05/05/2024
A credit score is a numerical representation of an individual’s creditworthiness. It is calculated based on various factors from a person’s credit history and financial behavior, including their payment history, credit utilization ratio, length of credit history, types of credit accounts, and new credit inquiries.
Lenders, such as banks and credit card companies, use credit scores to evaluate the risk of lending money or extending credit to an individual. A higher credit score generally indicates lower risk to lenders, making it more likely for the individual to qualify for loans, credit cards, or other forms of credit at favorable terms, such as lower interest rates and higher credit limits.
In Canada, the credit score necessary to qualify for a mortgage typically falls within the range of 620 to 680, contingent upon the lender and the specific mortgage product. For an insured mortgage, a minimum credit score of 620 is usually required, whereas a conventional mortgage typically mandates a minimum score of 680. Furthermore, the credit score has a direct impact on the interest rate and other terms of the loan.