Build in Chester

Historic charm, affluent seasonal population, and proximity to Halifax create unique rental investment opportunity

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Chester, Nova Scotia — ink and watercolor illustration

R-2

Primary Zone

From $160K

Per Unit Cost

From $2,000/mo

Standard Rent

Zoning in Chester

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 dwellings. Limited flexibility for multiplex development. Typical in established residential areas of t...

9m (2 storeys) 35% coverage

R-2

Up to 2 Units

Low-density residential zone allowing duplexes and semi-detached homes. Available in select areas of the municipality.

9m (2 storeys) 40% coverage

R-3

Up to 4 Units

Medium-density residential zone allowing triplexes and fourplexes. Limited availability in Chester - primarily in areas with municipal sewer service.

10m (2.5 storeys) 45% coverage

Why Build in Chester?

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Affluent Demographic Profile

Chester's median household income of $64,500 and average income of $85,100 exceed provincial averages. High proportion of retirees and seasonal residents with disposable income support premium rents for quality housing.

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Tourism & Seasonal Economy

Chester Race Week, Nova Scotia's first Nordic Spa, galleries, and beaches drive year-round tourism. Short-term rental potential (where permitted) and seasonal worker housing create diverse income streams.

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Halifax Commuter Accessibility

One hour to Halifax via Highway 103 makes Chester viable for remote workers and occasional commuters. Growing trend of urban professionals seeking coastal lifestyle while maintaining city connections.

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Recent Infrastructure Investment

$8.3 million wastewater system upgrade (2023-2024) expands development capacity in serviced areas. Improved infrastructure supports new housing construction in central sewer zones.