Mortgages & Financing

Start with a clear borrowing plan.

Understand your options, get your documents organized and choose a payment that works for your life.

Before You Apply checklist View current rate sources

Choose your starting point

What would help you most?

Your borrowing options

Mortgage broker or bank?

Both can help arrange a mortgage. Compare access, service, terms and the complete cost rather than assuming one route is always better.

Working directly with a bank

A bank mortgage specialist generally offers that institution's products. An existing banking relationship may be convenient, but compare the mortgage terms and service with other options.

Working with a mortgage broker

A broker can source products from different lenders. The available panel varies, so ask which lenders are included and which are not. Access to several lenders does not mean access to every lender.

Understand the relationship and compensation.

In Alberta, a mortgage brokerage may represent the borrower, represent the lender or act as an intermediary. Ask who it represents, how it is paid, what incentives apply and whether you owe any fees. Request the explanation in writing.

Questions worth asking either way

Which products and lenders are you comparing?
What are the fees, penalties, prepayment privileges and portability terms?
How long does the rate hold last, and what happens if rates change?
What documents and conditions remain before funding?

Your budget

Approval amount and comfortable payment are different.

A lender assesses your income, assets, debts and credit to estimate what it may lend. Your own budget should also leave room for property taxes, utilities, insurance, repairs, moving and everyday life. Buying below the maximum may give you more flexibility.

Talk through the payment, down payment, closing funds and cash reserve together. Ask how qualification is assessed and what could change the result.

Before You Apply

Get your mortgage documents organized.

Use this checklist to prepare for a conversation. Your bank or broker will confirm the exact documents and periods needed. The boxes are a temporary checklist and are not saved or submitted.

Identity and householdGovernment-issued identification, current address, contact details and information for every applicant.Employment and incomeRecent pay statements, employment letter, T4s and other income records requested by your lender.Self-employed or variable incomeBe ready with two years of Notices of Assessment and any requested tax returns, business financial statements, commission or overtime history.Down payment and closing fundsRecent bank or investment statements showing the amount and source. For a gift, ask about the required non-repayable gift letter and transfer evidence.Debts and obligationsCredit cards, lines of credit, vehicle loans or leases, student loans, other mortgages and support payments.Assets and existing propertySavings, investments and any current property or mortgage information relevant to your application.After an offer is acceptedPurchase agreement, MLS information, deposit evidence, property taxes, heating costs and condo fees where applicable.

Send financial documents through the secure process provided by your lender or broker. This page does not collect applications or documents.

Know your stage

Preapproval is a starting point.

Before choosing a property

Prequalification and preapproval can involve different levels of review. Ask what was checked, whether there is a rate hold and what is still outstanding. Neither guarantees final approval.

After an accepted offer

The lender also evaluates the property and final supporting information. Value, down payment and lender requirements can affect the final mortgage amount. Confirm the financing status before making a decision about your financing condition.

Keep your financial picture steady.

Before taking on new debt, changing jobs or moving significant funds, discuss the effect with your mortgage professional.

Take the next step

Rates, guidance and the right financing path.

Check current residential rate sources

Open lender rate pages and official benchmarks. Rates stay with their source providers.

Explore Mortgage & Rates →

Commercial, investment or multifamily?

Explore property income, business finances and deal-specific lending considerations.

Explore commercial financing →

Official resources

Go straight to the source.

General education only. Requirements, products and approvals vary. Confirm financing with your lender or appropriately licensed mortgage professional. No mortgage application is made through this page.

Talk through your next step

Connect the financing plan with the property.

Purchasing, refinancing or exploring your options? Connect with a mortgage broker or bank mortgage specialist to discuss your financing plan.