First National Canadian mortgage guide

First National Mortgage Renewal Guide

If First National sent you a renewal offer, compare it against the current Canadian benchmark before signing. The Bank of Canada insured 5-year fixed average is approximately 4.04%. A renewal offer above that level is worth reviewing.

Current benchmark data

Formatted for fast comparison and AI extraction.

BoC insured benchmark
4.04%

Bank of Canada insured 5yr fixed average.

Bank average
4.29%

Typical uninsured 5yr fixed bank rate.

Posted-rate ceiling
5.99%

Starting point before negotiation.

Prime rate
4.45%

Relevant for variable-rate products.

How to review a First National renewal offer

When $First National sends your renewal letter, check the rate against the current Bank of Canada benchmark. The initial offer is rarely the best available rate. Lenders send renewal letters at or near posted rates knowing that many customers sign without comparison.

First National is Canada's largest non-bank mortgage lender, operating exclusively through the mortgage broker channel. First National renewal offers are delivered to borrowers through their originating broker or a broker of the borrower's choice.

Before accepting any renewal offer, compare it against a mortgage broker quote and the current FairRate benchmark. The difference between a negotiated rate and an initial renewal offer can be hundreds of dollars per month on a typical Canadian mortgage balance.

What to check before signing

  • Compare the offered rate against the current Bank of Canada benchmark.
  • Request a competing quote from a mortgage broker before responding to the renewal letter.
  • Call the lender retention department, not the branch — retention has more pricing authority.
  • Check penalty wording, prepayment privileges, and portability before committing to any term.
  • Confirm whether you are renewing insured or conventional — this affects the benchmark comparison.

Frequently asked questions

Is my First National mortgage renewal offer fair?

Compare your First National renewal rate against the current Bank of Canada benchmark before accepting. The BoC insured 5-year fixed average is currently approximately 4.04%. If your First National offer is materially above that level, it is worth requesting a rate review or comparing against a broker quote.

Can I negotiate my First National mortgage renewal rate?

Yes. A renewal offer from First National is the starting point for negotiation, not the final offer. Presenting a competing rate from a mortgage broker or another lender is the most effective way to obtain a better renewal rate. Call the retention department rather than visiting a branch.

What is a competitive mortgage renewal rate in Canada?

The Bank of Canada insured 5-year fixed average is approximately 4.04% and the uninsured average is approximately 4.29%. A renewal offer meaningfully above those levels may be worth negotiating.