Understanding Canadian Mortgage Basics
Canadian mortgages differ significantly from US mortgages in structure, regulations, and terminology. A mortgage represents a loan secured against your property, allowing you to purchase a home by paying a portion upfront (down payment) and borrowing the remainder. The average Canadian home price varies dramatically by region: Toronto $1.1M, Vancouver $1.2M, Calgary $550K, Montreal $535K, Halifax $465K as of 2025. Canadian mortgages feature unique characteristics including mandatory stress testing, different amortization rules, and distinct insurance requirements. Unlike the US 30-year fixed rate standard, Canadian fixed rates are typically limited to 5-year terms, after which rates reset based on current market conditions. Understanding these fundamentals is crucial before entering Canada's competitive housing market.