As of March 1, 2004, home buyers will have a wider choice in what they can use for a down payment.  Today, Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation (“CMHC”) announced new options to make finding a down payment easier.  Borrowers normally needed at least 5% down payment from their own funds.  However, starting March 1^st, this down payment can come from any source, including borrowed funds as well as mortgage lenders’ cash-back incentive programs.  Borrowers must still prove their ability to meet their debt requirements in order to qualify for mortgage insurance.  For further information, please call CMHC at 1-800-668-2642.