Alberta Mortgage Articles

Plain-language articles on buying, renewing and refinancing in Alberta, written by John Antle and based on his Facebook posts. Each article lists its sources and the date it was checked.

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  Bank of Canada rate day, October 28, 2026: what it can and can't change for you

  October 23, 2026

  The Bank of Canada's next decision is Wednesday, October 28 at 7:45 a.m. Alberta time. Here's how a decision flows (or doesn't) through to variable and fixed mortgages, without guessing the outcome.

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  Mortgage renewal coming up? Don't just sign the letter

  October 23, 2026

  Start shopping about 120 days before your renewal date, compare and negotiate, and know that you can switch lenders at the end of your term. A step-by-step checklist for Alberta homeowners.

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  Closing costs in Alberta: the money buyers forget

  October 23, 2026

  Plan for 1.5% to 4% of the purchase price on top of your down payment. Alberta has no land transfer tax, but Land Titles fees, legal fees, title insurance and the property tax adjustment still apply. Worked example included.

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  Thinking of refinancing? Check these 2 numbers first

  October 23, 2026

  Before breaking your mortgage to pay off debt or renovate, check what you can access (usually up to 80% of value, minus what you owe) and what breaking costs (usually the higher of 3 months' interest or the IRD).

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  How much do you really need down for your first home in Alberta?

  October 22, 2026

  With under 20% down, the minimum is 5% of the first $500,000 and 10% of the rest. On September 2026 benchmark prices, that's about $31,670 in Calgary and $21,155 in the Edmonton area.