Maximize Your Property Value with Halifax's Second Unit Incentive Program

Halifax Regional Municipality (HRM) recently launched an exciting initiative—the Second Unit Incentive Program (SUIP)—designed to help property owners add secondary units or backyard suites to their existing homes. This program aligns with HRM's broader strategy to tackle the local housing shortage by providing homeowners with tangible support and financial incentives.

What is the Second Unit Incentive Program?

The Second Unit Incentive Program provides eligible homeowners with grants of up to $12,000. These funds help offset the water and wastewater infrastructure costs required when adding secondary units, making it financially easier for homeowners to expand their properties.

Eligibility & Application

To qualify for the SUIP:

• You must be an owner-occupant of a single-unit dwelling.

• Your property taxes must be current.

• Appropriate building permits must be obtained.

Applications are being accepted until June 1, 2026, or until the allocated funds have been completely distributed, so it is advisable to apply early.

Connection to Halifax's Housing Accelerator Fund

The SUIP is part of Halifax's Housing Accelerator Fund (HAF), a strategic initiative funded by the Government of Canada. HAF aims to reduce barriers to housing construction and significantly increase the availability of affordable and diverse housing options within the municipality. Specifically, Halifax is targeting creating 2,600 new housing units as part of a larger objective to deliver 15,467 units between 2023 and 2026.

For a deeper dive into the Halifax Housing Accelerator Fund and how it's reshaping our community, check out our previous blog: Halifax Regional Municipality Accelerator Fund: A Game-Changer for Homeowners and Buyers.

Maximizing Opportunities for Homeowners

Participating in the Second Unit Incentive Program not only helps address local housing needs but also offers homeowners added benefits, including increased property value and potential rental income. Coupled with recent changes to mortgage insurance guidelines—which we detailed in our blog post New Mortgage Insurance Rules to Support Secondary Suite Additions for Homeowners—homeowners have unprecedented opportunities to invest in their properties.

Additionally, HRM offers various planning and development grants that can further support your housing projects. Exploring these additional opportunities can maximize the financial support available for property owners looking to make impactful enhancements.

Ready to Get Started?

For complete details about the Second Unit Incentive Program and to submit your application, visit HRM's official webpage: Second Unit Incentive Program.

Stay tuned to our blog for more updates, insights, and practical advice to make the most out of Halifax's evolving real estate opportunities!

Sources

• Second Unit Incentive Program

• Halifax Housing Accelerator Fund

• Planning and Development Grants