How to get a mortgage with bad credit in Ontario

Your score is not the whole story

Lenders look beyond a single credit score. They may consider the reason for missed payments, how recently they occurred, outstanding collections, available credit, the size of the down payment, and whether your recent history shows stability.

Strengthen the parts you can control

Small, consistent improvements can widen your lender options. Start early enough that updated balances and payment history have time to appear on your credit report.

• Pay every account on time and keep proof of payment.
• Reduce revolving balances without closing long-standing accounts automatically.
• Resolve inaccurate reporting through the credit bureau's dispute process.
• Keep the source of your down payment documented.
• Avoid taking on new debt before the mortgage closes.

Choose a realistic path

Depending on the file, the right path may be to qualify now with an alternative lender, add time to rebuild, increase the down payment, reduce the purchase price, or use a short private solution with a defined exit. Each option has different costs and risks.