In this live presentation on the Wisdom Lifestyle Money Show, host Scott Dillingham teams up with mortgage experts and developers Christine Traynor and Jennifer Champion from LendCity to demystify CMHC's MLI Select program for multi-family investing. Scott breaks down the financing basics, explaining how the points-based system rewards affordability, energy efficiency, and accessibility with up to 95% loan-to-value (or loan-to-cost for new builds), 50-year amortizations, and limited recourse—making large projects accessible with as little as 5% down. Net worth and liquidity requirements can be high (e.g., 25% of loan amount), but partnering with experienced teams is a proven way to qualify and execute successfully.

Shifting to opportunities, Christine and Jennifer highlight why Alberta—especially Edmonton—stands out in 2025 for real estate growth. With leading GDP projections around 2-2.8%, massive interprovincial migration, no provincial sales tax, higher incomes, and landlord-friendly laws (no rent control, efficient evictions), the province offers high cash flow and appreciation potential. New construction shines here: buildings come warranty-protected with minimal maintenance, custom designs for premium tenants, and seamless MLI Select integration—Edmonton's CMHC affordability threshold around $1,665 allows market rents without discounts, unlike lower thresholds in Ontario.

They showcase real deals, like a 20-unit project under $9.1M and 8-unit builds at $2.2-2.5M, both optimized for 95% financing via energy and affordability points. Q&A addresses rent caps, unit layouts (e.g., 3-bed mains + basement suites), liquidity options, and saturation risks—mitigated by strategic locations, superior floor plans, and strong operations for fast lease-ups. As of late 2025, Edmonton's market remains hot with ongoing population-driven demand, though experts note rising supply could soften vacancies in 2026.

Key Takeaways

• CMHC MLI Select Essentials: Score 100 points across affordability, energy efficiency, and accessibility for max benefits—95% LTV/LTC, 50-year amortization, reduced premiums, and limited recourse to slash equity needs.
• Alberta's Investor Edge: Leading economic growth (2-2.8% GDP in 2025), population boom from migration, no rent control, fair eviction rules, and affordable entry prices drive cash flow and stability.
• New Build Advantages: Warranty-covered properties, tenant-focused designs, and MLI Select compatibility enable positive cash flow from day one, especially in Edmonton where affordability rents align with market rates (~$1,665 threshold).
• Project Examples & Requirements: 20-unit deals (~$9.1M, $2.16M net worth/$865K liquidity) and 8-units ($2.2-2.5M, ~$500-600K net worth/$210-240K liquidity) open to solo or partnered investors.
• Mitigating Risks: Combat saturation with prime locations, optimized layouts (e.g., spacious 3-bed + suites), real-data projections, and expert teams for quick leasing and low vacancies.
• Partnering for Success: High barriers often require teams—combine capital, experience, and boots-on-ground expertise for full-service development, financing, and management.

Links to Show References

• Book a Call with Scott Dillingham (Financing Questions)
• Book with Christine Traynor or Jennifer Champion (Development Opportunities): Provided in presentation—contact via LendCity for Edmonton/Alberta projects
• LendCity Mortgages (CMHC Multi-Family Experts): lendcity.ca
• CMHC MLI Select Program Details: cmhc-schl.gc.ca/mliselect

• (00:06) - Multifamily Financing Overview
• (01:39) - Key Components of MLI Select Program
• (03:40) - Understanding Affordability and Accessibility
• (04:42) - Challenges with Resale Properties
• (06:05) - Alberta's Real Estate Landscape
• (09:18) - Economic Advantages of Alberta
• (11:30) - Benefits of New Construction
• (12:18) - Partnering for Success
• (15:13) - Investment Opportunities in Edmonton
• (20:40) - Addressing Market Concerns
• (22:49) - Comparison of Alberta Markets
• (25:20) - Operational Strategies for Success
• (27:32) - Closing Thoughts and Next Steps

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