Building a Garden Suite or Second Suite in Toronto

December 24, 2024

Building a Garden Suite or Second Suite in Toronto

The housing shortage in Canada has reached critical levels, leaving governments, municipalities, and citizens searching for innovative solutions to address the growing demand for housing. As a Toronto-based builder, Custom Heritage Homes understands the challenges homeowners face and is ready to offer tailored solutions. By adding a second suite or garden suite to your property, you can create housing, generate income, and contribute to alleviating the housing crisis.


The Housing Shortage: A National Challenge


Canada is facing a shortfall of 3.5 million homes by 2030, driven by population growth, immigration, and lagging construction efforts. Toronto, as one of the nation’s largest cities, has become a focal point of this crisis. With limited available land and skyrocketing property prices, secondary housing units like garden suites and basement apartments have emerged as practical, cost-effective solutions.

To address this, the City of Toronto has updated zoning laws, including its Garden Suites Bylaw, which allows homeowners to build secondary units on their property. These updates support the broader goal of increasing housing density without sprawling into greenfield areas


What Are Garden Suites and Second Suites?


  • Garden Suites: Detached, self-contained units located in the backyard of a primary residence. These units are ideal for housing tenants, elderly parents, or grown children looking for affordable housing.
  • Second Suites: Additional units built within the main house, often in basements or converted spaces. These suites provide similar benefits but are integrated into the existing structure.


Both options are aligned with Toronto's vision for sustainable urban development, allowing homeowners to maximize their property’s potential while helping address the housing crisis.


Benefits of Building a Garden Suite or Second Suite


  1. Generate Rental Income
    By renting out your garden or second suite, you can create a reliable stream of passive income. In Toronto's competitive rental market, well-designed suites are highly sought after by tenants looking for affordable housing close to city amenities
  2. Support Multigenerational Living
    With housing costs soaring, more families are turning to multigenerational living arrangements. A garden suite can provide independence for elderly parents or young adults while keeping them close to family
  3. Increase Property Value
    Secondary units are seen as desirable additions that enhance the market value of your property. Homes with legal, functional garden or second suites often fetch higher prices during resale
  4. Sustainable and Adaptable Housing
    Secondary units are a step towards environmentally sustainable housing solutions. Modern builds focus on energy efficiency, reduced waste, and renewable energy sources, aligning with Toronto's long-term urban planning goals


Government Support and Financing Options


To encourage homeowners to create secondary housing units, the federal and provincial governments have introduced financial incentives:

  • CMHC Financing: Homeowners can access low-cost loans under the Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation’s programs, which are specifically designed to promote the construction of secondary suites
  • Grants and Tax Credits: Some provinces offer tax benefits or grants for energy-efficient builds, reducing the financial burden of construction

Additionally, the City of Toronto offers guidance and resources to help homeowners navigate the permitting and approval process, ensuring compliance with all legal requirements.


How Custom Heritage Homes Can Help


At Custom Heritage Homes, we are committed to making the process of building a garden or second suite seamless and stress-free. Here’s how we assist:

  1. Comprehensive Planning and Design: We work closely with homeowners to create designs that integrate beautifully with your property’s existing architecture, preserving its heritage charm while meeting modern standards.
  2. Permit Acquisition: Navigating Toronto’s permitting process can be complex, but our expertise ensures your project complies with all zoning and building regulations.
  3. Sustainable Construction: We prioritize eco-friendly materials and energy-efficient systems, ensuring your suite meets Toronto’s green building standards.
  4. Turnkey Solutions: From concept to completion, we manage every aspect of the build, providing you with a ready-to-use suite that exceeds expectations.


Taking Action: Your First Steps


If you’re considering adding a garden suite or second suite to your Toronto property, now is the perfect time. With zoning regulations favorable to homeowners and government financing programs in place, you can make a meaningful investment in your property while contributing to Toronto’s housing needs.



At Custom Heritage Homes, we’re here to help you unlock the potential of your property. Contact us today for a consultation, and let’s work together to build a brighter, more sustainable future for Toronto.

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