What is the minimum points threshold for MLI Select in 2026?

CMHC requires a minimum of 50 points to qualify for MLI Select financing. Points are earned through affordability commitments (rent controls), energy efficiency upgrades (heat pumps, insulation, renewable systems), and accessibility features (wheelchair-accessible units, universally designed common areas). Higher point totals unlock better financing terms, including lower insurance costs and extended amortization periods.

Can I achieve 50-year amortization with MLI Select?

Yes. Investors who score 100 or higher on the MLI Select points system can access 50-year amortization. This significantly improves cash flow for multi-family projects. Scoring between 50–99 points typically allows up to 40-year amortization. Your lender can help model the points needed for your specific property.

What documentation is required for rental income in MLI underwriting?

Per CMHC Advice 268, rental income must be supported by signed leases or independent market appraisals at the time of mortgage close. Lease-up period rents (projected future revenue) are not counted in the debt service calculation. This means stabilized properties with existing tenants have a clear advantage in MLI lending.

How does ACLP differ from MLI for construction financing?

ACLP (Apartment Construction Loans Program) is designed for purpose-built rental development. It covers construction-period financing with progress draws tied to construction milestones. MLI programs are for stabilized or near-stabilized properties. CMHC's increased ACLP budget in 2026 means more construction capacity for new multi-family projects across Canada.

What is the typical debt service ratio requirement for MLI Standard?

MLI Standard requires a minimum 1.10x debt service coverage ratio (DSCR). This is more flexible than conventional 1.25x requirements, making it attractive for properties with tighter cash flow. However, it's more restrictive than MLI Select, which focuses on points rather than rigid DSCR minimums for highly stabilized assets.

Policy Intelligence

CMHC Policy Updates & Program Changes

Stay current with the latest changes to MLI Select, MLI Standard, ACLP, and other CMHC multifamily financing programs.

Recent Policy Updates

Feb 2026

MLI Select Points Threshold Unchanged at 50 Points

CMHC confirms the minimum 50-point threshold for MLI Select remains in effect. Investors can earn points through affordability commitments, energy efficiency upgrades, and accessibility features to unlock up to 95% LTV financing.

MLI Select Points System Policy

Jan 2026

CMHC Insurance Premium Schedule Updated

New insurance premium rates reflect current market conditions. Borrowers with strong credit profiles and lower LTV ratios continue to see competitive insurance costs, supporting the economics of high-leverage multi-family deals.

Insurance Premiums Rates MLI Programs

Dec 2025

Advice 268 Clarification on Rental Achievement

CMHC issued updated guidance on rental achievement documentation requirements. All rents must be supported by signed leases or market appraisals prior to mortgage close—no projected rents during lease-up periods.

Underwriting Documentation Policy

Nov 2025

50-Year Amortization Confirmed for MLI Select 100+ Points

CMHC officially confirms that investors achieving 100+ affordability points on MLI Select can access 50-year amortization periods. This reduces debt service requirements and maximizes cash flow for multi-family investors.

Amortization MLI Select Program Terms

Oct 2025

ACLP Budget Allocation Increased

CMHC announced an increased budget allocation for Apartment Construction Loans Program (ACLP) in 2026. This expansion supports construction financing capacity for purpose-built rental development across Canada.

ACLP Construction Loans Program Expansion

Key Program Parameters

Program	Max LTV	Max Amortization	Min DSCR	Max LTC	Other Requirements
MLI Select	Max 95%	Max 50 yr	—	—	Min 50 points
MLI Standard	Max 85%	Max 40 yr	Min 1.10x	—	—
ACLP	—	—	—	Max 90%	Progress draws
Conventional	Max 75%	Max 25 yr	Min 1.25x	—	Full documentation

LTV = Loan-to-Value | LTC = Loan-to-Cost | DSCR = Debt Service Coverage Ratio | yr = year

Learn More About CMHC Programs

Pillar Program

MLI Select

Up to 95% LTV financing for multi-family properties. Earn affordability points to unlock 50-year amortization. Ideal for value-add and stabilized properties with existing cash flow.

Read the complete guide

Pillar Program

MLI Standard

Up to 85% LTV financing with 1.10x DSCR requirement. More accessible entry point for multi-family investors who don't qualify for MLI Select points.

Read the complete guide

Construction Program

ACLP

Apartment Construction Loans Program (ACLP). Up to 90% loan-to-cost for purpose-built rental development with progress draws tied to construction milestones.

Learn about construction financing

Interactive Tool

MLI Max Loan Calculator

Instantly calculate maximum loan amounts, affordability points, and amortization periods for your multi-family project.

Open the calculator

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