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For informational purposes only. Not financial, legal, or professional advice. Consult a licensed mortgage professional before making decisions. See full disclaimer

FAQ Library
Purchasing•Verified 2026-04-14

What are the loan and property value limits for CMHC-insured mortgages?

The maximum insurable property value is $1,500,000 regardless of LTV. For small rental properties, the max insurable loan is $1,000,000 with max 80% LTV.

Key Points

  • For small rental properties, the max insurable value is $1,000,000 with max 80% LTV.

  • CMHC programs can help you buy a home you can afford, especially if you're a first-time buyer or new to Canada.

  • Your property must be in Canada, livable year-round, and accessible in all seasons.

  • Lenders look at location, market trends, and other factors to make sure your home's value is accurate when figuring out your (/glossary/loan-to-value) ratio.

Need a Deeper Breakdown?

Read the full research guide this FAQ was derived from for more context and strategy.

Technical Research Verification

Our systems synchronized 4 data points and regulatory frameworks to verify this technical brief.

Read the deeper guide · Purchasing

CMHC-Insured Mortgage Rate Advantages in Canada (2026): Lower Rates, Smaller Down Payments

Related Questions

How does mortgage insurance enable lower down payments?

Mortgage insurance lowers the risk for lenders, allowing them to offer mortgages to borrowers with down payments between 5% and 20%.

How will lenders evaluate my debt service ratios, and what key factors are considered?

Lenders assess your ability to repay the mortgage by calculating your Gross Debt Service (GDS) and Total Debt Service (TDS) ratios.

What property considerations impact my mortgage application?

Lenders carefully assess the property's value and characteristics, directly influencing the loan amount you can secure.

How does the 'straight switch' exemption benefit you at renewal?

The 'straight switch' exemption lets uninsured mortgage borrowers move their mortgage to a new federally regulated lender (FRFI) at renewal without needing to pass the Minimum Qualifying Rate (MQR) .

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For small rental properties, the max insurable loan is $1,000,000 with max 80% LTV. This ensures responsible lending and promotes sustainable homeownership by setting upper limits on property values.