CategoryMortgage News

Rates Are On the Up and Up… But For How Much Longer?

You’ve probably seen the headlines: the Bank of Canada has raised their key interest rate. Yet again. And this hike isn’t any less forgiving than the last one. In another unprecedented move (anyone sick of that word yet?) the rate increased by 0.50%, double the normal increase of 0.25%. Yes, it’s a big jump that’s getting a lot of media buzz. But how bad is it really? Is it worth all the alarm? Will rates continue to climb?

Posted May 6, 2022 Mortgage News

The Tide Turns for the Canadian Housing Market

Just a few months ago, all anyone could talk about was the red hot housing market. Sky high property values. Historically low interest rates. It’s amazing how quickly the conversation can change. As expected, the market has cooled. And while we’re not necessarily in a buyer’s market just yet, things are certainly trending that way. If you’re looking to purchase an additional property, or you’re a first time homebuyer, this could pose an opportunity.

Posted April 14, 2022 Bank News

Bank of Canada Raises Benchmark Interest Rate

Yesterday was Wednesday the 13th – but for some, it might have felt like Friday the 13th. That’s because the Bank of Canada announced they’re upping their rate by a whopping 0.50%. This rate hike means that the prime rate will increase from 2.7% to 3.2%, a fairly sizable jump relative to what we’ve seen in the last couple of years.

All of this might seem terrifying. But let me assure you: there’s no need to panic.

Posted April 4, 2022 Mortgage News

Can Canadians Stand Up to a Tougher Stress Test?

Buying a home in Canada just got a lot more stressful. Recently, the OSFI’s stress test has become substantially more challenging to pass – and hardly anyone noticed. The qualifying rate is now as high as 6.00%. If it wasn’t hard enough to purchase a home in Canada, now it’s even harder. And if rates keep going up as they’re predicted to, it’s not going to get any easier.

Posted March 7, 2022 Finance

Bank of Canada Raises Rate by 0.25% – Is it Time to Worry Yet?

As predicted, the Bank of Canada raised their benchmark rate a few days ago. No surprises here. And yet, the media will make you feel like this was out of left field. Even worse, they’ll spew fear mongering dribble that the train is off then rail. That every single BoC meeting for the rest of the year will result in a rate pump. That we’re heading for a market crash of epic proportions. So is it time to worry yet?

I’m here to tell you this: turn off the television and take a deep breath. There’s nothing to fear.