What Is a Mortgage Trigger Rate?

June 8, 2023

If you’re in the market for a mortgage or are a homeowner with an existing mortgage, you may have come across the term “mortgage trigger rate.” But what is a mortgage trigger rate, and how does it impact your mortgage? In this blog post, we’ll explain what a mortgage trigger rate is, how it works, and what it means for you.

What Is a Mortgage Trigger Rate?

A mortgage trigger rate, or renewal rate, is the interest rate your lender will offer you when your current mortgage term ends. When you sign a mortgage agreement, you agree to a specific term, such as five years. At the end of that term, you’ll need to renew your mortgage, either with your current lender or with a new one. The mortgage trigger rate is the rate your current lender will offer you when renewing.

How Does a Mortgage Trigger Rate Work?

When you sign a mortgage agreement, you’ll typically agree to a fixed interest rate for a specific term, such as five years. At the end of that term, your mortgage will need to be renewed. When you renew your mortgage, your lender will offer you a new interest rate based on several factors, including current market conditions, credit score, and payment history.

The mortgage trigger rate is the rate that your lender will offer you if you choose to renew your mortgage with them. It’s important to note that you’re not obligated to accept the mortgage trigger rate offered by your current lender. You can shop around and compare rates from other lenders to find the best deal for you.

Why Is a Mortgage Trigger Rate Important?

The mortgage trigger rate is important because it can significantly impact your mortgage payments. If the mortgage trigger rate is higher than your current rate, your monthly mortgage payments will increase, which can strain your budget. On the other hand, if the mortgage trigger rate is lower than your current rate, you could save money on your monthly payments.

It’s essential to know your mortgage trigger rate and plan ahead for your mortgage renewal. You can start researching mortgage rates several months before your mortgage term ends to give yourself plenty of time to shop around and compare rates.

What Factors Impact the Mortgage Trigger Rate?

Several factors can impact the mortgage trigger rate, including:

  1. Market conditions: The current state of the housing market and the economy can impact interest rates.
  2. Your credit score: Your credit score is an important factor that lenders consider when determining your mortgage rate.
  3. Your payment history: If you’ve consistently made your mortgage payments on time, you may be offered a lower mortgage rate.
  4. Your income and employment status: Your income and employment status can impact your ability to make mortgage payments, and lenders will consider these factors when determining your mortgage rate.
  5. The type of mortgage: The type of mortgage you have can also impact the mortgage trigger rate. For example, a fixed-rate mortgage may have a different trigger rate than an adjustable-rate mortgage.

How Can You Prepare for Your Mortgage Renewal?

To prepare for your mortgage renewal, it’s essential to do your research and plan ahead. Here are some tips to help you prepare for your mortgage renewal:

  1. Start researching rates several months before your mortgage term ends.
  2. Compare rates from several lenders to find the best deal for you.
  3. Consider working with a mortgage broker who can help you navigate the mortgage renewal process.
  4. Review your credit report and credit score and take steps to improve your credit if necessary.
  5. Evaluate your budget and make sure you can afford the mortgage payments based on the mortgage trigger rate.

Preparing for your mortgage renewal can involve researching rates from several lenders, considering working with a mortgage broker, reviewing your credit report and score, evaluating your budget, and comparing different mortgage types. By taking the time to prepare and shop around, you can ensure that you’re getting the best possible deal on your mortgage.

It’s important to remember that you’re not obligated to accept the mortgage trigger rate offered by your current lender. While renewing with your current lender may be convenient, it’s always worth exploring other options to find the best deal for you. Remember that even a small difference in interest rates can add up to significant savings over the life of your mortgage.

Understanding what a mortgage trigger rate is and how it works is essential for homeowners planning to renew their mortgage. By being informed and proactive, you can ensure that you get the best possible deal on your mortgage, which can save you money and reduce stress in the long run. Remember to start researching rates early, compare offers from multiple lenders, and take the time to evaluate your budget and credit score to set yourself up for success.

Cedarbrook is the premier choice for master-planned living in Chilliwack. Contact us at (604) 793-8578 or fill our Contact Form to schedule a tour and discover the difference for yourself!

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