Leah Zlatkin quoted in The Financial Post: “Amid a wave of mortgage renewals, borrowers will have leverage in 2026”

https://financialpost.com/real-estate/mortgages/amid-mortgage-renewals-borrowers-leverage-2026

COO of Mortgage Outlet, Leah Zlatkin says many homeowners who secured mortgages during the pandemic — often at rates between 1% and 2% — are now approaching renewal over the next six to seven months, and will inevitably face higher borrowing costs.

She stressed that borrowers should not treat renewal offers as automatic, noting that lenders are eager to retain existing clients and are often willing to provide competitive pricing. “This is the time to assess what your lender is offering and understand your options,” Leah said.

According to Leah, current renewal rates are generally landing in the high-3% to low-4% range, depending on borrower profiles and term selection.

She also cautioned against delaying decisions in anticipation of further rate cuts, explaining that variable rates are unlikely to fall further. “We’re likely at the bottom of the rate cycle,” Leah said, adding that rates are expected to remain stable or trend upward, making proactive planning essential.