This refers to mortgages that represent more than 80% of the value of the property. High ratio mortgages must be insured and the insurance premium is usually added on to the mortgage amount. The benefit to the borrower is that it allows them to purchase a home with less cash and therefore often the ideal option for the first time home buyer. CMHC and Genworth are the two commonly used insurance companies used by the banks with Canada Guaranty offering a third alternative.