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Updated September 2026
Compare 50+ mortgage rates starting at 4.29%
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On this page
A good mortgage can save you thousands of dollars throughout the life of your loan.
So, when comparing mortgages in Canada, you’re carrying out an assessment of many variables that are going to influence your financial future for decades. This guide simplifies all the information you should know in order to make an informed decision.
The Bank of Canada has dropped its policy rate to 2.5%, which directly impacts variable-rate mortgages. Fixed rates, however, are tied to bond yields and move differently.
Mortgage holders with five-year fixed rate contracts renewing in 2025 or 2026 could face an average payment increase of around 15%–20% compared to their previous terms.
Your mortgage term is how long your rate agreement with your lender lasts, which is usually between 2 to 5 years in Canada. At the end of each term, you’ll renegotiate your rate and conditions.
Shorter terms last 1-3 years and give you more flexibility, but require more frequent renewal. Longer terms last 5-10 years and provide stability but less flexibility.
Your amortization period is the total time you’ll take to pay off your entire mortgage.
30-year amortizations are now available for all first-time home buyers, regardless of whether they have an insured mortgage, and for anyone purchasing newly-constructed homes. For conventional mortgages with 20% down or more, the maximum remains 30 years.
| Period | Monthly payment | Interest |
|---|---|---|
| 25 years | Higher | Lower |
| 30 years | Lower | Significantly Higher |
Choosing a longer amortization reduces your monthly payment but increases the total interest you’ll pay over the life of your loan.
Not all mortgages are created equal when it comes to prepayment flexibility. When you compare mortgages, look for these features:
These options can save you years of payments and thousands in interest. For example, if you receive a work bonus or tax refund, prepayment options let you put that money toward your principal immediately.
When you compare mortgage rates, don’t overlook payment frequency. Your options include:
Accelerated payment schedules help you pay off your mortgage faster because you’re making the equivalent of one extra monthly payment per year. This can shave years off your amortization and save significant interest.
Mortgage loan insurance is mandatory if your down payment is less than 20% of the home’s purchase price. This insurance protects your lender if you default on your mortgage.
CMHC insurance rates are: 4.5% for down payments under 10%, 3.1% for down payments of 10% to 14.99%, and 2.8% for down payments of 15% to 19.99%. This premium is usually added to your mortgage amount.
Before you compare mortgage interest rates, ensure you meet basic eligibility requirements:
Major banks, credit unions, and mortgage brokers all offer different advantages. Banks provide convenience and multiple products.
Credit unions often offer competitive rates for members. Mortgage brokers can shop multiple lenders for you. When you compare mortgage lenders, consider these:
To effectively compare mortgages, take your time, ask questions, and choose the mortgage that fits your long-term goals. Gather quotes from at least three different lenders. Request a complete breakdown including:
Remember, your mortgage is likely the largest financial commitment you’ll make. Doing thorough mortgage comparison work now can save you tens of thousands of dollars over the life of your loan.
Fixed rates stay the same throughout your term, offering predictable payments. Variable rates fluctuate with the Bank of Canada's policy rate, potentially saving money when rates drop but increasing when rates rise.
You need a minimum 5% down payment on the first $500,000 of the purchase price, plus 10% on any amount above that. With less than 20% down, you'll require mortgage insurance.
Most Canadian mortgages allow 10-20% annual lump sum prepayments without penalties. However, breaking your mortgage contract early typically incurs penalties, especially with fixed-rate mortgages. Check your specific prepayment privileges.
Most major lenders require a minimum credit score of 680 for insured mortgages. Higher scores generally qualify you for better interest rates and more favourable terms from lenders.
Shorter amortizations (25 years) have higher monthly payments but significantly lower total interest costs. Longer amortizations (30 years) reduce monthly payments but increase lifetime interest. Choose based on your budget and financial goals.
Don't overpay for your mortgage. Check out better, cheaper options.