Total Debt Service ratio (TDS)

Mortgage stress test

Mortgage qualification calculation at a stressed theoretical rate (contractual + 2% or 5.25%, whichever is higher). Aims to ensure payment capacity under rising rates.

Borrowing capacity

Maximum amount a borrower can obtain from a lender, determined by the stress test, GDS/TDS debt ratios, gross income, and available down payment.

Credit score (Beacon score)

Numerical score between 300 and 900 summarizing borrower risk. Calculated by Equifax (Beacon) and TransUnion. Threshold 680 for standard A, 720+ for best rates.

Mortgage preauthorization documents in Quebec: the full checklist to submit in 24-72h

The exact list of documents to prepare your mortgage preauthorization fast in Quebec: proof of income, CRA NoA, down payment, debts.

6 mistakes to avoid in the 90 days before your mortgage preauthorization

What can drag down your credit score, inflate your ratios, or sink your file right before preauthorization. Steer clear of these 6 traps.

Mortgage borrowing capacity in Quebec: the real lender formula

GDS and TDS: the two ratios that determine how much you can borrow for a mortgage in Quebec. Detailed calculation with a worked example.

Initial mortgage qualification in Quebec: why to do it before house-hunting

Before visiting, validating your eligibility with an AMF broker sharpens the budget and makes your offer credible. Here is the mechanic, without a rate promise.

Understanding the Canadian mortgage stress test in 2026: what changed and how to prepare

The federal stress test forces borrowers to qualify at a rate higher than the contract rate. Here's what it means for your borrowing capacity in 2026.

B lenders vs A lenders: when to go alternative on a mortgage in Quebec

Refused by the big banks? B lenders (MCAP, Equitable, Home Trust) are an option — provided you plan the exit. The rules of the game.