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Overview of the Best Bad Credit Mortgages in Nova Scotia
As you navigate the challenging waters of securing a mortgage with bad credit in Nova Scotia, it’s important to understand that you’re not alone.
Many Nova Scotians are in similar situations, facing the daunting task of acquiring a home loan with less-than-ideal credit scores.
This article is designed specifically for you to provide clarity and guidance on securing a mortgage despite having bad credit.
Remember, having bad credit doesn’t mean your dream of home ownership is out of reach; it simply means you need to explore different options and strategies tailored to your unique financial situation.
Best Bad Credit Mortgages In Nova Scotia
Best bad credit mortgages from top alternative lenders offering mortgages in Nova Scotia. Rates are updated daily. Select a mortgage to view more details.
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Nova Scotia stands out as one of Canada’s most livable places, notable for its compact size yet high population density, housing over a million residents.
The province boasts pristine natural resources, including clear waters, lush forests, fertile farmlands, and a burgeoning urban business scene. With a relatively low cost of living, Nova Scotia presents excellent opportunities for those looking to buy a home on a modest income. Here, average home prices are around $266,000—significantly lower than in provinces like Alberta and Manitoba.
Nova Scotia’s economy is vibrant, with a growing tech sector and leading positions in Christmas tree, lobster, and wild berry exports, creating diverse employment opportunities in trade, fishing, and tourism.
Brief Facts About Living In Nova Scotia
Canada's Ocean Playground
Median House Price
$374,900
Average Mortgage
$255,280
Population
1,007,049
Median Household Income
$53,000
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In mortgage lending, ‘bad credit’ typically refers to a credit score that falls below the standard requirements set by traditional lenders.
In Canada, credit scores range from 300 to 900, with scores below 600 often considered in the bad credit range.
If you fall into this category, it’s crucial to understand that this may limit your options with conventional lenders.
However, it doesn’t completely close the door on your homeownership aspirations.
Bad Credit Mortgages in Nova Scotia: Explained Simply
Bad credit mortgages are loans for people with low credit scores who want to buy a home or refinance an existing mortgage.
While bad credit mortgages can lead to homeownership, they often come with higher interest rates and may require a larger down payment.
Key Differences Between Bad Credit and Standard Mortgages in Nova Scotia
Bad credit mortgages differ from standard mortgages in several ways. Understanding these differences is important to determining what type of mortgage you can afford and what terms you should anticipate.
Feature
Bad Credit Mortgages
Standard Mortgages
Interest Rates
Higher due to perceived risk, increasing overall mortgage cost.
Lower for borrowers with good credit, reflecting lower risk.
Down Payment
Larger required down payment (e.g., 10-20%).
Smaller down payment, typically around 5%.
Amortization Period
Extended periods over 25 years to manage higher interest costs.
Up to 25 years, extendable to 30 years with 20% or more down.
Lender Options
Limited choices and bargaining power.
Wider range of lenders, improving chances for better rates.
Approval Difficulty
Difficult. Requires thorough underwriter review.
Easier approval process, mostly automated for those with good credit histories.
How to Improve Your Chances of Getting a Bad Credit Mortgage in Nova Scotia
Prove Your Income: Show the lender you have enough income to make the mortgage payments. Provide pay stubs, tax returns, or (if you’re self-employed) bank statements.
Lower Your Debts: Pay off some of your debt before you apply. This will lower your debt-service ratios and make you a more attractive borrower.
Save a Big Down Payment: The more money you can put down, the less risky your loan is for the lender.
Show Stable Employment: If you’ve been at your job for a long time, that will help your application. Lenders want to see that you have a steady income.
Work With a Lender You Know: If you have a bank or credit union account, apply for your mortgage there first.
Consider a Co-Signer: If you can find someone with good credit willing to co-sign your loan, getting approved can be much easier.
Evaluating Bad Credit Mortgage Options: Tips for Nova Scotia Borrowers
When you have bad credit, shopping around for a mortgage is even more critical.
Don’t just settle for the first lender who says yes.
Different lenders have different rates, terms, and fees.
Evaluating Interest Rates: Since bad credit is more likely to result in higher interest rates, comparing rates from various lenders is still crucial. However, remember that a lower rate might be offset by less favourable terms in other aspects of the mortgage.
Assessing Fees and Additional Costs: Beyond interest rates, consider all related fees and costs of each mortgage offer, including origination fees, closing costs, and penalties for late payments or early repayment. These fees significantly impact the overall expense of the mortgage.
Terms and Flexibility: Pay close attention to the mortgage terms, such as the duration of the loan and repayment options. Some lenders offer greater flexibility, like penalty-free early repayments, which can be advantageous if you anticipate improving your financial situation and refinancing.
Additional Support and Advice: Some lenders offer extra services like credit counselling, financial planning, or mortgage management tools. These resources can be crucial for improving your financial health over time, especially if you have a bad credit history.
Conclusion: Navigating Mortgage Challenges with Bad Credit
Getting a mortgage with bad credit in Nova Scotia won’t be easy.
But with careful planning, you can improve your chances.
Focus on improving your credit score, saving a down payment, and finding a lender who is willing to work with you.
Don’t give up!
Even if you don’t qualify for a mortgage right away, you can make changes to improve your financial situation.
With time and effort, you can achieve your dream of buying a home in Nova Scotia.
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