In Alberta, most mortgage pre-approvals in 2026 last between 90 and 120 days. Some lenders may offer shorter or longer holds, but the standard window is about three to four months before you need to renew or reapply.
What a Mortgage Pre-Approval Actually Guarantees
A pre-approval confirms how much you can borrow based on your income, credit, and debt levels. In most cases, it also includes a rate hold. A rate hold protects you from increases during the pre-approval period, which is why expiry matters. If your pre-approval lapses, the lender runs your numbers again and you may receive a different rate or maximum purchase price.
Why Most Pre-Approvals Expire After 90 to 120 Days
Lenders want to ensure the information used to qualify you is still current. Your income, job status, credit score, and debt load can change quickly. By limiting pre-approval periods to 90 to 120 days, lenders reduce the risk of approving a borrower based on outdated information.
In Alberta, the duration is determined by the lender’s policy rather than provincial legislation. Almost all major Canadian lenders follow the same three-to-four-month window because it aligns with national underwriting standards and CMHC guidelines.
What Happens When Your Pre-Approval Expires
Once the period ends, the pre-approval is no longer valid. The lender will need to update your application. This usually means:
- A new credit pull
- Updated income documents
- Verification of current debts
- Reconfirmation of down payment sources
If interest rates have dropped, you may benefit from a better rate. If rates rise or your financial situation changes, your buying power may decrease.
Can You Extend a Pre-Approval in 2026?
Most lenders do not extend pre-approvals automatically. They simply re-run your application and issue a new one. The process is usually quick if your documents are ready and your finances are stable.
Working with a broker is helpful because they can refresh your pre-approval with multiple lenders to find the strongest rate available at that time.
How Rate Holds Work During Your Pre-Approval
The rate hold is one of the biggest advantages of being pre-approved. If rates climb during your 90 to 120 days, the lender honours the rate you locked in. If they fall, you typically receive the lower rate.
Since the Bank of Canada’s rate decisions are still shifting in 2026, securing a pre-approval protects you during periods of uncertainty.
How To Make the Most of Your Pre-Approval Window
To avoid needing multiple pre-approval renewals:
- Start home shopping soon after you are pre-approved
- Keep your credit stable
- Avoid taking on new debt or changing jobs without speaking to your broker
- Gather documents early to avoid delays
If your home search is expected to take longer, your broker can help you time your pre-approval so the rate hold aligns with when you plan to buy.
Final Tip for Alberta Buyers in 2026
A mortgage pre-approval is one of the strongest tools for protecting yourself from sudden rate changes and keeping your home search focused. Since most last 90 to 120 days, it is best to secure one when you are truly ready to begin shopping. Looking to get into a home in 2026? Contact The Mortgage Centre in Lethbridge today!