A property is the starting point. A workable plan matters too.
Private residential mortgages may be considered for a purchase, refinance, or access to existing equity. They are often short-term arrangements and can cost more than conventional financing. A private mortgage should be evaluated alongside any lower-cost options available to you.
What a review considers
The specific lender sets its own requirements. Useful starting information includes:
- Property city, province, type, and use
- Supported property value and existing secured balances
- Purpose and amount of financing
- Payment affordability, documents, and timing
- A realistic repayment or exit plan
First mortgage or second mortgage?
A first mortgage takes the primary mortgage position. A second mortgage sits behind an existing first mortgage and may allow that first loan to remain in place. The right comparison includes the combined cost and total secured debt, not just the new advance.
Look beyond the interest rate
Request an itemized explanation of lender fees, brokerage fees, appraisal, legal and registration costs. Ask which costs are paid separately and which reduce the cash you receive.
Compare the same loan amount, term, payment structure, and exit date. A smaller monthly payment can leave more debt to repay later.
Plan for the end before the beginning
A short term does not remove long-term obligations. Identify how you intend to repay the balance: a supportable refinance, property sale, or another documented source.
Check what happens if that plan is delayed. A renewal, a higher property value, or future bank approval should never be assumed.
Further reading: FSRA’s consumer guide to private mortgages ↗. Provincial requirements differ.
