The Bank of Canada has reduced the interest rate to 3%. This means the Bank of Canada’s rate is now 3%. However, the Bank of Canada only lends to banks, not to individuals. Therefore, there is the Commercial Bank Prime Rate, and banks set their rates based on the Bank of Canada’s rate. As a result, the Commercial Bank Prime Rate is now 5.2%. The Home Equity Line of Credit (HELOC) rate ranges between 5.2% and 5.7%. If you are paying more than 5.7%, you can negotiate with your bank to lower the rate.

Variable rates are available at a discount of 0.65% to 1.15% from the Bank Prime Rate. These rates range from 4.05% to 4.55%. The advantage of variable rates is that the penalty is only 3 months’ interest.

Fixed rates have also decreased. The 5-year fixed rate is between 3.99% and 4.24%, while the 3-year fixed rate is between 4.04% and 4.19%. These rates are available for renewals, transfers, and refinancing.

So, go to the market, negotiate the rates, and try to lower them. If you have received a renewal notice, you can reduce the rates. Negotiate with your bank, try to lower the rates, and if necessary, even threaten to leave the bank. This is important to do.