What is the mortgage stress test rate — and how does it affect Hamilton buyers?
The stress test is the minimum rate lenders must use to check you can afford a mortgage — it applies to Hamilton buyers as it does everywhere in Canada. Here's the current rate and what it means for your borrowing power.
Mortgage Stress Test · OSFI minimum qualifying rate·Updated Jul 2026
5.25%
Reviewed annually
National figure — set Canada-wide, so it applies in Hamilton too.
The minimum interest rate banks must use when testing whether you can afford a mortgage. Set by OSFI, Canada's banking regulator. Borrowers must qualify at this rate or their contract rate plus 2%, whichever is higher.
What this means for Hamilton right now
As of June 2026, Hamilton's strongest market signal is Hold at 71% — Buy 54%, Hold 71%, Sell 41%.
Market conditions strongly favour holding — inventory is balanced and supply and demand are in balance.
What this means for you
If you're buying
You must qualify at this rate (or your contract rate + 2%, whichever is higher), so a higher stress test shrinks the mortgage you qualify for — even if your actual rate is lower.
If you're selling
A tougher stress test means fewer qualified buyers, which can soften demand for higher-priced homes.
Hamilton market context
A diversified steel, healthcare and education hub on Lake Ontario's western tip, spanning the amalgamated communities of the old city, Ancaster, Dundas, Flamborough, Glanbrook and Stoney Creek.
Rental Vacancy · Hamilton CMA (CMHC, annual)
3.6%
Unemployment Rate · Ontario (Statistics Canada)
6.7%
Common questions
Is now a good time to buy in Hamilton?
As of June 2026, Hamilton's strongest market signal is Hold (71%). Market conditions strongly favour holding — inventory is balanced and supply and demand are in balance. Not financial advice.
How is the mortgage stress test calculated?
You must qualify at the OSFI minimum qualifying rate, or your contract rate plus 2 percentage points — whichever is higher.
Does the stress test apply when I renew my mortgage?
Switching lenders at renewal generally requires re-qualifying; staying with your current lender often does not. Check with your lender.
How often does the stress test rate change?
OSFI reviews the minimum qualifying rate annually. This page updates automatically when it changes.
More Hamilton rates & indicators
Data sourced from Bank of Canada, OSFI, Statistics Canada, CMHC. Not financial advice.