Are duplexes a good investment in London Ontario?

Yes. Duplexes in London Ontario typically cash flow $400–$900/month with conventional financing, and a legal second unit dramatically reduces vacancy risk compared to a single-family rental.

Can I buy a duplex with 5% down in Canada?

Yes — if you live in one unit, an owner-occupied duplex in Canada can be purchased with as little as 5% down (insured) up to the CMHC limit. Pure investment duplexes require 20% down.

How much does it cost to legally convert a London Ontario home into a duplex?

A legal duplex conversion in London typically costs $40,000–$90,000 depending on the property's existing layout, separate egress, fire separation, electrical, and permit requirements.

2-Unit Property

Duplex Investing in London, Ontario

A duplex is the fastest way for most Canadians to break into real estate investing. Live in one unit, rent the other, and let your tenant cover most of your mortgage — or own it purely as an investment for stronger cash flow than a single-family rental.

Why a duplex beats a single-family rental

Two rent cheques on one mortgage, one roof, one furnace — better cost-to-income ratio.
Vacancy risk is cut in half: one empty unit ≠ zero income.
5% down possible when you live in one side; 20% down as a pure investment.
Lenders count a portion of rental income toward your qualifying ratios.

Sample London Ontario duplex deal

Purchase price

$525,000

Down payment (20%)

$105,000

Gross rent (both units)

$3,600/mo

Estimated cash flow

+$650/mo

Illustrative numbers only. Real deals vary by rate, condition and unit mix.

Related strategies

BRRRR a duplex — buy ugly, renovate, refinance and recycle capital.
Step up to a triplex for a third rent cheque.
Real estate investing basics.

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Ben Davis sources both on- and off-market duplex deals in London Ontario.

Call (519) 777-2624