Key takeaways
- Non-owner-occupied rentals need at least 20% down.
- Lenders add 50% to 100% of rent to income, or offset it against the payment.
- Owner-occupied 2–4 unit homes can qualify with less down.
How much down payment for a rental property?
| Property | Minimum down |
|---|---|
| Owner-occupied, 1–2 units | 5%–10% (insured) |
| Owner-occupied, 3–4 units | 10% |
| Rental only (not owner-occupied) | 20% |
How do lenders count rental income?
Either add a percentage of the rent to your income (add-back) or subtract it from the property's costs (offset). The method can change how much you qualify for by a lot; bids show which method each lender uses.
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Duplex and triplex mortgages
Living in one unit lets you use owner-occupied rules and lower down payments while rent helps you qualify.
Frequently asked questions
Are rental property mortgage rates higher?
Usually slightly, because the risk is higher.
MBWritten by the MortgageBids.ca editorial team. Last updated October 7, 2026. General information only; your lender confirms terms for your file.
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