Arrange A Mortgage

Money makes the world go round, and a mortgage gives you the power to buy a home. This isn’t the most fun step in buying a home, but it’s vital.

Who do you talk to?

There are hundreds of banks, credit unions and other lenders out there who would love your monthly mortgage payments. So talk to everybody and don’t be money-shy! Talk to your banker, other banks and people you know. REALTORS® can be very knowledgeable about mortgages and have lots of good advice.

Call a mortgage broker

Mortgage brokers are another great resource. They find low rates for a living, and they usually don’t get paid unless you sign a mortgage through them, so they’re highly motivated to get you the best deal.

Your best mortgage might be the seller’s mortgage

Often, you can take over or ‘assume’ the seller’s mortgage. This is a great idea if the seller is locked into a lower interest rate than you can get right now. Your REALTOR® may have additional information.

Mortgage terminology

Mortgage term

Refers to how long the bank has agreed to lend you the money – typically from six months to five years. At the end of the term, you usually renegotiate a new term.

Amortization

The length of time it will take to pay off the whole mortgage, often as long as 25 years. The longer your amortization, the lower your monthly payments, but the more you pay in interest over time.

Interest rates

Interest is the cost of borrowing money, and the interest rate tells you exactly how much. Using this mortgage calculator, check the difference between borrowing $100 000 at 6% and at 9% at the same amortization. Surprising, no? That interest rate not only affects how much you pay, it also affects how much you can borrow. So keep searching for the best rate!

How big a down payment?

You want as small a mortgage as possible, which means making the biggest down payment possible. Just remember to set money aside for all the fees associated with buying a home. Not to mention moving, repairs, renovations, new furniture… think ahead.

The Home Buyers’ Plan – A little sweet relief

If you’re a first-time homebuyer with money in an RRSP, you can withdraw up to $25,000 without paying any income tax. If your spouse is also eligible, that’s $50,000. Ask your REALTOR® how to best take advantage of this plan.

Lock into an interest rate? For how long?

It’s a tough question. What if you ‘lock in’ for five years and the rate goes into a period of decline? That could mean you’re stuck paying more than you had to for a long time. But if rates were to steadily climb over the next five years, locking in for five years now would be a great move. Your REALTOR® may have a lot of good advice.

What you need to apply for a mortgage

• Letter of employment confirmation (include your position, your pay and how many years you’ve been with the company)
• List your assets (your car, stocks, bonds, GICs, etc)
• List your liabilities (car payments, student loans, credit card debt, etc)
• Social Insurance Number
• Your chequing account number
• Your lawyer’s contact information
• Information about the house you want to buy

Don’t forget these extra costs

Application fee

Some mortgage lenders charge a fee to process your application. But ask to see if you can get it waived.

Appraisal fee

Your mortgage lender may need to have your new home appraised by a professional, and they often pass the bill on to you. Sometimes your lender will also waive this fee.

Mortgage broker’s fee

Your mortgage broker may charge a fee that’s payable on your closing date. Ask your broker to avoid surprises.

Land survey fee

Lenders may require a survey of your property, even if it’s an existing survey. Get your lawyer on the case.

Home inspection fee

A home inspection is so important, we devoted an entire step to it. Avoid surprises and protect yourself… this is money well spent.

Home Insurance

Mortgage lenders require you to carry fire and extended-coverage insurance because your home is the security deposit on the mortgage. Often you can have these payments added to your monthly mortgage payments. Shop around.

Title insurance

It’s not mandatory, but protects you from all sorts of fraud and potential errors surrounding the title to your land. Ask your lawyer for details.

Legal fees

You’ll pay your lawyer for their invaluable time and “disbursements” which are the costs involved in title searches, drawing up the title deed, and preparing your mortgage.

Adjustments

The previous owner may have paid property tax or utilities in advance, and they want to be credited for those payments. Ask your REALTOR® and lawyer what might come up on the closing date.

Maintenance and utility costs

Remember, you’ll now have more regular monthly payments in the form of property tax and utilities.

Property Transfer Tax

The amount of this tax varies from province to province.

The GST/HST and new homes

Resale homes don’t involve GST/HST, but new homes do. If you intend to live in your new home (instead of renting it out) there is some relief. Consult your REALTOR® and/or lawyer for more information.

REALTOR® Commissions or fees?

REALTOR® commissions or fees are subject to GST/HST.

Information provided by HowRealtorsHelp.