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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.
doctor-mortgage-mistakes
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.
new-doctors-mortgage-without-2-years-income
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
/
What is a high-ratio mortgage and when is mortgage insurance required?
Last updated:
March 16, 2026
What is a high-ratio mortgage and when is mortgage insurance required?
A high-ratio mortgage allows you to buy with less than 20 percent down, but it also introduces mortgage insurance and can affect your options.
A high-ratio mortgage occurs when a borrower provides a down payment of less than 20 percent of the purchase price.
The required down payment is based on the purchase price of the home. For example, a minimum of 5 percent is required on the first portion of the purchase price, with higher minimum requirements as the price increases.
When the down payment is below 20 percent, mortgage default insurance is required. This insurance protects the lender and allows borrowers to purchase a home with a smaller upfront investment.
The insurance premium is calculated as a percentage of the mortgage amount and is typically added to the mortgage rather than paid upfront. The premium is higher when a borrower provides the minimum down payment and gradually decreases as the down payment approaches 20 percent.
In many cases, insured mortgages can offer competitive interest rates, which can be beneficial for borrowers entering the market.
If a mortgage is later ported to a new property, the existing insurance may be transferable depending on the situation. Because this can vary, it is important to review your specific scenario with a mortgage professional.
Next Question:
How does the type of property affect mortgage approval in British Columbia?
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.
