Area of Law: Criminal Records | Pardons & USA Waivers
Answer # 2127
Can a criminal record prevent someone from obtaining a mortgage?
Region: Ontario Answer # 2127A criminal record can prevent someone from obtaining a mortgage. Many mortgage applications enquire about the applicant’s criminal past and require consents for local police records checks to be conducted. Even in cases where the spouse of the mortgagor is discovered to have a criminal record, the mortgage may be denied, regardless of whether the spouse is named or not on either the title of the home or the mortgage application.
Banks don’t want to take unnecessary risks. If a criminal record exists, the lenders may be concerned about the repayment of the mortgage or the preservation of the property.
A criminal record will affect your ability to get a mortgage. If you wish to apply for a mortgage, it is best to have your criminal record removed before you make an application.
For more information on mortgages, and buying and selling a home, refer to our Real Estate law section.
Get help
To erase your criminal record, call toll-free 1-888-808-3628 or learn more at Pardon Partners. It’s easier than you think.
If you have been charged with a criminal offence, refer to our criminal law section.
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