Mortgage Renewals in 2025 And How Canadians Are Preparing for Higher Payments

More than a million Canadian mortgages will come up for renewal this year. Though interest rates have been on the decline for the last several months, many borrowers are bracing for an increase to their monthly payment – an adjustment that could be quite steep for some households.

Canadians expecting increases to their mortgage payments at renewal this year

According to a recent Royal LePage survey, conducted by Hill & Knowlton,1 more than half (57%) of Canadians who are renewing the mortgage on their primary residence in 2025 expect their monthly mortgage payment to increase upon renewal (35% expect it to increase slightly and 22% expect it to increase significantly). Meanwhile, 25% say their monthly mortgage payment will remain about the same – within $100 of their current payment amount – and another 15% expect their monthly payment to decrease upon renewal.

“When it comes to post-pandemic mortgage renewals, many Canadians have avoided the worst-case scenario of having to sell their homes due to the inability to cover the cost of their mortgage, thanks to solid employment trends and declining interest rates,” said Phil Soper, president and CEO, Royal LePage. “Nevertheless, some will face a substantial rise in their mortgage costs, putting added pressure on their household finances. Many in this situation are exploring options to lower their monthly fees, such as extending their amortization period; a tactic which has proven popular.”

Of those who expect their monthly mortgage payment to rise upon renewal, 81% say the increase will put financial strain on their household; 47% expect a slight strain, while 34% expect a significant strain.

Will living arrangements change for Canadians?

Though many Canadians will see their monthly mortgage payment rise this year, most see no reason to make preemptive major lifestyle changes to cope with increased housing expenses. A majority (62%) of respondents say they will not change their living arrangements to avoid potentially higher monthly mortgage costs. Respondents in Quebec were the most likely to say they will not adjust their living arrangements (78%), while those in Alberta were the least likely to say so (53%). Nationally, however, 11% say they are considering relocating to a more affordable region; 10% say they are considering downsizing; and 10% say they are considering renting out a portion of their home to subsidize expenses. Respondents were able to select more than one answer.

Get in touch with us to learn more about this topic and buying or selling real estate in Kelowna in 2025!