Why is CMHC MLI Select especially important in Vancouver?

Vancouver's combination of low cap rates (3.0–4.0%), high land costs ($500,000+ per door for purpose-built rental in many areas), and high construction costs means MLI Select's 95% LTV is often the only way apartment development works financially. Without it, the equity required makes returns untenable.

What commercial mortgage rates are available in Vancouver?

Vancouver commercial rates follow the national structure. The extremely low cap rates in Vancouver mean DSCR qualification on conventional terms is challenging — CMHC MLI Select's 50-year amortization is critical for reducing mortgage payments to acceptable DSCR levels.

What is the Property Transfer Tax on commercial property in Vancouver?

BC Property Transfer Tax on commercial property: 1% on first $200K, 2% on $200K–$2M, 3% on $2M–$3M, 5% above $3M. On a $5M commercial property, the PTT exceeds $100,000. This is a significant transaction cost to factor into commercial acquisitions.

What commercial property types are active in Vancouver?

Vancouver's industrial market is the tightest in Canada with vacancy under 2%. Apartment buildings rarely transact but are highly coveted. Mixed-use development along transit corridors (Broadway, Cambie) is very active. Retail in prime locations is stable.

Are there restrictions on foreign investment in Vancouver commercial real estate?

Canada's foreign buyer ban applies to residential property — it does not apply to commercial real estate. Foreign investors can purchase commercial real estate in Vancouver subject to normal FINTRAC (anti-money laundering) requirements.

Commercial Mortgage City Guide 🏢

Commercial Mortgage Vancouver — Rates & Broker Matching (2026)

Vancouver's commercial mortgage market is defined by extremely low cap rates (3.

Apartment cap rates

3.0–4.0%

Industrial cap rates

3.0–4.5%

Property Transfer Tax

Applies

Land costs

Among highest in Canada

Get Vancouver Commercial Quotes

Free consultation from licensed Vancouver commercial brokers.

Vancouver Commercial Real Estate Market Overview (2026)

Vancouver's commercial mortgage market is defined by extremely low cap rates (3.0–4.0% for apartments) and high land costs. CMHC MLI Select is the most important financing tool for Vancouver apartment developers — without 95% LTV, many projects don't pencil. The city's housing shortage and development costs make purpose-built rental challenging without optimal financing. Industrial properties in Metro Vancouver command some of North America's highest cap rate compression.

Commercial Property Types in Vancouver

Each property type has different financing terms, lender preferences, and market dynamics in Vancouver.

🏢

Apartment Buildings

Purpose-built rental apartments. Cap rates in Vancouver: 3.0–4.0%. CMHC MLI Select available.

🏪

Mixed-Use

Retail or office below, residential above. Financing terms depend on the income split.

🛍️

Retail / Commercial

Single-tenant and multi-tenant retail. Conventional 65–70% LTV. Lease quality is critical.

🏗️

Construction Loans

Ground-up development financing. Draw-based advances, interest only, converts to permanent.

CMHC MLI Select in Vancouver

CMHC MLI Select is available for purpose-built rental apartment buildings across all of Canada including Vancouver. The program offers up to 95% LTV and 50-year amortization — the most competitive commercial financing available in Canada.

95%

Max LTV

50 years

Max Amortization

5 residential

Min Units

Complete CMHC MLI Select guide →

Commercial Mortgage Brokers in Vancouver

Why Use a Commercial Broker

Commercial mortgage brokers in Vancouver have access to national banks, life insurance companies, pension funds, credit unions, and CMHC — sources you can't easily access directly. For CMHC insured programs, an experienced broker is essential.

What to Look For

Look for brokers with specific commercial real estate experience — ideally in your property type. Ask how many commercial transactions they complete per year and whether they have experience with CMHC MLI Select applications if relevant.

The LendGuide Difference

LendGuide connects you with licensed commercial mortgage specialists in Vancouver who have deep knowledge of the local market. Submit one inquiry — we match you with the right broker for your specific property and financing need.

Commercial Mortgage Vancouver — FAQ

Common questions from commercial real estate investors and developers in Vancouver.

Get Commercial Mortgage Quotes in Vancouver

Connect with a licensed commercial mortgage broker specialising in the Vancouver market. Free consultation, no obligation.

Related Resources

Commercial Mortgage Hub →Apartment Buildings →CMHC MLI Select Guide →Construction Loans →Mixed-Use Properties →