MORTGAGES: Canadians 'prudent' on borrowing

Despite concerns about a housing bubble and high levels of household debt, a survey commissioned by the country's mortgage brokers suggests Canadians are showing prudence when borrowing for a home.

The survey, released Thursday by the Canadian Association of Accredited Mortgage Professionals, indicated the vast majority of home buyers, at 86 per cent, were opting for fixed-rate mortgages over variable products. And 70 per cent of people surveyed opted for terms of at least five years or more -- a signal that buyers realize interest rates are headed upward and want to capitalize on the record-low borrowing costs for as long as possible.

"This new research shows that Canadians are assessing their abilities and vulnerabilities," said Jim Murphy, CAAMP's president and chief executive. "They are being prudent and the vast majority of Canadian mortgage borrowers are not taking on undue risks. They have factored rising interest rates in to their mortgage decisions."

The results emerge after senior officials at the Bank of Canada said that it was "premature" to talk about a housing bubble in the country. Still, the central bank has warned about rising household debt levels and consumers' ability to finance that debt once interest rates begin their climb back upward.

In an updated economic forecast released Thursday, CIBC World Markets indicated the red-hot housing market is set to cool down this year as listings increase and buyers back off once mortgage rates begin to climb.

(prepared by Paul Vieira/Financial Post/Province)