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

FAQ Library
Renewal•By Ratellow Research Team•Verified 2026-09-01•How we research

What are the new OSFI portfolio limits and how do they affect me?

Key Points

  • Portfolio Averaging Requirements OSFI expects lenders' average amortization periods to be below their stated maximums

  • Non-Conforming Loan Limits Non-conforming loans have max LTV of 80%, not 65%

  • Dynamic LTV Frameworks Lenders must regularly monitor and update their LTV limits based on market conditions and risk factors

Need a Deeper Breakdown?

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

Primary sources

Primary sources cited by the Ratellow Research Team. Editorial standards · Correction policy

Read the deeper guide · Renewal

2026 Canadian Mortgage Renewal Guide: 120–180 Day Rate Strategy & OSFI Rules Explained

Related Questions

How does the stress test affect my 2026 renewal options?

Same-lender renewals and uninsured straight switches (OSFI, November 21, 2024) are exempt from the prescribed MQR. A refinance, an insured switch, or any increase in loan amount still requires the stress test — greater of 5.25% or contract + 2%.

What's the difference between insured and uninsured mortgage renewals?

Insured mortgages face stricter CMHC/Sagen constraints while uninsured mortgages enjoy flexible OSFI-only guidelines.

Should I consider switching lenders or negotiate with my current lender?

Your switching decision hinges on rate differential versus requalification risk, with break-even analysis determining optimal strategy.

When should I start my mortgage renewal process?

Start your renewal process 120-180 days before your current term expires to maximize your strategic options.

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OSFI's Guideline B-20 sets maximum (/glossary/loan-to-value) ratios and amortization expectations that may limit your renewal options depending on your lender's portfolio composition.

  • Lenders must maintain average amortization periods below their stated maximums across their entire portfolio
  • Maximum LTV ratios vary by loan type: conventional mortgages, non-conforming loans (80% max), and HELOCs (80% max, with 65% max on the revolving credit portion)
  • Lenders must regularly review and update their LTV frameworks based on market conditions

Your lender may be more restrictive on amortization extensions if their portfolio average is approaching limits. Non-conforming borrowers face stricter 80% LTV limits, and HELOCs are generally limited to 65% LTV on the credit line portion, but combined mortgage and HELOC LTV can be up to 80%.

Understand your current (/glossary/loan-to-value) ratio and how it affects your renewal options. If you have a HELOC combined with your mortgage, be aware of the 65% LTV limit on the credit line portion, but the total combined mortgage and HELOC LTV can be up to 80%.

HELOC LTV Restrictions HELOC portion limited to 65% LTV, but total combined mortgage and HELOC LTV can be up to 80%