INVESTMENT PROPERTIES
Investment property mortgages in Alberta
Whether you're purchasing your first rental property or expanding your portfolio, I can help you navigate lender requirements and structure financing that supports your investment goals.
Down payment requirements
Investment properties in Canada require a minimum 20% down payment. Unlike owner-occupied homes, mortgage default insurance is not available for investment purchases — so the full down payment must come from your own resources.
Some lenders may require 25% or more depending on the property type, location, and your overall portfolio. I compare options from multiple lenders to help you find the most competitive terms available.
How lenders view rental income
Lenders typically use a portion of the rental income — often 50% to 80% — when calculating your ability to carry the mortgage. The exact percentage depends on the lender and whether the income is actual or projected.
If you already own rental properties, some lenders will also factor in your existing rental income when assessing your overall debt service ratios. Understanding how each lender calculates this can make a significant difference in your approval and borrowing power.
Financing strategies for investors
- Using equity from your primary residence as a down payment
- Refinancing existing investment properties to fund new purchases
- Structuring mortgages to maximize cash flow on rental units
- Choosing the right term and amortization for each property
- Comparing lenders who specialize in investment lending
Every investor's situation is different. A personalized review can help you understand the best approach for your portfolio.
Refinancing for investors
If you already own investment properties, refinancing can be a powerful tool. By accessing the equity in your current properties, you can fund additional purchases, make improvements, or restructure your mortgage for better cash flow.
Most lenders allow refinancing up to 80% of the appraised value on investment properties. I can help you calculate whether refinancing makes financial sense and compare options across lenders.