Calculate how extra mortgage payments can save you thousands in interest and reduce your amortization period. This Canadian mortgage prepayment calculator shows the power of additional principal payments on your home loan.
Mortgage Prepayment Strategies in Canada
Making extra mortgage payments is one of the most effective ways to build wealth and achieve mortgage freedom faster. Even small additional payments can save tens of thousands in interest.
Types of Mortgage Prepayments
- Extra Monthly Payments: Add fixed amount to each payment
- Lump Sum Payments: Annual prepayment (usually 10-20% allowed)
- Increased Payment Frequency: Switch from monthly to bi-weekly
- Payment Increases: Boost payments by 10-20% annually
Canadian Mortgage Prepayment Rules
Closed Mortgages: Most allow 10-20% annual lump sum prepayment without penalty
Open Mortgages: Unlimited prepayments but higher interest rates
Payment Increases: Many lenders allow 10-20% payment increases annually
Double-up Payments: Some mortgages allow doubling any scheduled payment
Bi-weekly Payment Strategy
Switching to bi-weekly payments (half your monthly payment every two weeks) results in 26 payments per year instead of 24 - equivalent to one extra monthly payment annually. This simple change can:
- Reduce a 25-year mortgage to approximately 21-22 years
- Save $50,000+ in interest on a typical $500,000 mortgage
- Require no extra money - just payment timing changes
Prepayment vs. Investing
Consider mortgage prepayment vs. investing based on:
- Mortgage Rate vs. Investment Returns: If investments earn more than your mortgage rate, investing may be better
- Tax Considerations: Mortgage payments aren't tax-deductible, but RRSP contributions are
- Risk Tolerance: Mortgage prepayment provides guaranteed "return" equal to your interest rate
- Liquidity Needs: Investments are more liquid than home equity
When to Prioritize Mortgage Prepayment
- High mortgage interest rate (over 5%)
- Low risk tolerance
- Already maximizing RRSP and TFSA contributions
- Approaching retirement and want guaranteed debt reduction
- Peace of mind from being mortgage-free