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What is the down payment minimums for Canadian mortgages?

james loewen • Aug 23, 2023

In Canada, the down payment required for a mortgage depends on the purchase price of the home you are buying and the type of mortgage you are applying for. As of my last knowledge update in September 2021, the down payment requirements were as follows:


  1. Minimum Down Payment: The minimum down payment required for a home purchase in Canada is as follows:
  • For homes with a purchase price of $500,000 or less, the minimum down payment is 5% of the purchase price.
  • For homes with a purchase price between $500,000 and $999,999, the minimum down payment is 5% of the first $500,000 plus 10% of the portion above $500,000.
  • For homes with a purchase price of $1 million or more, the minimum down payment is 20%.

2. Mortgage Default Insurance: If your down payment is less than 20% of the purchase price, you will generally be required to obtain mortgage default insurance, often through the Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation (CMHC) or other mortgage insurance providers. The cost of this insurance can be added to your mortgage payments.


  1. Conventional Mortgage: If you can make a down payment of 20% or more of the purchase price, you can apply for a conventional mortgage. This means you won't need mortgage default insurance, but you'll still need to meet other lender requirements.

It's important to note that these requirements can change, and mortgage regulations can be updated. Therefore, I recommend checking with a mortgage broker or lender for the most up-to-date information on down payment requirements and mortgage options in Canada, especially if you're planning to buy a home in the near future. Additionally, the specific requirements may vary slightly by province or territory, so it's essential to be aware of any regional variations.


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