Loan-to-Value Ratio (LTV)
Learn what the loan-to-value (LTV) ratio is in Canadian real estate, how it affects mortgage insurance, and why it matters to both lenders and buyers.
May 22, 2025
What is Loan-to-Value Ratio (LTV)?
The Loan-to-Value Ratio (LTV) is a measure of how much of a property's value is being financed by a mortgage, expressed as a percentage.
Why Loan-to-Value Ratio (LTV) Matters in Real Estate
In Canadian real estate, LTV helps lenders assess risk when approving a mortgage. A lower LTV means the buyer has more equity, which reduces lender exposure.
LTV formula: LTV = (Mortgage Amount ÷ Appraised Property Value) × 100
LTV benchmarks include:- 80% or lower: typically doesn’t require mortgage insurance
- Above 80%: usually requires CMHC or other mortgage default insurance
LTV also affects interest rates, insurance premiums, and approval conditions. Reducing LTV through a larger down payment can lead to better mortgage terms.
Understanding LTV is essential for evaluating affordability, reducing borrowing costs, and planning long-term equity growth.
Example of Loan-to-Value Ratio (LTV) in Action
A buyer puts down $100,000 on a $500,000 home. Their mortgage is $400,000, giving them an LTV of 80%.
Key Takeaways
- Shows what portion of the property is financed.
- Lower LTV means less lender risk.
- Impacts insurance and approval.
- Affects rate and terms.
- Key factor in mortgage planning.
Related Terms
- Down Payment
- Mortgage Insurance
- CMHC Insurance
- Home Equity
- Refinance
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Annual average transaction prices in Canadian dollars. Forecast values are not December price targets. Chart: 
Five-year changes in seasonally adjusted composite MLS® HPI benchmarks, September 2021 to September 2026. Chart: 
