Multiplex Policy

Multiplex – Vancouver’s New Housing Type – was unanimously approved by City Council on September 14th, 2023, and will become enacted into bylaw on October 17, 2023.

In addition to significant changes to the Design Guidelines for Detached homes and Duplexes, the new R1-1 Zoning Bylaw will replace the RS 1 – 9, and enable Multiplexes on lots that meet certain site requirements; such as lot size, lot dimensions, and lane access. Before assuming if your lot qualifies, contact me for a complimentary consultation.

Multiplex Policy Overview:

Bonus Density Structure

The Multiplex Policy will be subject to a bonus density fee on the buildable square footage above 0.7 FSR, which is the current density permitted for a standard duplex.

Benefits of Multiplexes

This is one of many measures to improve affordability by providing much-needed housing for the “Missing Middle”. We now live in a time where the average middle-class professional cannot afford a home and baby boomers are significantly over-housed. Their kids are struggling to find a decent-sized home to raise their grandkids and they are ready to downsize. It’s a policy that will help the generations remain together in one community and re-think how we live as a collective.

Gone are the days of tiny bungalows on large lots.

Who should be paying attention:

  1. Sellers: If you currently own an older home on an RS-zoned lot that has alley access and is ready to be demolished, you have the opportunity to benefit from potentially higher land value.
  2. Aging in place: Buyers shopping for condos or townhomes will soon add Multiplexes to their list, and hopefully remain in their desired neighbourhoods close to family, work, and friends.
  3. If you’ve wanted to live with your family but maintain separate units, a Multiplex could be the perfect option providing the convenience without compromise.
  4. If you have wanted to buy a property with friends, 3 to 6 friend groups can now co-invest in land and custom build a new Multiplex and live together, but separately, each owning your own units.
  5. Property owners looking to provide assets that can be passed down to future generations. A real estate legacy!
  6. Investors looking to reside in one of the properties and rent out the remaining.
  7. Developers and community builders.

Additional Changes:

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