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Mortgage & Real Estate FinanceBCMEDIUM

A buyer in Victoria is considering a variable-rate mortgage. In BC's market context, what is the primary risk associated with choosing a variable rate over a fixed rate?

Correct Answer

A) Payments or amortization may increase if the Bank of Canada raises its overnight rate

Variable-rate mortgages are tied to the lender's prime rate, which follows the Bank of Canada's overnight rate. When rates rise, borrowers with variable rates see either increased payments or extended amortization periods. In BC's high-value markets, even small rate changes can significantly impact monthly costs.

Answer Options
A
Payments or amortization may increase if the Bank of Canada raises its overnight rate
B
Variable rates always start higher than fixed rates, so borrowers pay more immediately
C
Variable rate mortgages are not available for properties over $1 million in BC
D
BC legislation prohibits variable-rate mortgages on strata properties because of special levy risk

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Key Terms

variable-rate mortgageBank of Canadainterest rate riskprime ratepayment fluctuation
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