What is CMHC MLI Select? Benefits & Qualification Guide

CMHC MLI Select

Key Benefits of CMHC MLI Select

Who Should Use MLI Select?

• Multifamily real estate investors acquiring 5+ unit rental buildings

• Developers constructing new apartment complexes

• Owners looking to refinance with better terms

• Builders committed to green buildings, barrier-free units, or rent affordability

• Groups seeking long-term hold strategies with stable cash flow

How the MLI Select Point System Works

The MLI Select program uses a flexible point-based system. To qualify, your property must earn at least 50 points in one or more of the following three categories:

1. Affordability

Points are awarded based on the percentage of units that are below market rent:

• Rent 10% below median: +30 points

• Rent 20% below median: +50 points

• Maintain affordability for 10–20+ years = more points
  

2. Energy Efficiency

• Points awarded for energy-saving designs or upgrades:

• 25–40% reduction in energy use over baseline = +30 to +100 points

• Use of certified programs like ENERGY STAR, LEED, or Net Zero increases eligibility
  

3. Accessibility

• Points awarded based on the number of barrier-free units:

• Minimum 5% of units = +15 points

• More units + fully accessible building design = more points
  

💡 You can mix categories. For example: 20% below-market rent (50 pts) + 5% barrier-free units (15 pts) = 65 points.

Key Benefits of CMHC MLI Select

✅ Up to 95% Loan-to-Value (LTV) – Higher than most conventional financing

✅ Extended Amortization – up to 50 years – Lower monthly debt servicing

✅ Reduced Insurance Premiums – Depending on your affordability, accessibility, and efficiency score

✅ Non-Recourse Financing – In many cases, borrower liability is limited to the property

✅ Higher Net Operating Income Leverage – Due to favourable debt service ratios

✅ Support for Purpose-Built Rentals, Acquisitions & Refinance Projects

Contact Us for CMHC MLI Select

Reach out for benefits and qualification guidance on CMHC MLI.