Nova Scotia mortgage hub — 2026-05-26

Nova Scotia Mortgage Rates 2026: Rates, Land Transfer Tax & Stress Test

5-year fixed broker floor: 4.04% · Variable broker floor: 3.60% · Qualifying income for median Nova Scotia home (~$350K): approximately $92,425/yr.

Paid report options after the free check: Rate Fairness Report CA$24 · Full Renewal Decision Report CA$49. No broker calls. No data sold.

Current Nova Scotia benchmark mortgage rates

Canadian mortgage rates are set nationally — the benchmark is the same in Nova Scotia as across Canada. The table below shows current estimated benchmark rates for all terms, based on Bank of Canada data. Rates assume excellent credit (750+ score) and represent the best available pricing tier.

Nova Scotia benchmark mortgage rates — all terms, excellent credit

TermFixed broker floorFixed bank avgVariable broker floor
1-Year4.54%4.79%3.60%
2-Year4.34%4.59%3.60%
3-Year4.19%4.44%3.60%
4-Year4.09%4.34%3.60%
5-Year4.04%4.29%3.60%
7-Year4.24%4.49%3.60%
10-Year4.49%4.74%3.60%

Nova Scotia: land transfer tax

Nova Scotia municipalities levy a Deed Transfer Tax (DTT) on real estate transactions.

Halifax Regional Municipality charges 1.5%. Other municipalities range from 0.5% to 1.5%. Confirm the rate with your municipality before closing.

Nova Scotia land transfer tax brackets

Value thresholdTax rate / fee
Above prior bracket1.0%–1.5% depending on municipality

Stress test: qualifying for a Nova Scotia home

For the Nova Scotia median purchase price of approximately $350,000 with 10% down ($35,000):

Mortgage amount: $315,000 · Stress test qualifying rate: 6.04% · Monthly P&I at qualifying rate: $2,023/month · Annual PITH: ~$29,576 · Required gross income (32% GDS): approximately $92,425/year.

Nova Scotia borrowers qualify at the federal stress test rate. Halifax has experienced significant price appreciation in recent years, pushing more buyers toward insured mortgage thresholds.

Nova Scotia: regulatory environment

Mortgage brokers and lenders in Nova Scotia are regulated by the Nova Scotia Utility and Review Board. Borrowers in Nova Scotia can access the full range of federally regulated banks, provincially regulated credit unions, and monoline lenders through the broker channel.

Major cities in Nova Scotia: Halifax, Sydney, Truro, New Glasgow.

CMHC mortgage insurance applies in Nova Scotia for eligible purchases under $1,500,000 with less than 20% down (as of December 2024).

Browse Nova Scotia mortgage rates by scenario

Select your term, rate type, credit tier, and intent to see a detailed rate page for your exact borrower scenario in Nova Scotia.

Nova Scotia renewal shock: 2021–2023 mortgages renewing now

Many Nova Scotia borrowers are renewing mortgages locked in at historically low rates between 2019 and 2023. If you locked in during this period, your renewal represents a significant payment change.

Select your original term and year to see your specific renewal shock analysis:

Frequently asked questions

What is the current mortgage rate in Nova Scotia?

The current 5-year fixed mortgage broker floor in Nova Scotia is approximately 4.04% and the bank average is 4.29%. Variable rate broker floor is approximately 3.60%. These are national benchmark rates that apply equally in all provinces.

What is the land transfer tax in Nova Scotia?

Nova Scotia municipalities levy a Deed Transfer Tax (DTT) on real estate transactions. Halifax Regional Municipality charges 1.5%. Other municipalities range from 0.5% to 1.5%. Confirm the rate with your municipality before closing.

What income do I need to buy a home in Nova Scotia in 2026?

For a Nova Scotia median home price of approximately $350,000 with 10% down, you need approximately $92,425 in gross annual income under the 2026 stress test at 6.04%. This is an estimate — your lender calculates your exact qualifying income.

Are there first-time buyer programs in Nova Scotia?

Nova Scotia does not offer a provincial LTT rebate for first-time buyers. The federal First Home Savings Account (FHSA) is available to eligible first-time buyers nationally.

Who regulates mortgage brokers in Nova Scotia?

Mortgage brokers in Nova Scotia are regulated by the Nova Scotia Utility and Review Board.