Nova Scotia
Build in Amherst
Strategic border town location, 650+ housing units approved, and 18% lower construction costs make Amherst an emerging market for multiplex investment
R-3
Primary Zone
From $160K
Per Unit Cost
From $2,000/mo
Standard Rent
Zoning in Amherst
Multiple zones allow multi-family development as-of-right, with varying density allowances.
R-1
Up to 1 Units
Low-density residential zone for single-family homes. Limited flexibility for multiplex development without rezoning.
10m (2.5 storeys)
35% coverage
R-2
Up to 2 Units
Low-density residential zone allowing duplexes. Common in established residential areas throughout Amherst.
10m (2.5 storeys)
40% coverage
R-3
Up to 4 Units
Medium-density residential zone allowing triplexes and fourplexes. Primary target zone for Helio development in Amherst with strong as-of-right permis...
11m (3 storeys)
45% coverage
Why Build in Amherst?
✓
18% Lower Construction Costs
Amherst's 0.82x cost multiplier compared to HRM delivers significant savings on labor and materials. Combined with lower land costs and competitive permit fees ($0.12/sqft), the same investment goes further than in Halifax.
✓
Strategic Maritime Location
Amherst sits at the crossroads of the Maritimes with access to over one million people within two hours. Border location attracts workers from both provinces and supports robust retail and distribution sectors.
✓
Active Housing Development
Town has approved approximately 650 housing units across multiple developments, signaling a receptive environment for residential construction. Major projects include 54-unit apartment buildings and 186-unit townhouse developments.
✓
Diversified Employment Base
Major employers include IMP Aerostructures (aerospace components), Gordon Food Services (Atlantic distribution center), Emmerson Packaging, and Cumberland Regional Health Care Centre. Diversified demand reduces single-employer risk.
Products Available in Amherst
Based on local zoning, these products can be built as-of-right or with standard approvals.
Have a Lot in Amherst?
Helio is actively building across Nova Scotia. Get a quote for your specific lot.