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Mortgage & Real Estate FinanceABHARD

What is the significance of the 'rate hold' in the Alberta mortgage process, and how does it protect buyers in a rising interest rate environment?

Correct Answer

A) A rate hold guarantees the quoted rate for a set period (typically 90-120 days) against increases

A rate hold (or rate lock) is a lender's commitment to guarantee a specific mortgage interest rate for a set period, typically 90 to 120 days. This protects Alberta buyers from interest rate increases during the period between mortgage pre-approval and closing. If rates drop during the hold period, many lenders will offer the lower rate.

Answer Options
A
A rate hold guarantees the quoted rate for a set period (typically 90-120 days) against increases
B
A rate hold freezes property tax rates for the buyer until the next municipal assessment year
C
A rate hold prevents the lender from changing any mortgage terms for the full length of the loan
D
A rate hold is only available through Alberta Treasury Branch, as a provincial program for Alberta buyers

Why This Is the Correct Answer

Option A correctly defines a rate hold as a lender's guarantee of a specific mortgage rate for a set period, typically 90-120 days. This protects the buyer from interest rate increases during the purchase process. Many lenders also offer rate drops if rates decrease during the hold period, providing a one-directional benefit to the borrower.

Why the Other Options Are Wrong

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Key Terms

rate holdrate lockpre-approvalinterest rate guarantee
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