More than half of Canadian mortgages will renew before the end of 2026, and with the Bank of Canada lowering its key interest rate from 5.0% to 4.75% on June 5th, many homeowners are now wondering which mortgage type they should opt for upon renewal — a fixed or variable rate. Understanding the options available and anticipating changes is essential to successfully navigating today’s evolving mortgage landscape.
With a significant cohort of homeowners needing to renegotiate their mortgages within the next three years, those who opted for variable-rate mortgages -– or who took out a loan in 2021 at the trough of historically low rates — will be particularly affected by the planned adjustments. For those who will soon have to deal with the current higher-rate mortgage environment, below are some considerations to help you make an informed decision about an upcoming mortgage renewal.
Current situation
While variable rates were historically lower during the height of the pandemic real estate boom, the trend has recently reversed, with variable rates now higher than fixed rates. The average five-year variable interest rate offered by mortgage lenders currently hovers around 6.7%, while most fixed rates are typically 5.6%.
A variable mortgage rate depends on a number of economic factors, such as the key overnight lending rate, which is set by the Bank of Canada. Although Canada’s central bank recently cut its key rate for the first time in four years, the institution could change course if inflation levels increase in the months ahead. However, economists widely expect further cuts to the lending rate by the end of 2024. The trend is set to continue into 2025, unless economic conditions change significantly. Regardless of declining interest rates, the historically-low rates Canadians have been accustomed to over the last two decades are now a thing of the past.
What you need to know about variable rates
When it comes to variable-rate mortgages, when the prime rate rises – which is influenced by the Bank of Canada’s overnight lending rate – mortgage payments automatically increase.
However, with variable loan structures with fixed-payment options, monthly payments remain unchanged, even in the event of a rate increase. Instead, this type of variable-rate mortgage adjusts the mortgage amortization period (the time it takes to repay the mortgage in full). This is due to the fact that a smaller proportion of each payment is allocated to repaying the mortgage principal.
Understanding your needs
The choice between a fixed- and variable-rate mortgage largely depends on the borrower’s risk tolerance and personal situation. Since variable rates are subject to fluctuations, is your lifestyle conducive to these changes? Even if interest rates begin to fall, there are many economic factors influencing their direction, which can occur at various times during your mortgage term.
The right mortgage product for you depends on your short- and medium-term situation. If you’re currently in a period of transition (career change, separation, etc.), you may want to opt for a fixed-rate that offers you some stability.
Strategic options for borrowers
Fixed-rate mortgage with a shorter term
Amidst economic uncertainty, more borrowers are opting for fixed-rate mortgages with shorter terms (one, two or three years). This way, in an environment where rates are quickly changing, borrowers can lock in predictable monthly payments without the need to stay with the same rate long term.
Hybrid-rate mortgage
This option combines customized features of both a variable and a fixed rate — part of the mortgage has a fixed interest rate and the other has a variable interest rate. This way, the borrower can benefit from the best of both worlds.
Convertible mortgage
This type of loan offers the possibility of converting a variable interest rate loan into a fixed-rate mortgage, or vice versa, before maturity, thus allowing borrowers to adapt their mortgage financial strategy to market conditions.
Consult a professional
At a time when real estate prices remain high due to sustained demand, choosing the right mortgage product is crucial. It is advisable to consult a mortgage broker to explore scenarios best suited to each individual situation. Anticipating interest rate fluctuations and adjusting your financial strategy accordingly can make a big difference in managing your long-term mortgage.