A Smart Shift from the East to the West
Canada’s real estate landscape is changing. Investors across Ontario are increasingly eyeing Alberta and not just because they’re priced out of the GTA. It’s because Alberta simply makes more financial sense for long-term multi-family investments.
Let’s take a deeper dive into why Alberta is emerging as the go-to market for investors looking to build sustainable rental portfolios.
1. You Keep More of Your Cash Flow
In cities like Toronto, many landlords are breaking even or worse, operating at a loss while hoping for appreciation. In Alberta, cash flow is real and immediate. A properly underwritten 6-plex in Edmonton or a small apartment building in Calgary can generate monthly profits without the stress of being overly leveraged.
2. Rent Control Doesn’t Cap Your Potential
Investors in Ontario are familiar with the challenges of strict rent control. Even when a unit turns over, rules can be unclear, and rental increases are slow and capped. Alberta’s approach is different: it provides flexibility while maintaining fairness. This allows investors to raise rents to meet current market rates and cover increasing expenses, a necessity in today’s economic climate.
3. The Alberta Advantage: Taxes and Business Climate
Alberta stands out with no HST, no land transfer tax for most purchases, and low property taxes. When you add in a lower cost of living, a young workforce, and a government actively courting business investment, the result is an economy that supports real estate.
This means more tenants, stronger job creation, and increased demand for well-managed rentals, the perfect recipe for investors.
4. Investing from Afar Is Easier Than Ever
If you’re based in Ontario and thinking, “But I don’t live in Alberta…” don’t worry. Remote investing is now easier than ever, thanks to local property management companies like Green Casa, which specialize in supporting out-of-province investors.
You can assemble a trustworthy team realtor, property manager, and mortgage broker- and make informed decisions even if you’re 3 provinces away.
5. Alberta is Growing and It’s Not Slowing Down
With tens of thousands of people moving to Alberta each year, many from Ontario and B.C., the demand for housing is strong and consistent. Combine that with limited new multi-family supply in some areas, and rents are projected to continue rising in the years to come.
Conclusion:
Ontario may be your home base, but Alberta could be your cash-flow engine. With fewer barriers, better numbers, and a landlord-friendly environment, it’s no surprise that more investors are making the shift.
