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Writer's pictureStephen Green

Debunking Common Myths About Mortgage Default Insurance in Canada

When it comes to mortgage default insurance in Canada, misconceptions abound. Many homebuyers are unclear about what this insurance entails and how it affects their homebuying process. As a top-performing mortgage broker, I aim to clear up some of the most common myths surrounding mortgage default insurance. Let’s dive in and separate fact from fiction.


Myth 1: Mortgage Default Insurance Protects the Homebuyer


Fact: Mortgage default insurance is designed to protect lenders, not homebuyers. This insurance ensures that lenders are covered if a borrower defaults on their mortgage payments. While it does not provide direct protection to homebuyers, it enables them to secure a mortgage with a lower down payment.


Myth 2: You Only Need Mortgage Default Insurance if You Have Bad Credit


Fact: Mortgage default insurance is required for any homebuyer making a down payment of less than 20% of the home's purchase price, regardless of their credit score. Even borrowers with excellent credit need this insurance if their down payment is below the 20% threshold.


Myth 3: The Premiums for Mortgage Default Insurance are Excessive


Fact: While mortgage default insurance premiums do add to the overall cost of purchasing a home, they are generally reasonable and structured based on the size of your down payment. The premiums range from 2.8% to 4.0% of the mortgage amount, which can be added to the mortgage and paid off over time, making it more manageable for homebuyers.


Myth 4: Mortgage Default Insurance is Only Available Through CMHC


Fact: In Canada, mortgage default insurance is provided by three primary insurers: Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation (CMHC), Genworth Canada, and Canada Guaranty. All three offer similar coverage and operate under federal guidelines.


Myth 5: Mortgage Default Insurance Increases Your Monthly Payments Significantly


Fact: While adding the insurance premium to your mortgage will slightly increase your monthly payments, the impact is often less significant than expected. For many homebuyers, the ability to purchase a home with a lower down payment outweighs the additional cost.


Myth 6: Mortgage Default Insurance is a One-Time Payment


Fact: The premium for mortgage default insurance can be paid as a one-time lump sum or, more commonly, added to your mortgage amount and paid off over the life of the loan. This flexibility allows homebuyers to choose the option that best fits their financial situation.


Myth 7: Mortgage Default Insurance is Only for First-Time Homebuyers


Fact: Any homebuyer making a down payment of less than 20% is required to have mortgage default insurance, not just first-time buyers. This applies to anyone looking to purchase a home with a high-ratio mortgage, regardless of their homebuying experience.


Myth 8: You Can Avoid Mortgage Default Insurance by Borrowing the Down Payment


Fact: Lenders consider the source of your down payment when assessing your mortgage application. Borrowing the down payment does not exempt you from the requirement of mortgage default insurance if your total down payment is less than 20% of the purchase price.


Myth 9: Mortgage Default Insurance Covers All Types of Properties


Fact: Mortgage default insurance typically covers residential properties up to a certain value (e.g., $1,000,000). It may not be available for higher-priced homes, certain types of investment properties, or non-residential properties. It’s important to check with your lender about specific eligibility criteria.


Myth 10: Mortgage Default Insurance is Always Required for Low Down Payments


Fact: There are some exceptions where mortgage default insurance may not be required, such as for homes purchased under certain government programs or through specific lenders who offer uninsured high-ratio mortgages. However, these cases are relatively rare.


Conclusion


Understanding the truth behind these common myths about mortgage default insurance can help you make more informed decisions during your homebuying journey. Mortgage default insurance plays a crucial role in the Canadian housing market by enabling homebuyers with smaller down payments to secure mortgages while protecting lenders.

If you have any questions or need personalized advice about mortgage default insurance or any other aspect of home financing, feel free to reach out. As a top-performing mortgage broker, I’m here to help you navigate the complexities of the mortgage process and find the best solutions for your needs.

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