Borrowers

Open Term Versus Closed Term Mortgages: Know What Works for You

There are many things to consider when your mortgage is coming up for renewal. As the maturity date approaches, your renewal paperwork will arrive and you will probably be offered the option of opting for either an open term or a closed term.

Confused as to what the difference between the two might be?  Here is a breakdown of what each type of term involves:

Open terms
Open terms always have a higher interest rate as it expected that the mortgage will be paid out on or before the maturity date.  30 days’ written notice is generally required in the event of full or partial pre-payment.  A bonus is calculated on a per diem (per day) interest basis will apply in the event that written notice of less than 30 days is provided (e.g. 15 days’ written notice –  bonus equivalent to 15 days’ interest).  Notice must be in the form of a written request from the mortgagor’s solicitor, a title insurance company, or a financial institution, specifying the amount and date of the prepayment.

Closed terms
Closed terms receive a lower interest rate, but it is expected the mortgage will remain until maturity. In the event of pre-payment in whole or in part prior to the maturity date, a pre-payment penalty equivalent to the greater of: a) three months’ interest at the interest rate prescribed in the renewal agreement; or b) the interest rate differential based on the difference between the interest rate prescribed in the renewal agreement and the lender’s posted interest rate for a closed term that is the next shortest to the remaining term of the mortgage will apply. The pre-payment penalty will be calculated on the principal amount to be prepaid.

Choose the type of term that works best for you and return the completed paperwork to your lender. It’s a good idea to make note of the first date of your new payment and the new amount that will be debited from your account.

About Magenta Capital Corporation
Established in 1994, Magenta Capital Corporation (MCC) is one of Canada’s oldest and largest Mortgage Investment Corporation (MIC) managers.  MCC sources, underwrites and manages a portfolio of primarily residential first mortgages, secured by properties located in Eastern and Southwestern Ontario, two of the strongest, most recession resistant real estate markets in the country. MCC has a 24-year track record of generating superior returns for the shareholders of Magenta Group MICs.  MCC exercises oversight responsibility for the Magenta Group MICs in its capacity as General Partner of three limited partnerships, each of which is wholly owned by one of the MICs.

For more information, call us at 888-267-1744 or  visit Magentainvestment.ca.

The Mortgage Renewal Process: What to Expect During the Mortgage Renewal Process

The maturity date of your mortgage is fast approaching. The maturity of your mortgage gives you an opportunity to review your financial situation and make some decisions based on your financial goals and current situation.

If you discussed an exit strategy with your mortgage broker, you may be preparing to refinance with a new lender at a lower rate. If it suits your needs to renew your current mortgage, here are a few things to keep in mind both before and during the process:

Here are some tips to prepare for your renewal.

1. Ensure your account is current: If your mortgage account has fallen behind, make arrangements to bring it back into good standing. Work with your lender to find a solution that suits everyone.  Small changes, such as moving your monthly payment to a new day, can make a difference.

2. Keep your home insurance in good standing: If your insurer has changed since you originally obtained your mortgage, make sure you let your lender know!

3. Keep the home in a good state of repair with no deferred maintenance: Don’t put off those home maintenance projects, big or small. Touch up the paint. Mow the lawn. Make sure the roof, furnace, and electrical wiring are in good repair.

What to expect at renewal.

1. Renewal Options: Your renewal options will be sent to you in advance of the maturity date. Review the options you have been offered. You may wish to discuss your options with your bank or mortgage broker.

2. ‘Business-for-Self’ Income: If you are ‘business for self’ or have ownership in a business, you may be asked to provide confirmation that HST and Source Deductions are being remitted to Revenue Canada.

3. Second Mortgages: If you have a second mortgage you may be asked to provide a current first mortgage statement. Most lenders will either send these out annually, or provide a way for you to access the information on their website or via online banking.

4. Income Verification: You may be asked for updated income verification. Gather or print your two most recent pay stubs, just in case you need them.

5. Appraisals: You may be asked for a new home appraisal. Appraisals always make note of any instances of deferred maintenance that are noted during the inspection. This is why keeping on top of projects around your home is so important.

Following these tips can ensure your mortgage renewal goes as smoothly as possible.

About Magenta Capital Corporation
Established in 1994, Magenta Capital Corporation (MCC) is one of Canada’s oldest and largest Mortgage Investment Corporation (MIC) managers.  MCC sources, underwrites and manages a portfolio of primarily residential first mortgages, secured by properties located in Eastern and Southwestern Ontario, two of the strongest, most recession resistant real estate markets in the country. MCC has a 24-year track record of generating superior returns for the shareholders of Magenta Group MICs.  MCC exercises oversight responsibility for the Magenta Group MICs in its capacity as General Partner of three limited partnerships, each of which is wholly owned by one of the MICs.

For more information, call us at 888-267-1744 or  visit Magentainvestment.ca.