RatellowBeta
  • Ask AI
  • Guides
  • Scenarios
  • Blog

Ratellow © 2026

The intelligent hub for Canadian mortgage research.

Resources

  • Ask AI
  • Guides
  • Scenarios
  • FAQs
  • Blog
  • Glossary
  • Bookmarks

Analysis

  • All Calculators
  • Payment Calculator
  • Payment Comparison
  • Renewal Calculator
  • Renewal Comparison
  • Affordability Calculator
  • Land Transfer Tax

Rates

  • Mortgages Overview
  • All Mortgage Rates
  • 5-Year Fixed Rates
  • 3-Year Fixed Rates
  • 5-Year Variable Rates

Company

  • About Us
  • Support
TermsPrivacy

For informational purposes only. Not financial, legal, or professional advice. Consult a licensed mortgage professional before making decisions. See full disclaimer

FAQ Library
Financing•Verified 2026-04-14

What are the key debt service ratios and qualifying rates lenders use?

Debt service ratios (GDS/TDS) and qualifying rates are key to determining mortgage affordability.

Key Points

  • Lenders use debt-to-income ratios to see if you can afford your mortgage payments and other debts.

  • These ratios are calculated carefully, so you should still be prepared for surprise costs.

  • To qualify for a mortgage without mortgage insurance, lenders use either your mortgage interest rate plus 2%, or a minimum rate - whichever is higher.

  • Mortgage insurance protects lenders if you can't pay your mortgage.

  • You can usually borrow up to 80% of your home's value with a Home Equity Line of Credit (HELOC).

Need a Deeper Breakdown?

Read the full research guide this FAQ was derived from for more context and strategy.

Technical Research Verification

Our systems synchronized 4 data points and regulatory frameworks to verify this technical brief.

Read the deeper guide · Financing

Co-Signer vs. Guarantor in Canada: 2026 Mortgage Risk & Eligibility Guide

Related Questions

What's the difference between a co-signer and a guarantor?

A co-signer is on title and equally liable from day one; a guarantor stays off title and is only pursued after the primary borrower defaults.

How do lenders assess the creditworthiness of co-signers and guarantors?

Lenders thoroughly evaluate the financial stability of co-signers and guarantors to mitigate mortgage default risks.

Income Verification Standards: Renewal Hill Adherence

Self-employed borrowers have multiple paths to prove income:.

Debt Serviceability Metrics and Qualifying Rates: Strategic Bridges for Approval

GDS/TDS calculations for self-employed borrowers adjust income differently:.

Analyze Your Scenario

Calculator

Mortgage Payment Calculator

$2,147/mo
PrincipalInterest
Open Calculator

Today’s Lowest Mortgage Rates

5-Year Fixed
Lender 1
4.14%
3-Year Fixed
Lender 1
3.94%
5-Year Variable
Lender 1
3.49%
Prime Rate
Bank of Canada
4.45%

Here's a breakdown of the key ratios and rates:

MetricDescription
Gross Debt Service (GDS)Percentage of gross monthly income for housing costs (mortgage, property taxes, heating).
Total Debt Service (TDS)Includes all debt obligations (car loans, credit card payments) in addition to housing costs.
Qualifying RateRate used to stress test borrowers; the greater of the contractual rate + buffer or a minimum floor rate.