If you're looking to invest in 8-plex, 10-plex, or purpose-built rental properties in Edmonton, you're in the right place.

Edmonton has become one of the top markets in Canada for multifamily investing, especially for investors leveraging CMHC MLI Select financing to maximize leverage, cash flow, and long-term returns.

Whether you're buying your first multifamily property or scaling your portfolio, I can help you identify and secure the right opportunity.

CMHC MLI Select is a Canadian Federal government-backed mortgage insurance program designed to support multi-unit residential investments with 5+ units.

It allows investors to access significantly better financing terms compared to traditional commercial lending.

Key benefits include:

To qualify, properties must typically meet at least one of CMHC’s core criteria:

Learn more on the CMHC website here: https://www.cmhc-schl.gc.ca/professionals/project-funding-and-mortgage-financing/mortgage-loan-insurance/multi-unit-insurance/mliselect 

n Edmonton, one of the most attractive strategies right now is:

👉 Infill 8-plex developments (often 4 units + 4 basement suites)

These properties are ideal because:

This is one of the most efficient ways to transition from small residential investing into true multifamily ownership.

Edmonton offers a unique combination of:

1. Strong Cash Flow Potential

Lower purchase prices compared to Vancouver or Toronto allow for better rental yields and cash flow.

2. Growing Rental Demand

Population growth and affordability pressures are driving continued demand for rental housing.

3. Investor-Friendly Market

- Lower land costs

- Faster permitting timelines

- Larger lot sizes for higher density

4. Ideal for Scaling Portfolios

With CMHC MLI Select, investors can acquire larger assets with less capital, accelerating portfolio growth.

Not all properties qualify — or perform — the same.

Here’s what matters:

Location

- Central infill areas

- Proximity to transit, downtown, and employment hubs

Design

- Legal basement suites

- Separate entrances

- Modern layouts

- Parking considerations 

CMHC Optimization

To maximize financing, properties should align with:

- Energy efficiency upgrades

- Accessibility features

- Affordability thresholds

Financial Performance

CMHC will assess:

- Rental income projections

- Vacancy assumptions

- Debt coverage ratios (typically ~1.1 minimum

This strategy works best for:

Most of the best multifamily deals are:

I help you:

I started as a real estate investor myself in 2001, buying a few houses and then my first 12 unit apartment building in my last year of university. I understand your questions, the challenges of being a landlord and multi-family investor, because I am one too! Most of my clients choose to work with me because I bring that level of first hand experience and local connections to our working relationship. 

Here's a map of all the multi-family sales I've completed in Alberta. 

If you're serious about investing in Edmonton multifamily real estate, I can help you:

Fill out the form below or contact me directly to get access to current and upcoming multifamily opportunities in Edmonton.

What qualifies as a multifamily property in Canada?

Typically, any residential property with 5 or more units qualifies as multifamily for CMHC financing programs.

Can I buy an 8 plex with 5% down in Canada?

Yes — through CMHC MLI Select, qualified investors may access financing with as little as 5% down, depending on the project and borrower qualifications. However based on valuations by CMHC and soft costs, its' best to budget 7-10% of the sale price in equity. Plus important to note you need qualifying net worth of 25% of the total loan applied for. 

Do I need experience to invest in multifamily real estate?

Experience helps, but you can qualify by building the right team (mortgage broker, property managers, builder partners, etc).

Are Edmonton 8 plex properties cash flow positive?

They should be yes, or don't buy it — especially compared to higher-priced markets. However, performance depends on purchase price, rents, and financing structure.

How long does CMHC MLI Select approval take?

Typically 4–8 weeks, depending on the complexity of the deal and documentation. Subject to change based on their volumne nationally. We can connect you with one of our CMHC MLI Select approved commercial mortgage brokers and confirm current timelines at anytime.