Investment Property
Understand what investment property means in Canadian real estate, how it generates income, and what tax and financing rules apply to investors.
May 22, 2025
What is an Investment Property?
An investment property is real estate purchased with the intention of generating income or profit, rather than being used as a primary residence.
Why Investment Properties Matters in Real Estate
In Canadian real estate, investment properties can take the form of rental homes, condos, duplexes, or multi-unit buildings. Investors purchase these properties to earn rental income, benefit from appreciation, or both.
Unlike a principal residence, investment properties are subject to capital gains tax upon sale, and rental income must be reported for tax purposes. Owners can, however, deduct certain expenses—including mortgage interest, property taxes, maintenance, and depreciation—to offset rental income.
Lenders often require larger down payments (typically 20% or more) for investment properties, and mortgage rates may be higher due to increased risk. Investors must also be prepared for vacancy periods, repairs, and property management duties.
Successful real estate investing requires understanding market trends, zoning rules, landlord-tenant laws, and financial planning strategies.
Example of an Investment Property
A buyer purchases a duplex in Hamilton and rents out both units. The monthly rental income exceeds the mortgage payment, generating positive cash flow.
Key Takeaways
- Purchased to generate income or profit.
- Subject to specific tax rules and regulations.
- Requires a larger down payment and careful financial planning.
- Offers potential for appreciation and cash flow.
- Can be held short- or long-term depending on investment goals.
Related Terms
- Principal Residence
- Capital Gains Tax
- Rental Income
- Landlord
- Cash Flow


Canada residential unit sales by month, actual, 2019 and 2024-2026. Data through June 2026. Source:
Canada residential sales-to-new-listings ratio, actual, January 2025 to June 2026. Source:
Canada residential months of inventory, actual, January 2025 to June 2026. Source: Source:
Year-over-year change in residential average sale price for Canada, Ontario, British Columbia and Alberta, January 2022 to June 2026. Average price is shown here as a regional mix measure, not a substitute for HPI or local comparable sales. Source:
Year-over-year change in residential unit sales for Canada, Ontario, British Columbia and Alberta, January 2024 to June 2026. Source: 






15284-15296 Fleetwood Drive in Surrey. (Flat Architecture, 1098261 BC Ltd.)
Renderings of the tower proposed for 15284-15296 Fleetwood Drive in Surrey. (Flat Architecture, 1098261 BC Ltd.)

Goldberg Group 
10-storey apartment building currently occupying 525 Eglinton Avenue East/WND Associates
Rendering of 525 Eglinton Avenue East/Wallman Architects
The Mayfair West site and its surrounding context. (Grosvenor, Arcadis, Hariri Pontarini Architects)
Renderings of Mayfair West. (Grosvenor, Arcadis, Hariri Pontarini Architects)
