Unlock The Power Of The CMHC MLI Select Program For Real Estate Investors

Imagine being able to purchase a multi-unit investment property with just 5% down—then stretch your payments over an unprecedented 50 years.

Sounds like a real estate dream, right?

But here's the catch: it's real, and it’s called the CMHC MLI Select Program.

The opportunity is extraordinary, yet not every investor can take advantage of it.

Why?

Because CMHC isn’t handing out these deals to just anyone.

There are strict criteria to meet, both for you as an investor and the property itself.

If you’re ready to unlock the most powerful financing tool available in today’s market, keep reading...

The Core Advantage: 5% Down, 50-Year Mortgage

Let's not waste time: the CMHC MLI Select Program is the most powerful tool for real estate investors right now. It dangles the promise of acquiring investment properties with a ridiculously low 5% down payment, amortized over 50 years.

Sound too good to be true? That's because it is - if you're not prepared. This isn't some cookie-cutter mortgage that anyone can stroll into. This is a program with rules, demands and yes, immense rewards for those who meet the criteria.

CMHC evaluates both the Investor and the property being purchased to determine eligibility, so it's crucial to understand what's involved.

Eligibility Factors For Investors: Are You Qualified?

To qualify for the MLI Select Program, investors must meet several key financial criteria.

1. Net Worth Requirement

- Your Net Worth must be at least 25% of the property's purchase price (i.e. For a $2 million property, your net worth must be at least $500,000)

2. Liquidity Requirement

- You must have liquid capital amounting to at least 10% of the purchase price (i.e. For a $2 million property, you need at least $200,000 in liquid assets)

3. Proximity To Property

- CMHC favours investors who live within a commutable distance from their investments. Out-of-province inventors can partner with someone locally to meet this requirement.

Property Criteria: What Makes a Property Eligible?

When evaluating the property itself, CMHC uses a scoring system based on three factors: accessibility, environmental impact, and affordability. Your property’s score directly impacts how much you’ll need to put down and the length of the mortgage term.

Maximizing Your Score: Affordability Is Key

The easiest & simplest way to get a high score is to go for the affordability factor and simply price your rent a certain way. Our MLI Specialist will work with you and tell you exactly how to price your rent to get the best score possible as the rent varies depending on the neighbourhood and type of property you are purchasing.

Minimum Property Size: At Least 5 Units

To qualify for the MLI Select Program, the property must contain at least five rental units. This can be achieved by purchasing a multi-family unit or multiple properties located next to each other (e.g., three detached homes, each with legal suites).

The Hidden Rules: What They Don't Tell You

Even when you meet the requirements, there are other critical factors that could make or break your investment. Let's cover them:

1. New Builds Get Preferential Treatment

While the program covers both new builds and resell properties, new builds offer better terms. Developers love this program, and so should you.

2. Timing is EVERYTHING

CMHC takes three months to process your application. And here’s the kicker: once approved, you’ve got a six-month window to take possession of the property, or you’re back to square one. Timing your approval with possession is the tightrope you’ll need to walk. Our team & MLI Specialist work hand-in-hand with the builder and will help you sync the two perfectly, so you don’t miss out.

3. No Guarantees: Risk vs. Reward

Here's the reality - no builder will give you a 3-month conditional period while you wait for approval (but most are very flexible). We can't make guarantees you will get approved for the program, but our team will do every test possible prior to writing an offer to ensure you have the best chance possible of getting approved.

4. Builders Won't Finance Your Investment

In the current Alberta Real Estate market builders are having little trouble selling their inventory. We have yet to find a builder who will accept 5% down outright for an MLI project in the current environment (as you’re essentially asking the builder to fund your investment which makes no sense for them). However, many will accept 10% down and refund 5% on possession.

5. The "What If I Don't Get Approved" Scenario

Let’s talk worst-case scenario. You apply, and CMHC turns you down. What now? Your investment falls back into the realm of traditional real estate. You’ll need to cough up 20% down at possession. Don’t have it? You lose everything you’ve put into the deal so far. That’s the gamble—but with the right preparation, we’ll ensure your odds are as high as possible.

6. Pro Forma Financial Analysis: The Make-or-Break Factor

To qualify, your Debt Service Coverage Ratio (DSCR) must hit 1.1 or higher. The good news? Our MLI Specialist prepares a thorough Pro Forma Financial Analysis for CMHC, factoring in every cost, benchmark, and projection to give you the best shot at success.

7. Expect To Pay For Expertise

Unlike traditional mortgages, the MLI Select Program comes with fees. You’ll pay your mortgage broker, you’ll pay application fees, and you’ll pay for appraisals. Some brokers will try to charge you up to $45,000 for their services—don’t fall for it. Our team charges a fraction of that and delivers even more value.

The Bottom Line: Is the CMHC MLI Select Program For You?

This isn’t a game for the faint of heart—but for those who are ready to play, the rewards are staggering.

If you’ve got the net worth, the liquidity, and the right property, the CMHC MLI Select Program offers a once-in-a-generation chance to unlock real estate wealth with unprecedented leverage.

Still on the fence?

Let us guide you through the process, from eligibility tests to final approval. You won’t just be stepping into a program—you’ll be stepping into a financial strategy designed for long-term wealth and serious returns.

If you're ready to make a move, we're ready to help. Contact us today, and let's see if the CMHC MLI Select program is your ticket to building a real estate empire.