Limited Credit/New-to Credit Mortgages 

When it comes to applying for a mortgage in Canada, having a good credit history is typically a key requirement. However, not everyone has a long credit history or an established credit score. If you’re a first-time homebuyer or have a limited credit history, don’t worry – there are still mortgage options available to you.  

What is a Limited Credit Mortgage? 

A Limited Credit Mortgage is a type of mortgage designed for borrowers who have a limited credit history or no credit history at all. With this type of mortgage, lenders look at other factors, such as employment history, income, and debt-to-income ratio, to determine your creditworthiness. While Limited Credit Mortgages typically have higher interest rates than traditional mortgages, they can be a good option for borrowers who are just starting to build their credit history. 

Benefits of Limited Credit Mortgages: 

  • Can help borrowers with limited credit history qualify for a mortgage. 
  • May have lower down payment requirements than traditional mortgages. 
  • Can help borrowers establish a credit history and improve their credit score over time. 

Drawbacks of Limited Credit Mortgages: 

  • Typically have higher interest rates than traditional mortgages. 
  • May have stricter eligibility criteria than traditional mortgages. 
  • May require additional documentation and verification of income and employment history. 

When is a Limited Credit Mortgage a good option? 

  • If you’re a first-time homebuyer with limited credit history. 
  • If you’re a recent immigrant to Canada and don’t have an established credit history. 
  • If you’re self-employed and don’t have a traditional employment history. 

What is a New to Credit Mortgage? 

A New to Credit Mortgage is a type of mortgage designed for borrowers who have no credit history at all. With this type of mortgage, lenders look at other factors, such as employment history, income, and rental payment history, to determine your credit worthiness. While New to Credit Mortgages typically have higher interest rates than traditional mortgages, they can be a good option for borrowers who are just starting to establish their credit history. 

Benefits of New to Credit Mortgages: 

  • Can help borrowers with no credit history qualify for a mortgage. 
  • May have lower down payment requirements than traditional mortgages. 
  • Can help borrowers establish a credit history and improve their credit score over time. 

Drawbacks of New to Credit Mortgages: 

  • Typically have higher interest rates than traditional mortgages. 
  • May have stricter eligibility criteria than traditional mortgages. 
  • May require additional documentation and verification of income and employment history. 

When is a New to Credit Mortgage a good option? 

  • If you’re a recent graduate or young professional with no credit history. 
  • If you’re a recent immigrant to Canada and don’t have any credit history. 
  • If you’ve always paid rent on time and want to establish a credit history. 

How to Qualify for Limited Credit/New to Credit Mortgages 

To qualify for a Limited Credit Mortgage or New to to-credit mortgage, you’ll typically need to meet certain eligibility criteria, such as: 

  • A minimum down payment of 5%. 
  • A minimum credit score of 680 (for some lenders). 
  • A stable employment history and income. 
  • A low debt-to-income ratio. 
  • Proof of rental payment history (for New to Credit Mortgages). 

To improve your chances of qualifying for these types of mortgages, you can: 

  • Save up for a larger down payment. 
  • Pay your bills on time and in full. 
  • Avoid applying for credit too frequently. 
  • Work with a qualified mortgage professional who can help you navigate the application process.

If you have a limited credit history or no credit history at all, you may still be able to qualify for a mortgage in Canada. Limited Credit Mortgages and New to Credit Mortgages are two options to consider, but they do come with higher interest rates and stricter eligibility criteria. To learn more about these types of mortgages and whether they’re right for you, talk to a qualified mortgage professional today.