1 in 10 are considering downsizing,
relocating to a more affordable region or renting out a portion of
their home to combat higher borrowing costs
Highlights:
- 57% of Canadians whose mortgage is renewing in 2025 anticipate
their monthly payment will increase, while 40% expect their payment
will stay the same or decrease.
- Among those who expect their monthly payment to increase upon
renewal, 81% say it will put financial strain on their
household.
- Respondents in the province of Quebec are least likely to expect increased
monthly mortgage payments and financial strain upon renewal.
- More Canadians are looking to sign variable-rate mortgages upon
renewal, as interest rates continue to decline.
- As the trade conflict between the
United States and Canada
intensifies, more aggressive rate cuts by the Bank of Canada are possible to stave off a potential
recession.
TORONTO, Feb. 20,
2025 /CNW/ - Approximately 1.2 million mortgages will
renew in 2025, a vast majority (85%)1 of which were
secured when the Bank of Canada's
key lending rate was at or below one per cent. Since June 2024, interest rates have trended down from
their two-decade high, yet remain above the historically low levels
seen during the pandemic. As a result, hundreds of thousands of
homeowners will likely renew their mortgage this year at a higher
rate.
According to a recent Royal LePage survey, conducted by Hill
& Knowlton,2 more than half (57%) of Canadians who
are renewing the mortgage on their primary residence in 2025 expect
their monthly mortgage payment to increase upon renewal (35% expect
it to increase slightly and 22% expect it to increase
significantly). Meanwhile, 25 per cent say their monthly mortgage
payment will remain about the same – within $100 of their current payment amount – and
another 15 per cent expect their monthly payment to decrease upon
renewal.
_________________________________
|
1 Residential Mortgage Industry
Report, Fall 2024, Canada Mortgage and Housing
Corporation
|
2 Hill & Knowlton used the
Leger Opinion online panel to survey 1,340 Canadians renewing their
mortgage in 2025, aged 18+. The survey was completed between
January 24th and February 5th 2025. See methodology for more
information.
|
"When it comes to post-pandemic mortgage renewals, many
Canadians have avoided the worst-case scenario of having to sell
their homes due to the inability to cover the cost of their
mortgage, thanks to solid employment trends and declining interest
rates," said Phil Soper, president
and CEO, Royal LePage. "Nevertheless, some will face a substantial
rise in their mortgage costs, putting added pressure on their
household finances. Many in this situation are exploring options to
lower their monthly fees, such as extending their amortization
period; a tactic which has proven popular."
Of those who expect their monthly mortgage payment to rise upon
renewal, 81 per cent say the increase will put financial strain on
their household; 47 per cent expect a slight strain, while 34 per
cent expect a significant strain. Among them, 60 per cent of
respondents say they will reduce or eliminate discretionary
spending to help cope with the impact of increased monthly mortgage
payments; 43 per cent say they will reduce or eliminate travel; 36
per cent say they will reduce or eliminate saving or investing; 34
per cent say they will reduce spending on essentials, such as gas
and groceries; and 23 per cent say they will obtain a second job or
find another source of income. Respondents were able to select more
than one answer.
"Even in challenging financial times, Canadians continue to
prioritize home ownership and paying down their mortgages – cutting
back on other spending, and even savings, if absolutely necessary,"
said Soper. "Delinquency rates in Canada remain extremely low, arguably the
lowest among advanced economies worldwide, despite the rising cost
of living and household debt. For example, the rate of mortgage
default in the U.S. is more than fifteen times higher.
"With so many homeowners set to renew their mortgages at higher
rates in 2025, many are already preparing to tighten their budgets,
redirecting funds from savings, hobbies or vacations to ensure they
can meet their mortgage obligations."
According to the Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation (CMHC),
the mortgage delinquency rate rose to 0.20 per cent in the third
quarter of 2024, but remains well below pre-pandemic levels and
historical averages.3
Though many Canadians will see their monthly mortgage payment
rise this year, most see no reason to make preemptive major
lifestyle changes to cope with increased housing expenses. A
majority (62%) of respondents say they will not change their living
arrangements to avoid potentially higher monthly mortgage costs.
Respondents in Quebec were the
most likely to say they will not adjust their living arrangements
(78%), while those in Alberta were
the least likely to say so (53%). Nationally, however, 11 per cent
say they are considering relocating to a more affordable region; 10
per cent say they are considering downsizing; and 10 per cent say
they are considering renting out a portion of their home to
subsidize expenses. Respondents were able to select more than one
answer.
________________________________
|
3 Mortgage Delinquency Rate:
Canada, Provinces and CMAs, December 23, 2024
|
Popularity of variable-rate loans rises as borrowing costs
fall
With interest rates on a downward trajectory, variable-rate
mortgages are gaining in popularity. According to the survey, 66
per cent of Canadians with a mortgage renewing this year say they
plan to obtain a fixed-rate loan upon renewal (down from the 75%
who currently hold fixed-rate mortgages), and 29 per cent say they
will choose a variable-rate loan (up from the 24% who currently
hold variable-rate mortgages).
While most Canadians with pending renewals in 2025 plan to stick
with the same type of mortgage product they currently have, a
sizable shift toward variable-rate loans has emerged. Of those who
currently have a fixed-rate mortgage renewing this year – the most
popular mortgage product overall in Canada – 20 per cent say they will switch to a
variable-rate loan. Seventy-six per cent say they intend to renew
with another fixed-rate loan. Meanwhile, 61 per cent of current
variable-rate mortgage holders intend to renew with another
variable-rate loan, and 37 per cent say they will switch to a fixed
rate.
More than one third (37%) of all respondents say they plan to
obtain a five-year mortgage term upon renewal, followed by 19 per
cent who plan to sign on to a three-year term. Eighty-six per cent
of respondents who will renew their mortgage in 2025 currently use
a prime lender.
"Since last summer, the Bank of Canada has made several cuts to its overnight
lending rate amounting to a decline of 200 basis points thus far,
driving variable mortgage rates down in tandem. For homeowners
looking to reduce their monthly payments or pay down their
principal faster, variable-rate mortgages have become an
increasingly attractive option in light of today's declining rate
environment and the likelihood of further cuts this year," added
Soper. "Ultimately, Canadians should choose the mortgage product
that best suits their financial goals and risk tolerance."
In November 2024, the Office of
the Superintendent of Financial Institutions (OSFI) moved to
eliminate the mortgage stress test for uninsured borrowers planning
to switch lenders upon renewal, so long as the amortization
schedule and loan amount remain unchanged.4 This offers
mortgagees the opportunity to explore financing options when
renewing their loans.
Prairie homeowners most concerned about financial pressure
from higher payments
Respondents across Canada show
notable differences in the anticipated impacts of a mortgage
renewal on their household.
Respondents in the province of Quebec are the least likely to expect their
monthly mortgage payment to increase (51%), and the least likely to
anticipate financial strain (73%) as a result. Conversely,
Saskatchewan and Manitoba respondents are among the most likely
to expect increased payments (63%) – alongside Atlantic Canada (64%) – and the most likely to
anticipate financial strain (89%), likely due to income instability
in resource-based industries. While Alberta respondents also report a high
likelihood of financial strain due to increased payments (86%),
some homeowners plan to mitigate the financial impact by downsizing
or relocating.
_______________________________
|
4 OSFI to drop mortgage stress
test for uninsured borrowers who switch lenders at renewal, October
3, 2024
|
Key lending rate trajectory uncertain amid tariff
tit-for-tat
Escalating political turmoil at the hands of the newly-elected
U.S. President Donald Trump has the
world on the edge of its seat, including Canada. Tariff disputes between the two
countries threaten to disrupt our nation's economy, adding
inflationary pressure, driving up the cost of imported goods, and
causing the Canadian dollar to weaken. Further, recently-announced
tariffs on steel and aluminum will have a severe impact on the
housing construction industry.
"The increased cost of building materials puts the construction
industry as a whole – and desperately-needed new housing
developments – at risk. Fewer projects will make it off the
blueprint, be they delayed or cancelled entirely. And, higher costs
will eventually trickle down to the end-user."
In its first policy rate announcement of 2025, the Bank of
Canada signaled a shift, noting it
would prioritize economic growth over inflation control in response
to rising trade tensions. In the short-term, this could lead to
more aggressive cuts to the overnight lending rate if the central
bank deems it necessary to shield the Canadian economy from the
fallout of an unprecedented trade dispute.
"While a trade war with our southern neighbour offers little
economic benefit, new homebuyers and those renewing a mortgage this
year may find a silver lining: lower borrowing rates. If the Bank
of Canada is forced to take
measures to bolster a weakening economy, we could see faster and
deeper rate cuts, at least in the short term," said Soper.
Royal LePage 2025 Mortgage Renewal Survey - Data
Chart:
rlp.ca/table-2025-mortgage-renewal-survey
REGIONAL SUMMARIES
ONTARIO
In the province of Ontario, 58
per cent of homeowners whose mortgages are renewing in 2025 expect
their monthly mortgage payment to increase upon renewal (35% expect
it to increase slightly and 23% expect it to increase
significantly).
Of those who expect their monthly mortgage payment to rise upon
renewal, 81 per cent say the increase will put financial strain on
their household. Among them, 55 per cent of respondents say they
will reduce or eliminate discretionary spending to help cope with
the impact of increased monthly mortgage payments; 46 per cent say
they will reduce or eliminate travel; and 39 per cent say they will
reduce or eliminate saving or investing. Respondents were able to
select more than one answer.
"When faced with higher mortgage payments at renewal, homeowners
typically fall into two categories: those with primary residences,
who adjust their budgets and make financial sacrifices to absorb
the increased costs, and investors, who take a business-minded
approach and are willing to sell a real estate asset if rising
monthly expenses cut too deeply into their returns," said
Tom Storey, sales representative and
head of The Storey Team, Royal LePage Signature Realty in
Toronto. "Some mortgage holders
with higher renewal rates will need to make lifestyle adjustments,
such as cutting back on travel or dining out, while others may need
to take more drastic measures, like extending their amortization
period to its original term, to reduce their monthly payments and
manage the increased costs."
Storey noted that many move-up buyers are strategically timing
their next home purchase around their upcoming renewal, weighing
whether to wait out their current mortgage term before upsizing or
renew early.
According to the survey, 71 per cent of Ontarians with a
mortgage renewing this year currently hold a fixed-rate mortgage,
while 27 per cent have a variable rate. When asked what type of
mortgage they plan to obtain upon renewal, 64 per cent say they
will opt for a fixed-rate loan, while 31 per cent say they will
choose a variable-rate mortgage. Respondents in this region were
among the most likely to say they plan to obtain a variable-rate
mortgage upon renewal. Thirty-six per cent of all respondents in
the province say they plan to obtain a five-year mortgage term upon
renewal, followed by 19 per cent who plan to sign on to a
three-year term.
"Fixed-rate mortgages have historically been the most popular
option among Canadians, and as their loans come up for renewal, I
expect many will make the same choice. This product has provided
financial stability during the rate rollercoaster of the past few
years. First-time buyers, however, tend to be the ones opting for
variable-rate loans today, prioritizing affordability over
predictability," said Storey. "When you receive a mortgage renewal
notice from your lender, it's best not to accept the first offer
outright. Instead, explore alternative payment plans and compare
options from different financial institutions to secure the best
deal. With stress testing no longer required for uninsured
borrowers switching lenders at renewal, Canadians now have more
flexibility."
Additional data for the province of Ontario, the city of Toronto and the Ottawa/Gatineau region is available in the table
linked below.
Royal LePage 2025 Mortgage Renewal Survey - Data
Chart:
rlp.ca/table-2025-mortgage-renewal-survey
QUEBEC
In the province of Quebec, 51
per cent of homeowners whose mortgages are renewing in 2025 expect
their monthly mortgage payment to increase upon renewal (31% expect
it to increase slightly and 20% expect it to increase
significantly). This is the lowest instance among the provinces in
Canada.
Of those who expect their monthly mortgage payment to rise upon
renewal, 73 per cent say the increase will put financial strain on
their household, also the lowest proportion among the provinces.
Among them, 70 per cent of respondents say they will reduce or
eliminate discretionary spending to help cope with the impact of
increased monthly mortgage payments; 31 per cent say they will
reduce or eliminate saving or investing; and 29 per cent say they
will reduce or eliminate travel. Respondents were able to select
more than one answer.
"Quebec homeowners who are
approaching their mortgage renewal are taking a more strategic
approach this year, and considering how to optimize their borrowing
terms in response to an evolving interest rate environment," said
Sean Broady, real estate broker,
Royal LePage Elite in Montreal's
West Island. "With both fixed and variable rates currently sitting
between 4.6% and 4.7%, depending on the term length, and variable
rates expected to decline further as the Bank of Canada moves to stimulate the economy, more
borrowers are exploring shorter-term, fixed-rate mortgages or
opting for variable rates to take advantage of potential future
rate cuts. While the five-year fixed-rate mortgage remains a
staple, we're seeing increased interest in two- and three-year
terms, allowing homeowners to remain flexible in an uncertain
economic climate."
The survey also reveals that nearly four out of five respondents
(78%) in the province do not intend to change their living
arrangements to avoid potentially higher mortgage costs.
"Over the past few months, economists have raised concerns about
rising mortgage payments leading to increased financial strain for
homeowners, but the data suggests that Quebec households remain relatively
well-positioned," Broady added. "The province's real estate markets
continue to benefit from stable employment and property values
that, while appreciating, remain more accessible than in some of
Canada's other major regions.
Additionally, Quebec homeowners
are the least likely from coast to coast to say they would change
their housing situation to combat potential cost increases, which
shows the resilience and confidence they have in their ability to
manage their mortgage commitments. As a result, while mortgage
renewals are certainly a financial consideration, they are not
causing widespread distress. Instead, many are proactively
adjusting their strategies to navigate the changing landscape with
confidence."
According to the CMHC, the mortgage delinquency rate in the
province of Quebec remained at
0.17 per cent in the third quarter of 2024, a rate that has not
fluctuated for three consecutive quarters and that remains well
below historic averages.5
____________________________
|
5 Mortgage Delinquency Rate:
Canada, Provinces and CMAs, December 23, 2024
|
According to the survey, 78 per cent of Quebecers with a
mortgage renewing this year currently hold a fixed-rate mortgage,
while 21 per cent have a variable rate. When asked what type of
mortgage they plan to obtain upon renewal, 63 per cent say they
will opt for a fixed-rate loan, while 31 per cent say they will
choose a variable-rate mortgage. Respondents in this region were
among the most likely to say they plan to obtain a variable-rate
mortgage upon renewal. Thirty-two per cent of all respondents in
the province say they plan to obtain a five-year mortgage term upon
renewal, followed by 23 per cent who plan to sign on to a two-year
term.
Meanwhile in Quebec City, the
residential real estate market that saw the highest increase in the
aggregate price of a property throughout 2024 in the province of
Quebec and among major regions in
Canada,6 mortgage
renewals are not a topic of conversation.
"Mortgage renewals do not seem to be a major concern for
homeowners in the Quebec City
area," said Louis Belzile, real
estate broker, Royal LePage Blanc
& Noir in Quebec City. "The
greater source of concern among buyers is not finding a property
due to low supply.
"In 2024, the Quebec City
region experienced one of the highest rates of price appreciation
in Canada – the beginning of 2025
signals stronger real estate demand than last year, amplified by
the drop in the key lending rate on January
29th. The continued rise in home prices and demand provides
some reassurance to sellers who will face increases in their
monthly payments when renewing their mortgage. While the resale
market is facing a severe shortage of housing supply in
Quebec City, the rental market can
still absorb some of the demand, even if the vacancy rate remains
historically low," he added. "For buyers, this means that they will
have to be even more responsive and financially prepared to seize
opportunities when they arise."
Additional data for the province of Quebec, as well as Montreal, Quebec
City and the Ottawa/Gatineau region is available in the table
linked below.
__________________________________
|
6 Rates, regulations and renewed
demand: Driving revival of Canada's real estate market despite
economic and political uncertainty, January 14,
2025
|
Royal LePage 2025 Mortgage Renewal Survey - Data
Chart:
rlp.ca/table-2025-mortgage-renewal-survey
BRITISH COLUMBIA
In the province of British
Columbia, 53 per cent of homeowners whose mortgages are
renewing in 2025 expect their monthly mortgage payment to increase
upon renewal (33% expect it to increase slightly and 20% expect it
to increase significantly).
Of those who expect their monthly mortgage payment to rise upon
renewal, 82 per cent say the increase will put financial strain on
their household. Among them, 60 per cent of respondents say they
will reduce or eliminate discretionary spending to help cope with
the impact of increased monthly mortgage payments; 42 per cent say
they will reduce or eliminate travel; and 37 per cent say they will
reduce or eliminate saving or investing. Respondents were able to
select more than one answer.
"With interest rates trending lower in recent months, some
homeowners with upcoming renewals are breathing a sigh of relief.
As the prime lending rate offered by Canada's major financial institutions has
declined, the impact of higher renewal payments has been less
severe," said Adil Dinani, sales
representative and team lead of the Dinani Group, Royal LePage West
Real Estate Services in Greater
Vancouver. "Though it has taken time, most consumers have
accepted the reality of today's higher borrowing costs and are
preparing for any renewal increases that may come their way.
Clients are exploring all their options, especially since new
lending rules eliminate stress testing for uninsured borrowers
switching lenders."
Dinani noted that some homebuyers who were previously sidelined
by higher borrowing costs – particularly move-up purchasers locked
into favourable rates – are gradually returning to the market as
rates have continued to come down.
According to the survey, 74 per cent of British Columbians with
a mortgage renewing this year currently hold a fixed-rate mortgage,
while 25 per cent have a variable rate. When asked what type of
mortgage they plan to obtain upon renewal, 67 per cent say they
will opt for a fixed-rate loan, while 29 per cent say they will
choose a variable-rate mortgage. Forty-one per cent of all
respondents in the province say they plan to obtain a five-year
mortgage term upon renewal, followed by 18 per cent who plan to
sign on to a three-year term.
"Consumer confidence has improved as interest rates have
declined, but it remains fragile. Economic uncertainty, driven
mostly by international trade conflicts, is causing concern among
buyers and sellers alike. As a result, many homeowners continue to
choose the stability of a fixed-rate mortgage, while others look to
take advantage of monthly savings currently offered by variable
rates," said Dinani. "While it may be tempting to try and predict
where rates are headed, it's not advisable. Instead, selecting a
mortgage product that aligns with your risk tolerance and financial
capacity is the best approach."
Additional data for the province of British Coulmbia and the
city of Vancouver is available in
the table linked below.
Royal LePage 2025 Mortgage Renewal Survey - Data
Chart:
rlp.ca/table-2025-mortgage-renewal-survey
ALBERTA
In the province of Alberta, 60
per cent of homeowners whose mortgages are renewing in 2025 expect
their monthly mortgage payment to increase upon renewal (35% expect
it to increase slightly and 25% expect it to increase
significantly).
Of those who expect their monthly mortgage payment to rise upon
renewal, 86 per cent say the increase will put financial strain on
their household. Among them, 62 per cent of respondents say they
will reduce or eliminate discretionary spending to help cope with
the impact of increased monthly mortgage payments; 42 per cent say
they will reduce or eliminate travel; and 42 per cent say they will
reduce spending on essentials, such as groceries or gas.
Respondents were able to select more than one answer.
"While almost half of Albertans with mortgages coming up for
renewal are not expecting their payments to increase, many
homeowners are exploring opportunities to reduce their monthly
carrying costs by right-sizing their homes and looking at
properties in more affordable regions," said Natosha Wareham-Bakker, sales representative,
Royal LePage Benchmark in Calgary.
"Many respondents report the anticipation of financial pressure
upon renewal. Albertans, in particular, are more susceptible to
boom-and-bust economic cycles than most others across Canada, given their dependence on the oil and
gas industries. While incomes may be higher on average, employment
can also be unpredictable, leading to a heightened sensitivity to
financial changes."
Wareham-Bakker noted that buyers have begun to re-engage with
the market as interest rates come down. "There's been a noticeable
uptick in market activity in recent months, as both buyers and
sellers begin to feel more confident in the trajectory of lending
rates."
According to the survey, 79 per cent of Albertans with a
mortgage renewing this year currently hold a fixed-rate mortgage,
while 20 per cent have a variable rate. When asked what type of
mortgage they plan to obtain upon renewal, 66 per cent say they
will opt for a fixed-rate loan, while 27 per cent say they will
choose a variable-rate mortgage. Thirty-nine per cent of all
respondents in the province say they plan to obtain a five-year
mortgage term upon renewal, followed by 18 per cent who plan to
sign on to a three-year term.
"With the right information and a clear financial strategy, our
clients have been able to manage higher interest rates without
panic. By reassessing their budgets and their wishlists, and taking
the time to explore various mortgage options, they've been able to
remain in control," she noted.
Additional data for the province of Alberta and the cities of Calgary and Edmonton is available in the table linked
below.
Royal LePage 2025 Mortgage Renewal Survey - Data
Chart:
rlp.ca/table-2025-mortgage-renewal-survey
SASKATCHEWAN &
MANITOBA
In the provinces of Saskatchewan and Manitoba, 63 per cent of homeowners whose
mortgages are renewing in 2025 expect their monthly mortgage
payment to increase upon renewal (42% expect it to increase
slightly and 21% expect it to increase significantly).
Of those who expect their monthly mortgage payment to rise upon
renewal, 89 per cent say the increase will put financial strain on
their household, the highest instance among the provinces. Among
them, 57 per cent of respondents say they will reduce or eliminate
discretionary spending to help cope with the impact of increased
monthly mortgage payments; 49 per cent say they will reduce or
eliminate travel; and 36 per cent say they will reduce spending on
essentials, such as groceries or gas. Respondents were able to
select more than one answer.
"Consumer confidence is higher compared to the past two years
when interest rates were on the rise. However, in the Prairies –
where resource-based industries can bring income uncertainty –
borrowers tend to feel the impact of major financial changes, such
as mortgage renewals, more acutely," said Elliot Didomenicantonio, sales representative
and associate broker, Royal LePage Prime Real Estate in
Winnipeg, Manitoba. "Many
homeowners anticipate feeling the strain of higher monthly payments
and are prepared to cut back on household spending to manage the
cost if necessary. Distressed sales from overleveraged sellers
remain rare in our market. Instead, homeowners are more likely to
scale back on entertainment and vacations before risking mortgage
default."
According to the survey, 79 per cent of homeowners in
Saskatchewan and Manitoba with a mortgage renewing this year
currently hold a fixed-rate mortgage, while 20 per cent have a
variable rate. When asked what type of mortgage they plan to obtain
upon renewal, 78 per cent say they will opt for a fixed-rate loan,
while 19 per cent say they will choose a variable-rate mortgage.
Respondents in this region were the least likely to say they plan
to obtain a variable-rate mortgage upon renewal. Forty-seven per
cent of all respondents in the region say that they plan to obtain
a five-year mortgage term upon renewal, followed by 14 per cent who
plan to sign on to a three-year term.
Didomenicantonio added that move-up buyers have recently moved
into the market in greater numbers, looking to capitalize on
falling borrowing rates to upgrade their living space. Further
expected decreases should coax more first-time buyers off the
sidelines.
"My advice to anyone with a mortgage renewing this year – if
payments are set to rise, your first step should be to explore
competitive rates and consult with your lender to review your
options. In the event that financial adjustments are necessary,
reducing discretionary spending can help create additional
flexibility in your budget."
Additional data for the province of Saskatchewan and Manitoba is available in the table linked
below.
Royal LePage 2025 Mortgage Renewal Survey - Data
Chart:
rlp.ca/table-2025-mortgage-renewal-survey
ATLANTIC CANADA
In Atlantic Canada, 64 per cent
of homeowners whose mortgages are renewing in 2025 expect their
monthly mortgage payment to increase upon renewal (39% expect it to
increase slightly and 25% expect it to increase significantly).
This is the highest instance among the provinces in Canada.
"Despite higher borrowing rates and an increase in carrying
costs for most, homeowners are not panicking. With rates continuing
to trend down, the increase is far more manageable today than it
would have been a year or two ago," said Tanya Colbo, sales representative, Royal LePage
Atlantic in Halifax, Nova Scotia.
"In 2020 and 2021, many households would have qualified at a stress
test rate higher than their renewal rate today; affordability
buffers were built in. While the cost of living has risen,
homeowners have been adapting without drastic financial changes for
some time now."
A majority (61%) of respondents say they will not change their
living arrangements to avoid potentially higher monthly mortgage
costs. However, 13 per cent say they are considering downsizing; 12
per cent say they are considering relocating to a more affordable
region; and eight per cent say they are considering renting out a
portion of their home to subsidize expenses. Respondents were able
to select more than one answer.
"Luckily, we have not seen many distressed sales in our market,
largely because Maritimers have built up substantial equity in
their homes over the last several years. Many are leveraging that
equity to consolidate debt or add secondary units to their
properties to offset costs," noted Colbo. "Looking ahead, we expect
a surge in buyer activity. With interest rates expected to continue
decreasing and new policies that will improve affordability,
especially for first-time buyers, more people will come off the
sidelines this year."
According to the survey, 79 per cent of homeowners in
Atlantic Canada with a mortgage
renewing this year currently hold a fixed-rate mortgage, while 19
per cent have a variable rate. When asked what type of mortgage
they plan to obtain upon renewal, 73 per cent say they will opt for
a fixed-rate loan, while 25 per cent say they will choose a
variable-rate mortgage. Forty-three per cent of all respondents in
the region say they plan to obtain a five-year mortgage term upon
renewal, followed by 16 per cent who plan to sign on to a
three-year term.
Additional data for the Atlantic
Canada region is available in the table linked below.
Royal LePage 2025 Mortgage Renewal Survey - Data
Chart:
rlp.ca/table-2025-mortgage-renewal-survey
Royal LePage resources for homeowners renewing their
mortgage:
Renewing your mortgage this year? Royal LePage has published a
number of online resources available at the following links:
- OSFI to drop mortgage stress test for uninsured borrowers who
switch lenders at renewal
- Federal government announces landmark adjustments to mortgage
rules for first-time buyers in Canada
- 30-year amortizations on insured mortgages for new build homes
now available for first-time buyers
- Fixed or variable rate? Here's how to prepare for your mortgage
renewal
About the Survey
Hill & Knowlton used the Leger Opinion online panel to
survey 1,340 Canadians renewing their mortgage in 2025, aged 18+.
The survey was completed between January
24th and February 5th 2025. Representative sampling was done
across all provinces (Atlantic provinces were aggregated and
Saskatchewan was aggregated with
Manitoba), with oversampling in
SK/MB, Toronto CMA, Ottawa/Gatineau CMA, Montreal CMA, Quebec City
CMA, Vancouver CMA, and Calgary CMA, Edmonton CMA. Household
ownership weighting was applied to ensure representation at a
CMA/province/region level, according to 2021 census figures. No
margin of error can be associated with a nonprobability sample
(i.e., a web panel in this case). For comparative purposes, though,
a probability sample of 1,340 respondents would have a margin of
error of ±3%, 19 times out of 20.
About Royal LePage
Serving Canadians since 1913, Royal LePage is the country's
leading provider of services to real estate brokerages, with a
network of approximately 20,000 real estate professionals in over
670 locations nationwide. Royal LePage is the only Canadian real
estate company to have its own charitable foundation, the Royal
LePage® Shelter Foundation™, which has been
dedicated to supporting women's shelters and domestic violence
prevention programs for 25 years. Royal LePage is a Bridgemarq Real
Estate Services® Inc. company, a TSX-listed corporation
trading under the symbol TSX:BRE. For more information, please
visit www.royallepage.ca.
Royal LePage® is a registered trademark of Royal Bank
of Canada and is used under
licence by Bridgemarq Real Estate Services® Inc.
SOURCE Royal LePage Real Estate Services