If you're a first-time homebuyer, many aspects of the purchase process can be confusing and stressful, including financing. While the mechanics of a mortgage are relatively simple, choosing the right mortgage product can be far from it, as many of the choices available to buyers are obscured by complex and unfamiliar terminology.

To help you cut through the jargon, here's an alphabetical list of common mortgage terms and their definitions:

Understanding different mortgage options

Fixed versus variable; closed versus open; payment frequency: When it comes to picking a mortgage, do you know what's best for you?

BMO mortgage specialist Laura Parsons offers her insights.

Fixed versus variable interest rate

A variable rate will fluctuate with prime – meaning you could end up paying more interest if prime changes. A fixed rate will not fluctuate.

Borrowing under three per cent has benefits*

Now may be a better time than ever to refinance your home.

With five-year fixed rates as low as 2.59 per cent and variable rates at 2.15 per cent, anyone with a current mortgage rate over three per cent could potentially benefit from a refinance, and should be having a conversation with a mortgage professional.