09/19/2022
As another rate announcement has taken place, it's important to be familiar with the term trigger rate and how it affects your variable-rate mortgage. 🏡
Firstly, it's important to know that the the trigger rate only applies to variable-rate mortgage holders that are on a fixed payment schedule.
So, what is a trigger rate❓
The trigger rate is the rate at which the regular mortgage payments no longer covers the accrued interest. Interest rates for the variable rate has increased so much that the entire payment is dedicated towards the interest and nothing towards the principal. If rates were to increase anymore, the payments no longer cover the interest.
When you reach your trigger rate, your lender will contact you with three different options.
These three options are 👇
1. Adjust your payment - Increase the amount of the principal and interest payment to an amount that is enough to pay off the outstanding principal balance within the remaining original amortization period.
2. Make a prepayment - The trigger is dependent on the remaining balance of your mortgage. If you make a lump sum payment, that would push your trigger rate higher. Alternatively, you could increase your monthly payments, so more money is going toward your principal.
3. Switch to a fixed-rate mortgage - Your lender may suggest that you switch to a fixed-rate mortgage. By doing this, you'll lock in at current rates. While this strategy may give you peace of mind, it could cost you more in the long run. Plus, your monthly payments would increase by more than if you were to adjust your payments on your own (reach out to me before doing this).
Now, depending on your lender, as long as your mortgage balance does not exceed 80% of the loan to value, you may not be required to take any action.
Have any queries? Feel free to reach out!
Sunny Sharma Real Estate
604-621-6444