Mortgage calculator in Alberta

What is the Alberta mortgage calculator?

A mortgage calculator in Alberta is a tool that can be used to help determine the monthly payments and overall costs associated with a mortgage loan in the province of Alberta, Canada. These calculators typically require information such as the purchase price of the home, the down payment amount, the interest rate, and the loan term, and can help potential buyers estimate their monthly mortgage payments and overall costs, as well as compare different loan options.

How to use the Alberta mortgage calculator on Finanso?

The Finanso Alberta mortgage calculator will help you estimate your mortgage payment amount, given the essential parameters of your loan. With this tool, you will also see the total payments you will make over the mortgage term, including principal and interest costs. In addition, you can see how different mortgage options compare in terms of regular payments by modifying the values entered into an Alberta mortgage calculator. 

Option 1. Calculation based on the property value in Alberta

To perform this operation, you will need a simple mortgage calculator that takes into account the loan amount, the term, and the repayment method. You may also be asked to specify the mortgage type or the interest rate if there are several mortgage options and only one calculating tool available on the page. Details necessary for the calculation:

• The cost of the property. This field suggests you enter the property price you plan to purchase. Remember that you will be required to make a down payment of at least 5% of the property's price.
• The down payment. It is the initial up-front partial payment you have to make at the time of finalizing the transaction. If your down payment is less than 20%, you will be required to purchase CMHC insurance.
• The loan term. The mortgage term is the time your mortgage contract is in effect, while amortization is the time it will take you to pay your mortgage in full. The maximum amortization period in Alberta for insured residential mortgages is 35 years.
• The mortgage interest rate. Our calculator takes into account the region's peculiarities. By default, the calculator has the average interest rate for the region where you calculate. In addition, minimum and maximum values for the country are embedded. You will see a notification if you input a value that does not correspond to the country.
• Payment type. The calculator features the possibility to specify the mortgage type: annuity or linear. Annuity payments are certainly convenient for both the borrower and the lender. Still, the client will expect a more significant overpayment due to a slower principal repayment.

To get an idea of an approximate mortgage payment in Alberta, enter the values for the essential parameters of your mortgage into the designated fields in the Finanso Alberta mortgage payment calculator.

Let’s assume you want to buy a house for $420,000 and make a $160,000 down payment. With a 5-year fixed closed mortgage loan of $270,000 paid over 15 years at a 4.76% interest rate, your monthly payment will be $2,095. The total payments over the term of your mortgage will constitute $125,704 — $69,842 toward the principal and $55,861 toward the interest.

Option 2. Calculation based on the loan amount in Alberta

Mortgage calculators suitable for such operations feature the early repayment calculation option. The difference between this tool and the simple one is that it is possible to evaluate the mortgage details at once and see the change in the debt amount if early repayment occurs, which may be convenient when you intend to reduce the overpayment. Details necessary for the calculation:

• The loan amount. This is the money you receive from the lender to purchase real estate (without taking into account the down payment). You might consider reviewing the maximum mortgage amounts granted by Alberta lenders at this point.
• The loan term. The mortgage term is the time your mortgage contract is in effect, while amortization is the time it will take you to pay your mortgage in full. For residential mortgages, the maximum amortization period in Alberta is 35 years.
• The interest rate. Our calculator considers the region's peculiarities. By default, the calculator has the average interest rate for the area where you calculate.  In addition, minimum and maximum values for the country are embedded. You will see a corresponding notification if you input a value that does not correspond to the country.
• Early repayment. This field allows you to choose the type of early repayment (partial or full). Select the repayment date and the amount you are going to pay.

Option 3. Calculation based on the total cost of purchasing a property in Alberta

A mortgage calculator featuring more details is necessary to calculate the total cost of acquiring a property. This calculator differs from the previous tools in that it considers the tax burden, default insurance, and additional expenses, for example, an origination or a brokerage fee. In addition, it allows for more accurate calculations. Details necessary for the calculation:

• The cost of the property. In this field, enter the cost of the property you are planning to purchase. Remember that you will be required to make a down payment of at least 5% of the property's price.
• The down payment. It is the initial up-front partial payment you have to make when at the time of finalizing the transaction.
• The loan term. The mortgage term is the time your mortgage contract is in effect, while amortization is the time it will take you to pay your mortgage in full. For residential mortgages, the maximum amortization period in Alberta is 35 years.
• The interest rate. Our calculator takes into account the region's peculiarities. By default, the calculator has the average interest rate for the region where you calculate. In addition, minimum and maximum values for the country are embedded. You will see a corresponding notification if you input a value that does not correspond to the country.
• Additional data.

Mortgage loan term in Alberta

The mortgage loan term in Alberta, Canada, refers to the length of time over which a borrower will repay their mortgage loan. Alberta's most common loan terms are 5-year, 7-year, and 10-year terms. Some borrowers may opt for a shorter term if they are able to afford higher monthly payments, while others may choose a longer term if they want lower monthly payments. The loan term can also affect the interest rate on the mortgage loan, with shorter terms typically having lower rates and longer terms having higher rates. It is important to note that the maximum amortization period for an insured mortgage in Canada is 25 years.

What is the minimum mortgage amount in Alberta?

The minimum mortgage amount for a fixed-rate mortgage is typically $50,000. It is important to note that the amount you can borrow will depend on several factors, including your credit score, income, and the value of the property you are looking to purchase. Also, the minimum mortgage amount may vary based on the lender and the type of mortgage you choose. It is also important to check with your lender as they may have different minimum mortgage amount requirements. In addition, the mortgage rate can vary depending on the term of the mortgage. For example, a 15-year fixed-rate mortgage may have a higher interest rate than a 30-year fixed-rate mortgage.

What is the maximum mortgage amount in Alberta?

The maximum mortgage amount you can borrow in Alberta will depend on several factors, including your credit score, income, and the value of the property you are looking to purchase. Additionally, your lender will also have their maximum mortgage amount they are willing to lend, which can vary depending on the lender.

In Canada, the maximum mortgage amount that can be insured by the Canadian Mortgage and Housing Corporation (CMHC) is $1,000,000. This applies to the majority of home buyers in Canada, as most lenders require mortgage default insurance for mortgages with a down payment of less than 20% of the purchase price.

However, for buyers who do not require mortgage default insurance and have a down payment of 20% or more, the maximum mortgage amount is not capped by the CMHC, and will depend on the lender's policies and the buyers' financial situation.

It's important to note that these figures are general and subject to change, and it's recommended to check with a lender or a mortgage broker to get more accurate and up-to-date information.

What is a down payment on a mortgage loan in Alberta?

A down payment on a mortgage loan in Alberta is a percentage of the property's total purchase price that the borrower must pay upfront. The minimum down payment required for a mortgage loan in Alberta is 5% of the purchase price for a home that is less than $500,000. For homes that are priced at $500,000 or more, the minimum down payment required is 5% on the first $500,000 and 10% on the remaining amount. It's important to note that mortgage insurance is required when the down payment is less than 20%.

Who can take out a mortgage in Alberta?

In Alberta, anyone legally can enter into a contract and meet the requirements set by lenders can take out a mortgage.

Typically, to be eligible for a mortgage, you must:

• Be of legal age (18 or older in most provinces);
• Have a steady income and good credit history;
• Be able to provide proof of income, such as pay stubs or tax returns;
• Be able to provide proof of employment and/or assets;
• Have enough money for a down payment and closing costs.

It's important to note that Lenders have their own set of criteria and requirements for mortgage applicants, and these can vary depending on the lender and the type of mortgage.

Additionally, if you're a first-time homebuyer or have a low income, you may be able to access government-assisted mortgage programs that can help you purchase a home. These programs typically have more flexible requirements and can make it easier to qualify for a mortgage.

It is recommended to check with a lender or a mortgage broker to get more information about the requirements and the best options that suit your situation.

Types of mortgages in Alberta

In Alberta, as in Canada, there are several types of mortgages available, including:

1. Fixed-rate mortgages. These mortgages have an interest rate that remains the same for the entire term of the mortgage, which is typically 15 or 30 years.
2. Adjustable-rate mortgages (ARMs). These mortgages have an interest rate that can change over time, based on a specific index. The rate can be fixed for a certain period of time, after which it will adjust periodically.
3. High-ratio mortgages. These are mortgages where the down payment is less than 20% of the purchase price, and as such, require mortgage default insurance.
4. Conventional mortgages. These are mortgages where the down payment is 20% or more of the purchase price and don't require mortgage default insurance.
5. First-time homebuyer mortgages. These mortgages are designed for first-time homebuyers and often have more favorable terms and lower down payment requirements.
6. Refinancing mortgages. This type of mortgages allows homeowners to take advantage of low interest rates to lower their monthly mortgage payments or to convert their adjustable-rate mortgage to a fixed-rate mortgage.
7. Home equity loans. This type of mortgages allows homeowners to borrow against the equity they have built up in their home.

It's important to note that these are common types of mortgages, and the options may vary depending on the lender and the market conditions. It is recommended to check with a lender or a mortgage broker to get more information about the types of mortgages available in Alberta and the best option that suits your situation

Where to get a mortgage in Alberta?

There are several options for getting a mortgage in Alberta:

1. Banks. Many of the major banks in Canada, such as RBC, TD, Scotiabank, CIBC, and BMO, have branches in Alberta and offer mortgages to customers.
2. Credit unions. Alberta is home to many credit unions that offer mortgages to members. They often have a more personalized approach and may offer more flexible terms and rates. Some of the well-known credit unions in Alberta are ATB Financial, Connect First Credit Union, First Calgary Financial, Legacy Savings & Credit Union and Mountain View Financial.
3. Mortgage brokers. These professionals work with a variety of lenders to help you find the best mortgage for your needs. They can help you compare rates and terms from multiple lenders and guide you through the process.
4. Online lenders. There are a number of online-only lenders that offer mortgages in Alberta, these lenders may have lower overhead costs and may be able to offer more competitive rates.
5. Private lenders. These are individuals or companies that lend money to borrowers who may not qualify for a traditional mortgage through a bank or other institution.

It's important to note that each option has its own advantages and disadvantages, and the best option for you will depend on your specific needs and circumstances. It is recommended to compare rates, terms, and fees from multiple lenders and seek advice from a mortgage broker or a financial advisor before making a decision.

FAQ

How much is the average house payment in Alberta?

The average house payment in Alberta can vary depending on a number of factors, such as the location, type of home, and the size of the mortgage.

In 2022, the average house price in Alberta was around $378,000. Based on a 5% down payment and a 30-year fixed-rate mortgage with an interest rate of 2.74%, the average monthly mortgage payment for a house in Alberta would be around $1,560.

It's important to note that this is an approximate figure and the actual amount you will pay will depend on your specific circumstances, such as the purchase price of the home, the size of your down payment, and the interest rate you qualify for. Other costs associated with owning a home, such as property taxes, insurance, and maintenance costs should also be taken into consideration.

It is recommended to check with a lender or a mortgage broker to get more accurate and up-to-date information, and to consider if you can afford the costs associated with owning a home before making a decision.

What credit score do you need for a mortgage in Alberta?

The credit score required for a mortgage in Alberta can vary depending on the lender and the type of mortgage.

In general, a credit score of 620 or higher is considered to be the minimum threshold for most lenders to approve a mortgage application. However, the higher your credit score, the more likely you are to qualify for a better interest rate and more favorable terms.

It's important to note that a credit score is just one of the many factors that lenders consider when assessing a mortgage application. Other factors such as income, debt-to-income ratio, and employment history will also be taken into account.

Additionally, if you have a low credit score, there are options available to help you improve it, such as paying off debts, correcting errors on your credit report, and working with a credit counselor.

It is recommended to check with a lender or a mortgage broker to get more information about the credit score requirements and the best options that suit your situation.

How much do you have to put down on the property in Alberta?

The amount of money that you need to put down on a property in Alberta will depend on the type of mortgage you are applying for.

For a conventional mortgage, where the down payment is 20% or more of the purchase price, you will not be required to purchase mortgage default insurance. This means that you will need to have at least 20% of the purchase price saved for a down payment.

For a high-ratio mortgage, where the down payment is less than 20% of the purchase price, you will be required to purchase mortgage default insurance. In this case, the minimum down payment required is 5% of the purchase price. However, if the purchase price of the home is more than $500,000, the minimum down payment on the portion over $500,000 is 10%.

It's important to note that these are general guidelines, and lenders may have different requirements. Additionally, there are first-time homebuyer programs that may allow you to buy a home with a lower down payment or other incentives.

It is recommended to check with a lender or a mortgage broker to get more information about the down payment requirements and the best options that suit your situation.

How much house can I afford in Alberta, making 100K a year?

How much house you can afford in Alberta while making 100K a year will depend on a number of factors, such as your credit score, debt-to-income ratio, and the current interest rate.

A general rule of thumb is that your total housing costs (including mortgage payments, property taxes, and insurance) should not exceed 28% of your gross income. Based on this guideline, if you make $100,000 a year, you should aim to spend no more than $28,000 a year on housing costs.

To calculate an estimate of how much house you can afford, you can use an online mortgage calculator. Input your income, estimated down payment, and the current interest rate to get an estimate of your monthly mortgage payment. Keep in mind that the calculator is just an estimate, and the actual amount you will pay will depend on your specific circumstances, such as the purchase price of the home, the size of your down payment, and the interest rate you qualify for.

Additionally, it is important to remember that owning a home also includes other costs, such as property taxes, maintenance, and home insurance. These costs should be taken into consideration when assessing your budget and how much you can afford to spend on a home.

It is recommended to check with a lender or a mortgage broker to get more accurate and up-to-date information and to consider if you can afford the costs associated with owning a home before making a decision

What would the monthly payments on a $380,000.00 mortgage be in Alberta?

The monthly payments on a $380,000 mortgage in Alberta will depend on a number of factors, such as the interest rate, the mortgage's length, and the down payment's size.

Assuming a 30-year fixed-rate mortgage with an interest rate of 2.74%, a 5% down payment ($19,000), and a mortgage amount of $361,000, the estimated monthly mortgage payment would be around $1,560.

It's important to note that this is an approximate figure, and the actual amount you will pay will depend on your specific circumstances, such as the home's purchase price, the size of your down payment, and the interest rate you qualify for. Other costs associated with owning a home, such as property taxes, insurance, and maintenance costs, should also be taken into consideration.

You can use an online mortgage calculator to get a more accurate estimate of your monthly mortgage payment. Input your purchase price, down payment, and the interest rate to get an estimate of your monthly mortgage payment.

It is recommended to check with a lender or a mortgage broker to get a more accurate and up-to-date information, and to consider if you can afford the costs associated with owning a home before making a decision.