Bank of Canada Update

Marci • October 23, 2013

As you know, your variable rate mortgage, line of credit and/or student loans are all based on the Prime Rate and here is your personal update from me on the recent Bank of Canada announcement on changes to their Overnight Rate which in most cases impacts your Prime Rate.

At 10:00 am EST, Wednesday October 23, 2013, the Bank of Canada again did what we expected them to do … they continued to maintain their overnight rate.    What this means to you is that once again the prime rate on your mortgage, line of credit or student loan will not change and remains at 3.00%.  This is fabulous news but don’t forget, to make the most of the low payments you still have as the rate will increase in the future. 

Here is an excerpt of the announcement from the Bank of Canada and what they had to say about their decision:

 “The global economy is expected to expand modestly in 2013, although its near-term dynamic has changed and the composition of growth is now slightly less favourable for Canada. The U.S. economy is softer than expected but as fiscal headwinds dissipate and household deleveraging ends, growth should accelerate through 2014 and 2015. Overall, the global economy is projected to grow by 2.8 per cent in 2013 and accelerate to 3.4 per cent in 2014 and 3.6 per cent in 2015.   In Canada, uncertain global and domestic economic conditions are delaying the pick-up in exports and business investment, leaving the level of economic activity lower than the Bank had been expecting.  The Bank expects that the economy will return gradually to full production capacity, around the end of 2015”.

The Bank does not expect to increase their rate in the foreseeable future with any change most likely to occur well into 2014 or even 2015!   Remember, that any increase to the prime rate since 1992 has only been by 0.25% at any ONE time, so you won’t see a large significant increase all at once.

Fixed rates did go up but then have come back down slightly and sit at around 3.59% to 3.79% for a five year fixed term.

Based on this recent announcement, and the anticipation that the prime rate will still remain low for a while now, unless you feel otherwise, I’d recommend that you remain with your current variable rate product as the interest is lower than a fixed term rate right now.  However, if having a fixed payment is important to you, call me so I can calculate what your new payment would look like and also if it is suitable for you. The next announcement on any change to the prime rate is December 4th, 2013.

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How to Finance a Spousal Buyout After Separation or Divorce

By Marci Deane • November 4, 2026
Mortgage Options During Divorce or Separation: What You Should Know If you’re going through—or considering—a divorce or separation, you may not realize that there are mortgage solutions specifically designed to help one party keep the home . For many people, the family home is their largest asset and where most of their equity is tied up. In situations like this, a spousal buyout program can allow one person to refinance the property and buy out the other party’s share—often up to 95% of the home’s value . This option can work whether you want to keep the home or your former partner does. What Is the Spousal Buyout Program? The spousal buyout program is a refinancing option that allows one owner to purchase the other owner’s share of the property as part of a separation or divorce settlement. In some cases, it can also be used to pay off jointly held debts, as outlined in a legal agreement. Below are some of the most common questions about how the program works. Is a finalized separation agreement required? Yes. Lenders require a signed and finalized separation agreement that clearly outlines how assets and debts are to be divided. This document is essential for approval. Can the funds be used for renovations or personal debts? No. Funds from a spousal buyout can only be used to: Buy out the other owner’s share of equity Pay off joint debts specifically listed in the separation agreement They cannot be used for renovations, personal loans, or unrelated expenses. How much equity can be accessed? The maximum amount available is the amount required to: Buy out the other party’s agreed-upon share of equity Pay off any joint debts listed in the agreement This amount cannot exceed 95% loan-to-value . What is the maximum loan-to-value allowed? The maximum loan-to-value is the lesser of : 95%, or The remaining mortgage balance plus the required buyout and joint debt payout The property must be the primary owner-occupied residence . Do all parties need to be on title? Yes. All individuals involved in the buyout must currently be registered on title. Your solicitor will confirm this through a title search. Does this only apply to married or common-law couples? No. While commonly used for married or common-law couples, the program may also apply to siblings or friends who jointly own a property and need one party to exit the mortgage. These cases are typically reviewed on an exception basis and require insurer approval. If no separation agreement exists, the purchase contract must clearly outline the buyout terms. Is a full appraisal required? Yes. A physical, on-site appraisal is required to confirm the property’s value before the mortgage can be finalized. Final Thoughts This overview covers some of the most common questions about mortgage options during separation or divorce, but every situation is different. Working with an independent mortgage professional gives you access to multiple lenders, specialized programs, and unbiased advice—so you can clearly understand your options and choose what’s best for your future. If you’re navigating a separation and need guidance around keeping or selling the home, feel free to connect anytime. All conversations are handled with discretion and confidentiality, and I’d be happy to walk you through your options.

Bank of Canada Raises Rate to 2.5% — October 28, 2026

By Marci Deane • October 28, 2026
On October 28, 2026, the Bank of Canada raised its key interest rate by 0.25%, bringing it to 2.5%. If you have a mortgage, are shopping for a home, or have a renewal coming up, this decision matters. Here is a plain-language look at what changed, why it happened, and what it could mean for you.

How to Legally Assign a Construction Mortgage

By Marci Deane • October 21, 2026
Why More Mortgage Options Matter—Especially for Assignment Purchases One of the biggest advantages of working with an independent mortgage professional is access to choice. Instead of being limited to one lender and one set of products, mortgage brokers work with multiple lenders—each with different guidelines, risk tolerances, and mortgage solutions. That flexibility becomes especially valuable when your situation doesn’t fit neatly into a “standard” box. A great example of this is purchasing new construction through an assignment contract . Why Assignment Purchases Can Be Challenging Assignment purchases are often viewed as higher risk by traditional lenders. Rather than declining these deals outright, many lenders quietly make them difficult by adding layers of conditions, restrictions, or uncertainty. This can lead to delays, frustration, or financing falling apart late in the process. The Good News There are lenders—available exclusively through the broker channel —that have clear, favourable policies for assignment purchases. With the right lender and proper planning, these transactions are absolutely doable. Typical Financing Requirements for Assignment Purchases While every situation is unique, many lenders that allow assignment financing look for the following: Standard purchase qualification, including income verification, credit, and down payment Assignments accepted at either the original purchase price or current market value Minimum 620 credit score , with no prior bankruptcies or consumer proposals The full down payment must come from the purchaser —seller incentives cannot be used Required Documentation To secure financing, lenders typically require: The original purchase agreement signed by all parties The MLS listing (if applicable) The assignment agreement signed by the builder, original purchaser, and new buyer Any side agreements outlining changes to the purchase price A full appraisal to confirm value This list isn’t exhaustive, but it highlights that while assignment purchases require more coordination, they are very achievable with the right lender and guidance. Final Thoughts Assignment contracts can open doors to great opportunities—but only if your financing supports the transaction. This is where access to multiple lenders and specialized policies makes a real difference. If you’re considering purchasing new construction through an assignment, or if you’d like to explore more traditional purchase options, feel free to connect anytime. I’d be happy to walk you through the mortgage products available and help you choose an option that doesn’t limit your financing possibilities.