Avoiding the Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation (CMHC) can be a crucial step for homebuyers looking to save money and gain more flexibility in their mortgage options. CMHC is a federal agency that provides mortgage insurance to lenders, which can make it easier for borrowers to qualify for a mortgage with a smaller down payment. However, CMHC insurance comes with additional costs, including mortgage loan insurance premiums and annual fees.
There are several ways to avoid CMHC insurance. One is to save up for a larger down payment of at least 20%. This will eliminate the need for mortgage insurance altogether. Another option is to get a co-signer with a good credit score and income. A co-signer can help you qualify for a mortgage without CMHC insurance, even if you have a lower credit score or income.