# How does the 'Accessible Year-Round' rule impact the rate?

> Properties without year-round road access (such as those only accessible by boat or seasonal roads) are considered higher risk by lenders. This typically means you'll need a larger down payment and may face higher mortgage rates compared to properties with full year-round access.

Category: Purchasing
Last verified: 2026-04-14
Source: https://ratellow.com/faqs/purchasing/how-does-the-accessible-year-round-rule-impact-the-rate

## Answer
| Attribute | Type A | Type B |
|-----------|--------|--------|
| Access | Year-round Road | Seasonal/Boat |
| Water | Permanent | Seasonal/Lake |
| Min Down | 5% (on first $500,000) or 10% ($500,001-$1,500,000) | 20% minimum (seasonal/boat access) |
| Rate | ~4.45% (current prime) | Prime + 0.5% to 2% (approximate, varies by lender and risk) |

## Institutional highlights
- Type A properties (year-round access) may qualify for minimum down payment rules: 5% on first $500,000, 10% on portion up to $1,500,000.
- Type B properties (seasonal/boat access) require at least 20% down and often have higher rates.
- Lenders may add a rate premium (0.5% to 2%) for properties without year-round access.

## Related guide
- https://ratellow.com/guides/vacation-secondary-property-rules

## Sources
- CMHC-SCHL — https://www.cmhc-schl.gc.ca/professionals/project-funding-and-mortgage-financing/mortgage-loan-insurance/mortgage-loan-insurance-homeownership-programs/home-start