Talk to a mortgage broker before you list. Stress test rules still apply in Canada. You qualify at the contract rate plus 2%, or 5.25% — whichever is higher. If rates have dropped since you last checked, your qualifying power may have improved.

**2026 context:** With the market balanced and inventory high, you may face pressure to make offers subject-free to compete — which makes pre-approval critical. Confirm your pre-approval before you sell, so you know what you can buy next. The last thing you want is to sell in a soft market and find yourself unable to secure financing for your purchase in the same conditions.

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Thinking of selling? Work with Dale Sheppard to sell your home.