Understanding Mortgage Renewal: Key Tips and Myths Debunked

Understanding Mortgage Renewal: Key Tips and Myths Debunked

 

Hello, homeowners! It’s Walter Monteiro from The Real Estate and Mortgage Show. i’m here to talk about a crucial moment in your homeownership journey, mortgage renewal. When your mortgage term comes to an end, you have the opportunity to renew your mortgage for another term with your current lender or switch to a new one.

But, what about the qualifying process? I felt it was important to cover this topic because I've noticed a lot of misinformation online and on social media. Let’s clear up some of that confusion. If you stay with your current lender and don’t make any significant changes to your mortgage, such as refinancing or increasing your loan amount, you typically won’t need to requalify.

This means no stress tests, no income verification – just a smooth transition into your new term. However, if you’re considering switching lenders to take advantage of better rates or terms, or if you want to make changes like refinancing to access home equity, the qualifying process kicks in. This involves passing the mortgage stress test, which ensures you can afford your mortgage payments even if interest rates rise.

Now, if your current mortgage is insured – meaning it's a high-ratio mortgage that you entered into with less than 20% down – switching lenders offers a unique advantage. You won’t need to pass the stress test, but all other elements of qualifying will still apply.

This includes income verification and a thorough review of your financial situation. Navigating mortgage renewal can be complex, but it doesn’t have to be.

Reach out to Karen Monteiro, Principal Broker with Mortgage Alliance Greater Golden Horseshoe, for personalized advice and support to ensure you get the best possible terms for your situation. Thanks for tuning in. Remember, a well-managed mortgage is a cornerstone of financial security.