Mortgage guide
Canadian mortgages, explained.
Plain-English answers to how Canadian mortgage math, CMHC insurance, and land transfer tax actually work. Written for buyers, not bankers.
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How-ToHow to Calculate Your Canadian Mortgage Payment
Canadian mortgages compound differently from American ones — here's the exact math, with a worked example.
CMHC & CostsCMHC Mortgage Insurance in Canada: Complete Guide
CMHC insurance is what makes 5%-down mortgages possible — and what makes them expensive. Here's how the math works.
CMHC & CostsLand Transfer Tax by Province: Complete Canadian Guide
Most provinces charge a tax just for changing the name on a property title. Here's how much, where, and how to minimize it.
RatesFixed vs Variable Rate Mortgage: Which Is Right for You?
Fixed gives you certainty. Variable gives you flexibility. Here's how to decide which Canadian mortgage rate type makes sense for your situation.
BuyingThe Canadian Mortgage Stress Test: 2026 Complete Guide
The stress test is why your bank quotes you a smaller mortgage than you expected. Here's exactly how it works and how much it reduces your borrowing power.
BuyingFirst-Time Home Buyer Programs in Canada (2026 Guide)
First-time buyers in Canada have access to several programs that can save tens of thousands of dollars. Here's every one worth knowing about in 2026.
BuyingHow Much Mortgage Can I Afford in Canada?
The answer depends on your income, debts, down payment, and the stress test rate. Here's the framework Canadian lenders use — and the numbers behind it.
Renewal & RefinancingMortgage Renewal in Canada: What to Expect When Your Term Ends
Most Canadians renew their mortgage every 5 years. Few take full advantage of the process. Here's how to approach renewal like an expert.
BuyingFirst Home Savings Account (FHSA): The Complete Canadian Guide
The FHSA is the most powerful savings tool Canada has ever offered first-time home buyers — tax-deductible contributions AND tax-free withdrawals in the same account.
Buying30-Year Mortgages in Canada: The New Rules Explained
Canada changed its mortgage rules in 2024 to allow 30-year insured mortgages for first-time buyers. Lower monthly payments sound great — but the total interest cost is significant.
RatesTrigger Rate on Canadian Variable Mortgages: What It Is and What to Do
The trigger rate is the interest rate at which your variable mortgage payment no longer covers the interest. Here's what that means and what to do about it.
Renewal & RefinancingMortgage Porting in Canada: What It Is and When It Makes Sense
Porting lets you take your existing mortgage rate to a new property instead of breaking early and paying a penalty. Here's when that's actually a good idea.
Renewal & RefinancingAccelerated Bi-Weekly Mortgage Payments: How Much Do You Actually Save?
Accelerated bi-weekly payments are one of the easiest ways to pay your mortgage off years early. Here's exactly how the math works — and what 'accelerated' actually means.