Which factor is NOT considered part of the Ability-to-Repay rule?

The Ability-to-Repay (ATR) rule is designed to ensure that borrowers have the capacity to repay their mortgages without the risk of default. This rule incorporates several critical factors to assess a borrower's financial situation. Income and assets, employment status, and credit score are all essential components that lenders evaluate to determine a borrower's ability to meet their loan obligations.

The correct choice highlights that a borrower's age is not a factor in the Ability-to-Repay rule. While age itself might influence a borrower’s long-term financial stability or retirement planning, it does not directly determine their capacity to repay a mortgage loan. The ATR rule focuses on tangible financial elements that are more indicative of a borrower’s current financial health and repayment capability, which is why factors like income, assets, employment status, and credit history are prioritized, rather than demographic characteristics like age.