Free Credit Report from Equifax Canada
Before you get pre-approved for a mortgage or start touring GTA homes, know exactly where your credit stands. Your Equifax consumer credit report shows your full credit history and helps you secure the best possible mortgage rate—often saving you tens of thousands of dollars.
You will be redirected to Equifax.ca, one of Canada's two national credit bureaus, in a new tab. Requesting your own report is a soft inquiry and does not affect your credit score.
Why your credit report matters when buying a home
In Canada, mortgage lenders pull your credit report and score to decide whether to approve your mortgage and what interest rate to offer. A stronger credit profile means better rates, higher borrowing power, and a smoother pre-approval—so checking it early is one of the smartest first steps a GTA home buyer can take.
Better mortgage rates
A higher credit score typically unlocks lower interest rates, reducing your monthly payment and total interest over the life of the mortgage.
Faster pre-approval
Knowing your report in advance lets you fix errors and pay down balances before a lender pulls your credit for pre-approval.
More buying power
A clean credit profile can increase how much you qualify for, expanding the GTA homes within your budget.
Credit report FAQ for home buyers
How do I get a free credit report in Canada?
You can request a free consumer credit report directly from Equifax Canada, one of the two national credit bureaus. It shows your credit history, open accounts, payment history, and credit inquiries. Reviewing it before you apply for a mortgage helps you catch errors and understand where you stand.
Does checking my own credit report hurt my credit score?
No. Requesting your own Equifax credit report is a “soft inquiry” and does not affect your credit score. Only “hard inquiries” from lenders when you apply for credit can have a small, temporary impact.
Why does my credit score matter when buying a home?
Mortgage lenders use your credit score to decide whether to approve your mortgage and what interest rate to offer. In Canada, a higher score generally unlocks better rates, which can save you tens of thousands of dollars over the life of your mortgage. Most lenders look for a score of 680 or higher for the best conventional rates.
What credit score do I need to buy a house in the GTA?
There is no single required number, but many lenders prefer a score of 680+ for competitive mortgage rates. Buyers with lower scores may still qualify, sometimes with a larger down payment or a higher rate. Checking your Equifax report early gives you time to improve your score before you shop for a home.
How long before buying should I check my credit?
Ideally three to six months before you plan to buy. That gives you time to correct any errors, pay down balances, and let positive changes reflect on your report before a lender pulls it for pre-approval.