Additionally, more than two-thirds (69 per cent) of first-time homebuyers used an online calculator to compare different options when shopping for a home. As a result, 85 per cent of first-time homebuyers noted they had a good understanding of the size of mortgage they could afford before buying a home, with the average Canadian homebuyer taking 12 months to plan their purchase.

"Canadians confirmed that they take the time to do research prior to buying a home," said Pierre Serré, CMHC Vice-President, Insurance Product and Business Development. "Informed homebuyers contribute to the continued strength of Canada's housing system."

The survey noted that 81 per cent of recent homebuyers indicate that they are comfortable with the level of their current mortgage debt.

More than two-thirds (68 per cent)of recent homebuyers feel there is a strong chance they will pay off their mortgage sooner than required and more than a quarter (27 per cent) have already taken steps to pay down their mortgage through lump-sum payments or through increased regular payments.

The on-line survey, which polled more than 2,500 active mortgage users, asked participants a series of questions designed to gauge the attitudes and sentiments of recent mortgage consumers in Canada. The survey has been conducted since 1999.

As Canada's national housing agency, CMHC draws on more than 60 years of experience to help Canadians access a variety of high quality, environmentally sustainable, and affordable homes - homes that will continue to create vibrant and healthy communities and cities across the country.