In this section, we take a look at the opinions of renewers on the mortgage renewal process and homeownership.
Renewers account for 68% of this year’s respondents. Watch the video below to learn more.
Demographics
- 26% of Renewers are Gen X (35-44).
- 59% are married.
- 65% are employed full-time; 6% are self-employed.
- 71% owned a single-detached home.
- 24% have a household income of $60k – $90k; 17% have a household income over $125k.
Researching mortgage-related information
- Online research is most popular but 1/4 of Renewers conducted research offline only.
- Most use a computer to access online mortgage-related information.
- The top actions conducted online include using an online mortgage calculator and comparing interest rates.
- The primary website used to gather mortgage information is by far lender websites.
- About half indicated they would feel comfortable using more technology to arrange their next mortgage transaction; however, face-to-face interaction is still rated as important.
- On average, Renewers contact 2.1 brokers and 2.5 lenders.
Broker experience
- Broker share remained steady amongst Renewers.
- Most find their broker as a result of the broker’s website or a recommendation.
- The main reason for using a broker is to get the best rate or deal.
- Renewers would have liked more information on interest rates, mortgage or purchase fees and types of mortgages.
- 69% of Renewers were satisfied with their broker.
Lender experience
- Lender loyalty increased slightly amongst Renewers between March 2017 and March 2018.
- When asked how they found their lender, almost half of Renewers indicated that it was their primary lending institution.
- Besides a better interest rate, a top reason for staying with their lender: convenience/saves time and trust in the existing relationship.
- Top reason for switching lenders is: better product terms/conditions, and trust in existing relationship.
- Renewers using a lender would have liked more information on interest rates and types of mortgages.
- 81% were satisfied with their mortgage lender.
Mortgage features and related costs
- Most Renewers obtained a fixed interest rate, a 5-year renewal term and 11 to 20-year amortization period.
- Nearly 1/4 indicated their current level of debt, including their mortgage, is higher than expected.
- Only 68% have a monthly budget.
- Seventy percent are renovating or plan to renovate in the next 5 years.
- 30% did not know their renovation costs could be incorporated into their mortgage.
Confidence and understanding of mortgage process and mortgage management behaviors
- 70% believe the value of their house will increase in the next twelve months.
- 73% felt they were generally comfortable with their current level of mortgage debt.
- 66% indicated that, if they were to run into some financial trouble, they would have other sufficient assets (investments, other property, etc.) which could be used to supplement their needs.
- 80% believe that homeownership is a good long term financial investment.
- 71% felt emotionally attached to their home.