Conventional vs High Ratio Mortgages: What is the Difference?

When it comes to purchasing a home in Canada, understanding the different types of mortgages is crucial. Two common types of mortgages are conventional mortgages and high ratio mortgages. In this article, we will explore the differences between these two mortgage types, their advantages and disadvantages, and what you need to qualify for each.

What is a Conventional Mortgage?

When diving into the world of home buying and mortgages, one term that often comes up is a ‘conventional mortgage.’ But what exactly does it mean? Essentially, a conventional mortgage is a specific type of home loan where the homebuyer contributes a significant down payment, typically at least 20% of the purchase price or the appraised value of the property they are looking to acquire.

In a conventional mortgage, the borrower’s down payment is essentially their initial investment in their home. It signifies a substantial commitment to the property and reduces the risk for the lender. After the down payment has been made, the remaining 80% (or less) of the total home value is then financed by the lender, which is typically a bank or a mortgage company.

Fixed vs. Adjustable-Rate Mortgages

Within the category of conventional mortgages, there are also two main types: fixed-rate mortgages and adjustable-rate mortgages.

A fixed-rate mortgage is a mortgage where the interest rate remains the same throughout the term of the loan. This means that your monthly mortgage payments will remain consistent, providing stability and predictability. Fixed-rate mortgages are a popular choice for many homeowners who prefer a steady payment schedule.

On the other hand, an adjustable-rate mortgage (ARM) is a mortgage where the interest rate is subject to change over time. Typically, an ARM will have an initial fixed-rate period, followed by a period where the interest rate can fluctuate based on market conditions. This type of mortgage may be suitable for those who anticipate interest rates to decrease in the future or for those who plan to sell the property before the adjustable period begins.

What is a Non-Conventional Mortgage/High Ratio Mortgage?

A non-conventional mortgage, often referred to as a high-ratio mortgage, is a type of home loan that comes into play when a borrower cannot manage to make a down payment of at least 20% of the purchase price or the appraised value of the property. As the name suggests, a high-ratio mortgage is basically a loan in which the ratio of the loan to the value of the property being purchased is higher than usual. This situation typically arises when the down payment contributed by the borrower is less than 20% of the property’s purchase price or appraised value.

In a conventional mortgage, the loan-to-value ratio is lower because the borrower’s down payment is substantial. However, in a high-ratio mortgage, since the down payment is less, the loan-to-value ratio is higher, which inherently means more risk for the lender. Due to this increased risk, lenders typically require the borrower to have mortgage default insurance. This insurance, while it does protect the lender, adds an additional cost to the borrower.

While a high-ratio mortgage may not be the ideal situation for many, it does provide an opportunity for those with less savings to still become homeowners. It’s a balancing act between the desire to own a home and the ability to save for a substantial down payment. It’s always recommended for potential homeowners to carefully consider their financial situation and consult with a mortgage professional before deciding on the type of mortgage that will best suit their needs.

What is an example of a Conventional Mortgage?

Suppose you are purchasing a property worth $500,000 and have saved $100,000 for a down payment. In this case, you would be able to secure a conventional mortgage for the remaining $400,000.

By making a substantial down payment, you not only reduce the amount of money you need to borrow but also gain immediate equity in your property. This equity provides a sense of financial security and may make it easier to qualify for additional financing in the future should you need it.

Furthermore, opting for a conventional mortgage offers several advantages. Firstly, conventional mortgages typically have lower interest rates compared to other types of loans, such as FHA or VA loans. This means that you’ll end up paying less interest over the life of the loan, saving you a significant amount of money in the long run.

Secondly, conventional mortgages often have more flexible terms and conditions. Unlike government-backed loans, which come with specific guidelines and restrictions, conventional mortgages allow borrowers to negotiate terms that suit their individual needs. This flexibility can be particularly beneficial for borrowers with unique financial situations or specific property requirements.

Additionally, conventional mortgages do not require mortgage insurance if the borrower makes a down payment of at least 20% of the property’s value. This can result in substantial savings, as mortgage insurance can add a significant amount to the monthly mortgage payment.

Moreover, conventional mortgages offer a wide range of loan options, including fixed-rate mortgages and adjustable-rate mortgages (ARMs). Fixed-rate mortgages provide stability and predictability as the interest rate remains constant throughout the loan term. On the other hand, ARMs offer lower initial interest rates that adjust periodically, which can be advantageous for borrowers who plan to sell or refinance their property within a few years.

Lastly, conventional mortgages are widely accepted by lenders and can be used to finance various types of properties, including primary residences, second homes, and investment properties. This versatility allows borrowers to explore different real estate opportunities and make informed decisions based on their investment goals.

What is an example of a High Ratio Mortgage?

Now, let’s consider an example of a high ratio mortgage. Using the same purchase price of $500,000, if you were only able to provide a down payment of $50,000 (10% of the purchase price), you would need to finance the remaining $450,000 through a high ratio mortgage.

It is important to note that high ratio mortgages are required to be insured by the Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation (CMHC), Genworth Financial Canada, or Canada Guarantee. This insurance protects lenders in case of default on mortgages with less than 20% equity.

The cost of mortgage default insurance is based on a percentage of the loan amount and varies depending on the loan-to-value ratio (LTV). The LTV is the ratio of the loan amount to the purchase price or appraised value of the property.