Secondary Suites Can Lower Ontario Home Costs

In Ontario, buyers often add a secondary suite to narrow affordability gaps by living in one unit and using rent to offset mortgage costs.
For established multi-unit homes, buyers can count at least half of rent to qualify. Owner-occupants with one added suite may count all gross rent.
Owner-occupants may also qualify with a much smaller minimum down payment than non-owner investors, which can make a multiplex purchase more accessible.
Before converting, buyers should price mortgage, taxes, insurance, maintenance, vacancies, and renovation costs carefully, and update home insurance so coverage stays valid.
Ontario generally allows up to 4 residential units on most lots without zoning changes, but permits, separate access, and local standards still require careful planning.