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Self Employed Mortgages in Alberta

Self-employed borrowers in Alberta often face unique challenges when applying for a mortgage. While maximizing tax deductions helps reduce taxable income, it can also result in lower reported income on tax returns—making mortgage qualification more difficult.

 

Specialized self-employed mortgage solutions are designed to account for this and help business owners secure home financing.

Different kinds of Lenders - A, B and Private

1. Best-Rate Mortgage Lenders (A-Lenders)

Best-rate mortgage lenders provide the lowest interest rates for borrowers who meet traditional lending criteria.

 

Typical requirements:

  • Provable income

  • Minimum credit score: 680 (sometimes 650 with explanation)​

    • Valid exceptions may include:

      • Temporary credit dips from multiple recent credit checks (e.g., car loans)

      • New to Canada applicants who have not yet established credit

Benefits:

  • Lowest interest rates in Edmonton and Alberta

  • Predictable terms with standard lending rules

 

Alternate Mortgage Lenders (B-Lenders)

B-lenders are ideal for borrowers who don’t qualify for traditional mortgages but still want financing in Edmonton or Alberta.

 

Key features:

- Minimum down payment: 20%

- Flexible approval criteria. Can work outside traditional lending “rule boxes”

- Typically ~2% higher interest rates than A-lenders

- Expect 1–2% lender fees

- Self employment income is determined via deposits to your business account, not tax returns. 

 

Who benefits:

- Self-employed borrowers

- Borrowers with inconsistent income

- Clients rebuilding credit

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3. Private Lenders

Private lenders are a financing option for borrowers needing highly flexible, short-term solutions.

 

Key points:

- Minimum equity/down payment: 35%

- Higher interest rates and fees than A- or B-lenders

- Useful for self-employed borrowers or those with unique financial situations Example: A self-employed client needed $50,000 for a business project without disturbing their existing low-rate mortgage. Using a private second mortgage: they paid part of the loan back at each renewal and the interest and fees were all tax-deductible. It was fully paid off in 3 years​.

 

Private lenders can be an excellent solution when used strategically.

 

Choosing the Right Mortgage Lender in Edmonton.​

Whether you qualify for A-lenders, B-lenders, or private lenders, working with an experienced mortgage broker in Edmonton, Alberta ensures you:
 

- Understand your borrowing options

- Secure the best rate for your situation

- Avoid costly mistakes

 

The key is using the right lender at the right time for your financial goals.​

 

Please don't hesitate to reach out with any questions, Nikole

What happens after I submit a mortgage application?
We'll be in touch within 24 hours. You will then be provided a secured link to load any required documents. 
 
What if I don’t qualify for a mortgage right now?
Then we make a plan! Buying a home is a major milestone, and it’s completely normal to need time to prepare.

Will I receive a written pre-approval?
Yes! You will be emailed a personalized pre-approval package outlining everything you need to know at this stage. 

If you run into any questions, please don't hesitate to reach out. Nikole

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