Mortgages for the Self Employed

Self-Employed Mortgage Solutions in Montreal: What You Need to Know

The mortgage rules in Canada still cater to salaried employees, not to the way modern entrepreneurs actually earn their living.

If you’re self-employed, incorporated, freelancing, or earning gig income, traditional banks often classify you as “high-risk”—even when your business is profitable and stable. And with ongoing market fluctuations and industry pressure, finding a broker who truly understands self-employed income has never been more important.

At Yelena Markus Mortgage Solutions, I provide guidance to Montreal business navigating mortgage approval as self employed.

Why Banks Decline Strong Self-Employed Borrowers

A decline from a bank doesn’t mean you can’t afford a mortgage. It simply means your income doesn’t fit their boxed-in calculation models.

Here’s why self-employed borrowers get declined even when their business is thriving:

No T4 income means lenders discount non-traditional revenue
Tax write-offs reduce your declared income on paper
Business revenue fluctuates, making banks uncomfortable
Certain industries (construction, retail, real estate, logistics) face extra scrutiny in 2025 due to global shifts, U.S. Tariffs, and economic uncertainty
Case Study: Roger, Restaurant Owner

James runs a successful takeout restaurant generating over $250,000 in annual revenue, but after deductions, his net taxable income showed only $40,000. His bank declined him instantly.

When he came to me, we used a 12-month business bank statement program and matched him with a lender who recognized his real income. He was approved and purchased his home within 30 days.

What Lenders REALLY Look At (Not What the Banks Tell You)

Self-employed mortgage approvals require a different strategy. Even if a bank has declined you, many lenders are interested in your file—they just analyze your income differently.

They look for:

Your ability to carry the mortgage, demonstrated through cash flow
Proof your business exists, such as registration, incorporation, or NOAs
Credit behaviour, showing reliability and repayment history
Down payment or home equity
A clean, logical business story that makes sense to an underwriter

Self-Employed Mortgage Solutions Available in Montreal

Qualifying Using Business Deposits (Bank Statement Program)

If tax write-offs lower your income on paper, lenders can qualify you based on:

6–12 months of deposits
Average monthly revenue
Consistency of income
Reasonable expenses for your industry

This option is popular for:

Contractors
Consultants
Restaurant owners
Beauty, wellness, & service businesses
Gig workers and freelancers

How Much More Can You Qualify For?

Example:

Taxed income: $30,000 → approx. $175,000 Mortgage
Declared income: $50,000 → approx. $295,000 Mortgage

That’s over $120,000 more in borrowing power—simply by presenting your income correctly.

If you plan to buy within 12 months, consider limiting excessive write-offs.
You want to balance tax savings with mortgage qualification.

Terms for Self-Employed Montreal Borrowers

B lenders offer flexibility, but expect:

Rates ~0.5–1.5% higher than A lenders
20%+ down payment minimum or sufficient equity
1–3 year terms
Prepayment privileges of up to 20%

How Yelena Markus Mortgage Solutions Gets You Approved

I assist borrowers exploring mortgage strategies
beyond traditional T4 Income.

Here’s what you get:

✅ Access a wide network of lenders across Quebec
✅ Cash-flow based approvals—not just taxable income
✅ Support for different credit situations
✅ Guidance on documents, income strategy, and lender expectations
✅ Specialized programs for business owners, gig workers, and freelancers
✅ Customized lending plans for upcoming property purchases or refinances

Banks often average income from the last two years, or use the lower year. I match you with lenders who use your best year—or even just your strongest 12 months of deposits.

A Simple 3-Step Approval Strategy for Self-Employed Borrowers

1. Assess & Strategize

A short discovery call helps determine which income strategy fits your situation.

2. Review Lender Approaches Suited for Self-Employed Borrowers

I compare programs from A, B, and private lenders so you don't waste time or money.

3. Guide You to Approval

From documents to underwriting to closing—I’ll help you navigate the full process.

Ready to Get Approved?

If you’re self-employed in Montreal and the bank has declined you, you still have options.

Whether you’re buying a home, refinancing, consolidating debt, or preparing for your next investment—Yelena Markus Mortgage Solutions is here to help you access lenders who understand how entrepreneurs really earn.

Contact Yelena Markus today for a personalized plan to get approved. 514.562.6308

Canada's Mortgage Experts