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What each calculator answers

All fifteen tools, the one question each answers, and the rule or data source behind it — so you can pick the right one without opening five.

2 min readUpdated


Every tool states its assumptions on screen and separates what you told it from what it assumed for you. If a figure matters to your decision, check which of the two it is.

Buying

ToolThe question it answers
AffordabilityWhat is the most I can borrow, qualified at the stress-test rate?
Mortgage paymentWhat would the payment be, monthly, bi-weekly and weekly?
Land transfer taxWhat tax is due on closing, including Toronto’s municipal tax?
Closing costs (resale)What cash do I need on closing day beyond the down payment?
Down payment savingsHow long until I have the down payment I am aiming for?

Renting and letting

ToolThe question it answers
Rental affordabilityWhat does this rental actually cost me all in, not just the rent?
Rent vs buyOver how many years does buying come out ahead of renting?
Rent increase guidelineIs the increase my landlord proposed lawful, and was notice sufficient?
Landlord rent strategyWhat do I net in year one after vacancy, incentives and fees?

Selling, investing and new build

ToolThe question it answers
Net proceedsWhat do I walk away with after commission, HST, legal and discharge?
Selling timelineHow long should I expect this to take, phase by phase?
InvestmentWhat is the cash flow, cap rate and cash-on-cash return?
Renewal and refinanceDoes switching lenders beat staying, once the penalty is in?
HST rebate (new build)What HST do I bear after the federal and Ontario rebates?
Pre-construction closing costsWhat cash is due at closing on an assignment or new build?