Open or closed mortgage

An open mortgage offers you a bit more flexibility. It allows you to pay off your mortgage balance at any time without incurring prepayment charges, giving you the freedom to make changes to your mortgage terms, or even refinance without penalties. With terms typically ranging from six months to five years, open mortgages offer a short and flexible repayment schedule, catering to those who value adaptability in their financial plans.

Payment flexibility

Open mortgages let you pay your mortgage whenever you’re ready, with no extra charges.

Term flexibility

With an open mortgage, you have the option to convert to any other term at any time without facing prepayment charges.

Refinancing advantages

Refinancing can be cheaper because you don’t have to worry about extra fees like you would with closed mortgages

Things to know

✔ Generally, open mortgages have higher interest rates because of the added flexibility you get in return.

A closed mortgage is like having a reliable map for your mortgage journey. Your terms are set from the start and stay unchanged until the end of the agreed-upon period. If you want to change or break a closed mortgage, you’ll most likely have to pay a penalty fee.

Lower interest rates

Typically, closed mortgages have lower interest rates compared to open mortgages.

Protection from interest rate increases

In times of rising interest rates, closed mortgages protect you from sudden payment hikes as your interest rate is locked in for the full term.

Prepayment options

Some lenders will offer yearly prepayment and lump-sum payment options.

Things to know

✔ If you break your fixed-rate mortgage contract, you’ll most likely be charged a penalty fee. This fee varies by financial institution.

✔ Closed mortgage terms can range anywhere from six months to five years at Conexus.

When deciding if you should choose an open or closed mortgage, ask yourself these questions:

1. Are you expecting a large amount of money, like an inheritance or bonus from work, that you might want to use to pay down your mortgage faster?

2. Do you plan on moving or selling your home before your mortgage term ends?

3. Are you comfortable having a higher interest rate in exchange for added flexibility?

If you found yourself answering yes to any of these questions, an open mortgage may be the right choice for you, as it provides the adaptability you need without the worry of penalty fees. However, for personalized guidance tailored to your unique mortgage needs, it’s always recommended to consult with one of our Mobile Mortgage Specialists or Financial Advisors.