Amortization Period
An amortization period is the length of time it takes to fully pay off a loan by making regular, fixed payments. The period is typically expressed in months or years and is determined by the loan’s term and interest rate.
During the amortization period, each payment is divided between paying off the principal (the original amount borrowed) and paying the interest that accrues on the outstanding balance. As the loan progresses, the proportion of each payment that goes towards the principal increases, while the proportion that goes towards interest decreases. This process continues until the entire loan is paid off.
The length of the amortization period can have a significant impact on the total amount of interest paid over the life of the loan. A shorter amortization period will result in higher monthly payments but less interest paid over time, while a longer amortization period will result in lower monthly payments but more interest paid over time.
Closed Mortgage
A closed mortgage is a type of mortgage that has specific terms and conditions regarding prepayment or early repayment. With a closed mortgage, the borrower is committed to a specific interest rate and payment schedule for the duration of the term, which can range from six months to ten years or more.
A closed mortgage typically does not allow for prepayment of the principal, meaning that the borrower cannot pay off the mortgage in full or make significant extra payments during the term without incurring a penalty. This can be a disadvantage for borrowers who may want to take advantage of lower interest rates or pay down their mortgage faster.
However, closed mortgages often offer lower interest rates compared to open mortgages, which allows borrowers to save money on interest over the term. Closed mortgages are a popular option for borrowers who are not planning to move or refinance their mortgage in the near future and want the security of a fixed payment schedule.
Conventional Mortgage
In Canada, a conventional mortgage refers to a type of mortgage loan that is not insured or guaranteed by the Canadian government. Unlike government-backed mortgages, such as Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation (CMHC) insured mortgages, conventional mortgages are provided by private lenders, such as banks or credit unions.
To qualify for a conventional mortgage in Canada, borrowers typically need to have a minimum down payment of at least 20% of the purchase price of the property. If the down payment is less than 20%, the borrower may need to obtain mortgage default insurance from a private insurer such as Canada Guaranty, Genworth Canada, or Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation (CMHC). The insurance premiums are typically added to the mortgage payments and can increase the overall cost of the mortgage.
Conventional mortgages in Canada can have fixed or variable interest rates and can be used to finance various types of properties, including single-family homes, condominiums, and multi-unit residential buildings. The maximum amortization period for a conventional mortgage in Canada is typically 25 years.
Overall, a conventional mortgage in Canada may be a good option for borrowers who have good credit, stable employment, and sufficient funds for a down payment. They offer flexibility in terms of mortgage rates and terms, and may also allow borrowers to save on mortgage insurance premiums compared to government-backed mortgages.
Down Payment
a mortgage down payment refers to the amount of money that a homebuyer pays upfront when purchasing a property with a mortgage. The down payment is a percentage of the purchase price of the property and is typically paid by the buyer at the time of closing.
The minimum down payment required in Canada depends on the purchase price of the property. For homes with a purchase price of less than $500,000, the minimum down payment is 5% of the purchase price. For homes with a purchase price between $500,000 and $999,999, the minimum down payment is 5% of the first $500,000, plus 10% of the portion of the purchase price over $500,000. For homes with a purchase price of $1 million or more, the minimum down payment is 20% of the purchase price.
It’s important to note that if the down payment is less than 20% of the purchase price of the property, the borrower will be required to obtain mortgage default insurance from a private insurer such as Canada Guaranty, Genworth Canada, or Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation (CMHC). The insurance premiums are typically added to the mortgage payments and can increase the overall cost of the mortgage.
The down payment is an important factor in determining the overall cost of the mortgage, as a larger down payment can result in lower monthly mortgage payments and less interest paid over the life of the mortgage. Homebuyers in Canada may be able to use various sources of funds for the down payment, including savings, gifts from family members, or withdrawals from registered retirement savings plans (RRSPs) under certain conditions.
Equity
Home equity refers to the portion of a property’s value that is owned outright by the homeowner, i.e., the difference between the property’s market value and the outstanding balance on the mortgage. Home equity increases over time as the homeowner makes mortgage payments and the property increases in value.
Home equity can be used as collateral for a home equity loan or home equity line of credit (HELOC), which allow homeowners to borrow against the equity in their homes. Home equity loans typically provide a lump sum of money that is paid back over a fixed period of time, while a HELOC is a revolving line of credit that can be used as needed and repaid over time.
Home equity can also be used to refinance an existing mortgage or to purchase another property, such as a vacation home or investment property. In addition, some homeowners choose to access their home equity to fund home renovations or to pay for other major expenses, such as education or medical bills.
It’s important to note that borrowing against home equity can come with risks, including the possibility of foreclosure if the borrower is unable to make payments on the loan. Homeowners should carefully consider their financial situation and goals before using their home equity to borrow money.
Fixed Rate Mortgage
A fixed rate mortgage is a type of mortgage loan where the interest rate remains the same throughout the entire term of the mortgage, typically for a period of 1 to 10 years. This means that the borrower’s mortgage payments will remain the same each month, regardless of changes in market interest rates.
Fixed rate mortgages in Canada are popular because they offer stability and predictability for homeowners, allowing them to budget their expenses with certainty. They are also a good choice for borrowers who prefer the security of knowing that their mortgage payments won’t increase over time, even if interest rates rise.
The interest rate on a fixed rate mortgage in Canada is typically higher than the interest rate on a variable rate mortgage, where the interest rate can fluctuate over time. However, fixed rate mortgages provide protection against potential interest rate increases, which can help borrowers avoid financial stress and unexpected increases in their mortgage payments.
The term of a fixed rate mortgage in Canada typically ranges from 1 to 10 years, although some lenders may offer longer terms. At the end of the term, the borrower will need to renew the mortgage at a new interest rate or pay off the remaining balance.
Overall, a fixed rate mortgage in Canada may be a good choice for borrowers who prefer the stability and predictability of a fixed interest rate, and who are willing to pay a slightly higher interest rate for the security of knowing that their mortgage payments won’t change over time.
High-Ratio Mortgage
A high ratio mortgage is a type of mortgage where the borrower has made a down payment of less than 20% of the purchase price of the property. This means that the loan-to-value (LTV) ratio of the mortgage is greater than 80%.
When a borrower has a high ratio mortgage, they are required by law to obtain mortgage default insurance from a private insurer such as Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation (CMHC), Genworth Canada, or Canada Guaranty. This insurance protects the lender in the event that the borrower defaults on the mortgage.
The cost of mortgage default insurance is typically added to the borrower’s mortgage payments, and the amount of the insurance premium depends on the size of the down payment and the amount of the mortgage. The premium can range from 0.6% to 4.5% of the mortgage amount, and is higher for borrowers with smaller down payments.
High ratio mortgages are more common among first-time homebuyers or those who are unable to make a large down payment. While they allow borrowers to purchase a home with a smaller initial investment, they also come with higher overall costs due to the added cost of mortgage default insurance.
It’s important to note that high ratio mortgages may also come with stricter qualification requirements, as lenders may require borrowers to have a higher credit score and lower debt-to-income ratio in order to qualify for the mortgage.
Home Equity Line of Credit (HELOC)
A Home Equity Line of Credit (HELOC) is a type of loan that allows homeowners to borrow money against the equity they have built up in their home. The equity is the difference between the current market value of the home and the outstanding mortgage balance.
A HELOC works like a credit card, in that the borrower has access to a line of credit, up to a maximum amount, and can borrow money as needed. The borrower is only required to make payments on the amount borrowed, and interest is charged only on the outstanding balance.
The interest rate on a HELOC is typically lower than the interest rate on other types of loans or credit cards, as the loan is secured by the borrower’s home. However, the interest rate on a HELOC can be variable, meaning it may change over time in response to changes in market interest rates.
HELOCs are popular among homeowners who need access to funds for major expenses, such as home renovations, education, or medical bills. They are also sometimes used for debt consolidation, as borrowers can use the funds to pay off higher-interest debt and consolidate their payments into one lower-interest payment.
It’s important to note that borrowing against home equity can come with risks, including the possibility of foreclosure if the borrower is unable to make payments on the loan. Homeowners should carefully consider their financial situation and goals before using their home equity to borrow money. They should also ensure that they have a plan for paying back the loan, as a HELOC is a form of debt and must be repaid over time.
Interest
In Canada, mortgage interest is the cost that borrowers pay to lenders in exchange for borrowing money to purchase a home or other real estate property. It is typically expressed as an annual percentage rate (APR) and is based on the outstanding balance of the mortgage.
The interest rate on a mortgage in Canada can be fixed or variable. A fixed interest rate remains the same throughout the term of the mortgage, while a variable interest rate can change over time in response to changes in market interest rates.
The amount of mortgage interest that borrowers pay can have a significant impact on their overall cost of borrowing. A higher interest rate means that borrowers will pay more in interest charges over the life of the mortgage, while a lower interest rate means that borrowers will pay less.
In Canada, mortgage interest rates are influenced by a variety of factors, including the Bank of Canada’s target overnight lending rate, the prime lending rate of major banks, and the supply and demand for mortgage loans in the market.
It’s important for borrowers to compare mortgage interest rates and terms from different lenders in order to find the best deal for their individual financial situation. They should also consider factors such as the length of the mortgage term, the type of mortgage, and any additional fees or charges associated with the loan.
Interest Rate
The interest rate on a mortgage in Canada can vary depending on a number of factors, including the type of mortgage, the length of the term, and the borrower’s credit score and financial situation.
As of March 2023, the Bank of Canada’s overnight interest rate is 4.5%, which is the rate at which banks lend money to each other on an overnight basis. This rate is used as a benchmark for setting the interest rates on various financial products, including mortgages.
As of March 2023, the interest rate on a fixed-rate mortgage in Canada typically ranges around 4.69%, depending on the length of the term and the borrower’s financial situation. The interest rate on a variable-rate mortgage is subject to change over time based on changes in the market interest rates and currently sits around 5.55%.
It’s important to note that interest rates can fluctuate over time, and borrowers should be prepared for the possibility of higher rates in the future. Borrowers can work with their lender or mortgage broker to find the best mortgage product and interest rate for their individual financial situation. They can also consider strategies such as making larger down payments or choosing a shorter mortgage term in order to reduce the overall cost of borrowing.
Maturity Date
In Canada, the mortgage maturity date is the date when a mortgage loan is due to be fully paid off. It is the end of the mortgage term, which is the length of time that the borrower has agreed to make regular payments toward the mortgage.
At the mortgage maturity date, the borrower must either pay off the remaining balance of the mortgage loan in full or renew the mortgage for a new term. If the borrower chooses to renew the mortgage, they will negotiate a new interest rate and term with the lender.
The mortgage maturity date is an important milestone in the life of a mortgage, as it represents the end of the initial term of the loan. Borrowers should start planning for the mortgage maturity date well in advance in order to avoid any last-minute surprises or financial difficulties.
For example, if a borrower has a five-year mortgage term and the mortgage was taken out on January 1, 2020, the mortgage maturity date would be January 1, 2025. At that time, the borrower would need to pay off the remaining balance of the mortgage or renew the mortgage for a new term.
Mortgage Insurance
Mortgage insurance is a type of insurance that is required for certain types of mortgages. It is designed to protect lenders in the event that a borrower defaults on their mortgage loan.
There are two main types of mortgage insurance in Canada:
- CMHC insurance: This is provided by the Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation (CMHC), a federal agency that helps to promote home ownership and access to affordable housing. CMHC insurance is required for all high-ratio mortgages (mortgages where the down payment is less than 20% of the purchase price of the home).
- Private mortgage insurance: This is provided by private insurers and is required for certain types of mortgages, such as conventional mortgages with a down payment of less than 20%.
Mortgage insurance protects lenders by providing them with a guarantee that they will be repaid in the event that a borrower defaults on their mortgage loan. If the borrower defaults and the lender is unable to recover the full amount owed through foreclosure or other means, the mortgage insurer will pay the lender the outstanding balance of the loan.
Borrowers are typically responsible for paying the premiums for mortgage insurance, which are calculated as a percentage of the mortgage amount. The premiums can be paid upfront or added to the mortgage balance and paid off over time.
It’s important for borrowers to understand the requirements for mortgage insurance and the associated costs, as they can have a significant impact on the overall cost of borrowing.
Open Mortgage
An open mortgage is a type of mortgage loan that allows the borrower to make additional payments or pay off the entire mortgage loan at any time without penalty. This provides the borrower with greater flexibility and the ability to pay off the loan faster if they choose to do so.
Open mortgages are typically offered with shorter terms, such as six months to a year, and generally have higher interest rates than closed mortgages. This is because the lender is taking on more risk by allowing the borrower to pay off the loan early without penalty.
Open mortgages are well-suited for borrowers who anticipate receiving a large sum of money in the near future, such as through a bonus or inheritance, or for those who have a variable income and need the flexibility to make additional payments when they can.
It’s important to note that while open mortgages provide greater flexibility, they may not be the best option for all borrowers. If a borrower does not anticipate making additional payments or paying off the loan early, they may be better off with a closed mortgage, which typically has lower interest rates and longer terms.
Borrowers should carefully consider their financial situation and goals when choosing between an open or closed mortgage, and should consult with a lender or mortgage broker for guidance.
Portability
Mortgage portability is a feature that allows borrowers to transfer their existing mortgage loan from one property to another when they purchase a new home. This can be beneficial for borrowers who want to move to a new home but want to avoid paying penalties or fees for breaking their existing mortgage contract.
With mortgage portability, the borrower can take their existing mortgage and transfer it to the new property, subject to approval from the lender. This allows the borrower to keep their existing interest rate, term, and remaining balance, and avoids the need to reapply for a new mortgage loan.
Mortgage portability can be a valuable option for borrowers, as it can save them money on fees and penalties associated with breaking a mortgage contract. However, there may be certain conditions or limitations associated with the portability feature, such as a minimum mortgage amount, a limit on the distance between the old and new properties, and a time limit for completing the transfer.
Borrowers should carefully review the terms and conditions of their mortgage contract and consult with their lender or mortgage broker to understand their options for mortgage portability. It’s also important to consider other factors, such as the interest rate, term, and payment structure of the existing mortgage, and whether it’s beneficial to transfer it to a new property or to apply for a new mortgage loan.
Pre-approval
Mortgage pre-approval is a process that allows borrowers to find out how much money they may be able to borrow from a lender before they start looking for a home. Mortgage pre-approval is not a guarantee that a lender will approve a mortgage application, but it can provide borrowers with valuable information and help them understand their budget when shopping for a home.
To obtain a mortgage pre-approval, borrowers typically need to provide the lender with information about their income, employment, credit history, and debt obligations. The lender will then review this information and assess the borrower’s ability to repay a mortgage loan.
If the borrower meets the lender’s criteria, they may be issued a pre-approval letter or certificate that outlines the maximum amount of money they may be able to borrow, the interest rate, and other terms and conditions. This information can be used by the borrower to shop for a home that is within their budget.
It’s important to note that mortgage pre-approval is not the same as mortgage approval. Once a borrower has found a home and has a signed purchase agreement, they will need to apply for a mortgage loan and provide additional documentation to the lender. The lender will then review the borrower’s application and determine whether to approve the mortgage loan.
Mortgage pre-approval can be a valuable tool for borrowers who are shopping for a home, as it provides them with a better understanding of their budget and may make the home buying process smoother and more efficient.
Prepayment
Mortgage prepayment refers to the act of making extra payments on a mortgage loan, above and beyond the regular monthly payments required under the terms of the mortgage contract. Prepayment can help borrowers pay off their mortgage faster and save money on interest charges.
There are generally two types of mortgage prepayment: lump-sum payments and increased regular payments. Lump-sum payments involve making a one-time payment towards the principal of the mortgage loan, while increased regular payments involve increasing the amount of the regular monthly payment.
Some mortgage contracts may allow for prepayment without penalty, while others may charge a penalty for prepayment. Penalty-free prepayment may be limited to a certain percentage of the original mortgage balance or may only be allowed during certain times of the year.
Borrowers should carefully review the terms and conditions of their mortgage contract to understand their options for prepayment and any associated penalties or fees. They should also consider their financial goals and determine whether prepayment is the right option for them.
Prepayment can be a valuable tool for borrowers who want to pay off their mortgage faster and save money on interest charges. However, it may not be the best option for all borrowers, especially if they have other higher-interest debt or other financial priorities to consider.
Principal
In the context of a mortgage, principal refers to the amount of money that a borrower borrows from a lender to purchase a home or other real estate property. It is the original amount of the loan, before interest and other charges are added.
When a borrower makes monthly mortgage payments, a portion of the payment goes towards paying down the principal amount of the loan, while the remainder goes towards paying interest charges and other fees. Over time, as the borrower makes regular payments, the principal amount of the loan decreases.
For example, if a borrower takes out a mortgage for $300,000 to purchase a home, the principal amount of the loan is $300,000. As the borrower makes regular payments, the principal balance decreases. If the borrower makes a lump sum payment towards the principal, the amount of the principal balance would decrease by the amount of the payment.
The principal balance of a mortgage loan is an important factor in determining the borrower’s equity in the property. As the borrower pays down the principal balance, their equity in the property increases, which can be important if they decide to sell the property or refinance the mortgage in the future.
Refinancing
Mortgage refinancing refers to the process of replacing an existing mortgage loan with a new one, typically with different terms and conditions. The goal of refinancing a mortgage is usually to obtain a lower interest rate, reduce monthly payments, or to access equity in the property.
When a borrower refinances a mortgage, they apply for a new loan with a new lender, which pays off the original mortgage loan. The borrower will then make monthly payments on the new loan, which may have different terms, such as a different interest rate, a different term, or a different payment schedule.
There are several reasons why a borrower may choose to refinance their mortgage. One common reason is to obtain a lower interest rate, which can reduce monthly payments and save money on interest charges over the life of the loan. Other reasons for refinancing may include consolidating debt, accessing equity in the property, or changing the terms of the loan to better suit the borrower’s financial goals.
Refinancing a mortgage can involve additional fees and costs, such as appraisal fees, closing costs, and application fees. Borrowers should carefully consider the costs and benefits of refinancing before making a decision, and should compare offers from multiple lenders to find the best deal.
Term
Mortgage term refers to the length of time that a borrower agrees to be bound by the terms and conditions of a mortgage loan. The mortgage term is usually a period of several years, typically ranging from one to ten years.
During the mortgage term, the borrower is required to make regular payments to the lender, based on the interest rate and other terms of the mortgage contract. The interest rate and other terms of the mortgage are typically fixed for the duration of the mortgage term, although some mortgage contracts may allow for adjustable interest rates or other flexible terms.
At the end of the mortgage term, the borrower may have the option to renew the mortgage, refinance the mortgage with a new lender, or pay off the remaining balance of the mortgage in full. If the borrower decides to renew the mortgage, they may be offered a new term with new terms and conditions, such as a new interest rate and payment schedule.
The length of the mortgage term can have a significant impact on the borrower’s monthly payments and overall cost of the mortgage. Shorter mortgage terms typically have higher monthly payments but lower overall interest charges, while longer mortgage terms have lower monthly payments but higher overall interest charges. Borrowers should carefully consider their financial goals and circumstances when selecting a mortgage term, and should consult with a mortgage professional to determine the best option for their needs.
Variable Rate Mortgage
A variable rate mortgage in Canada is a type of mortgage where the interest rate fluctuates based on the prime rate set by the Bank of Canada. The prime rate is the interest rate that commercial banks charge their most creditworthy customers, and it is influenced by factors such as the overnight rate set by the Bank of Canada, inflation, and the overall health of the economy.
With a variable rate mortgage, the interest rate on the mortgage will change as the prime rate changes. If the prime rate goes up, the interest rate on the mortgage will increase, which can result in higher monthly payments. Conversely, if the prime rate goes down, the interest rate on the mortgage will decrease, resulting in lower monthly payments.
Variable rate mortgages typically have lower interest rates than fixed-rate mortgages, which can make them an attractive option for borrowers who are comfortable with the potential for fluctuations in their monthly payments. However, variable rate mortgages can also be riskier, as borrowers may not be able to accurately predict their future monthly payments.
Borrowers considering a variable rate mortgage should carefully consider their financial goals and circumstances, and should consult with a mortgage professional to determine if a variable rate mortgage is the best option for their needs. They should also be prepared for the potential for fluctuations in their monthly payments and should have a plan in place to manage their finances in the event of a rate increase.
