Mortgage Renewal Strategies for 2025–26: How Homeowners Can Reduce Payment Shock
As the Bank of Canada lowered its policy rate to 2.5% in September 2025 , many Canadians are optimistic about market recovery. Yet, for a growing number of homeowners in British Columbia and Alberta , a different challenge is on the horizon — the reality of renewal shock . Between 2025 and 2026, nearly 60% of outstanding mortgages will come up for renewal. For borrowers who locked in ultra-low pandemic rates below 2%, this adjustment could translate into hundreds of dollars in higher monthly payments. Fortunately, early planning, the right product mix, and guidance from an experienced mortgage advisor can make this transition far more manageable. 1. Why Renewal Planning Matters Now Mortgage renewals often sneak up on homeowners who assume their current lender will offer a fair rate automatically. In reality, most renewal notices include rates higher than the market average. Before signing, homeowners should compare rates and explore better options — whether thro...