Resources.

Clear answers about refinancing and debt, before you decide.

Six guides in plain language, our videos and our money-saving tips. Every guide cites its sources.

Guides

One question per guide. The short answer first, then the detail, a worked example and the limits.

What does refinancing to consolidate debt really cost?
Penalty, notary, appraisal, lender and broker fees: what a refinance to consolidate debt costs, and how those costs are paid.
Refinancing, a consumer proposal or bankruptcy: what’s the difference?
Three ways out of debt, three different consequences: what refinancing, a consumer proposal and bankruptcy are, and who each one is for.
Can you refinance with bad credit or after your bank said no?
A no from your bank isn’t always the end. A banks, B banks and private lenders: what changes (rate, fees, amount) and what improves your chances.
Self-employed and reporting little income: can you refinance?
You work for yourself and report little income? What lenders ask for, the programs that exist and what they can cost you in return.
How much can I borrow against my home?
The 80% rule made simple: how to work out the equity in your home and how much a refinance can free up, with an example.
Does refinancing hurt my credit score and make my mortgage longer?
The loan application, paying off the cards, a longer amortization: what a refinance really does to your credit score and to the interest you pay.