Save thousands in Mortgage Interest
We compare 65+ banks, lenders and credit unions
Better rates for Insured, Uninsured, Rentals & Privates
Stress Free Switch to New Lower Rate Lenders
When your mortgage term is about to expire, renewing your mortgage is an important step in managing your home loan. It’s an opportunity to secure better terms, adjust your repayment schedule, or even switch lenders. This guide covers everything you need to know about mortgage renewals in Canada, including how to negotiate better terms, avoid common mistakes, and work with RateShop brokers to find the best offers.
Before you sign a renewal offer, it’s important to take a moment to evaluate your current situation and future needs:
Current Interest Rates: Research prevailing rates in the market to ensure you're getting a competitive deal.
Financial Goals: Consider if your financial situation or goals have changed, such as paying off debt faster, lowering monthly payments, or accessing home equity.
Mortgage Terms: Think about the flexibility you need—whether you prefer a shorter term for flexibility or a longer term for stability.
Lender’s Offer: Compare your lender’s renewal offer with others to see if there’s a better deal available elsewhere.
Mortgage renewals are an opportunity to negotiate with your lender. Here’s how to improve your chances of securing better terms and rates:
Know the Market: Before negotiating, research current rates from various lenders. If your current lender is offering rates that are significantly higher than others, use this as leverage.
Increase Your Equity: If your home has gained value, you might be able to negotiate a better rate due to the increased equity.
Offer a Larger Down Payment: If you’re refinancing at the time of renewal, putting down more money can help lower your interest rate.
Shop Around: Don’t automatically accept your lender's renewal offer. Consider other lenders or brokers like RateShop to compare the best deals.
Switching to a new lender at renewal is possible without paying penalties, as long as your current mortgage term is up. Here’s how it works:
End of Fixed-Term Mortgages: If you’re nearing the end of a fixed-term mortgage, you can switch lenders without penalty.
No Early Termination Fees: Unlike breaking a mortgage early, switching at renewal typically means you won’t have to pay any prepayment penalties.
Alternative Lenders: This is an opportunity to explore offers from alternative lenders, especially if they provide better rates or more flexible terms than your current lender.
It is our job to get your lowest possible rate. Your rate qualification depends on certain factors, such as credit score and home equity as per regulations.
*Advertised rates may not be offered by this lender. Mortgage lender offers are aggregated by RateShop & its Brokerage Network subject to change without notice. Speak with our mortgage broker about APR and qualification requirements.
Switching to a new lender at renewal is possible without paying penalties, as long as your current mortgage term is up. Here’s how it works:
End of Fixed-Term Mortgages: If you’re nearing the end of a fixed-term mortgage, you can switch lenders without penalty.
No Early Termination Fees: Unlike breaking a mortgage early, switching at renewal typically means you won’t have to pay any prepayment penalties.
Alternative Lenders: This is an opportunity to explore offers from alternative lenders, especially if they provide better rates or more flexible terms than your current lender.
Your credit score can impact the rates and terms you’re offered at renewal. Here’s how:
Improved Credit Score: If your credit score has improved, you may qualify for better rates, even if you have an existing mortgage with a high interest rate.
Declined Credit Score: If your credit score has dropped, you may face higher rates, or in some cases, find it harder to secure refinancing options with your current lender. Monitoring your score regularly can help you take action before renewal.
One of the most important decisions at renewal is whether to choose a fixed or variable rate mortgage. Here are the key considerations:
Fixed-Rate Mortgages: Fixed rates offer stability with predictable payments. They’re ideal for those who prefer certainty, especially in uncertain economic times.
Variable-Rate Mortgages: Variable rates are typically lower than fixed rates but can fluctuate with market conditions. If you’re comfortable with potential rate changes and can tolerate some risk, a variable rate may save you money in the long run.
When deciding between the two, it’s important to assess your financial situation, risk tolerance, and economic outlook.
RateShop brokers can simplify the mortgage renewal process by helping you compare offers from a wide range of lenders, including both traditional banks and alternative lenders. Here's how we help:
Access to Multiple Lenders: We work with a network of lenders to provide you with a variety of renewal options.
Expert Advice: Our brokers offer personalized advice, helping you choose the best renewal terms based on your financial situation and goals.
Negotiation on Your Behalf: We’ll advocate for you to ensure you get the most competitive rates and terms available.
Avoid these common mistakes to ensure you get the best possible deal at renewal:
Not Shopping Around: Many homeowners simply accept the renewal offer from their current lender without comparing it to other options. Always shop around to ensure you're getting a competitive rate.
Not Considering Changing Circumstances: If your financial situation or goals have changed, make sure your renewal terms align with your current needs.
Ignoring Prepayment Options: Many homeowners miss out on prepayment options that can save them money in the long term. Be sure to check for flexibility in your renewal agreement.
Renewing your mortgage early can help lock in a favorable rate before market conditions change. Here's how early renewal works:
Rate Lock-in: If you notice that interest rates are rising, renewing early can lock in a lower rate.
Breaking a Mortgage Early: Some lenders may allow you to renew early, especially if you’re within a few months of your current term’s end. However, it’s important to weigh the potential costs of breaking your current mortgage against the savings of securing a lower rate.
Consider Future Market Conditions: By renewing early, you may safeguard yourself against future interest rate hikes, which can be particularly valuable if you’re on a fixed-rate mortgage.
Mortgage renewal doesn’t have to be stressful. At RateShop Mortgages, we simplify the process and help you compare the best renewal options from multiple lenders. Whether you're looking to secure a better rate, adjust your payment structure, or switch lenders, our brokers are here to guide you through every step. Contact us today to start your mortgage renewal journey!
RateShop Inc. is a Mortgage Brokerage offering lowest mortgage rates to Canadians. We are provincially licensed in the following provinces: Mortgage Brokerage Ontario FSRA #12733, British Columbia BCFSA #MB600776, Alberta RECA #00523056P, Saskatchewan FCAA #00511126, PEI #160622, New Brunswick FCNB #88426, Newfoundland/Labrador. Our Quebec Mortgage Transactions are serviced by Orbis Mortgage Group AMF# 181136.
Copyright 2025. RateShop Canada. All Rights Reserved.