Posts in category: Residential Mortgage

Buying a home is a significant financial investment, and for many Canadians, securing a mortgage is an integral part of the home-buying process. 

A mortgage is a long-term commitment, and it is essential to get the best rates to ensure you can afford the payments over the life of the loan. This article will discuss tips to get the best mortgage rates in Canada, including improving your credit score, shopping around for lenders, and considering a shorter loan term.

Improve Your Credit Score

Your credit score is crucial in determining the mortgage rate you qualify for. The higher your credit score, the lower the interest rate you will pay. Several ways to improve your credit score include paying your bills on time, keeping your credit card balances low, and avoiding opening new credit accounts. You can also check your credit report for errors and have them corrected if necessary.

Shop Around for Lenders

Shopping around for lenders is essential in getting the best mortgage rates in Canada. Different lenders offer different rates, and comparing offers from multiple lenders is essential to find the best deal. You can contact banks, credit unions, and mortgage brokers to get quotes on mortgage rates. Make sure to compare each offer’s interest rates, fees, and terms to determine which lender offers the best value.

Consider a Shorter Loan Term

A shorter loan term can help you get a lower mortgage rate in Canada. A shorter loan term means you will pay off the loan sooner, reducing the lender’s risk. As a result, lenders may offer lower interest rates for shorter loan terms. However, it is important to consider whether you can afford the higher monthly payments that come with a shorter loan term.

Increase Your Down Payment

Increasing your down payment can help you get a better mortgage rate in Canada. The larger your down payment, the less you need to borrow, reducing the lender’s risk. As a result, lenders may offer lower interest rates for larger down payments. Aim to save at least 20% of the home’s purchase price as a down payment to avoid paying for mortgage default insurance.

Choose a Fixed-Rate Mortgage

A fixed-rate mortgage offers a stable interest rate over the life of the loan. This means that your mortgage payments will remain the same, regardless of changes in the market interest rates. A fixed-rate mortgage offers peace of mind and helps you budget for your mortgage payments. It also protects you from rate increases, which can occur with variable-rate mortgages.

Consider Paying Points

Points are fees that you can pay upfront to lower your mortgage rate in Canada. Each point is worth 1% of the loan amount, and paying points can help you get a lower interest rate. However, it is important to consider whether paying points is worth the cost. You need to calculate how much you will save in interest over the life of the loan compared to the cost of paying points to determine whether it is a good deal.

To Sum Up

In conclusion, getting the best mortgage rates in Canada requires careful planning and research. Improving your credit score, shopping around for lenders, considering a shorter loan term, increasing your down payment, choosing a fixed-rate mortgage, and paying points are all strategies that can help you get the best mortgage rate. 

When choosing a mortgage, it is important to consider your financial situation, budget, and long-term goals. By finding the best mortgage rate, you can save money over the life of the loan and enjoy the benefits of homeownership.

Ottawa Mortgage Services is one of the best local mortgage brokers in the area. We offer our services to first-time homebuyers, self-employed individuals, and commercial clients. Get in touch with us.

Getting pre-approved for a mortgage is an essential step towards buying a home in Ottawa. It’s a process that many homebuyers don’t take seriously, but it can make a huge difference in the home buying process. A pre-approval letter from a lender shows that you are a serious buyer, and it can give you an edge over other buyers who haven’t been pre-approved. In this article, we’ll discuss the do’s and don’ts of getting pre-approved for a mortgage in Ottawa.

DO: Check Your Credit Score

One of the first things you should do before applying for pre-approval is checking your credit score. Your credit score is a major factor in determining your mortgage interest rate, so it’s essential to know where you stand. You can check your credit score for free once a year with one of the major credit reporting agencies, such as Equifax or TransUnion.

DON’T: Apply for Credit Cards or Loans

While you’re in the process of getting pre-approved for a mortgage, it’s important not to apply for any new credit cards or loans. Every time you apply for credit, it shows up on your credit report as a hard inquiry. Too many hard inquiries can lower your credit score, which can hurt your chances of getting pre-approved for a mortgage.

DO: Gather Your Financial Documents

When you apply for pre-approval, you’ll need to provide your lender with various financial documents, including pay stubs, tax returns, and bank statements. It’s a good idea to gather these documents before you apply, so you can provide them quickly when asked.

DON’T: Make Large Purchases

During the pre-approval process, it’s important to avoid making any large purchases, such as buying a new car or furniture. These purchases can increase your debt-to-income ratio, which could hurt your chances of getting pre-approved for a mortgage.

DO: Shop Around for Lenders

It’s a good idea to shop around for lenders when you’re getting pre-approved for a mortgage. Different lenders may offer different interest rates and terms, so it’s important to compare your options. You can use online tools to compare rates and fees, or you can work with a mortgage broker who can help you find the best lender for your needs.

DON’T: Change Jobs

If you’re in the process of getting pre-approved for a mortgage, it’s important not to change jobs. Lenders want to see stability in your employment history, and changing jobs can make it harder to get pre-approved. If you do need to change jobs, it’s best to do it before you start the pre-approval process.

DO: Be Honest About Your Finances

When you’re applying for pre-approval, it’s essential to be honest about your finances. Your lender will review your financial documents and credit history, so it’s important not to hide anything. If you have any questions about what to disclose, ask your lender for guidance.

DON’T: Make Large Deposits

During the pre-approval process, it’s important not to make any large deposits into your bank account. Large deposits can raise red flags for lenders, who may question the source of the funds. If you do receive a large deposit, be prepared to provide documentation to show where the funds came from.

DO: Get Pre-Approved Before House Hunting

Finally, it’s important to get pre-approved before you start house hunting in Ottawa. A pre-approval letter from a lender shows that you are a serious buyer, and it can strengthen your offer when you find a home you want to buy. Without pre-approval, you may be at a disadvantage in a competitive housing market.

Conclusion

By following these do’s and don’ts, you can increase your chances of getting pre-approved and make the home buying process smoother and more successful. Remember to check your credit score, gather your financial documents, shop around for lenders, and be honest about your finances. Avoid making large purchases or deposits, changing jobs, or applying for new credit cards or loans. With these guidelines in mind, you’ll be well on your way to getting pre-approved for a mortgage in Ottawa.

Ottawa Mortgage Services provides mortgage agent services for first-time homebuyers, self-employed individuals, commercial clients, and more. We also help clients with refinancing, pre-approvals, and debt consolidation. If you’re looking for local mortgage brokers in Ottawa, we can help you find the right mortgage in the right neighbourhood. Get in touch with us today and let us know how we can help!

When buying a home, getting the best interest rate on your mortgage is crucial. Even a small difference in interest rates can significantly impact your monthly mortgage payment and the total amount you end up paying over the life of your loan. This article will provide useful tips to help you secure the best interest rate on your mortgage.

1. Improve Your Credit Score

Your credit score is one of the most important factors lenders consider when determining your interest rate. A higher credit score usually means a lower interest rate. Therefore, it’s essential to ensure your credit score is as high as possible before applying for a mortgage. You can improve your credit score by paying down debts, making timely payments, and avoiding opening new credit accounts.

2. Save for a Larger Down Payment

A larger down payment can also help you secure a better interest rate on your mortgage. Lenders see borrowers who put more money down as less risky and may offer them lower interest rates. Saving for a larger down payment can reduce your monthly mortgage and help you avoid paying private mortgage insurance (PMI).

3. Shop Around for the Best Rates

Don’t settle for the first lender that offers you a mortgage. Instead, shop around and compare rates from different lenders. Doing your research can help you find the best interest rate and save you money over the life of your loan. You can use online comparison tools to compare rates from different lenders.

4. Consider a Shorter Loan Term

Shorter loan terms usually come with lower interest rates. While a 30-year mortgage may seem more affordable because of the lower monthly payments, it’ll cost you more in interest over the life of the loan. A 15-year mortgage, on the other hand, can save you thousands of dollars in interest and help you pay off your home faster.

5. Improve Your Debt-to-Income Ratio

Your debt-to-income (DTI) ratio is another factor that lenders consider when determining your interest rate. Your DTI ratio is the percentage of your monthly income for paying debts. A lower DTI ratio usually means a lower interest rate. You can improve your DTI ratio by paying debts or increasing your income.

6. Consider Paying Points

Paying points is a way to lower your interest rate by pre-paying interest upfront. Each point is equal to one percent of your mortgage amount. For example, if you have a $200,000 mortgage, one point would cost you $2,000. Paying points can be a good option if you plan to stay in your home for a long time.

7. Get Pre-Approved for a Mortgage

Getting pre-approved for a mortgage can give you an idea of the interest rate you’re likely to receive. Pre-approval involves providing your lender with your financial information, such as your credit score, income, and debts. Your lender will then give you a pre-approval letter stating the maximum amount you can borrow and the interest rate you qualify for.

Conclusion

Securing the best interest rate on your mortgage can help you save money over the life of your loan. Improving your credit score, saving for a larger down payment, shopping around for the best rates, considering a shorter loan term, improving your debt-to-income ratio, paying points, and getting pre-approved for a mortgage are all effective ways to get the best interest rate. By following these tips, you can be sure to get the best mortgage deal possible.

Ottawa Mortgage Services provides mortgage agent services for first-time homebuyers, self-employed individuals, commercial clients, and more. We also help clients with refinancing, pre-approvals, and debt consolidation. If you’re a first-time home buyer in Ottawa, we can help you find the right mortgage in the right neighbourhood. Get in touch with us today and let us know how we can help!

Being a homeowner is highly beneficial because you have a physical asset with an appreciating value. For this reason, all prospective homeowners go to great lengths when looking for the perfect home, especially if they plan to settle there for life. However, only a few can pay for a house out of their own pockets, so a mortgage is secured first.

A mortgage is a loan that allows a borrower to purchase a house without paying the total purchase price upfront. The loan is secured by the home and is typically repaid over some time, usually 15 or 30 years, where the borrower pays both principal and interest payments. However, the determining factor if a borrower can secure a loan is the credit score, which is any number from 300 to 900 and evaluates the borrower’s creditworthiness. A credit score of 650 and above enables a borrower to get quick approval with low interest rates. On the other hand, anyone with a credit score below 650 can still get a loan, but they may be subject to higher interest rates and stricter terms.

Luckily, there are many ways to improve your credit score, such as:

#1 – Check Your Credit Report

The first step to improving your credit score is to check your credit report. Your credit report contains all the information used to calculate your credit score, so you must review it regularly. You can request a free copy of your credit report from the three major credit bureaus (Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion) once a year.

When you receive your credit report, review it carefully for any errors or discrepancies. If you find any, contact the credit bureau to dispute them and get them corrected. This can help improve your credit score quickly. You should also look for any accounts that may be inaccurate, such as unpaid debt or accounts you don’t recognize. If you find any, contact the creditor to resolve the issue.

#2 – Pay Your Bills on Time

Paying your bills on time is one of the most critical steps to improving your credit score. Late payments will hurt your credit score and can stay on your credit report for up to seven years. To avoid late payments, set up automatic payments for your bills and use a reminder system to keep track of due dates.

If you miss a payment, contact the creditor as soon as possible to explain the situation. Many creditors are willing to work with you and will be willing to remove the late payment from your credit report if you can prove that the late payment was an oversight.

#3 – Never Close Old Credit Cards

Regarding your credit score, you must never close old credit cards. Keeping old credit cards open can help to improve your credit score because it increases the average age of your credit history. This is vital because one factor that goes into calculating your credit score is the length of your credit history.

The only exception to this rule is if you pay an annual fee for a credit card you do not use. In this case, closing the card to save money is better. Otherwise, it’s best to keep your old credit cards open.

#4 – Avoid Applying for New Credit Cards

Just as you should never close old credit cards, you must also refrain from applying for new ones during the mortgage application process. Applying for a new credit card can hurt your credit score. When you apply for a new credit card, the issuer will run a hard inquiry on your credit report. This inquiry can cause a temporary dip in your credit score, and if you have many credit inquiries on your report at once, it will spark red flags.

#5 – Lower Your Credit Utilization

Credit utilization refers to the amount of credit you use compared to your total available credit limit. For example, if you have a credit card with a $10,000 limit and have used $7,000 of it, your credit utilization is 70%.

When applying for a mortgage, you must keep your credit utilization as low as possible. A higher credit utilization ratio can indicate to lenders that you’re relying too heavily on credit, making them hesitant to approve your loan. Keeping it below 30% is generally recommended to maintain a good credit score.

#6 – Consider Using a Secured Credit Card

A secured credit card is a great way to build or rebuild your credit score. It is a type of credit card that requires a security deposit in exchange for a line of credit. The security deposit is collateral for the credit card issuer, assuring them that you will pay back any debt you incur.

The advantages of a secured credit card include lower interest rates and fees. Because the bank or lender has your security deposit, they will likely approve you for the card. Additionally, since your security deposit determines the credit limit, you can manage your spending more efficiently.

Conclusion

Your credit score can make or break your mortgage’s approval, so keep it in the acceptable range. It will be difficult, but the effort will be worth it because your mortgage will be approved with little to no issues. This way, you can be one step closer to your dream home.

Ottawa Mortgages Services provides top-quality mortgage services in Ottawa. We understand the complexities of the homebuying process, so we work to develop a solution that suits any borrower’s unique circumstances. Call us today at +1 (613) 697-8510 to apply!

Mortgages can be a tricky subject to wrap your head around, but don’t worry! We’ve got you covered. We’re here to give you the rundown on the top 5 important types of mortgages you should know, and the pros and cons of each one.

Fixed Rate Mortgages

A fixed-rate mortgage is a loan with an interest rate that stays the same for the entire term of the loan. This type of mortgage is ideal for those who want stability and predictability in their monthly payments. With a fixed-rate mortgage, your monthly payments will stay the same no matter what happens to the interest rate.

Pros of fixed-rate mortgages include predictable monthly payments and the ability to budget with confidence. Cons include possible higher interest rates than variable-rate mortgages and the inability to take advantage of a lower rate if the market rate drops.

Variable Rate Mortgages

A variable-rate mortgage is a loan with an interest rate that can change over time. The initial rate of a variable-rate mortgage is usually lower than a fixed-rate mortgage, but the rate can increase or decrease depending on the market. This type of mortgage is ideal for those who are comfortable with taking on some risk in exchange for the potential to save money in the long run.

With a variable-rate mortgage, your payments can go up or down depending on the interest rate, so it’s important to be aware of the potential for fluctuation.

Pros of variable rate mortgages include lower initial rates and the potential to save money if the market rate decreases. Cons include the risk of higher payments if the market rate increases and the need to budget carefully to adjust to a changing payment.

Construction Mortgages

Construction mortgages are loans used to finance the building of a new home. These types of loans are typically more complicated than traditional mortgages, as they often involve multiple lenders and require more detailed paperwork. This type of mortgage is ideal for those who are looking to build their own home and have the resources to do so.

Pros of construction mortgages include the ability to customize the home to your exact specifications and the potential to save money if you are able to do some of the work yourself. Cons include the potential for delays and cost overruns if the project is not managed properly and the need for a large down payment.

Purchase Plus Improvement Mortgages

Purchase plus improvement mortgages are designed to help buyers purchase a home and finance the cost of renovations in one mortgage. This type of mortgage combines the purchase price of the home with the cost of the repairs and improvements into one loan. This can be a great option for those looking to purchase a fixer-upper and make improvements over time.

Pros of purchase plus improvement mortgages include the ability to buy a home that needs repairs and the convenience of having one loan to cover the entire purchase and renovation. Cons include the potential for higher interest rates than other loan options and the need to have a clear plan for the repairs and renovations.

Private Mortgages and Alternative Lending

Private mortgages and alternative lending products are loan options offered by private lenders, rather than traditional banks and financial institutions, such as banks and credit unions. These types of loans can be a great option for those with unique financial needs, such as those self-employed and who are unable to qualify for a traditional mortgage, as they often have more flexible terms and conditions.

Pros of private mortgages and alternative lending include the potential for more flexible terms and the ability to get approved with less stringent credit requirements. Cons include higher interest rates and the potential for predatory lenders.

Conclusion

Mortgages are an essential part of life, regardless of whether you are a first-time homebuyer or looking to refinance an existing loan. From fixed-rate mortgages to adjustable-rate mortgages and more, each type of mortgage has its own set of pros and cons. So make sure you do your research and know the risks before taking on any type of mortgage. After all, your home is your castle, so you want to make sure you’re making the best decision for your financial future.

Are you looking for reliable mortgage services in Ottawa? Look no further than Ottawa Mortgage Services! We understand that choosing the right mortgage can be a daunting task. That’s why we make it our mission to provide our clients with the best service and advice possible. We offer a wide range of mortgage products, from conventional mortgages to specialized products such as reverse mortgages, as well as home equity lines of credit. We strive to provide our clients with competitive rates and flexible terms, so they can rest assured they’re getting the best deal possible. Let us help you find the perfect mortgage solution for your needs! Contact us today to get started!