There are now fewer options for rental properties.

In the wake of new mortgage rules, some mortgage lenders are pulling mortgage programs for rentals.

One of the first was Merix/Lendwise, which announced a change to its offering Tuesday – a day after recent housing rules were put into place.

In a note to brokers, the lender said it would no longer be accepting rental applications.

First National, another major lender, has made similar changes to its offering.

“(First National) have temporarily suspended their conventional rental program and their Alt-A program, which is part of the business for self-program,” Ernie Stapleton, a representative for First National, told CREW. “As the dust settles, I think First National will re-evaluate their programs in the context of the new rules to see what can be offered.”

And it isn’t just rental properties that are being impacted.

Another lender, MCAP, will soon charge a 15 basis point surcharge for all new refinances beginning November 30, 2016.

These sorts of lender updates are the result of the government’s recent changes to low-ratio mortgage insurance requirements.

Effective November 30, all mortgages originated by lenders who use portfolio insurance – which includes all monoline lenders – must meet the following criteria;
• Maximum amortization of 25 years
• Maximum property price below $1 million
• A property must be owner occupied

The full scope of the changes can be viewed here.

Mortgage Changes to Impact Investors by Justin da Rosa | Canadian Real Estate Wealth