MORTGAGE TYPES
Selecting the Right Mortgage
Conventional vs. high-ratio mortgages
A Conventional Mortgage Equals No More Than 80% Of The Appraised Value Or Purchase Price Of The Property, Whichever Is Less. A High-ratio Mortgage Is Usually For More Than 80% Of The Appraised Value Or Purchase Price. It's Often Referred To As An Nha Mortgage Because It Is Granted Under The Provisions Of The National Housing Act And Must, By Law, Be Insured Through A Mortgage Insurance Provider. The Insurance Premium As Well As Application, Legal And Property Appraisal Fees Are Paid By The Borrower.
Fixed rate vs. variable rate
Identifying whether a fixed or variable rate mortgage is best for you is an important decision. The truth is that no one can accurately forecast what the future holds in the financial markets 3 to 5 years from now. So assessing whether a fixed or variable rate mortgage product is best for you requires an understanding of your personal financial plan and ability to handle market fluctuations. Fixed rates are based on the yield on Canadian government bonds and will not change during the term of your mortgage.
Short term vs. long term
The term you select is important. Short term mortgages are appropriate if you believe interest rates will be lower at renewal time. Long term mortgages are suitable if you feel current rates are reasonable and you want the security of budgeting for the future. This can be especially important for first time homebuyers.
Closed vs. open mortgages
Closed mortgages generally offer lower interest rates than open mortgages of the same term, but open mortgages let you pay off as much as you want, any time, without penalty - which could save you a bundle in the long run.