Last Updated: February 25, 2025

Traditional Financing Options

Traditional mortgage and loan products are offered by major banks, credit unions, non-bank leaders and private lenders. To understand the differences between these industry players, here is a comprehensive overview. Personal lending products, residential and commercial mortgages offered by lenders are subject to their standard lending criteria. Conditions apply. For more information please contact the lenders directly.

A key decision is whether to work with a mortgage broker or directly with a lender. Mortgage brokers gather proposals from multiple banks and lenders to find the best deal for you. If you have an established relationship with a bank, they might offer you a better rate, so it’s the best place to start.

Home Equity Loan (HEL)

A lump sum loan secured by home equity, typically higher interest rates than first mortgages. Useful if the primary mortgage is locked in at a low rate.

Basic Qualification
  • Minimum 20% equity in home
  • Credit score of 680+
  • Stable income/ability to repay
  • Up to date property appraisal
Purchase Plus Improvement Mortgage

Allows buyers to finance the purchase price + renovation costs in a single mortgage. Renovation funds are disbursed in stages as work progresses. Maximum loan-to-value (LTV up to 95%) for owner-occupied homes. Works best for properties needing ADU/multiplex conversion at purchase.

Basic Qualification
  • Must qualify for mortgage
  • Renovation estimates required
  • Maximum 4 units, with at least one unit owner occupied  
  • Primary residence, second home or rentals  
  • New construction or existing properties
Business Loan or Commercial Mortgage

If the multiplex conversion is a commercial venture and operating as a rental business, you may qualify for business financing.

Basic Qualification
  • Generally at least 2 years of business operations on the books
  • Healthy financials (generally $100k-$250k minimum /year)
  • Ability to make 20%-35% down payment
Reverse Mortgage

Loan for homeowners 55+ leveraging home equity. A reverse mortgage usually allows you to borrow up to 55% of the appraised value of your home.

Basic Qualification
  • Must be 55+
  • Must be for primary residence
  • Must have significant equity in property
Renovation Loan

Loan specifically for home improvements that are not secured by your property. They are quicker and easier to secure than more traditional loans and are based on your income qualifications and not property value/equity.

Basic Qualification
  • Strong DTI and LTV ratios, will vary based on financier
  • Detailed renovation plan
  • Some equity ownership in home, will vary based on financier
Personal Line of Credit

Unsecured revolving line of credit.

Basic Qualification
  • Permanent resident in Canada
  • Strong credit history and DTI ratio
  • Stable employment
Home Equity Line of Credit (HELOC)

Flexible borrowing against home equity (up to 65% LTV). Best for smaller ADU projects where costs fluctuate over time.

Basic Qualification
  • Minimum of 20% ownership of home equity  
  • Credit score of 650+  Stable income and/or clear ability to repay
Construction Loan

Short-term loan to fund building projects. Usually, the lender will not fund the loan until you also have a building permit in hand.

Basic Qualification
  • Detailed project plan, executed by a builder vetted by financier
  • Up to date property appraisal
  • Down payment that can vary but is relatively large Stable income/ability to repay
Cash-Out Mortgage Refinance

Allows homeowners to access up to 80% of their home’s appraised value to finance ADU/multiplex conversions. Lower interest rates than HELOCs or private loans.

Basic Qualification
  • Lenders will assess eligibility based on various factors, including your credit score, income, the home’s value, and the loan-to-value (LTV) ratio

Financing Options