If you're buying an owner-occupied property, you may be eligible to put as little as 5% down. It's important to note that while the minimum down payment is 5%, you still need to qualify for the total mortgage amount, which is based on your income and debts. Keep in mind that the rules change for a purchase price above $500,000. In such cases, you will require 5% on the first $500K and 10% on the remainder (up to $1M). For homes over $1M, a minimum of 20% down is required. If you're purchasing a rental property, a minimum of 20% down is also necessary.

Choosing between fixed and variable rates? A fixed mortgage offers stable payments over a set term, ideal for budgeting. Yet, consider penalties and your long-term goals. Variable rates fluctuate with Prime, great in falling rates, riskier in rising markets. Guarantee consistency with a fixed rate for staying put, explore variable for flexibility. Connect with our experts for guidance!

A co-signer is usually added to your application when you don't qualify for a home on your own. Their income and debts are included to assess if it enhances your overall approval. When someone co-signs, they become part of the mortgage title and documents. This new mortgage debt reflects on their credit bureau, potentially affecting their future credit score and loan affordability.