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Related Questions
Are medical professional mortgage programs better than standard mortgages?
Not always — they offer flexibility, but whether they are better depends on your specific situation.
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What mistakes should doctors avoid when applying for a mortgage?
Common mistakes include waiting too long, not preparing documentation early, and misunderstanding how lenders assess income.
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Can internationally trained nurses get a mortgage in Canada without Canadian credit history?
Yes, it may be possible, often through new-to-Canada programs that allow alternative documentation.
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Can newly practicing doctors qualify without 2 years income?
Yes — in some cases, newly practicing doctors may be able to qualify without two years of income history, depending on how their application is structured.
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What documentation is required to get a mortgage during residency?
Residents will typically need proof of training, expected completion, and financial documentation such as bank statements and credit history.
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How do lenders calculate income for medical residents?
Some lenders may use projected or standardized income based on your training stage, rather than relying only on your current salary.
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How much down payment is required when moving to Canada?
Down payment requirements may range from as low as 5% in some cases to 20% or more, depending on your situation and lender requirements.
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Can foreign income be used to qualify for a mortgage in Canada?
In many cases, foreign income alone may not be sufficient. Lenders may focus more on income that will be earned in Canada.
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What documents are required for foreign-trained doctors to get a mortgage?
Foreign-trained doctors will typically need documentation confirming their role in Canada, along with financial records and identification.
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Can you buy a home in Canada without Canadian credit history?
Yes — it may be possible, but lenders may require alternative documentation such as international credit reports, bank references, or proof of savings history.
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Knowledge Centre /
How Mortgage Approval Works in British Columbia
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What are GDS and TDS ratios when qualifying for a mortgage?
Last updated:
March 16, 2026
What are GDS and TDS ratios when qualifying for a mortgage?
GDS and TDS ratios measure how much of your income goes toward housing and total debt, but how they’re calculated can directly impact how much you qualify for.
When qualifying for a mortgage in Canada, lenders use two key ratios to assess affordability: Gross Debt Service (GDS) and Total Debt Service (TDS).
GDS measures the percentage of your income required to cover housing costs, including your mortgage payment, property taxes, heating, and if applicable, strata fees.
TDS includes those same housing costs but also factors in your other monthly debt obligations, such as credit cards, car loans, and lines of credit.
These ratios help determine whether your mortgage payments will remain manageable within your overall financial situation. Traditional lenders such as major banks typically follow more standardized ratio limits, which can be more rigid in how affordability is assessed.
However, mortgage brokers often have access to a wider range of lenders, including those that can apply more flexibility in how income and debt are evaluated. In certain situations where the overall financial picture supports it, this flexibility can make a difference in how an application is structured and assessed.
Understanding how these ratios work can help you set realistic expectations when planning a home purchase.
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Disclaimer: This content is for general information purposes only and is not intended as financial or mortgage advice. Every situation is unique. Please consult a qualified mortgage professional to discuss your specific circumstances.
I work with clients across Victoria, Vancouver Island, and throughout British Columbia as a licensed mortgage advisor. Whether you’re buying a home, refinancing, renewing, or simply exploring your options, I’d be happy to guide you through the process.
