Mortgage rates and calculators

Rates & Calculators

Realistic numbers for your next move—payments, affordability, savings, and BC costs in one place.

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Understanding Mortgage Rates & Calculations

Mortgage rates in British Columbia vary significantly based on your product type, borrower profile, and chosen term. Whether you're exploring insured mortgages (with less than 20% down), insurable mortgages (20%+ down on properties under $1M), or uninsurable mortgages (properties over $1M or refinances), each category comes with different rate structures and qualification requirements.

The difference between fixed and variable rates is crucial to understand. Fixed-rate mortgages lock in your interest rate for the entire term, providing payment stability and protection against rate increases. Variable-rate mortgages fluctuate with the prime rate, potentially offering lower rates but with payment uncertainty. In today's market, many borrowers are weighing the security of fixed rates against the potential savings of variable products.

The Stress Test: One of the most important factors in Canadian mortgage qualification is the stress test, mandated by OSFI's B-20 guidelines. Even if you're offered a rate of 5.49%, you must qualify at the higher of your contract rate plus 2% or 5.25%. This means if your actual rate is 5.49%, you'll be stress-tested at 7.49%. This ensures you can still afford your mortgage if rates rise during your term.

Our calculators below use realistic formulas to help you estimate payments, determine affordability, compare refinance scenarios, and understand BC-specific costs like Property Transfer Tax. We encourage you to run multiple scenarios—adjust your down payment, compare different amortization periods, and see how rate changes impact your monthly budget.

Important: All results are estimates based on the inputs you provide. They are not financial advice, rate offers, or guarantees of approval. Actual rates, payments, and qualification depend on lender assessment, credit profile, property details, and current market conditions. Once you've explored your options here, click "Get Pre-Approved" to receive a personalized rate quote and confirm your real borrowing power.

Ready to see what's possible? Choose a calculator below, enter your numbers, and discover your next steps. If you have questions or want to discuss your specific situation, our team is here to help—book a call or reach out anytime.

Mortgage Payment Calculator
Calculate your monthly payment and download a full amortization schedule

Sample Mortgage Rates

Sample rates for illustration only. Actual rates depend on product, borrower profile, and market conditions.

Product TypeTermRateAPRNotes
Insured/Insurable Fixed1 Year6.49%6.52%Short-term flexibility
2 Year6.29%6.32%-
3 Year5.99%6.02%Popular mid-term
5 Year5.49%5.52%Most popular term
10 Year6.19%6.22%Maximum stability
Uninsurable Fixed1 Year6.79%6.82%Properties over $1M
2 Year6.59%6.62%-
3 Year6.29%6.32%-
5 Year5.79%5.82%-
10 Year6.49%6.52%-
Variable/Adjustable3 Year VRMPrime - 0.50%5.95%Example: Prime 6.45% - 0.50%
5 Year VRMPrime - 0.65%5.80%Example: Prime 6.45% - 0.65%

Disclaimer: Rates shown are examples only and may change without notice. Not a rate offer. Actual rates depend on your credit profile, property details, down payment, and lender assessment. Contact us for a personalized rate quote.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why is my calculator payment different from a lender quote?

Calculators use standard formulas and the inputs you provide. Lender quotes factor in your specific credit profile, property details, insurance requirements, and current market rates. Always get a personalized quote for accuracy.

What is the stress test and why is it higher than my rate?

The stress test is a regulatory requirement (OSFI B-20) that ensures you can afford your mortgage if rates rise. You must qualify at the higher of your contract rate + 2% or 5.25%, even if your actual rate is lower.

What's the difference between insured, insurable, and uninsurable rates?

Insured: Less than 20% down, requires CMHC insurance, lowest rates. Insurable: 20%+ down on properties under $1M, mid-tier rates. Uninsurable: Properties over $1M or refinances, higher rates due to increased lender risk.

How accurate is the PTT estimator?

The PTT calculator uses simplified BC tax tiers and common exemptions. Actual PTT depends on eligibility criteria, property type, and current regulations. Always confirm with your lawyer or notary before closing.

What's the difference between IRD and 3-month interest?

3-month interest is a simple penalty (3 months of interest on your balance). IRD (Interest Rate Differential) is more complex, based on the rate difference between your contract and current rates, multiplied by your remaining term. Lenders charge the higher of the two.

Can I export my amortization schedule?

Yes! The Payment Calculator includes a "Download Amortization Schedule (CSV)" button that generates a complete payment-by-payment breakdown you can open in Excel or Google Sheets.

How often do rates change?

Mortgage rates can change daily based on bond yields, Bank of Canada policy, and lender competition. The rates shown in our table are examples only. Contact us for today's best rates for your situation.

Ready to Move Forward?

Get a personalized rate quote and confirm your real borrowing power with a pre-approval.

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Important: All calculator results are estimates based on the inputs you provide. They are not financial advice, rate offers, or guarantees of approval. Rates and APRs are examples only and may change without notice. Mortgage solutions are subject to lender approval and applicant qualification. For personalized advice, contact Legacy Mortgage Group.

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