CMHC Program Comparison Guide
Three financing paths on one page — leverage, DCR, amort, and when each file actually fits.
A gated PDF comparing MLI Select, MLI Standard, and uninsured conventional financing for 5+ unit Canadian rentals — DCR by program, qualifying-rate note, a $2.5M worked example, and the mistakes that waste a week.
See down payment before you offer
On the same $2.5M example, Select can be ~$125k down vs ~$375k Standard vs ~$625k conventional — the difference is the offer you can write.
Do not use 1.10 DCR on Standard
1.10 is Select standard rental only. Standard is 1.30 / 1.20 by term. The guide prints that so you do not size the wrong program.
Know when to skip CMHC
If you have 25% down or the building is not an MLI fit, conventional is the honest path — not a failed Select file.
Points-based CMHC insurance for 5+ unit rentals that commit to affordability, energy, or access.
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Leverage
Up to 95% LTC (new construction at 100 points) or 85–95% LTV on existing, by tier.
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Amortization
40-year existing. 50-year new construction at maximum points.
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Min DCR
1.10 on standard rental (Select only).
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Use when
The building can score points and you want 5% down.
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Leverage
Up to 85% LTV.
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Amortization
Up to 40 years.
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Min DCR
1.30 on a 5-year term. 1.20 on a 10-year term. Never 1.10.
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Use when
No points path — still want CMHC 85% LTV and 40-year amort.
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Leverage
Typically 75% LTV on multifamily.
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Amortization
25 years typical.
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Min DCR
Often 1.20–1.30. This guide uses 1.25 as a screening default.
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Use when
You have 25% down or the file is not a CMHC fit.
- What is the difference between MLI Select and MLI Standard?
- Select uses a points system (affordability, energy, access) and can reach 95% LTC and 1.10 DCR on standard rental. Standard has no points, 85% LTV, and min DCR 1.30 (5-year) or 1.20 (10-year).
- Can I use 50-year amortization on an existing building?
- 50-year amort is a Select new-construction (or equivalent) maximum-points benefit. Existing Select is typically 40-year. Standard is up to 40-year.
- Is this a quote?
- No. Screening terms only. Premium surcharges, points verification, and lender overlays change proceeds.
Email to download
Name and email. We send the file and can follow up on the matching desk.