Will you pass the mortgage stress test?
Lenders qualify you at the higher of your rate plus 2% or 5.25% — then check your debt ratios. See where a specific mortgage lands before you apply.
GDS must be ≤ 39% and TDS ≤ 44%. Half of condo fees count toward housing costs, per lender convention.
GDS (Gross Debt Service) is your housing costs — qualifying mortgage payment, property tax, heat and half of condo fees — as a share of gross income. TDS (Total Debt Service) adds your other debt payments. Federally regulated lenders cap these at 39% and 44%. If you're over, a longer amortization, more down, or clearing a debt can bring you back onside.
Ratios are one lender's view, not all.
Limits, income treatment and overlays vary by lender. A licensed mortgage professional knows which lenders fit your file and how to structure it to qualify.
- Matches your file to the right lender
- Structures it to pass
Illustrative estimate using the federal qualifying rate (higher of contract rate + 2% or 5.25%) and standard GDS/TDS limits (39%/44%) with 50% of condo fees. Lenders apply their own income verification, debt treatment and overlays, and uninsured/insured rules differ. Confirm with a licensed mortgage professional. Not an offer of credit.