Credit & mortgages

What credit score do you need for a mortgage in Canada?

Q: What credit score do I need for a mortgage in Canada?

For the best rates at an A-lender, aim for 680+ (760+ unlocks the very best pricing). B-lenders typically work from about 600, and private/equity-based lenders can fund with little or no score if you have enough equity. There's a path at almost every score.

The short answer: 680+ for the best A-lender rates, around 600 for B-lenders, and equity-based options with little or no score. There's a path at almost every score — here's how it works, and how to qualify with bruised credit.

Credit score by lender tier

760+

Best A-lender pricing

The lowest advertised rates. Lenders compete hardest for you.

680–759

A-lender

Full access to prime lenders and insured/conventional programs.

600–679

B-lender / alt-A

Slightly higher rate; strong file (low LTV, stable income) can still reach A.

Under 600

B-lender or private

Equity-based options fund you now, with a planned exit to A-pricing.

Your score is one input — lenders also weigh income stability, down payment / loan-to-value, and debt ratios. A lower score with a big down payment often still qualifies. We model your whole file, not just the number.

Bruised credit? You still have options.

No judgment — we place bruised-credit files every day. B-lenders look past a low score at the full picture; private mortgages are equity-based. The key is a plan: get in now, repair credit, and refinance to A-pricing in 12-24 months.

Bad-credit mortgages Improve your score Equifax vs TransUnion

Credit score for a mortgage — FAQ

What credit score do I need for a mortgage in Canada?

For the best rates at an A-lender, aim for 680+ (760+ unlocks the very best pricing). B-lenders typically work from about 600, and private/equity-based lenders can fund with little or no score if you have enough equity. There's a path at almost every score.

Can I get a mortgage with a 600 credit score?

Yes — usually through a B-lender (alt-A) with a slightly higher rate, or an A-lender if the rest of your file is strong (low LTV, stable income). We'll show you both paths and a plan to graduate to A-pricing in 12-24 months.

Can I get a mortgage with bad credit (under 600)?

Often yes, via a B-lender or a private mortgage that's equity-based rather than score-based. The rate is higher and you'll want an exit strategy, but it gets you in. See our bad-credit mortgage options.

Does getting a mortgage pre-approval hurt my credit score?

A formal pre-approval involves one credit pull (a 'hard inquiry') that nudges your score down a few points temporarily. Maya can give you a ballpark with no bureau pull first, so you only get pulled when you're ready.

Which credit bureau do mortgage lenders use?

Canadian lenders pull Equifax and/or TransUnion. Scores can differ between them. See our guide on Equifax vs TransUnion.

How can I raise my score before applying?

Keep balances under 30% of limits, never miss a payment, don't close old cards, and avoid new applications right before your mortgage. See how to improve your credit score.

Find out what your score qualifies for.

No bureau pull to start. Maya gives you a ballpark in 60 seconds; a licensed advisor confirms your real options.