Build a Duplex in Sydney, Nova Scotia

A side-by-side duplex has two units sharing a common wall vertically, each with its own entrance at ground level. A stacked duplex has one unit above the other, similar to a two-storey house divided horizontally. Side-by-side configurations offer more privacy and separate outdoor spaces, while stacked designs can work on narrower lots.

Yes, this is called 'house hacking' and is one of the most popular strategies for duplex owners. Living in one unit while renting the other allows you to qualify for owner-occupied financing with lower down payments and better interest rates, while rental income helps cover your mortgage.

Helio focuses on fourplex and larger multiplex developments where we can deliver the best value through economies of scale and our specialized expertise. Duplex projects, while valuable for investors, don't benefit as significantly from our development model. We're happy to provide guidance and can refer duplex inquiries to builders better suited to smaller-scale residential projects.

Duplexes qualify for conventional residential mortgages. Owner-occupants can access CMHC-insured financing with as little as 5% down payment. Investment properties typically require 20-25% down. This makes duplexes one of the most accessible multi-family investments from a financing perspective.

The typical timeline from start to occupancy is 9-12 months, including 4-6 weeks for design and site assessment, 6-10 weeks for permitting, 6 months for construction, and 2-4 weeks for final inspections and occupancy. Timelines can vary based on site conditions, design complexity, and permit processing times.