04/08/2021
After a 25% rise in the average home price in a year, OSFI (Office of the Superintendent of Financial Institutions) is taking measures to help contain the super hot real estate market by increasing the Stress Test qualifying Rate to 5.25% (or 2% above the market rate, whichever is higher). The current stress test calls for borrowers to prove affordability of their mortgage at a rate of 4.79% (or 2% above the market rate). This 0.46% difference will impact the purchase price by a little over $30,000. This assumes an average household income in toronto of $110,000. Purchase price of $700,000 with 20% down payment is reduced to a purchase of $670,000 with 20% down. So... before everyone panics as the media blows this up. This change comes into the effect June 1st. If you’ve been pre approved and haven’t purchased yet, be sure to review your situation to make sure this won’t affect you.