Unprecedented low interest rates in Canada have been the norm for years. Now, it appears the Canadian government by way of rule changes, and the American government by way of Trump, are impacting mortgage rates. Simply put, the Canadian government has recently made it more expensive for banks to lend money. Predictions of the policies that could be implemented by Donald Trump as the new President of the United States have impacted the bond market, which in turn compels lenders to increase rates.

Earlier this month, TD announced that they were increasing their TD Mortgage Prime Rate to 2.85 per cent. RBC has increased their fixed rate mortgage pricing effective immediately. It won’t be long until most lenders follow suit and we see increases to mortgage rates across the board. Because let’s face it, banks will use any excuse to make their businesses more profitable.

There is certainly no reason to panic. This seems more like a correction than anything. However, are rates finally heading upwards? It appears that way.

So what does this mean to you? Here are some action points.

  • If you have a mortgage that renews in the next 6 months, let’s talk. We can look at your options, and determine the best course of action for you.
  • If you have been thinking about refinancing your mortgage to access equity, there is no time like the present. Let’s talk.
  • If you have been sitting on the fence, considering a venture into the housing market, but aren’t sure, it’s probably a good idea to at least get a pre-approval and hold a rate for up to 120 days. No obligation, but if rates are going up, a rate hold now makes sure you save some money if you decide to make your move.
  • If you are thinking you have no idea what to do, it never hurts to get in touch.

As you can see, regardless of your situation, if you have mortgage questions, please don’t hesitate to contact me anytime. I would love to talk through your options and help you figure out a plan that works for you. I’m never too busy for new clients, or to connect with existing clients.

Customer Service Numbers:

CMHC: 1-800-668-2642
Genworth: 1-800-511-8888
Canada Guaranty: 1-866-414-9109

ATB: 1-800-332-8383
B2B: 1-800-263-8349
BMO: 1-877-895-3278
Bridgewater: 1-866-243-4301
CIBC: 1-800-465-2422
CMLS: 1-888-995-2657
Optimum: 1-866-441-3775
Equitable: 1-888-334-3313
Connect First: 403-736-4000
Chinook Financial: 403-934-3358
First Calgary Financial: 403-736-4000
First National: 1-888-488-0794
Haventree: 1-855-272-0051
Home Trust: 1-855-270-3630
HSBC: 1-888-310-4722
ICICI: 1-888-424-2422
Manulife: 1-877-765-2265
MCAP: 1-800-265-2624
Merix: 1-877-637-4911
Marathon: 1-855-503-6060
RBC: 1-866-809-5800
RFA: 1-877-416-7873
RMG: 1-866-809-5800
Scotiabank: 1-800-472-6842
Servus: 1-877-378-8728
Street Capital: 1-866-683-8090
TD: 1-866-222-3456