Question 1

How many years of self-employment do I need to qualify for a mortgage in Canada?

Accepted Answer

Most lenders require a minimum of two years of self-employment history, supported by T1 General tax returns, Notices of Assessment, and business financials. Some lenders will consider one year of history under certain conditions — particularly if you were previously employed in the same field. I will assess exactly where you stand and which programs you are eligible for before we approach any lender.

Question 2

Can I use my business income to qualify for a mortgage if I am incorporated?

Accepted Answer

Yes, but it depends on how your business is structured and how you pay yourself. Incorporated business owners can sometimes use a combination of salary, dividends, and retained business income to qualify. The key is knowing how each lender interprets these income sources — and that is exactly where 30 years of lender relationships make a difference. I will work through your specific structure with you and identify the strongest way to present your income.

Question 3

What documents do I need to apply for a mortgage as a self-employed borrower?

Accepted Answer

Typically: two years of T1 General personal tax returns, two years of Notices of Assessment, business financial statements if incorporated, business registration or articles of incorporation, and your most recent bank statements. Some lenders also request a letter from your accountant confirming the nature and duration of your self-employment. I will give you a precise document checklist based on your specific situation before we start.

Question 4

Can I get a mortgage if my income on paper looks low because I write off a lot of expenses?

Accepted Answer

This is one of the most common challenges for self-employed borrowers — and it is solvable. Many lenders allow add-backs of certain business expenses when calculating qualifying income, which can significantly increase what you are eligible for. There are also stated income and alternative lending products designed for exactly this situation. I will find the approach that reflects your actual financial strength, not just your line 15000.

Question 5

I was declined by my bank. Can Stephen help me get a mortgage?

Accepted Answer

Yes — and this is one of the most common calls I receive. A bank decline does not mean you do not qualify for a mortgage. It means you do not qualify for that lender's specific product. I have access to the full lending market of 60+ lenders, including credit unions, trust companies, and alternative lenders who are far better equipped to work with self-employed income. Bring me your file and I will tell you honestly what is possible.

SELF EMPLOYED MORTGAGES - PENTICTON, BC

Self Employed does not mean unqualified. It just means your application has to be handle differently.

READY TO GET APPROVED?

Self Employed mortgage situation are something I specialize in.

Most common Self Employed mortgage questions that I get:

How many years of self-employment do I need to qualify for a mortgage in Canada?

Can I use my business income to qualify for a mortgage if I am incorporated?

What documents do I need to apply for a mortgage as a self-employed borrower?

Can I get a mortgage if my income on paper looks low because I write off a lot of expenses?

I was declined by my bank. Can Stephen help me get a mortgage?

You built something amazing. You deserve to own something as well.