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Occupancy Rate

Learn about occupancy rates in Canadian real estate — how they’re calculated, why they matter, and their role in property performance.

Occupancy Rate

August 01, 2025


What is Occupancy Rate?

Occupancy rate is a measure of how much rentable space in a property or portfolio is currently leased or occupied, expressed as a percentage.

Why Occupancy Rate Matters in Real Estate

In Canadian real estate, occupancy rate is a key indicator of market demand, property performance, and income stability for owners and investors.



How it’s calculated:
  • (Occupied units ÷ total available units) × 100
  • Can apply to residential, commercial, or mixed-use properties



Understanding occupancy rate helps owners adjust leasing strategies and investors evaluate cash flow potential.

Example of Occupancy Rate in Action

The building’s occupancy rate improved to 95% after a successful marketing campaign filled several vacant units.

Key Takeaways

  • Percentage of occupied space in a property
  • Indicates demand and property performance
  • Impacts income stability for owners
  • Used by lenders and investors in evaluations
  • Balances with vacancy rate for full picture

Related Terms

Additional Terms

Public Realm Improvements

Public realm improvements are enhancements to public spaces such as sidewalks, parks, plazas, and streetscapes, often funded or contributed by. more

Mortgagee in Possession

A mortgagee in possession is a lender who takes control of a property after borrower default, but before foreclosure or power of sale. The lender. more

Lease Surrender Agreement

A lease surrender agreement is a negotiated contract between a landlord and tenant that ends a lease before its scheduled expiration. Terms may. more

Green Infrastructure

Green infrastructure refers to natural or engineered systems that manage stormwater, reduce heat, and improve sustainability in developments.. more

Escrow Holdback

An escrow holdback is a portion of funds withheld at closing and held in escrow until specific conditions are met, such as completion of repairs,. more

Underused Housing Tax

The Underused Housing Tax (UHT) is a federal annual 1% tax on the value of vacant or underused residential property owned by non-resident,. more

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