CENTUM Monest Mortgage Inc.

If your mortgage is coming up for renewal in 2026, one of the biggest decisions is whether to choose a fixed or variable interest rate. A fixed rate offers predictable interest costs for your chosen term. A variable rate can move up or down, potentially saving you money if rates fall but adding risk if they rise. Neither option is automatically better. The right choice depends on your household budget, how much uncertainty you can comfortably manage, and what you expect to do with your home.

The decision deserves more thought than simply choosing whichever rate looks lowest today. Your mortgage term, payment structure, flexibility and potential penalties can all affect the actual cost of borrowing.

Why Are Canadians Reconsidering Fixed and Variable Mortgages in 2026?

Canadian borrowers have been rethinking mortgage terms after several years of interest-rate volatility. In September 2026, Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation (CMHC) reported a shift toward variable-rate mortgages and shorter fixed-rate terms. Those choices can give borrowers different opportunities and risks when interest rates change.

At its September 2, 2026 announcement, the Bank of Canada held its overnight policy rate at 2.25%. That is a policy rate, not an advertised mortgage rate. Lenders set their mortgage offers using several factors, and fixed mortgage rates do not automatically move in step with every Bank of Canada decision.

The practical question for a renewing homeowner is not simply whether rates might fall. It is whether the potential benefits of a particular mortgage are worth the financial uncertainty and contract restrictions that come with it.

What Is the Difference Between a Fixed and Variable Mortgage?

Fixed-rate mortgages

With a fixed-rate mortgage, your contracted interest rate stays unchanged throughout the mortgage term. This makes it easier to plan your regular principal-and-interest payments. You are protected from rate increases during the term, but you generally will not benefit from a market rate decrease unless you can change your contract, potentially at a cost.

A fixed mortgage may appeal to households that prioritize consistency, have little room for higher payments, or prefer not to track interest-rate announcements. Remember that the fixed rate only applies during the selected term, not for the entire mortgage amortization period.

Variable-rate mortgages

With a variable-rate mortgage, your interest rate changes according to the terms of your agreement, often based on the lender's prime rate plus or minus an agreed adjustment. When rates decrease, your borrowing cost may fall. When rates increase, your cost may rise.

An important detail is how your lender handles payments. Some variable mortgages have adjustable payments that rise or fall as the rate changes. Others keep the scheduled payment initially unchanged while changing how much goes toward interest versus principal. These are not the same experience for a homeowner.

Fixed vs. Variable Mortgage: A Side-by-Side Comparison

This comparison describes common arrangements, not guaranteed features. Open and closed mortgages, lender-specific penalty formulas, conversion rights and payment rules can substantially change the outcome.

Should You Choose a Fixed Rate at Mortgage Renewal?

A fixed mortgage deserves serious consideration if a predictable payment helps you manage your finances. You might prefer it when housing costs already take up a large share of your income, your household income varies, or an unexpected increase in payments would force difficult spending decisions.

Fixed rates also remove the need to make frequent decisions in response to changing headlines. However, the trade-off is reduced immediate exposure to falling rates and potentially expensive early-exit penalties on certain closed mortgages.

Before locking into a fixed term, consider whether you may sell your home, refinance, move for work or change your household finances during that period. An attractive rate loses some of its value if leaving the mortgage becomes costly.

When Could a Variable Mortgage Make Sense?

A variable mortgage may be worth exploring if you understand that rates can move in either direction and your finances can handle less favourable outcomes. It may be particularly relevant when you value the contract's flexibility or want exposure to possible future decreases in your lender's reference rate.

But a variable rate is not a reliable bet that interest rates will fall. Even if the Bank of Canada eventually reduces its policy rate, the timing, size and lender response are uncertain. Conversely, rates could rise again.

Ask the lender exactly what happens if your variable rate increases. Does your monthly payment rise immediately? Does the interest share of an unchanged payment grow? Are you approaching a contractual trigger rate or trigger point? Those answers can be more important than the initial advertised rate.

What Is the Risk of a Variable Mortgage With Fixed Payments?

Some variable-rate mortgages retain a scheduled payment even when interest rates change. As interest rates rise, more of that payment goes toward interest and less toward reducing your mortgage balance. If interest costs become high enough, the payment might no longer cover all the interest due.

This can result in a trigger-rate situation and, depending on the lender and contract, negative amortization, where unpaid interest increases the outstanding balance. Your lender may require payment adjustments or other action. Not every variable mortgage operates this way, so review the specific terms before renewing.

If you currently have a variable mortgage with fixed payments, find out your outstanding balance, remaining amortization, applicable trigger terms and projected renewal payment. Do not assume that an unchanged payment means your mortgage has remained on its original repayment schedule.

Could a Shorter Fixed Term Be a Middle Ground?

Homeowners sometimes compare a shorter fixed term, such as two or three years, with a longer fixed term or a variable mortgage. A shorter fixed term provides rate stability for its duration but brings the next renewal sooner. That could be beneficial if future mortgage offers improve, or costly if they deteriorate.

A shorter term is not automatically more flexible: breaking a closed fixed mortgage before its maturity can still produce a penalty. Ask for the interest rate, estimated payment, term-end date and early-exit provisions for each option under consideration.

How Much Difference Can the Interest Rate Make?

A small difference in rates may have a meaningful effect on monthly cash flow and the amount of interest you pay. The impact depends on your mortgage balance, remaining amortization, payment frequency and whether rates change during the term.

For example, consider a homeowner who has a substantial mortgage balance and limited savings after paying regular household expenses. Even if a variable mortgage starts with a lower payment, an increase in the lender's prime rate could strain the budget. Another homeowner with stable income, available savings and room to increase payments might be more comfortable accepting that possibility.

These are illustrative household situations, not forecasts or claims about typical Canadian borrowers. Use actual written lender quotes and a mortgage calculator to compare payments, projected balances and total borrowing costs under multiple interest-rate scenarios. Do not compare the initial monthly payment alone.

Does the Mortgage Stress Test Apply When You Renew?

Not every mortgage renewal is treated like a new mortgage application. Renewing with your existing lender without major changes can differ from refinancing, increasing the mortgage amount or moving the loan elsewhere. Qualification also depends on the mortgage type and lender.

For uninsured mortgages, the Office of the Superintendent of Financial Institutions (OSFI) does not expect federally regulated lenders to apply its prescribed minimum qualifying rate to eligible straight switches at renewal. This generally means transferring an existing stand-alone uninsured mortgage between federally regulated lenders without increasing the loan amount or remaining contractual amortization. The new lender must still assess the application under its underwriting requirements.

For most newly underwritten uninsured mortgages at federally regulated lenders, the prescribed minimum qualifying rate is the greater of the mortgage contract rate plus two percentage points or 5.25%. Different rules may apply to insured mortgages and other transactions. Do not assume that a stress-test exemption guarantees approval.

A Practical Checklist Before Choosing Your Mortgage Rate

Rather than choosing a mortgage based on market speculation, use these questions to narrow your options:

• Review your budget: Could your household absorb a higher mortgage payment without relying on credit?
• Check your timeline: Are you likely to sell, move, refinance or make a major financial change during the next term?
• Request several quotes: Compare a variable rate with shorter and longer fixed-rate terms.
• Compare more than rates: Review penalties, portability, prepayment privileges, conversion options and associated fees.
• Understand variable-payment mechanics: Confirm whether payments adjust and what happens if interest costs rise sharply.
• Test less favourable outcomes: Compare payments and balances under higher-rate scenarios, not just the opening rate.
• Explore renewal choices early: Give yourself time to consider your existing lender's offer and alternatives.

According to the Financial Consumer Agency of Canada, shopping around a few months before the end of your term can help you compare available mortgage options. Accepting an automatic renewal without reviewing the details could mean overlooking terms that better suit your needs.

The Bottom Line: Choose the Mortgage That Fits Your Life

A fixed mortgage can provide valuable certainty. A variable mortgage can offer exposure to changing rates and different forms of flexibility, but carries risks that need to be understood. A shorter fixed term may be worth comparing as well. The best choice is the one that fits your household budget, plans and comfort with uncertainty, not the one that relies on correctly predicting the next Bank of Canada announcement.

If your mortgage renewal is approaching, speak with a mortgage professional about the fixed, variable and term options available for your situation. A proper comparison should cover payments, lender conditions, potential penalties and the balance you expect to owe when the next term ends.

Frequently Asked Questions About Fixed and Variable Mortgages

Is a fixed or variable mortgage better in Canada in 2026?

Neither option is universally better. A fixed rate may suit homeowners who want predictable payments, while a variable rate may suit borrowers comfortable with interest-rate fluctuations. Compare actual lender offers, repayment structures, contract flexibility and your ability to handle a rate increase.

Will my variable mortgage rate drop if the Bank of Canada cuts rates?

A variable mortgage often follows a lender's prime rate, which may change in response to Bank of Canada policy decisions. However, the timing and size of any change depend on your lender and mortgage contract. A Bank of Canada cut does not mean every mortgage rate falls by the same amount.

Can I switch from a variable to a fixed mortgage?

Some variable mortgage contracts allow you to convert to a fixed rate, subject to the lender's conditions and available rates. Conversion can affect your remaining term and other contract features. Ask what fixed terms are available and whether any fees or restrictions apply before deciding.

Is a three-year fixed mortgage better than a five-year fixed mortgage?

A three-year fixed term gives you an earlier opportunity to renegotiate your rate, while a five-year fixed term provides rate certainty for longer. Neither term guarantees a lower overall cost. Compare the rates offered, potential penalties, your plans and the risk of having to renew at a higher rate.

Do I need to pass the mortgage stress test when renewing?

It depends on the transaction, mortgage insurance status and lender. OSFI does not expect the prescribed minimum qualifying rate to apply to eligible uninsured straight switches between federally regulated lenders at renewal, but the new lender still assesses the application. Refinancing or increasing your mortgage may require a different qualification process.

If your mortgage is coming up for renewal this fall, you may be asking a familiar question: should you accept a rate now, or wait to see what the Bank of Canada does next? The next scheduled announcement is October 28, 2026, but waiting may not be your best move.

The Bank of Canada held its policy interest rate at 2.25% on September 2, 2026. Its next decision is unknown, and fixed and variable offers may respond differently. Focus on your renewal deadline, real offers and household budget.

What is happening with interest rates in October 2026?

The Bank of Canada's next scheduled policy interest rate announcement is October 28, 2026. As of October 19, the most recent decision was September 2, when the Bank held its overnight rate target at 2.25%.

The overnight rate is not a mortgage rate you can apply for. Lenders set mortgage prices based on funding costs, market conditions, competition and product features.

A Bank of Canada headline does not tell you what your renewal offer will be.

Will a Bank of Canada rate change lower your mortgage renewal rate?

Not necessarily. The answer depends in large part on whether you are considering a variable-rate or fixed-rate mortgage.

Variable-rate mortgages are more directly connected to the policy rate

Variable mortgage rates are generally tied to a lender's prime lending rate, which often moves when the Bank of Canada adjusts its overnight rate. A policy-rate change may lead your lender to adjust its prime rate and your mortgage rate.

However, the effect on your payment depends on the product. Some variable mortgages have payments that change with the interest rate. Others have fixed payments, meaning a rate change can alter how much of each payment goes toward interest and principal instead. Check your mortgage terms.

Fixed mortgage rates can move before or without a policy-rate decision

Fixed mortgage rates are influenced by longer-term funding markets, including Government of Canada bond yields. Those markets can react to inflation and economic expectations before an announcement.

A policy-rate cut would not guarantee cheaper fixed mortgages. Fixed offers may already reflect expectations and can change even when the Bank holds steady.

Should you wait until October 28 before making a decision?

There is no universally correct answer. Waiting can be reasonable when you have plenty of time before renewal and are comfortable with changing offers. It becomes riskier when your mortgage term expires soon, your budget is tight, or an attractive offer may expire.

Consider three possible outcomes. The Bank could lower its rate, leave it unchanged or increase it. None of those outcomes guarantees a particular fixed mortgage rate or an identical move in every variable mortgage offer. Lender offers can also change beforehand.

Instead of trying to predict the next decision, ask a more useful question: What would waiting actually change about my choices, and what could I lose if today's offer disappears? Ask whether you can secure an offer while retaining flexibility. Check the written conditions.

How early should you start comparing mortgage renewal options?

The Financial Consumer Agency of Canada recommends shopping around a few months before your term ends, rather than waiting for a renewal letter.

For mortgages with federally regulated financial institutions, such as banks, lenders must provide a renewal statement at least 21 days before the term ends. The statement includes your outstanding balance, offered interest rate, term, payment frequency and applicable charges. That is a disclosure deadline, not a suggested time to start shopping.

If your term ends soon after October 28, compare options now. Switching lenders can require approval, documents and transfer time. Ask when an offer can be issued and when it expires.

Do not overlook the renewal letter

A renewal letter is an offer, not necessarily the best offer available to you. Compare it with other options, and ask your current lender whether it can improve the interest rate or terms. Some mortgages renew automatically if you take no action. Check your documents.

Can you secure a rate now and reconsider after the announcement?

Possibly, but do not assume that every lender offers a free or flexible rate hold. A lender may offer an advance renewal, a rate commitment or other arrangement, with different terms and conditions.

Before agreeing, ask whether the offer is binding, whether the rate can improve if market pricing falls, whether you can change the term or mortgage type, and whether accepting early would trigger a charge or replace your current mortgage before its maturity date.

Get those answers in writing. An early renewal or renegotiation is not always the same as arranging a mortgage to begin when your existing term expires. Breaking a mortgage contract before maturity can involve prepayment charges, so the timing and exact transaction matter.

Fixed or variable at renewal: which is worth considering?

Rather than choosing based on a forecast, compare the practical trade-offs. Both fixed and variable mortgages can be suitable in different circumstances.

A fixed-rate mortgage may fit when payment certainty comes first

A fixed rate generally provides a known contractual interest rate during the term. This helps with budgeting. Review prepayment privileges and penalties if you may sell, move or refinance.

A variable-rate mortgage may fit when you can handle changes

A variable rate allows the mortgage interest rate to respond to changes in the lender's prime rate. This can be beneficial if rates decline, but it also introduces the risk of higher borrowing costs. Your payment or principal repayment may change, depending on the product.

Compare more than the advertised rate: look at payment behaviour, prepayment privileges, penalties, conversion options, term length and the remaining amortization. Ask for a payment illustration showing what happens if rates rise as well as if they fall.

How much difference can a quarter-point make to your payments?

A relatively small rate difference can matter over time, especially on a larger balance. Consider this illustrative example only, not a quotation or prediction of available mortgage rates:

• Mortgage balance at renewal: $350,000
• Remaining amortization: 20 years
• Illustrative fixed interest rate of 4.25%: approximately $2,160 per month
• Illustrative fixed interest rate of 4.50%: approximately $2,206 per month
• Difference: approximately $46 per month

These calculations assume monthly payments and the standard Canadian convention of nominal annual fixed rates compounded semi-annually. They exclude fees and differences in mortgage terms. They show why comparing actual offers is worthwhile, not why one future interest rate should be expected. A lower scheduled payment also does not tell you the full cost of a mortgage if its fees, flexibility or amortization differ.

Can you switch mortgage lenders at renewal without another stress test?

In some circumstances, yes. Canada's mortgage qualification requirements have changed to make certain lender switches at renewal easier. However, a stress-test exemption is not the same as automatic approval.

For an uninsured mortgage, the Office of the Superintendent of Financial Institutions does not expect federally regulated lenders to apply its minimum qualifying rate to an eligible straight switch from another federally regulated lender when neither the loan amount nor the amortization period increases. Federal policy also recognizes qualifying switches for insured mortgages. The rules and eligibility conditions differ by transaction and lender.

A new lender can still review your credit, income, property and other lending criteria. If you are increasing your loan amount, extending amortization or refinancing, different qualification requirements may apply. Confirm your exact situation before assuming you can switch without a stress test.

What if you need to refinance instead of simply renew?

Renewal generally means arranging the next term for an existing mortgage balance. Refinancing typically involves changing the borrowing arrangement, often to obtain additional funds, consolidate debts or change other material terms. Approval requirements and long-term costs can differ.

If affordability is your main concern, be cautious about extending your amortization simply to reduce the monthly payment. Spreading repayment over more years can increase total interest costs. Likewise, consolidating other debts into a mortgage may lower a payment but stretch that debt over a much longer period.

Compare total costs, not just the payment. Ask for a clear explanation of closing costs, any applicable penalty, the new amortization, and how much interest you could pay over time.

A practical mortgage renewal checklist for fall 2026

Whether you choose to act before or after October 28, these steps can help you make a decision based on your own circumstances rather than a headline.

• Confirm your maturity date. Know when the existing term ends and whether your lender has an automatic renewal process.
• Request your current lender's offer. Ask about available rates, terms, payment options and how long the offer remains valid.
• Compare other lenders. Look at the full mortgage conditions, not just the advertised interest rate.
• Test your household budget. Work out what higher or lower monthly payments would mean for your other expenses and savings.
• Review penalties and privileges. Consider additional payments, portability, refinancing plans and early termination costs.
• Check switching requirements. Ask whether you qualify for a straight switch and what documents or lender approvals are required.
• Set a decision date. Leave enough time to review paperwork and complete a renewal or lender transfer before maturity.

What if your renewal payment may be difficult to afford?

Do not wait for a payment to be missed. Contact your lender early, explain your circumstances and ask what options are available. Federally regulated lenders are expected to consider appropriate mortgage relief measures for eligible borrowers experiencing financial difficulty, although individual options and their long-term costs vary.

A mortgage professional can also help you compare the payment and total-cost consequences of available terms. Consider affordability alongside long-term interest and fees.

The bottom line: compare your options before you try to time the market

The October 28 Bank of Canada announcement is worth watching, but it should not be the only factor in your renewal decision. Fixed and variable rates react differently, lenders set their own offers, and a lower future rate is never guaranteed.

If your mortgage comes due this fall, the most useful step is to review what is available to you today. Compare a few realistic options, understand the conditions attached to each and decide how much uncertainty fits your budget. Speak with a mortgage professional about your renewal options before signing your next term.

Frequently Asked Questions About Mortgage Renewal in 2026

1. Should I wait until October 28, 2026, to renew my mortgage?

Not necessarily. The right timing depends on your mortgage maturity date, the offers available now, your ability to manage rate changes and any written rate-commitment terms. Start comparing before the announcement so you understand what you would gain or risk by waiting.

2. Will fixed mortgage rates fall if the Bank of Canada cuts its rate?

Not automatically. Fixed mortgage rates are influenced by Government of Canada bond yields and other lender funding considerations. They can rise or fall before a policy announcement, and they may not move in the same direction as the Bank of Canada's overnight rate.

3. How early can I shop for a mortgage renewal in Canada?

You can begin reviewing options a few months before your term ends. The Financial Consumer Agency of Canada recommends starting early rather than waiting for your renewal letter. The date when a lender can offer or hold a particular rate depends on its policies and the mortgage terms.

4. Do I have to pass a mortgage stress test to change lenders at renewal?

Not in every case. Eligible straight switches of uninsured mortgages between federally regulated lenders can be exempt from OSFI's minimum qualifying rate when the loan amount and amortization do not increase. Other exemptions exist for qualifying insured mortgage switches, but the new lender still decides whether to approve the application.

5. Should I automatically accept my current lender's renewal offer?

No. You can compare rates and terms from other lenders, and you can ask your current lender to improve its offer. Review payment amounts, term length, prepayment privileges, penalties and switching costs before choosing the option that best fits your needs.

Renewing Your Mortgage This Fall? What a Bank of Canada Rate Hold Means for You

Your mortgage renewal arrives, and the payment is higher than you expected. Yet the latest headline says the Bank of Canada held interest rates steady. How can both be true?

The answer is that the Bank of Canada's rate and your mortgage rate are different things. A rate hold does not freeze the offers available from lenders, and it does not preserve the rate from your expiring mortgage term.

On September 2, 2026, the Bank of Canada maintained its policy interest rate at 2.25%. Its next scheduled decision is October 28, 2026. For homeowners renewing this fall, the useful question is what the available mortgage options mean for their own payment, budget and plans.

What does a Bank of Canada rate hold actually mean?

A hold means the Bank has left its target for the overnight interest rate unchanged. It is not an instruction to lenders to keep every mortgage offer the same.

The September announcement itself illustrates the difference: the Bank held its policy rate while noting that long-term bond yields had increased, including in Canada. Different borrowing costs can move in different directions at the same time.

A hold also tells us what the Bank decided on that date. It does not guarantee the outcome of the next announcement. Your renewal plan should work with the terms you can actually obtain, without depending on a future rate cut.

Why your renewal payment can still increase

At renewal, the relevant comparison is between your expiring mortgage and the new contract. If the new interest rate is higher than your old rate, your payment can increase even though the Bank of Canada made no change at its latest meeting.

Your remaining balance and repayment schedule matter too. A mortgage term is the period covered by your current contract. Amortization is the estimated time needed to repay the mortgage. They are not interchangeable.

Ask for a payment calculation using your actual balance at renewal and the remaining amortization. Comparing advertised rates without those details leaves out the numbers that determine how the mortgage fits your household budget.

If someone proposes extending your amortization, ask to see the trade-off. Spreading repayment over more years can reduce the regular payment, but generally increases total interest costs. A smaller payment deserves a closer look when it also means carrying the debt longer.

Fixed and variable mortgages respond differently

Fixed mortgage offers can change between Bank announcements

Government of Canada bond yields are an important influence on fixed mortgage pricing. Those yields reflect market conditions and expectations, so new fixed offers can change even when the Bank's policy rate stays put.

Once you enter a fixed-rate term, your contractual interest rate stays the same for that term. The rate offered for your next term is a new decision. An unchanged central bank rate does not require your lender to repeat the price you received several years ago.

Variable mortgages depend on the lender's prime rate

A variable mortgage is typically priced using the lender's prime rate, with a contractual adjustment above or below it. Check both parts of the quote. The Bank's 2.25% policy rate is not a mortgage rate being offered to borrowers.

Also confirm how payments work. With adjustable payments, the payment changes when the mortgage rate changes. With fixed payments on a variable-rate mortgage, a rate change affects how much goes toward interest and principal. Fixed payments do not eliminate interest-rate risk.

Before choosing, ask yourself: would a payment increase create a problem, and how much certainty do I need? Those answers are more useful than trying to guess the next rate announcement.

Compare the mortgage you will live with

A renewal deserves more than a quick glance at the rate. Think about what could change during the next contract: a move, parental leave, retirement, renovations or a change in income. Tell your mortgage professional about those plans before choosing a term.

• Payment: What is the actual payment, using the same balance, amortization and payment frequency for each comparison?
• Flexibility: What extra payments can you make without a penalty?
• Exit costs: How is the charge calculated if you break the mortgage early?
• Moving: Can the mortgage be transferred to another property, and what restrictions apply?
• Timing: When does the offer expire, and when must you provide documents and instructions?

Ask for the answers in writing. A side-by-side comparison should make the differences clear enough that you can explain why one option suits you better. If the explanation stops at "this rate is lower," the review is not finished.

Can you switch lenders without the mortgage stress test?

For an eligible uninsured straight switch at renewal, OSFI does not require its prescribed minimum qualifying rate. This applies to a stand-alone uninsured mortgage moving between federally regulated lenders without increasing the loan amount or remaining contractual amortization.

That does not mean automatic approval. The receiving lender still assesses your application under its lending policies. Confirm eligibility for your specific mortgage before making plans around this exception.

Ask for an itemized estimate of switching expenses, including any discharge, registration, legal or appraisal costs that apply, and confirm which costs the new lender will cover. A better offer should be evaluated after those expenses.

Refinancing at renewal is a separate decision

If you want additional funds for renovations or debt consolidation, say so at the beginning of the conversation. Borrowing more is different from simply transferring your existing balance to a new lender.

The straight-switch exception does not cover an increase in borrowing or an extension of the remaining contractual amortization. For most newly underwritten uninsured mortgages at federally regulated lenders, the qualifying rate remains the higher of the contract rate plus two percentage points or 5.25%.

Available equity also matters. Home equity is the property's appraised value minus the debts secured against it. It is not automatically available cash. Your lender must approve the borrowing, and an appraisal and fees may be required.

For debt consolidation, compare the total repayment cost and the repayment date, as well as the monthly relief. Moving debt onto your mortgage secures it against your home. A lower interest rate does not make it sensible to repay a short-term expense over decades without a clear plan.

Make room for the rest of homeownership

The mortgage payment is only one part of owning a home. Build your renewal budget around property taxes, insurance, utilities, maintenance, other debt payments and regular living expenses.

Write down what remains after those costs. Is there room for savings and an unexpected repair? Would the payment still feel manageable during a temporary drop in income? Use your real spending, rather than the amount you hope you will spend.

The same approach helps if you plan to buy another home. Start with a comfortable household payment and discuss financing before committing to a purchase. A central bank headline cannot tell you what a particular property will cost your family to own.

If the proposed renewal payment is unaffordable, contact your lender early. Explain the problem and ask what assistance is available. Relief measures depend on your circumstances, and you should understand their costs before accepting them.

Give yourself time to choose

Start reviewing your options a few months before maturity. A federally regulated lender must provide a renewal statement at least 21 days before the term ends, but that is not a reason to leave your comparison until then.

Have your current mortgage statement and renewal offer ready. Ask what income and property documents are needed, especially if you are considering another lender or additional borrowing.

Renewing this fall? Arrange a mortgage review before accepting your offer. Bring your questions about payments, flexibility and future plans. The goal is a mortgage you understand and a payment you can manage, with the full cost clear before you sign.

Frequently asked questions

1. Does a Bank of Canada rate hold mean my renewal payment stays the same?

No. Your renewal payment depends on the new mortgage rate, outstanding balance, remaining amortization and payment schedule. A central bank rate hold does not preserve the interest rate from your expiring contract.

2. Can fixed mortgage rates change when the Bank of Canada holds its rate?

Yes. New fixed mortgage offers are influenced by bond yields and lender pricing. They can change between Bank of Canada decisions. An existing fixed contractual rate stays unchanged during its term.

3. Can I switch lenders at renewal without the stress test?

Eligible stand-alone uninsured mortgages can move between federally regulated lenders without OSFI's prescribed minimum qualifying rate when the loan amount and remaining contractual amortization do not increase. The new lender must still approve the application.

4. Should I choose a fixed or variable mortgage this fall?

Compare the available rates, payment structure, contract conditions and your ability to handle changes. Fixed rates provide rate certainty for the term. Variable rates can change. A rate hold alone does not determine which option suits you.

5. Can I borrow more money when my mortgage renews?

You may be able to refinance, subject to lender approval, available equity and qualification requirements. Additional borrowing is not an eligible straight switch. Compare fees, payments and total interest costs before proceeding.

Your hours have been reduced. You have started a new job. Or your household is managing on one income while you work out what comes next. If you own a home, refinancing may seem like a practical way to create some breathing room.

It can be worth exploring, but home equity alone does not establish that you qualify. A lender also needs to assess whether you can repay the mortgage based on your current financial situation.

Statistics Canada reported an employment decline in August 2026. For homeowners reviewing their finances this fall, that is a useful reminder to look beyond mortgage-rate headlines and consider the income actually available to support their payments.

You may be able to refinance after an income change, but approval depends on the income a lender accepts, your debts, credit, property and requested loan. Before applying, establish what has changed and what you need the mortgage to accomplish.

Start by separating refinancing from renewal

Renewing means arranging another term for your remaining mortgage balance when the current term ends. Refinancing changes your borrowing arrangement, often to access equity, consolidate debts or adjust the repayment period.

These are different decisions. If your priority is keeping your existing mortgage manageable, ask about your renewal options before assuming you need additional borrowing.

Moving to a different lender requires approval from that lender. Start reviewing options a few months before your term ends, so you have time to compare conditions and costs. Your current lender's renewal offer also deserves a careful review.

Does the renewal stress-test exemption help?

OSFI no longer requires its prescribed minimum qualifying rate for an uninsured straight switch between federally regulated lenders at renewal, provided the loan amount and remaining amortization do not increase.

That exemption does not remove the new lender's responsibility to assess the application. It also does not extend to a cash-out refinance simply because the transaction takes place on your renewal date. Ask your broker to confirm how your proposed transaction is classified.

Check which income the lender can use

A lender needs a reliable picture of your earnings. OSFI's underwriting guidance calls for verification of employment status and income history, with attention to income stability.

This matters when your income includes overtime, commissions or bonuses. A particularly strong pay period may not represent the amount a lender will accept for qualification.

For self-employed applicants, tax records and relevant business documents help establish the income available to support the mortgage. Business revenue and personal qualifying income are not interchangeable.

Explain the change at the beginning of the conversation. If your previous application showed full-time employment and your hours have since dropped, the new application should reflect that. Ask which documents are needed to support your current position rather than relying on an older approval.

Prepare the paperwork before comparing offers

Your broker or lender will provide a checklist for your circumstances. Useful documents to gather for the initial review include:

• Recent pay statements and employment details, including your pay rate and time with the employer.
• Tax returns and notices of assessment, particularly when you are self-employed.
• Your current mortgage statement and renewal date.
• Statements showing credit cards, loans and other financial obligations.
• A clear summary of the amount you want to borrow and its intended use.

Ask for the document list before spending time collecting records that may not be needed. A focused first review is more useful than sending a large folder without explaining the income change.

Review qualification and your everyday budget separately

Lenders consider income, housing costs, debt payments and credit when assessing affordability. If income falls while those commitments stay the same, there is less room to support borrowing.

For a refinance with a federally regulated lender, the mortgage stress test generally uses the higher of your contract rate plus two percentage points or 5.25%. This qualifying rate tests your ability to make payments; it is not necessarily the rate you pay.

Your own budget needs another check. Use take-home income and actual spending, including groceries, transportation, childcare, insurance and home maintenance. Leave room for irregular bills instead of treating every unallocated dollar as money available for the mortgage.

Before requesting an offer, write down the monthly payment you could comfortably manage today. Then ask for options around that figure. Do not build the plan around overtime returning, a raise arriving or a new contract being signed.

If you are also considering selling and buying another home, revisit that purchase budget using your updated income. A previous mortgage estimate should not be the basis for a new commitment after your circumstances change.

Find out how much equity is actually available

Home equity is your property's value minus the borrowing secured against it. The amount available for refinancing is smaller than your total equity because lenders limit how much they will lend against the property.

For a typical refinance, total borrowing secured against the home can generally reach up to 80% of its appraised value, subject to qualification and lender requirements. Existing secured debt reduces the amount that may be available.

Ask for an estimate of the net funds you would receive after existing balances and transaction costs are paid. That is the useful number when deciding whether the refinance will meet your needs.

A home's value provides security for the loan. It does not replace the need for a workable repayment plan.

Understand what an income change means for your rate

The Bank of Canada influences borrowing costs, but it does not set individual mortgage rates. Lenders also consider funding costs, credit risk and the characteristics of the mortgage.

A change in your earnings does not, by itself, reset an existing fixed mortgage rate during its term. When you apply for new financing, however, your financial circumstances can affect which lenders and products are available.

Variable mortgage rates are typically linked to a lender's prime rate. Fixed mortgage pricing also reflects longer-term funding conditions. Neither provides a reason to assume your next offer will match an advertised rate.

Request a comparison based on the same loan amount and repayment period. Ask what conditions apply to each quote and what remains outstanding before approval. Choose using the actual offer, rather than a prediction about the next rate announcement.

Check the cost of creating a lower payment

Refinancing before your term ends may involve a prepayment penalty. Appraisal, legal, discharge and registration costs may also apply. Ask for an itemized estimate before committing.

A lower monthly payment can also come from extending the amortization, which spreads repayment over more years. That can increase total interest costs. Ask to see both the payment and the expected balance at the end of the proposed term.

When consolidating debts, compare the full repayment plan. Moving credit-card borrowing into a mortgage secures that debt against your home. A smaller monthly bill does not mean the debt has disappeared.

Be direct about the problem you are trying to solve. Is this a one-time expense, or does normal monthly spending exceed your current income? If it is an ongoing shortfall, ask how the plan addresses that gap after the refinance funds are used.

If payments are becoming difficult, contact your lender early

If you are worried about making your next payment, contact your lender now. You do not need to finish researching refinancing before explaining that your circumstances have changed.

The Financial Consumer Agency of Canada expects federally regulated financial institutions to support eligible borrowers experiencing exceptional financial difficulties. Depending on the circumstances, mortgage relief may include changes to the repayment arrangement.

Relief is assessed individually. Ask what the arrangement would cost, how long it would last and how regular payments would resume. Do not stop or reduce payments without an agreed arrangement.

Make your next mortgage decision with current numbers

Before proceeding, ask your mortgage professional to explain the income accepted for qualification, the net funds available, all costs and the proposed monthly payment.

Also ask what happens if refinancing is not suitable. A useful review should help you compare the available choices, including discussing your existing mortgage with your lender.

Has your household income changed? Arrange a mortgage review before committing to new borrowing. Bring your mortgage statement, current income records and debt balances so the conversation starts with your situation as it stands today.

Frequently asked questions

Can I refinance my mortgage if my income has dropped?

Possibly. A lender must assess whether your current qualifying income supports the proposed mortgage and other obligations. Your equity, credit and requested loan also matter. An income drop can reduce your borrowing options, even if you have substantial equity.

Can I refinance after starting a new job?

A new job does not establish approval or refusal on its own. The lender reviews your employment, income history and supporting documents under its policies. Tell your broker when you started, how you are paid and whether any employment conditions remain.

Will I need to prove my income when switching lenders at renewal?

Expect the new lender to assess your income and finances. Eligible uninsured straight switches between federally regulated lenders are exempt from OSFI's prescribed stress-test rate when the loan amount and amortization do not increase. That exemption does not guarantee approval.

Does having enough home equity guarantee refinancing approval?

No. Equity is only one part of the assessment. For a typical refinance, lenders also review repayment capacity, debts, credit and the property. Having room below the usual 80% borrowing limit does not mean you can automatically borrow that amount.

What should I do if reduced income makes my mortgage unaffordable?

Contact your lender before missing a payment and explain the income change. Ask about mortgage relief and the costs of any proposed arrangement. A mortgage professional can also review whether refinancing is feasible, but additional borrowing should have a sustainable repayment plan.

The Bank of Canada today held its target for the overnight rate at 2.25%, with the Bank Rate at 2.5% and the deposit rate at 2.20%.

The continuing conflict in the Middle East is keeping energy prices high. As well, new US tariffs and Canadian counter-measures have been announced following the breakdown of trade talks between Canada and the United States. Both situations remain fluid.

In the United States, economic growth continues to be solid, driven by consumer spending and AI-related investment. Growth in the euro area was stronger than expected in the second quarter, while China's economy slowed. Overall, the global economy has shown resilience in the face of geopolitical headwinds, with growth broadly consistent with the July Monetary Policy Report (MPR) projection. With still-high oil prices and elevated margins for refined energy products, inflation in most countries remains high. 

Financial conditions have tightened since July. Long-term bond yields have moved up globally, including in Canada. The Canadian dollar has appreciated slightly on US-dollar weakness.

As expected, Canadian economic activity strengthened in the second quarter, with GDP up by 3.3%, following very weak growth in the first quarter. While some of the recent strength reflected temporary factors, the pick-up in activity was broad-based. Consumption showed solid gains. Following several weak quarters, there was some rebound in housing activity. Exports and business investment were up sharply. Labour market conditions have improved in recent months, with the unemployment rate edging down to 6.4% in July. Still, demand for labour remains subdued and indicators point to continued excess supply in the economy.

Overall, recent data reaffirm Governing Council's view of a broadening recovery in Canada's economy. However, uncertainty is high and new US tariffs and threats of further action pose risks to the sustainability of the recovery.

CPI inflation has been hovering around 3% in recent months, mainly because of persistently higher gasoline prices. So far, there has been little evidence of higher energy prices spreading to other components of inflation: excluding gasoline, inflation was 2.2% and measures of core inflation remained close to 2% in July. However, with the Middle East conflict still ongoing and little progress reopening the Strait of Hormuz, upside risks to the Bank's inflation forecast have increased. The longer that high oil prices and elevated refinery margins persist, the greater the risk of spillover to the prices of other goods and services. New US tariffs and Canadian counter-tariffs will also raise costs for some businesses and could feed into consumer prices over time.

With the economy and inflation evolving broadly as forecast in the July MPR, Governing Council agreed to leave the policy rate unchanged. However, the upside risks to inflation have increased, while new tariffs make growth prospects more uncertain. Governing Council will assess the sustainability of the economic rebound and the outlook for inflation, and is prepared to adjust monetary policy as needed. The Bank remains committed to maintaining Canadians' confidence in price stability through this period of global upheaval.

Information note

The next scheduled date for announcing the overnight rate target is October 28, 2026. The Bank's next MPR will be released at the same time.

Source: Bank of Canada Website

Canada is still building a significant number of homes, but the latest housing construction numbers show that the pace of new projects is beginning to slow.

For Canadians hoping to buy a home, that may sound like bad news. If fewer homes are being built, does that mean prices are about to rise? Will affordability get worse? Should you buy now before supply becomes tighter?

The answer is more complicated than any one housing headline suggests.

Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation, or CMHC, reported that the six-month trend in housing starts edged lower in July 2026. Actual housing starts in larger population centres were also considerably lower than they were in July 2025.

At the same time, hundreds of thousands of homes are already under construction, completions increased in July, and housing conditions vary significantly from one part of Canada to another.

For homebuyers, homeowners approaching a mortgage renewal, and people considering refinancing, the important question is not simply whether housing starts are up or down. It is how housing supply, local demand, borrowing costs and your own financial position come together.

What Are Housing Starts?

A housing start is recorded when construction begins on a new residential unit. Housing starts can include single-detached homes, townhomes, condominiums, apartments and other types of residential construction.

Housing starts are closely watched because they provide an indication of how much new housing may eventually become available.

However, a housing start does not mean a completed home is immediately available for purchase. Depending on the type of development, construction can take many months or even years.

That distinction is important when interpreting Canada's latest numbers.

What Do Canada's Latest Housing Start Numbers Show?

CMHC reported that Canada's six-month housing-start trend declined slightly in July 2026 to approximately 247,000 units on a seasonally adjusted annual basis.

The monthly seasonally adjusted annual rate was approximately 229,000 units, down 5% from June.

In centres with populations of at least 10,000, actual July housing starts were 19% lower than they were in July 2025. Looking at the first seven months of the year rather than just one month, starts were down 4% compared with the same period in 2025.

That difference matters.

A 19% year-over-year monthly decline attracts attention, but housing construction can be volatile from one month to another, particularly when large multi-unit projects begin or are delayed. CMHC specifically uses a six-month trend measure to provide a clearer picture of the direction of construction activity.

The broader message is that new construction is moderating, not that homebuilding across Canada has suddenly stopped.

Canada Still Has a Large Supply of Homes Under Construction

There is another part of the latest housing data that prospective buyers should not overlook.

CMHC reported approximately 373,000 units under construction in centres with populations of at least 50,000 in July. Almost 20,000 units were completed during the month, an increase from June.

That existing construction pipeline means additional housing will continue reaching the market even while fewer new projects begin.

The more important concern is what happens further down the road. If fewer projects consistently begin construction, Canada could eventually have fewer new homes entering the market once today's construction pipeline is completed.

For affordability, housing supply therefore needs to be viewed over several years rather than several weeks.

Do Fewer Housing Starts Mean Home Prices Will Rise?

Not necessarily, and certainly not automatically.

Home prices depend on both supply and demand.

Fewer new homes can create upward pressure on prices when there are many buyers competing for limited inventory. But if buyer demand is also weak, slower construction does not automatically translate into higher prices.

CMHC's 2026 housing outlook has highlighted subdued housing demand, affordability constraints, modest income growth, slower population growth and economic uncertainty as factors affecting the Canadian housing market.

In some markets, buyers may therefore have more negotiating room even while new construction is slowing. In other markets where population growth, employment and housing demand remain stronger, limited supply may continue to make buying more competitive.

This is why national headlines should never replace an assessment of the specific community where you are planning to buy.

Housing Markets Across Canada Are Not Moving Together

Canada does not have one single housing market.

CMHC's outlook shows meaningful regional differences. Construction and housing activity in parts of Ontario and British Columbia have been weaker, while some Prairie and Quebec markets have experienced comparatively stronger conditions.

Even within the same province, conditions can differ dramatically between major cities, suburbs and smaller communities.

For a homebuyer, this means the most useful questions are local:

• How many homes are currently listed in the area where you want to buy?
• How quickly are suitable properties selling?
• Are buyers regularly competing for the same homes?
• Are substantial new developments expected to be completed nearby?
• Are prices in your specific property category rising, falling or remaining relatively stable?

Those factors can tell you much more about your actual buying environment than a single national statistic.

Could Slower Construction Affect Home Affordability?

Over the longer term, housing supply is an important part of affordability.

When housing construction fails to keep pace with household demand over an extended period, buyers and renters can face greater competition for available homes.

CMHC continues to identify housing affordability as a major challenge in Canada and has emphasized the importance of adding sufficient housing supply over time.

But affordability is not determined by housing supply alone.

A buyer's ability to afford a home is also affected by mortgage rates, household income, property taxes, heating costs, condominium fees, insurance, debts and the amount available for a down payment.

A home could become less expensive while still being unaffordable to a particular household if monthly borrowing costs or other expenses are too high.

That is why it is helpful to define affordability based on your monthly budget rather than simply the maximum mortgage amount for which you may qualify.

Will Slower Housing Starts Cause Mortgage Rates to Fall?

Slower home construction does not directly determine Canadian mortgage rates.

Variable mortgage rates are more directly affected by changes in lenders' prime rates, which are influenced by the Bank of Canada's policy interest rate. Fixed mortgage rates are influenced by broader financial market conditions and lenders' funding costs.

The Bank of Canada held its policy interest rate at 2.25% at its July 15, 2026 decision.

The Bank considers a much broader range of economic information when making interest-rate decisions, including inflation, economic growth and labour-market conditions.

For example, Statistics Canada reported that Canada's Consumer Price Index increased 3.0% year over year in July. Employment also increased by 75,000 in July, while the unemployment rate declined to 6.4%.

Those types of indicators matter considerably more to the interest-rate outlook than a single month's housing-start data.

Homebuyers should therefore be cautious about assuming that weaker construction means lower mortgage rates are coming.

Should You Wait for Mortgage Rates to Fall Before Buying?

Trying to perfectly time both mortgage rates and home prices is extremely difficult.

If mortgage rates decline in the future, borrowing costs may become more affordable. But improved affordability can also encourage more buyers to return to the market, potentially increasing competition for suitable homes.

Conversely, purchasing when demand is softer may provide better negotiating conditions, even if today's mortgage rate is not the lowest rate that might eventually become available.

The decision should depend on your circumstances rather than a prediction about where rates or prices will move next.

A financially prepared buyer should know:

• How much they can comfortably spend each month
• How much cash will remain after the down payment and closing costs
• How their payment could change at a higher interest rate
• Whether they plan to remain in the property long enough for buying to make sense
• Whether they have sufficient emergency savings after the purchase

These are usually more useful questions than asking whether this particular month is the perfect time to buy.

What Does Slower Housing Construction Mean for Mortgage Renewals?

If you already own a home and your mortgage is approaching renewal, housing-start data should not be the primary factor driving your decision.

Your renewal should focus on your remaining mortgage balance, current interest rate, available renewal options, payment preferences, future plans and overall household budget.

Local housing conditions can still matter if you are considering selling instead of renewing, particularly if available inventory and buyer demand have changed significantly in your community.

But if you intend to remain in the home, your priority should be comparing mortgage options rather than trying to forecast new construction.

Starting the renewal conversation early can also provide more time to compare lenders, terms and mortgage structures instead of automatically accepting the first renewal offer you receive.

What Does It Mean If You Are Considering Refinancing?

Housing market conditions can be more relevant when refinancing because your property's value may affect how much equity is available.

If you are refinancing to consolidate debt, access equity, renovate your home or restructure your mortgage, the lender may require an appraisal or another method of establishing the property's current value.

A slower housing market does not necessarily prevent refinancing, but homeowners should avoid assuming their property is worth a particular amount based on an older sale or previous market peak.

The amount you can refinance will depend on lender requirements, your income, debts, credit profile, property value and applicable Canadian mortgage rules.

What Should Canadian Homebuyers Take From the Latest Housing Data?

The biggest takeaway is that Canada's housing market is currently sending mixed signals.

New housing starts are moderating, which could become an affordability concern if the slowdown persists and future supply becomes constrained.

At the same time, Canada still has a substantial number of homes under construction, housing demand remains relatively subdued in several markets, and regional conditions differ considerably.

For someone considering purchasing a home, that argues for preparation rather than panic.

Understand what you can afford. Review the mortgage options available to you. Look closely at conditions in the specific community and property type you are considering. Keep enough room in your budget to manage future expenses and rate changes.

Housing headlines can help explain what is happening nationally, but a good mortgage decision is ultimately personal.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Will slower housing starts make Canadian homes more expensive?

Not automatically. Fewer new homes can put upward pressure on prices over time if demand exceeds available supply, but home prices also depend on buyer demand, employment, incomes, mortgage rates and local inventory. Conditions can vary significantly between Canadian housing markets.

2. Do lower housing starts mean mortgage rates will fall?

No. Housing starts are only one indicator of economic activity. Mortgage rates are affected by broader factors including Bank of Canada policy, inflation, financial markets and lenders' funding costs. A slowdown in construction does not guarantee lower mortgage rates.

3. Should I delay buying a home because construction is slowing?

Not necessarily. Your decision should depend on your finances, housing needs, local market conditions and how long you expect to own the property. Waiting for a perfect combination of lower prices and lower rates can be difficult because market conditions can change quickly.

4. Can a weaker housing market affect my ability to refinance?

It can. Refinancing often depends partly on your home's current value and available equity. If property values have declined in your area, the amount of equity available for refinancing may be lower. Income, debts, credit and lender qualification requirements also matter.

5. What should I do if my mortgage renews within the next year?

Review your mortgage early rather than waiting for the renewal notice. Consider your remaining balance, budget, future plans and whether a fixed or variable structure fits your situation. Comparing available options before renewal can give you more time to make an informed decision.