Vancouver's updated zoning regulations are opening new doors for property owners, buyers, and investors. The shift to allow multiplex housing on former single-family (RS-zoned) lots means more options, more flexibility, and new opportunities for people who previously felt priced out of the market—or unsure of how to best use their property.

So, who should be paying close attention to this multiplex movement? If you fall into any of the categories below, this could be a game-changing moment for you.

🏡 Sellers

If you currently own an older home on an RS-zoned lot with alley access, especially one that’s nearing the end of its life and ready for redevelopment, you may be sitting on highly valuable land. With multiplex zoning now in place, developers and buyers are placing more value on the land itself, not just the structure. This could be your opportunity to sell at a premium.

👵 Aging in Place

Buyers who are currently shopping for condos or townhomes now have a new alternative: multiplex homes. These units can offer independent living in familiar neighborhoods, close to family, work, and long-time communities—making them a strong option for those looking to downsize without leaving the area.

👨‍👩‍👧 Multigenerational Families

If you’ve dreamed of living near family but maintaining separate living spaces, a multiplex is an ideal solution. Multiple self-contained units mean extended families can live close—while still enjoying privacy, autonomy, and comfort. It’s the best of both worlds.

🧑‍🤝‍🧑 Friends Looking to Co-Buy

The new zoning also opens the door for friend groups who want to co-invest in real estate. Up to six individuals or families can now purchase land together, custom-build a multiplex, and each own their own unit. It’s a fresh and innovative approach to homeownership, especially in a market where affordability is a challenge.

💼 Property Owners Building a Legacy

If you're looking to create generational wealth, a multiplex can be a smart long-term investment. By developing your property into multiple units, you can pass down housing—and income potential—to your children or grandchildren. It’s a meaningful way to build a real estate legacy.

💸 Investors

Want to live in one unit and rent out the others? Multiplexes allow you to become an owner-occupier while generating rental income from the remaining units. Whether you hold, rent, or sell, this model gives investors more options and stronger returns.

🏗️ Developers & Community Builders

The multiplex model is an exciting new space for developers and small-scale builders who want to create more housing options without high-rise complexity. It's also ideal for those passionate about shaping sustainable, people-focused communities within existing neighborhoods.

Are You Ready to Explore the Possibilities?

Whether you’re a homeowner considering a redevelopment, a buyer looking to co-invest, or an investor ready to dive into Vancouver’s changing housing landscape—we’re here to guide you through it.

📌 Get your free feasibility study to see what your property is capable of under the new rules.

📅 Or book a 1:1 call with Maria to discuss your goals and next steps.

Let’s turn opportunity into action—together.

If you own a single-family home in Vancouver, you may now have a unique opportunity to unlock the full potential of your property.

Recent changes to Vancouver’s zoning and building bylaws have made it possible for homeowners to build multiplexes—allowing for up to eight units on a single lot in some cases. This could mean additional rental income, the chance to stratify and sell units, or creating a multigenerational home for extended family.

Here’s a simplified breakdown of what you need to know before considering a multiplex build:

✅ 1. Vancouver’s RS Zones Are Now Consolidated

All previous single-family RS zones have now been combined into one new zone: RS-1-1. This zoning change comes with:

• The removal of previous design guidelines (e.g. dormer sizes, roof slopes)

• More freedom in your building’s design and style

• Greater flexibility to build based on function, not just aesthetics

🧱 2. Basic Requirements for Building a Multiplex

To be eligible for a multiplex project, your property must:

• Be at least 33 feet wide

• Not be in a floodplain

• Have a rear lane or be double-fronting

• Not be a designated heritage building

🏡 3. How Many Units Can You Build?

The number of units depends on the lot size and whether the units will be rented or stratified (sold):

• 33' x 100' lot (306 sq.m) – up to 4 units

• 50' x 100' lot (464 sq.m) – up to 5 units

• 50' x 120' lot (557 sq.m) – up to 8 units, if all units are secured rentals

Each unit must have a minimum of 2 bedrooms, and in some configurations, one unit may be occupied by the owner.

📏 4. Floor Space & Size Allowances

Depending on your build, your above-ground floor area may equal the total lot area, if:

• All units are secured rental housing

• One unit is sold as below-market ownership housing

• You contribute an amenity share or affordable housing share if units are stratified

Other size-related updates include:

• Laneway homes now allowed at 0.25 FSR (up from 0.16)

• Total site coverage allowed: 50% of the property

• All floor area may now be above grade

📐 5. Setbacks, Heights, and Courtyard Rules

Quick facts on what’s allowed:

• Front yard setback: 4.9m (16 ft)

• Side yard setback: 1.2m (4 ft)

• Rear yard setback: 10.7m (or 0.9m if there’s a rear building)

• Building height: Up to 11.5m (3 storeys), with restrictions on 3rd floor size

• Separate rear building: Max 8.5m, 2 storeys

To build with a courtyard layout, your lot must be at least 100’ deep, with a 20 ft minimum courtyard.

🚰 Rainwater Management & Sustainability Incentives

No on-site parking is required under the new rules, but rainwater detention is.
Tank size and flow rate depend on lot width (from 2.7 to 3.75 cubic meters).

Additionally, zero-emissions buildings (e.g. Passive House) are incentivized with:

• Extra 2 ft in height & depth

• +19% in allowable floor area

• Balconies allowed to project into setbacks

This is ideal for families seeking mortgage helpers, future rental income, or aging-in-place options.

🔨 Permits & Process

Unlike building a single-family home, multiplexes require a separate development permit and building permit. There are more steps involved—but the long-term payoff can be substantial.

💡 Is Your Property Eligible? Let’s Find Out.

At Kritikos Real Estate Group, we offer Free Feasibility Studies to help you understand exactly what your lot can support—whether you're looking to build, sell, or co-develop.

📌 Click here to request your free feasibility study
📅 Or book a 1:1 call with Maria to talk through your options.

Let’s explore how you can make the most of your land in Vancouver’s new multiplex era.

With Vancouver’s new multiplex zoning policies, many homeowners are exploring co-development as a way to unlock their property’s potential. Whether you’re teaming up with a friend, family member, investor, or neighbor, co-developing can be a powerful way to create wealth, share resources, and contribute to the city’s housing supply.

But before you dive in, there are some key things you need to know.

1. 🧱 Understand the New Zoning Rules

As of 2024, Vancouver has introduced new multiplex zoning that allows up to 6 units on a single lot (in many RS-zoned neighborhoods). But zoning varies by area—things like lot width, square footage, and location all impact what you can build.

✅ Start with a feasibility study to understand what’s possible on your specific property.
📍 Not sure where to start? We’ll help you with a free one here.

2. 🤝 Choose the Right Co-Development Partner

This is a business relationship—treat it like one. Whether you're working with friends, family, or outside investors, make sure your goals, timelines, and financial expectations align. You'll want to establish:

• Clear roles and responsibilities

• How costs and profits will be split

• What happens if someone wants out early

💡 Pro Tip: A formal co-ownership or joint venture agreement is essential. We can connect you with legal professionals who specialize in this.

3. 💸 Know Your Financing Options

Co-developing means pooling resources—but that doesn't mean it's always simple. Will one party finance the build? Are you splitting down payments? Who’s responsible for construction costs?

Some options to explore:

• Joint mortgages

• Private lenders or investor capital

• Equity splits based on land value vs construction contribution

📊 Understanding the numbers upfront avoids big problems later.

4. 🏗️ Get the Right Team in Place

From architects and builders to lawyers and city planners, successful co-development depends on having the right people on your side. You’ll need professionals who:

• Understand Vancouver’s permitting process

• Have experience with multiplex builds

• Can keep your project on time and on budget

✨ At Kritikos Real Estate Group, we work with vetted partners who specialize in small-scale development—and we can introduce you.

5. ⏳ Be Ready for a Timeline

Multiplex co-development isn’t overnight. From planning and permitting to construction and sales/rentals, the process can take 12–24 months depending on scope.

Set realistic expectations from the beginning and make sure all parties are in agreement on:

• Timeline

• Exit strategy (sell vs hold)

• Communication throughout the process

Thinking of Co-Developing in Vancouver?

Whether you're a homeowner looking to unlock your lot's potential or an investor ready to collaborate, co-development can be a game-changer—when it's done right.

At Kritikos Real Estate Group, we specialize in helping homeowners navigate the process of multiplex development, including partnerships, planning, and property potential.

📞 Let’s talk about your goals.
👉 Book a free feasibility study here or
📅 Schedule a 1:1 call with Maria

As housing needs evolve and land becomes increasingly valuable, multiplex housing is emerging as a smart and forward-thinking solution for Vancouver homeowners and investors. Whether you’re looking to build equity, generate income, or create space for extended family, here are four compelling reasons to consider going multiplex:

1. 💰 Increase Your Property Value

Multiplex development is a strategic way to unlock your property's full potential. By optimizing land use and adding more living units, you significantly boost its value. In Vancouver’s high-demand market, this can translate into an exceptional return on investment—especially if you're holding long-term or planning to sell down the line.

2. 💸 Generate Passive Income

One of the biggest advantages of owning a multiplex is the ability to earn rental income. Renting out one or more units can provide a steady cash flow that helps cover mortgage costs, build financial security, and even fund future investments. It’s a smart way to turn your property into a wealth-building asset.

3. 🏡 Enjoy Flexible Living Options

Multiplex homes offer adaptable living arrangements that suit multigenerational families or changing lifestyles. Whether you're creating a private suite for aging parents, a space for adult children, or a mortgage-helper unit, multiplex living allows everyone to live independently—while staying connected.

4. 🌍 Support Housing Affordability in Vancouver

By building a multiplex, you’re not just investing in your future—you’re contributing to the community. Vancouver’s housing crisis calls for more diverse and affordable housing options. Multiplex homes help ease that pressure by increasing supply in established neighborhoods, without sacrificing livability.

🔨 Thinking About Building a Multiplex?

Multiplex housing is more than just a trend—it’s a solution. It offers flexibility, financial upside, and a way to meet the growing needs of urban living.

At Kritikos Real Estate Group, we specialize in helping homeowners navigate this journey—from understanding zoning and feasibility to connecting with trusted builders and partners. Our goal is to help you unlock the full potential of your property with clarity and confidence.

📞 Ready to explore your options?
Contact us today to book your free feasibility study and take the first step toward building something impactful.