🏡 What You Really Need to Know About CMHC in 2025

Melissa Kuczepa
Jun 18
2 min read

New rules, better options—and how they could help you buy or renovate smarter

If you’ve been thinking about buying a home or renovating one, you’ve probably heard the name CMHC tossed around. But what does CMHC really do—and how does it affect you as a homebuyer?

Here’s a quick rundown of what’s new in 2025 and how some of these updates could help you qualify for more, save on monthly payments, and even get money back after closing.

✅ No, CMHC does not blacklist homes

There’s a myth floating around that certain homes are “blacklisted” by CMHC. Not true.

They assess homes individually—even if they have quirks or unique features.

If there are concerns, the application just gets reviewed more carefully. That means more opportunity and flexibility for you as a buyer.

⚡️ Application approvals are faster and easier than ever

With over 9 million properties in their system, CMHC now uses technology to approve most mortgage applications in seconds.

97.1% approval rate
67% of applications are auto-approved
Less than 4% of applications need an appraisal

Translation? Your financing could move a lot faster.

💰 Buying with less down payment = getting into the market sooner

Let’s say you’re looking at a $1.5M home. The traditional down payment might be $300,000. But with CMHC-insured options, you could get in with as little as $125,000 down.

That’s $175,000 less upfront—and potentially 15 years sooner than saving that amount on your own. Even with a slightly higher monthly payment, it can be well worth it.

🛠️ You can finance renovations—and get money back

Thinking about buying a home that needs work? CMHC’s Improvement and Eco+ programs let you:

Add reno costs directly to your mortgage
Use future rent to help qualify (if you’re adding a suite!)
Get a 25% refund on your mortgage insurance if your upgrades improve energy efficiency

Example: If $20,000+ of your reno budget goes toward energy-saving features like better windows, a new furnace, or solar panels—you could qualify for thousands back.

🏗️ Modular and manufactured homes qualify too

Good news if you're shopping outside traditional housing options:CMHC allows financing on factory-built homes like modular or mobile homes—and their eco programs apply too.

🌱 Sellers can pass eco savings to buyers

If the home you’re buying had recent energy-efficient upgrades, those savings might transfer to you. The Eco+ program allows rebates and certificates to carry over for up to 5 years—a great bonus if you're buying a “green” home.

📣 The Bottom Line

CMHC’s 2025 programs are designed to open more doors—literally and financially. Whether you're short on down payment, planning renos, or looking at an energy-efficient build, there are flexible, supportive financing options available.