Real estate glossary

By Hami Tahm · Last reviewed July 2026

Short definitions for investors and homebuyers, covering the terms that come up across our Canadian mortgage and real estate calculators. More terms are added over time.

• Cap rate (capitalization rate) — NOI versus property value; what high and low cap rates mean in Canada.
• Down payment — Accepted sources and the proof lenders ask for (statements, gift letters, paper trails).
• Mortgage income verification — Documents lenders require and how salaried, variable, and self-employed income is assessed.
• Porting a mortgage — Carrying your rate and term to a new home, port-and-increase, and CMHC insurance portability.