Ratio (GDSR)—the percentage of your income that goes toward housing costs. Lenders typically require this ratio to be no more than 39% of your income. A lower GDSR indicates financial stability and makes you a more attractive borrower. For example, if you earn $100,000 per year compared to $50,000, you’re likely to qualify for a larger mortgage and a more expensive home.

Another important metric is your Total Debt Service Ratio (TDSR), which accounts for all your debt obligations, including housing costs, credit cards, and loans. Traditional lenders usually set a maximum TDSR of 44%. A higher debt load can reduce your borrowing capacity and make mortgage approval more challenging.

The Flip Side: Write-Offs and Mortgage Qualification

While maximizing income can help you qualify for a larger mortgage, using business tax write-offs—while beneficial for reducing tax liability—can have unintended consequences. Lenders assess net business income (after deductions), and excessive write-offs can lower your reported income, potentially impacting mortgage approval.

Business Write-Offs Lower Your Net Taxable Income

For business owners, freelancers, and self-employed individuals, tax write-offs are a great tool for minimizing taxes. However, deductions such as marketing, advertising, and other business expenses reduce net business income, which is the figure lenders use to assess mortgage eligibility.

For instance, if you earn $100,000 but claim $30,000 in write-offs, your net income is $70,000. Since lenders typically average two years of self-employed income, excessive deductions can lower your mortgage qualification amount.

Striking a Balance: Maximizing Income Without Sacrificing Write-Offs

So, how do you balance reducing taxes with qualifying for a mortgage? Here are some strategies:

1. Plan Ahead for Mortgage Qualification

If you plan to buy a home in the next two years, consult with a financial advisor, accountant, and mortgage broker now. A mortgage expert can help you understand how lenders assess your income, while your accountant can develop strategies to optimize your reported income for mortgage qualification. In some cases, paying higher taxes in the short term may improve your borrowing ability.

2. Work with Professionals

Tax planning is essential for self-employed individuals. Your accountant can advise on structuring expenses and income to balance tax savings with mortgage eligibility. Financial planners can assist with home savings strategies and guide you on investment withdrawals when preparing to buy. Need suggestions on who to work with, visit our resource page.

 

Conclusion

Maximizing your income is a proven way to boost mortgage qualification. However, if you rely heavily on business write-offs to reduce taxable income, you may face challenges securing the loan amount you need. Finding the right balance between tax efficiency and mortgage approval is key. By planning ahead and working with financial professionals, you can navigate these challenges and confidently prepare for homeownership.

Have questions? Contact Us—we’re here to help! Or click here to Apply Now.

 

Homebuyers Benefit From More Purchasing Power

Homebuyers Benefit From More Purchasing Power

 

1. Introduction of 30-Year Amortizations for Insured Mortgages

One of the most significant shifts this year is the introduction of 30-year amortizations for insured mortgages. This extension allows certain buyers to spread out their mortgage payments over 30 years instead of the previous 25-year maximum, increasing purchasing power. The 30 year option is in effect for all buyers purchasing new construction with less than 20% downpayment.  Effective December 15th, any first time buyers purchasing any home with an insured mortgage can benefit from the 30 year amortization.  This move aims to help Canadians qualify for larger loans while keeping their monthly payments more manageable, especially amid rising home prices and interest rates. These changes are designed to address affordability challenges. Homebuyers benefit from more purchasing power. Here’s a quick breakdown of the key changes: Homebuyers Benefit From More Purchasing Power and Homeowners Benefit From New Policies

For Insured Mortgage guidelines a first-time homebuyer must meet the following criteria:

-someone who has not owned a home in the past four years. This includes individuals who have never purchased a property or those who previously owned a home but have not done so within the last four years.

-Note: only one applicant needs to be a first time buyer to access the 30 year amortization

To qualify for certain first-time homebuyer programs, such as withdrawing from RRSP’s under the Home Buyers’ Plan (HBP), the individual must plan to live in the home as their primary residence.

2. Changes Insured Mortgage limit

Effective December 15, 2024 insured mortgages will be available up to a maximum purchase price of $1,500,000.00 ($1,499,999.99 to be exact). This is an increase from the previous limit of $1,000,000.00.  This will allow all buyers to have the option of purchasing with the minimum down payment, instead of requiring 20% on the purchase price. Minimum down payment for insured mortgages are 5% of the first $500,000 and 10% on the balance. For example, if you were buying for $1,500,000 before December 15th, the minimum down payment would be 20% of the purchase price, or $300,000. After December 15th you can buy with $125,000 down.

3. Changes to Home Buyers Plan  (RRSP)

Eligible first time home buyers can withdraw from their RRSP for a home purchase up to $60,000 (increased from $40,000). The money must be repaid to their RRSP over a 15 year period, (after a 5 year grace period) or else claimed as taxable income.

4. Property Transfer Tax Exemptions for First Time Buyers

Eligible first time buyers can purchase new construction without Property Transfer Tax up to $1,100,000.

On resale properties, buyers can enjoy full exemption up to $500,000 and a new partial exemption on houses priced between $500,000-$835,000.

5. Cancellation of First-Time Homebuyer Incentives

The federal government ended their First-Time Home Buyer Incentive (FTHBI) effective March 2024. There were not enough Canadians taking part in the program to make it worthwhile to continue to offer.

6. Stress Test – Renewals/Transfers

As of November 21, 2024, mortgage renewals can be transferred to a different lender without the stress test being applied. This means borrowers qualify at the contract rate instead of 2.0% above. Giving more options at renewal time.

7. Canada’s Secondary Suite Loan Program expands to $80,000 loans with 2% over 15 years

Starting January 15, 2025, the Canada Secondary Suite Loan Program will double the loan limit from $40,000 to $80,000, making it easier for homeowners to finance the creation of rental units on their property, such as basement suites or laneway homes.

Conclusion

The Canadian mortgage market in 2024 is marked by a combination of flexibility and tightening measures. While homebuyers benefit from more purchasing power through 30-year amortizations and revised stress test rules (when renewing), home owners benefit from new policies. These adjustments are reshaping the housing landscape and giving Canadians more options as they navigate a complex and evolving market.

Do you have a renewal coming up or want to see what these changes can mean for you? Give your Broker a call and we can answer any questions you may have.

 

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“The name friends recommend”

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Make the Most of Your Mortgage Renewal

Make the Most of Your Mortgage Renewal

 

 

As your mortgage renewal date approaches, our team at Mid Island Mortgage wants to help you make the most of this opportunity. With many Canadians renewing their mortgages in 2025, this renewal season comes with some unique advantages, thanks to recent policy changes. Here’s why a renewal could be more beneficial than you think:

What’s New for Renewals?

Starting November 1st, the Federal Government of Canada has relaxed qualification rules for uninsured mortgage transfers. If you’re switching lenders without increasing your mortgage amount or extending your amortization, the stress test is no longer required. This could mean more lender options and flexibility for you.

In January 2025, homeowners with insured mortgages (initial down payment of less than 20%) will be able to refinance up to 90% of their home’s value to add a secondary suite or carriage home. This option allows homeowners to generate rental income and offset monthly expenses—a new pathway to financial flexibility.

 

3 Tips to Maximize Your Renewal:

  1. Start Early: Begin the process 4-6 months before your renewal. This gives you time to explore competitive rates and tailor your mortgage to your current goals. If rates drop before your renewal, most lenders will adjust your rate up to 10 days before funding.
  2. Reassess Your Financial Goals: Your priorities may have shifted since you first got your mortgage. Consider switching from fixed to variable (or vice versa), altering your term, or refinancing to manage home improvements, maintenance, or debt consolidation.
  3. Let Us Do the Shopping: Don’t limit yourself to your current lender’s renewal offer! As Mortgage Brokers, we partner with multiple lenders to find you the best rates and terms for your situation, saving you time and effort. We will help you determine if moving your mortgage is an option that is in your best interests.

We’re here to guide you through every step of your renewal. Feel free to reach out with any questions or to discuss your options with one of our brokers.  Our mortgage brokers can provide tailored advice and help you find the best options suited to your needs.

Call us at 250-753-2242

 

Locally owned and operated since 1985.

“The name friends recommend”

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Updates: BC Tenancy Act & 30 Year Amortizations First Time Buyers

BC Tenancy Act Changes & 30-Year Amortizations for First-Time Buyers

Recent government policy changes have significantly impacted the real estate and mortgage landscape in British Columbia. These changes, which took effect in July and August 2024, are crucial for landlords, tenants, and home buyers to understand. The amendments to the BC Tenancy Act and the new rules for First-Time Home Buyer amortizations are particularly noteworthy. Read on to learn more about these two significant updates.

BC Tenancy Act Key Changes

Effective July 18, 2024, several important changes to the BC Tenancy Act have been implemented. Here’s what you need to know:

  1. RTB Landlords WebPortal: Landlords must now register all notices to end a tenancy on an online portal and include the reason for termination.
  2. 120-Day Notice to Tenants: The notice period for tenants to vacate a property for owner occupation has increased from 2 months to 4 months.
    • Notice starts on the first day of the rental period.
    • Example: If notice is given on July 22, tenants must vacate by December 1.
  3. Increased Compensation: Tenants will receive 2 months’ free rent, up from the previous 1 month. Additionally, if the property is not used as stated for 12 months after the tenancy ends, the landlord or buyer owes the tenant 12 months’ rent.
  4. Increased Time to Dispute: Tenants now have 30 days to dispute a notice, up from the previous 2 weeks.

Considerations for Buyers:

  • Mortgage Interest Rate Holds: Rate holds currently last 90-120 days. When buying a tenanted property, work with your mortgage broker or lender to ensure your approval will hold until completion.
  • Owner-Occupied Purchase: When buying a tenanted property that will be your principal residence, be aware that the 120-day notice will postpone your move-in date.
  • Investor Impact: Selling tenanted properties will now involve additional considerations for landlords.

For more information, visit the Tenancy Act Changes.

If you’re looking to purchase a tenanted home, consult your REALTOR® and mortgage broker.

First-Time Home Buyers: 30-Year Amortization

Starting August 1, 2024, first-time homebuyers purchasing newly constructed homes priced under $1 million can benefit from 30-year amortizations. This change applies to insured mortgages, with a minimum down payment requirement of 5% on the first $500,000 and 10% on the balance. This update aims to increase buying power for eligible purchasers.

Eligibility Criteria:

To be considered a first-time homebuyer, at least one borrower on the application must meet one of the following criteria:

  • The borrower has never purchased a home before.
  • In the last 4 years, the borrower has not occupied a home as a principal residence that they or their current spouse/common-law partner owned.
  • The borrower recently experienced the breakdown of a marriage or common-law partnership.

First-time homebuyers should connect with their mortgage professional to update their application and determine how the increased amortization impacts their pre-qualification.

For more details, visit the CRA 30-Year Mortgage for First-Time Home Buyers.

Stay Updated

As mortgage regulations continue to evolve, we remain committed to keeping you informed with the latest information. For personalized advice and to discuss your specific situation, call us today at 250-753-2242.

Zoning Changes: City of Nanaimo Responds to Bill 44

Bill 44 – zoning changes

The Provincial Budget announced in April includes Bill 44-Small Scale Multi Unit Housing (SSMUH) initiative.  Municipalities in BC had to take action and announce their zoning bylaw changes by June 30, 2024.

On June 18, 2024 the City of Nanaimo’s response was announced.

What is Zoning?

Zoning refers to designations that are set out by a city or regional district that outline what is and isn’t allowed, including conditions for development and land use.  Previously, the bulk of Nanaimo’s residential zoning was R1 – this allowed for one single residential dwelling, or for two principal dwellings on certain corner lots.  R1 zoning has been changed to R5 for the most part; R5 allows for development of small scale multi family residential dwellings of up to 3-4 units.  Many homeowners can now add a secondary suite, and a carriage house.

Click here to check out this City of Nanaimo Zoning Map. 

Other Changes

Among the changes to zoning types, Nanaimo now recognizes suites in duplexes, row houses and townhouses.  Lot size restrictions for secondary suites are removed, and R5 zoning have decreased front yard setbacks.  Units zoned R14 Old City Low Density, allow for fourplexes, and have special density provisions if the integrity of existing homes are being retained.  For specific details and questions please contact the City of Nanaimo.

The Province’s action of SSMUH addresses the ongoing housing shortage being faced by British Columbians. With multiple programs available, homeowners should ensure they are aware of the tools and resources at their disposal.  The Secondary Suite Incentive is available for those who are building a suite in their principal residence.  This is a $40,000 forgivable loan that assists homeowners with the cost of renovations. The rental suite must be rented at below market rents for 5 years.  To find out what ‘below market rents’ means in your area, please click Here. 

Our May Blog Post has the basics on the Secondary Suite Initiative. 

For further details of the Suite Assistance Initiative, visit BC Housing Assistance – Suite Initiative.

Our team is here to answer any questions you have. We will help determine the options for turning equity into cashflow. Call us 250-753-2242.

 

Secondary Suite Incentive

Couple unpacking their boxes in new home

The Secondary Suite Incentive Program (SSIP) will help homeowners create affordable housing in their communities. The program will provide money to help homeowners create a new secondary suite on their property to be rented out for below market value.

  • Homeowners who qualify will receive up to 50% of the cost of renovations, up to a maximum of $40,000.

The program will provide a rebate in the form of a forgivable loan—a loan that does not need to be repaid if the homeowner follows the terms of the program. For the loan to be forgiven, the new unit must be located on the same property where the homeowner lives and must be rented out at below market rates, set by BC Housing, for at least five years.

Learn more: Province of British Columbia’s Home Suite Home Guide.

Are you Eligible?

  • Is the home that you plan to build a suite in your primary home where you file taxes and register your vehicles?
  • Was the assessed value of your home in 2024 less than $2,150,000?
  • Are all registered home owners Canadian Citizens or permanent residents?
  • Was the combined income of all principal residents less than 209,420?
  • Is the home located within the approved list of municipalities?

follow this link to BC Housing’s checklist:

https://secondarysuite-eligibility.bchousing.org/

How to Apply

  1. Plan your project and prepare to apply
  • Check with your municipality to confirm if zoning allows for a secondary suite
  • Arrange for contractors and financing
  • Apply for a building permit as required (building permits issued on or after April 1, 2023 will be considered)
  1. Apply online using the SSIP portal

Apply for SSIP or manage application

  • Submit eligibility documents (proof of residence and income) and
  • Include your municipal building permit

Need SSIP portal help? View application resources for guides and videos

After you Apply

  • After approval, complete construction of your secondary suite
  • Once construction is complete
    • Submit the occupancy permit issued by your municipality
    • Provide proof of construction costs to receive the loan
  • Rent out suite and maintain program requirements

When program requirements are met, the loan will be forgiven

Applications will be approved on a first come, first served basis until annual funding is used up.

Frequently Asked Questions

Applications/Eligibility/Guide

https://www.fvrd.ca/assets/Services/Documents/Building~and~Bylaw/Guide%20to%20Secondary%20Suites.pdf

https://secondarysuite.bchousing.org/

https://www.bchousing.org/housing-assistance/secondary-suite

https://www.ctvnews.ca/politics/canada-to-allow-30-year-amortization-for-first-time-buyers-mortgages-on-new-homes-1.6842913

2024 Federal Budget Announcements and Thirty Year Amortization Period

Finance Minister Chrystia Freeland announced April 11, 2024 that the federal government will allow a thirty year amortization period on insured mortgages for first-time homebuyers purchasing newly built homes. Some say expanding the policy to all Canadians would help make home ownership more affordable. The change takes effect Aug. 1, 2024.

Under the current rules, with a down payment less than 20 per cent of the home price, the longest allowable amortization is 25 years. Extending amortization, to a thirty year amortization makes monthly mortgage more affordable for young Canadians who want to buy their first home.

This will allow more opportunities for home ownership and will ultimately contribute to economic revival and economic recovery. Enabling some Canadians to stop renting and become homeowners.

First Time Home Buyers Withdrawal Plan – RRSP

Freeland also announced the government will raise the amount first-time homebuyers can withdraw from their RRSPs to $60,000 from $35,000 to buy a home. That will take effect April 16, 2024 the day the federal budget is set to be released. The size of a down payment and the amount of time needed to save up for one are much larger than they used to be. Withdrawals will also have an extended timeframe for repayment.

People who have made or will make withdrawals between Jan. 1, 2022, and Dec. 31, 2025, are also getting more time to begin repayment — up to five years rather than two. 

Ottawa said the changes are meant to work in tandem with the First Home Savings Account, which it launched last year. The rules governing that program allow prospective homebuyers to start saving for up to 15 years once they open an account, with an annual $8,000 (tax deductible) deposit cap and a lifetime contribution limit of $40,000. Unlike the RRSP First Time Home Buyers Withdrawal Plan, qualified withdrawals do not require repayment and are non-taxable.

Freeland said more than 750,000 Canadians have opened an FHSA to date. While the program came online April 1 of last year, most Canadian financial institutions only began offering the account as of last summer or fall.

Ottawa also announced changes to the Canadian Mortgage Charter that will include an expectation that financial institutions offer permanent amortization relief to protect existing homeowners who meet certain eligibility criteria.

That would allow eligible homeowners to reduce their monthly mortgage payment to a number they can afford for as long as needed.

 

https://www.ctvnews.ca/politics/canada-to-allow-30-year-amortization-for-first-time-buyers-mortgages-on-new-homes-1.6842913

 

https://www.cbc.ca/player/play/1.7171449

CMHC Premium Refunds for Energy Efficient Homes: Eco Program

 

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CMHC Eco Program

 

CMHC has introduced their Eco Program: providing premium refunds for energy efficient homes are for clients who are buying a home deemed “energy efficient”.  Clients could be eligible for a 25% refund of their CMHC Insurance Premium!  For some perspective; on a purchase price of $850,000 with minimum down payment of $60,000 the CMHC insurance premium is $31,600. Clients who buy a qualifying property, are eligible for a refund of up to $7900.  For homeowners who are doing renovations that increase energy efficiency, there are also refunds available.

CMHC recently introduced new eligibility criteria for this program, including an updated and expanded list of energy efficiency certifications, and energy efficiency targets based not only on total Energy consumption but also Greenhouse Gas Emissions.  Building codes are progressing toward net-zero ready standards, eligibility criteria continues to be adjusted.

New Construction

To be deemed an energy efficient new build, properties must have been awarded an eligible certificate–there are multiple eligible certifications including BC Energy Step Code, Built Green Canada, Canadian Home Builders Association to name a few.  However, if a new-build doesn’t come with the certification, clients can get their home assessed by a Natural Resources Canada (NRCan) qualified energy advisor.

How does someone apply?

After closing your mortgage, eligible borrowers have up to 2 years to submit the refund request, directly to CMHC through their Eco Program with supporting documentation.  The homeowner applies through CMHC’s website, uploading their supporting documentation. Once approved, CMHC mails a cheque directly to the client. The funds can be used for any purpose, they do not have to be applied to the mortgage.

Required documents will include:

Final Energy Efficient Certificate from the list of  Eligible Third-Party Certifications and/or

Energuide label for Energuide renovation upgrade report for existing homes

These supporting documents are ‘good’ for up to 5 years. Meaning, if the house sells within 5 years, the new buyer can also apply for the CMHC refund.  Even if it was already applied for by the previous owner.  Yes it’s double dipping that is allowed and encouraged by CMHC for this program.

Renovate for Energy Efficiency

If you have an insured mortgage with CMHC, and you’re spending at least $20,000 in energy efficient renovations, the program is available for you.  This applies to both single family dwellings and condos.  Buyers can use the Purchase Plus Improvements Program through CMHC, to get the money needed for the updates. See the following link: https://www.32degreesbuilding.com.au/how-to-make-your-home-energy-efficient/

Energy Costs are getting higher and the cheapest energy is the energy you don’t use.

Paul Pettipas – Nova Scotia Home Builders Association

To be Eligible:

  • Be a homeowner with CMHC Insured financing
  • Allocate a minimum $20,000 for energy-efficient improvements that fall within any of these 3 categories
  1. Building Envelope (insulation, windows, doors, roof, attic, air tightness & foundation).
  2. Mechanical systems (HVAC- Heating, Ventilation and Air Conditioning, heat pump systems).
  3. Renewable energy systems (solar, wind, geothermal).

CMHC has made the program user friendly and beneficial for the homeowner, putting money back in their pocket is always a positive.

 

If you would like more information or have questions, please ask! Call us at 250-753-2242 or apply here: Online Application

https://www.cmhc-schl.gc.ca/en/professionals/project-funding-and-mortgage-financing/funding-programs/all-funding-programs/canada-greener-homes
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Mid Island Mortgage & Savings Ltd, #12 – 327 Prideaux Street, Nanaimo, BC V9V 1C8, Canada, 250 753 2242

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CEBA Loan Forgiveness: Deadline Approaching

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CEBA Loan Forgiveness Deadline Approaching

For eligible CEBA loan holders in good standing, repaying the balance of the loan on or before January 18, 2024 will result in loan forgiveness of up to 33 % (up to $20,000).

As of December 4, 2020 the maximum CEBA loan amount was increased to $60,000. CEBA loan holders who had received the $40,000 CEBA loan, were able to apply for the CEBA expansion, which offered eligible businesses an additional $20,000 of financing.

All Application Outcomes: Are Now Final

 

As of September 14, 2023 the repayment deadline for eligible CEBA loan holders to qualify for partial loan forgiveness was extended to January 18, 2024. Additionally, CEBA loan holders that submit a refinancing loan application by January 18, 2024 but require a grace period in order to finalize the payout of their CEBA loan can still qualify for partial forgiveness if the outstanding principal of their CEBA loan, other than the amount of potential debt forgiveness, plus any applicable interest is repaid by March 28, 2024.  Accessing the equity in your home is a great way to support your business and ensure you keep as much money as possible in your pocket. The government loans served a purpose that assisted business owners when they needed it most-utilize those monies as best you can.

Additional Information

If businesses repay the loans by January 18, 2024, they can receive loan forgiveness on up to a third of the amount they borrowed, but if they don’t they must repay the full amount and will face 5% interest on their remaining balance. There could be mortgage options available to help you pay the balance and be excused from full repayment.

 

“There is near panic on the part of close to half of Canada’s small businesses about the looming deadline that is approaching for CEBA loans”

Dan Kelly, President and CEO of the Canadian Federation of Independent Business

Locally owned and operated since 1985.

“The name friends recommend”
Mid Island Mortgage & Savings Ltd, #12 – 327 Prideaux Street, Nanaimo, BC V9V 1C8, Canada, 250 753 2242

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Mortgage Renewal and Educating Yourself

We believe Informed Consumers Make Better decisions

 

Educate Yourself

 

Mortgage renewal and educating yourself, there are so many questions. There is information overload and it can be daunting. Where is the economy at and where is it going? We don’t have a crystal ball, but here are some tips if you have a mortgage renewal coming up.

 

Why education matters; we believe that informed consumers make better decisions.

  • Do I have to requalify?
  • Variable rate or fixed rate?
  • What term should I take?
  • How much are my payments going to increase?

Five things to consider when renewing your mortgage:

What the economists are saying:

 

Benjamin Tal, CIBC Economist:

“Things are moving in the right direction, but not good enough – therefore, we keep the option to raise again open”, “They’re not going to commit to not raising interest rates anymore. [That’s] no big surprise – they don’t want to be seen as relaxed about inflation.” “The short answer is, we don’t know. It’s really 50/50.”

Stephen Brown, Capital Economics:

“The Bank of Canada accompanied its decision to leave interest rates unchanged with a pledge to hike again if needed, but we doubt it will need to follow through. With recession risks rising and labour market conditions loosening, we continue to think that the bank’s next move will be a rate cut, in early 2024”

Earl Davis, head of fixed income and money markets at BMO Global Asset Management:

“We didn’t anticipate a hike today [Sept 6th] there’s two more meetings before the end of the year, we anticipate they’re going to hike it once minimum.”

Changes to Consider

Lender

Switch/Transfer your mortgage to a new lender (at their cost).  Most lenders will help pay the costs associated with moving your mortgage at renewal. To be eligible for a transfer program, you cannot increase your mortgage amount at this time. Everything is the same except the lender.

Refinance your mortgage

Now is the time to consider any of those upcoming changes that may require money in the coming years. Does it make sense to take equity out of your home?

Extend you amortization

Increasing your amortization period helps provide payment relief by spreading payments out over a longer timeframe.

Type of mortgage

Should you consider a fixed or variable mortgage? Would you want to look at removing co-signers who may not be needed any longer?

Look at the big picture

What is coming up in the next five years?

  • downsizing
  • expanding your family
  • moving closer to family
  • major renovation
  • kids education
  • help adult kids with housing
  • buy rental property/vacation property
  • dream vacation

Avoid Payment Shock

Get an idea of what your payments will be at renewal. You could start practicing making higher payments now, to relieve some pain at renewal!  Why not get the budget book out.  If you have the funds to make a lump sum payment, this will help reduce interest paid, and monthly payments. You could also consider paying off some debt to free up monthly cashflow. Whatever you do don’t take on any new payments.

Interest Rates

Bank of Canada (BOC) sets its policy interest rate (overnight rate) to control inflation. They raised rates 10x since March 2022 (+4.75%) this impacts variable interest rate products. The last meeting on September 6, 2023 the rate was held at 5%. The BOC’s next meeting is October 25, 2023.

Fixed mortgage interest rates are not directly linked to Bank of Canada Rates. The fixed rates follow bond yield. Fixed rates increased roughly 2.25% since March 2022.

 

Requalifying 101

You can refinance up to 80% of the value of your home.

Income qualification – documents and questions will be required (no blood sample required).  Stress Test – you will qualify at 2% above your mortgage interest rate. A Lawyer/Notary could be needed and an appraisal is likely.

Renewing with you lender

  • If you’ve made all your payments on time, your existing lender will generally give you the option to renew your mortgage.
  • Avoid requalifying – if you are not increasing your mortgage amount, amortization, or making a change to who’s on the mortgage.
  • No cost – there shouldn’t be any legal fees, appraisals, or income documents to provide.
  • Can be as easy as signing the dotted line. There is a bit more involved, but the most straight forward option.

Options

Terms – Lenders usually automatically offer a 5 year fixed term. Consider a shorter term or a variable rate.

Early Renewal – Most lenders offer early renewal options – up to six months early

Rate Holds – Inquire with your lender about how long they will honour a rate hold.

We believe that informed consumers make better decisions. To discuss your upcoming renewal,  or any mortgage situation call Kevin, Jason or Blaire today!

 

DollarWise Mortgage Experts Blog Post