Build a Duplex
Entry-level investment opportunity with conventional financing options
Starting From
$345,600
$160,000 per unit - Fixed price, turnkey delivery
2
Units
$4,000+
Monthly Income
6
Month Build
5%
Target Cap Rate
2
Rental Units
1,600
Total Sq Ft
1-3 BR Mix
Unit Mix Options
As-of-Right
Zoning Status
Why Build a Duplex?
Two-unit residential building ideal for entry-level investors and owner-occupants seeking rental income.
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Accessible Entry Point
Lower total investment compared to larger multiplexes makes duplexes ideal for first-time investors or those with limited capital.
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Conventional Financing
Qualifies for standard residential mortgages, including CMHC-insured options for owner-occupants, simplifying the financing process.
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Widely Permitted
Allowed in most residential zones without rezoning, reducing approval timelines and development risk.
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House-Hacking Opportunity
Owner-occupants can live in one unit while renting the other, significantly reducing housing costs.
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Manageable Scale
Two units are easier to manage for hands-on landlords, making it ideal for those new to property management.
Things to Consider
Important factors before you build.
Limited Cash Flow
With only two units, rental income potential is lower than larger multiplexes, resulting in modest returns.
Lower Economies of Scale
Development costs per unit are higher compared to fourplex or larger projects, reducing overall efficiency.
Scaling Challenges
Building a significant portfolio requires multiple separate transactions rather than larger single projects.
Helio Limited Engagement
Helio typically focuses on larger projects. Duplex inquiries may be referred to other builders better suited to smaller-scale development.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between a side-by-side and stacked duplex?
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.
Can I live in one unit and rent out the other?
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.
Why does Helio have limited engagement with duplex projects?
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.
What financing options are available for a duplex?
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.
How long does it take to build a duplex in Halifax?
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.
Build a Duplex By Location
Explore Duplex development opportunities across Nova Scotia. Each location page includes local rental data, zoning details, and a personalized feasibility snapshot.
Bedford & Sackville
Bedford South
Clayton Park
Cole Harbour
Dartmouth
Downtown Dartmouth
Halifax
Halifax Regional Municipality
Larry Uteck
North Dartmouth
North End Halifax
Sackville
South End Halifax
West End Halifax
Amherst
Annapolis Royal
Antigonish
Berwick
Bridgewater
Canning
Canso
Cape Breton Regional Municipality
Chester
Clark's Harbour
Digby
Glace Bay
Greenwood
Hantsport
Kentville
Kingston
Lawrencetown (Annapolis County)
Liverpool
Lockeport
Louisbourg
Lunenburg
Mahone Bay
Middleton
Mulgrave
Municipality of East Hants
Municipality of Pictou County
Municipality of the County of Annapolis
Municipality of the County of Antigonish
Municipality of the County of Colchester
Municipality of the County of Cumberland
Municipality of the County of Inverness
Municipality of the County of Kings
Municipality of the County of Richmond
Municipality of the County of Victoria
Municipality of the District of Argyle
Municipality of the District of Barrington
Municipality of the District of Chester
Municipality of the District of Clare
Municipality of the District of Digby
Municipality of the District of Guysborough
Municipality of the District of Lunenburg
Municipality of the District of Shelburne
Municipality of the District of St. Mary's
Municipality of the District of Yarmouth
New Glasgow
New Waterford
North Sydney
Oxford
Parrsboro
Pictou
Port Hawkesbury, Nova Scotia
Port Williams
Region of Queens Municipality
Shelburne
Springhill
Stellarton
Stewiacke
Sydney, Nova Scotia
Tatamagouche
Trenton
Truro
West Hants Regional Municipality
Westville
Windsor
Wolfville
Yarmouth
Ready to Build Your Duplex?
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