Put Your Money First — Mortgage & Financial Guidance That Actually Works for You
Helping Canadians buy homes, refinance smarter, and build real wealth — with mortgage solutions tailored to your life.
No obligation. No pressure. Just clarity on your next best financial move.
Today’s Mortgage Rates
Rates are updated regularly based on Bank of Canada decisions and bond market movements. As of May 2026, the Bank of Canada's overnight rate sits at 2.25% — and the prime rate at Canada's major banks is 4.45%.
The right rate for you depends on your situation, not just the number. Book a call and we'll find what actually fits.
5-YEAR FIXED
~4.49% – 4.79%
INTEREST RATE
~4.55% – 4.85%
APR
3-YEAR FIXED
~4.29% – 4.59%
INTEREST RATE
~4.35% – 4.65%
APR
5-YEAR ARM
~4.00% – 4.45%
INTEREST RATE
~4.10% – 4.55%
APR
1-YEAR FIXED
~5.09% – 5.39%
INTEREST RATE
~5.15% – 5.45%
APR
Rates shown are for informational purposes and subject to change without notice. Actual rates depend on your credit score, down payment, property type, and lender. Contact Mark for a personalized rate quote.
Not Sure Where to Start? Let's Figure It Out Together.
Whether you're buying your first home, renewing a mortgage, planning for retirement, or just trying to make sense of today's rate environment — a quick conversation can save you thousands. Mark works with individuals and families across Canada to match the right product to the right moment in your financial life.
How to Get Approved for a Mortgage in Canada
Getting approved in 2026 means understanding four key pillars lenders look at. Here's what matters — and how to put yourself in the best position before you apply.
Down Payment
You need a minimum 5% down on homes under $500,000, and 5% on the first $500K plus 10% on anything above for homes up to $999,999. Putting down 20% or more means no mortgage default insurance (CMHC) — which can save you thousands. First-time buyers can now withdraw up to $60,000 from their RRSP tax-free through the Home Buyers' Plan (HBP). Couples can access over $120,000 combined.
Credit Score
A score of 680 or higher gets you access to the best rates. Scores between 600–679 may still qualify with mortgage default insurance. Not sure where yours stands? We'll review it together during your free consultation — and if it needs work, we'll give you a simple plan to improve it before you apply.
Employment History
Lenders want to see at least 2 years of stable employment or self-employment income. Full-time employees typically qualify more easily, but self-employed Canadians have options too — including stated income and alternative lenders. If your income situation is non-traditional, that's exactly where working with a broker (not just a bank) makes a real difference.
Dept-to-Income Ratio
Lenders use two ratios to assess affordability: your Gross Debt Service (GDS) ratio and Total Debt Service (TDS) ratio. In simple terms, your total housing costs should stay under 39% of your gross income, and all debt payments under 44%. We help you understand exactly where you stand — and structure your application to show your best picture.
Why Canadians Choose
PutYourMoney1ST
Mark Wong is both a licensed mortgage agent through 8Twelve Mortgage which means you get mortgage strategy and advice from one trusted source. No bouncing between advisors. No conflicting recommendations. Just one person who looks at your full financial picture and tells you exactly what to do next.
With access to dozens of lenders and a straightforward approach to financial planning, Put Your Money First exists for one reason: to help you stop leaving money on the table.
With financing up to 100% you could:
Access mortgage options from over 30 lenders — not just your bank
Refinance to lower your rate, consolidate debt, or unlock home equity
Use your RRSP or FHSA strategically to maximize your down payment
Get a free pre-approval that protects your rate for up to 120 days
What Clients Are Saying
Real Canadians. Real results. Here's what working with Put Your Money First has meant for families and individuals across the GTA and beyond.
I had no idea where to start with mortgages. Mark sat down with me, explained everything without the jargon, and found me a rate I didn't think was possible on my income. I'm in my first home now and couldn't be happier.
Sarah T., Mississauga
First-Time Homeowner
We were overpaying on our mortgage for years and didn't even know it. Mark reviewed our situation in one call and helped us save over $400 a month. He also set up a proper investment plan for us. Game-changer.
David & Christine L., Toronto
Refinance Client
Our Team
