Borrowing Guides for Calgary & Alberta
Plain answers to the questions Calgary borrowers ask most, with sources for every number.
Mortgage Broker vs Bank in Calgary: Which Gets You the Better Deal?
A bank's mortgage specialist can only offer that bank's mortgages. A mortgage broker licensed in Alberta can compare several lenders, including credit unions and…
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Consumer Proposal vs Debt Consolidation Loan: Which One Fits?
A debt consolidation loan replaces several debts with one new loan you repay in full, and works when your income can carry the total. A consumer proposal is a legal…
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The Mortgage Stress Test, Explained for Calgary Buyers
To get an uninsured mortgage from a federally regulated lender, you must qualify at the greater of your contract rate plus 2% or 5.25%, even though you pay the contract…
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Payday Loan Alternatives in Alberta (and the Rules If You Use One)
Before taking a payday loan in Alberta, try a pay advance, a payment arrangement with whoever you owe, overdraft, or a small instalment loan. All usually cost less. If…
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Is There a Land Transfer Tax in Alberta? Closing Costs to Budget For
Alberta has no land transfer tax. Instead you pay Land Titles registration fees: $50 plus $5 for every $5,000 of value on the transfer, and the same on the mortgage,…
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