What distinguishes an open mortgage from a closed mortgage?

An open mortgage is characterized by its flexibility in terms of payment. It allows borrowers to make extra payments toward the principal balance or pay off the mortgage in full at any time without incurring a prepayment penalty. This feature is particularly advantageous for those who may come into additional funds and wish to reduce their overall interest costs or wish to pay off their mortgage sooner than the original term.

In contrast, closed mortgages typically restrict the borrower's ability to make early repayments or pay off the loan before the end of the term without facing penalties. This can result in less financial flexibility for the borrower. The other answer choices, while they suggest various characteristics of mortgages, do not accurately define the primary distinction between open and closed mortgages. For example, the ability to refinance is not inherently linked to whether a mortgage is open or closed, and lower rates can be found across both types, depending on market conditions and lender offerings.