Recent changes in the housing market present exciting opportunities for homebuyers. As your Comox REALTOR®, I can guide you through these updates. A mortgage broker can help you build effective plans to achieve homeownership goals. In this way, you can establish what you are able to afford. This is one way to streamline your search for a property.

Knowing these new rules and guidelines will help with strategy and future goals of climbing the “real estate ladder.”

Expanded amortizations for first-time homebuyers

Starting December 15, first-time homebuyers will have access to 30-year amortizations. This change can be of benefit in two significant ways:

1. Lower income requirement. By extending the amortization period, the income required to qualify for a home purchase decreases. This means more buyers can meet the necessary criteria.
2. Reduced monthly payments. A decrease in monthly payments will make homeownership more financially manageable. For instance, on a $600,000 purchase, the monthly payment could drop by approximately $250, providing greater flexibility in budgeting.

Increased insured mortgage cap to $1.5 million

High income, but difficulty saving for a down payment? An increase in the insured mortgage cap to $1.5 million can accelerate your path to homeownership. Previously, purchasing a $1.4 million home required a down payment of $280,000. Now, as of December, clients can potentially purchase the same property with a down payment of about $115,000. This will save a whopping $165,000.00 in upfront requirements.

This change is also advantageous for “right-sizers” who want to downsize. It allows the buyer to allocate more funds from the sale of their larger home toward retirement. Then you can put less down on a new, smaller property. However, you should keep in mind that closing costs, typically between 2 and 4 percent of the purchase price, need to be accounted for in each scenario.

For a $600,000 purchase price, anticipate that clients will need an annual income of approximately $150,000 to meet today’s stress-test requirements.

Switching lenders at renewal: A business opportunity awaits from mortgage changes in BC real estate

While you may not initially think about how switching lenders can benefit you, it’s essential to understand that mortgages encompass more than just interest rates. The Canadian Mortgage Charter now allows insured mortgage holders to switch lenders at renewal without undergoing a stress test. This change opens up opportunities for borrowers to shop around for better rates and terms, potentially saving thousands of dollars.

Tax-efficient savings strategies around mortgage changes in BC real estate

As well, two important tax-efficient savings methods have emerged that can empower you on your journey to homeownership:

1. RRSP withdrawal limit increase. The amount that can be withdrawn from an RRSP has increased from $35,000 to $60,000 per borrower. This change provides additional funds for you to put toward your down payment.
2. First-time home saver account. Introduced in 2023, this account allows you to save $8,000 per year in contribution room, which reduces your taxable income.

Unlike RRSP withdrawals, funds from this account do not need to be repaid and any gains earned within it are tax-free. This account, however, has a sunset clause in 2028, making it vital for clients to act quickly to maximize its benefits.

These recent changes create valuable opportunities for purchasers. Make informed decisions on your path to homeownership. Speak to your mortgage broker about the implications and opportunities surrounding expanded amortizations, increased mortgage caps, flexible lender options, and tax-efficient savings strategies.

Call me if you would like to connect with a competent, knowledgeable, and experienced mortgage broker.