Non-Recourse Loan
Learn about non-recourse loans in Canadian real estate — what they are, how they protect borrowers, and when they’re used.
August 08, 2025
What is a Non-Recourse Loan?
A non-recourse loan is a type of loan where the lender’s only remedy in case of default is to seize the collateral property; the borrower is not personally liable for any deficiency.
Why Non-Recourse Loans Matter in Real Estate
In Canadian commercial real estate, non-recourse loans limit borrower liability and protect personal assets.
Key points:
- Commonly used for income-producing properties
- Lender’s recourse is limited to the collateral property
- May include 'carve-outs' for fraud or other specific events
Understanding non-recourse loans helps borrowers evaluate risk exposure.
Example of a Non-Recourse Loan in Action
The developer obtained a non-recourse loan, ensuring the lender could only claim the property if the loan defaulted.
Key Takeaways
- Limits lender’s remedies to the collateral property
- Protects borrower’s personal assets
- Often used for stabilized income properties
- May contain exceptions for bad acts by borrower
- Important consideration in financing negotiations
Related Terms
- Recourse Loan
- Mortgage Qualification
- Loan-to-Value Ratio (LTV)
- Debt Coverage Ratio (DCR)
- Capitalization Rate


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15284-15296 Fleetwood Drive in Surrey. (Flat Architecture, 1098261 BC Ltd.)
Renderings of the tower proposed for 15284-15296 Fleetwood Drive in Surrey. (Flat Architecture, 1098261 BC Ltd.)

Goldberg Group 
10-storey apartment building currently occupying 525 Eglinton Avenue East/WND Associates
Rendering of 525 Eglinton Avenue East/Wallman Architects
The Mayfair West site and its surrounding context. (Grosvenor, Arcadis, Hariri Pontarini Architects)
Renderings of Mayfair West. (Grosvenor, Arcadis, Hariri Pontarini Architects)
