Navigate the complexities of securing a mortgage as a self-employed professional in Canada. Our comprehensive guide helps entrepreneurs, freelancers, and business owners understand their financing options.
Self-employed individuals face unique challenges when applying for a mortgage. Here's what you need to know.
Business owners, contractors, freelancers, commissioned sales professionals, and gig economy workers who have been self-employed for at least 2 years.
Canadian lenders assess self-employed income differently than traditional employment. Documentation is key.
Self-employed borrowers typically need higher down payments to compensate for variable income.
Canadian lenders use GDS and TDS ratios to determine how much you can borrow based on your income.
A strong credit history is crucial for self-employed mortgage applicants in Canada.
Most property types are eligible, but requirements may vary based on your business structure.
Be prepared with these essential documents to streamline your self-employed mortgage application process.
For applicants with complete financial records and 2+ years of business history:
For applicants with less than 2 years self-employed or complex tax structures:
Government-issued photo ID
We'll pull with your authorization
90-day history of funds
Purchase agreement or appraisal
RRSPs, investments, savings
All loans, credit cards, liabilities
Follow this proven path to secure your self-employed mortgage in Canada
Meet with our mortgage broker to discuss your business, income structure, and homeownership goals. We'll assess your situation and recommend the best mortgage options.
Gather all required documentation including Notice of Assessments, financial statements, tax returns, and bank statements. We'll provide a personalized checklist.
Submit your application and documents to lenders. We'll shop your file to multiple lenders to secure the best rate and terms for your situation.
Lender underwriters review your application, verify income calculations, assess your business stability, and confirm all documentation meets lending criteria.
Once you've found a property, the lender orders an appraisal to confirm the home's value meets or exceeds the purchase price and lending requirements.
Receive your final mortgage approval, sign closing documents with your lawyer, and get your keys! We'll ensure a smooth transition to homeownership.
The mortgage process typically takes 3-6 weeks from start to finish. Let's begin your journey to homeownership together.
Start Your ApplicationChoose the mortgage program that best fits your business structure and financial situation
Best rates available
Canada's major banks and credit unions offering the lowest rates to well-qualified self-employed borrowers with complete documentation.
Alternative documentation
For self-employed individuals who write off significant expenses or have complex tax structures that reduce reported income.
Income verification via deposits
Qualify based on bank deposits rather than tax returns. Ideal for businesses with strong cash flow but lower reported taxable income.
Maximum flexibility
Short-term solutions for unique situations including credit challenges, new businesses, or when traditional approval isn't possible.
I'll analyze your unique situation and recommend the best program to maximize your approval chances and minimize your costs.
Get GuidanceWe understand the unique obstacles self-employed Canadians face. Here's how we help you overcome them.
Every self-employed situation is unique. Let's discuss your specific circumstances and find the right solution together.
Let's TalkFollow these expert strategies to improve your approval odds and secure better mortgage rates
Show stable or growing income over time. Lenders favor upward trends. If income is declining, be prepared to explain temporary factors.
Aim for 680+ for traditional lenders. Pay all bills on time, reduce credit card balances below 30% utilization, and avoid new credit applications.
While 5-10% may be minimum, 20%+ eliminates insurance premiums and provides access to better rates and more lender options.
Organized, professional financial documentation impresses lenders and speeds up approval. Work with a qualified accountant.
Lower your debt-to-income ratio by paying off credit cards, car loans, and lines of credit before applying for a mortgage.
If homeownership is a goal, start preparing early. Reduce tax write-offs gradually to show higher income on your Notice of Assessment.
Keep your business license current, maintain professional liability insurance, and demonstrate long-term viability through contracts or client relationships.
Not all mortgage brokers understand self-employed financing. Choose someone with proven experience in your specific industry and business structure.
Before house hunting, get pre-approved to know your budget, identify documentation gaps early, and show sellers you're a serious buyer. Pre-approval is typically valid for 90-120 days.
Get Pre-Approved TodayComplete this form and I'll contact you within 24 hours to discuss your mortgage options
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Within 24 hours
We specialize in helping self-employed Canadians secure competitive mortgages
Dedicated to understanding self-employed income structures, tax returns, and business documentation to present your application effectively
Access to major banks, credit unions, alternative lenders, and private lenders for maximum approval opportunities
Strategic approach to calculating and presenting your income in the most favorable way to lenders
When traditional approval paths are challenging, access to stated income, bank statement, and private lending options
Committed to responding within 24 hours and keeping you informed throughout the entire mortgage process
My services are paid by the lender at no cost to you. I work for you, not the bank
A mortgage agent who takes time to understand your unique business structure and doesn't treat self-employed income like a problem to solve.
Access to various lenders who specialize in self-employed mortgages, not just one-size-fits-all bank solutions.
Transparent explanations about the process, required documents, and realistic expectations throughout your mortgage journey.