In YT, what should I know about rate hold / pre-approval validity for car loans?
In Yukon, car loan pre-approvals and associated rate holds typically offer validity periods ranging from 30 to 90 days, though this is entirely at the discretion of the individual lender. Unlike some mortgage products, there isn't specific provincial legislation in YT dictating these terms; they are driven by the lender's internal policies, risk assessment, and prevailing market conditions across Canada. Given the dynamic nature of interest rates, especially looking towards 2025, lenders may offer shorter holds to mitigate their exposure to potential rate fluctuations. This validity period is crucial for consumers because it provides budget certainty, protecting you from potential interest rate increases while you take time to shop for the right vehicle. Should your rate hold expire, you risk losing the secured rate and may need to re-apply, potentially at a higher rate or under less favourable terms. Therefore, always confirm the precise validity period, any specific conditions, and the exact expiry date directly with your lender or financial institution.