CanadianCalc Blog

Housing

Is it worth breaking a fixed-rate mortgage in 2026?

A lower rate doesn’t automatically mean you should break your mortgage. Here’s the break-even math that decides it — and the situations where staying put wins.

5 min read · September 24, 2026

Taxes

Ontario Freelancers: How to calculate your CPP contributions under new rules

Self-employed Canadians pay both halves of CPP — 11.9% plus the newer 8% second tier. Here’s how the 2026 ceilings work, with worked examples at four income levels.

6 min read · September 24, 2026

Buying Strategies

Hidden closing costs every first-time Canadian homebuyer forgets

The down payment is only the start. From double land transfer tax in Toronto to title insurance and adjustments, here’s the 1.5–4% of the price most buyers don’t budget for.

5 min read · September 24, 2026

Mortgages

Mortgage Penalties in Canada: IRD vs Three Months’ Interest, Explained

How Canadian lenders calculate mortgage penalties: IRD vs three months’ interest, variable-rate penalties, and how to reduce what you pay.

7 min read · September 24, 2026

Taxes

Freelancer Taxes in Ontario (2026): What You’ll Actually Owe

2026 federal and Ontario brackets, self-employed CPP, quarterly instalments, incorporating vs sole proprietor, and how much to set aside each month.

8 min read · September 24, 2026

Housing

Renting vs Buying in Toronto: The Real Math

The 5% rule, opportunity cost of your down payment, CMHC insurance, double land transfer tax, and when buying actually wins.

8 min read · September 24, 2026

Closing costs

Ontario Land Transfer Tax: 2026 Guide + First-Time Buyer Rebates

Every provincial bracket, Toronto’s additional municipal tax, first-time buyer rebates, and a worked $800,000 example.