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Updated over 6 years ago on . Most recent reply

Purchase Plus Improvements Mortgage
Being a mortgage agent I get a lot of questions about these types of Mortgages on here thought I'd share in a thread for reference.
I think Purchase Plus Improvements are great I've personally used them for my last 5 deals, but if you're going very expensive on the reno sometimes a re-finance is better suited.
Anyways here's a quick rundown of how it works:
- Purchase a home for $200,000
- Before closing, get a contractor to provide you a quote for the renovation work you want to perform.
- If for example the quote is for $20,000 of work. You can get a mortgage for $220,000 instead of $200,000.
Details:
- You have to pay for the renovation up front (I use lines of credit)
- Once the work is complete the bank will appraise the house to ensure you did the work you projected
- Once approved they will release the $20,000 back to you and you pay yourself back
- You need to qualify for the mortgage at $220,000 in this scenario not $200,000 and your down payment needs to be for the $220,000 not $200,000 also.
Hope that's a clear run-down & provides value for all those who've been inquiring.
Most Popular Reply

Troy Pirsich
Good Q - a lot of programs only allow up to 40k on purchase plus.
For a BRRR with significant renovation I still like purchasing on a variable, followed by a refinance later. Just need to have solid comparables in advance ready to justify a big equity take out post renovation.
I think Purchase Plus is he ideal solution for the house hacker buying at less than 20% down looking to build or upgrade a second unit in an owner occupied property.
It’s also the ideal solution for anyone looking to do more moderate Reno’s under 40K without needing to refinance later.