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Planning a home project? Schedule your free consultation today!
We’re here to help guide homeowners and investors through that process — turning complex opportunities into livable, profitable homes.
Recently, Business in Vancouver published a piece titled “Potential for B.C. multiplex boom stuck in low gear”, exploring why B.C.’s much-discussed multiplex housing opportunity has been slow to gain traction. The article features insights from several industry experts — including our very own Manuel, a key team member here at reVISION.
As one of the interviewees, Manuel helped shape the discussion around what’s really happening on the ground. We thought it was worth expanding on that conversation to share our broader perspective as a design-build firm at the forefront of multiplex development in Vancouver.
The article captures the current challenges well and is a helpful introduction for readers unfamiliar with multiplex development. That said, we found the tone a bit pessimistic. There are certainly headwinds — but we also see early momentum and opportunity, particularly for those ready to be early adopters.
From our vantage point, the biggest barrier for homeowners is a lack of awareness. Many don’t even know they’re eligible to build a multiplex on their property, or what that might look like in practice. Once they do, the next hurdle is financing — these projects are sizable investments, and without a clear understanding of how they can be funded, it’s easy for would-be clients to get spooked.
For developers, the decision usually comes down to financial feasibility. If the numbers don’t work on a particular lot, they move on.
While zoning changes have opened the door to multiplex builds, implementation lags behind. Permit delays and inconsistent development cost charges (DCCs) are two major pain points. Long timelines can kill momentum, and DCCs vary widely by municipality, making it difficult for homeowners and small investors to plan confidently.
The good news? With the recent election over, there’s growing political will to reduce development fees and streamline approvals. If that translates into real change at the municipal level, we’ll be in a much better place.
Most homeowners haven’t wrapped their heads around what multiplex housing can offer. The ones who have are usually already on their journey — doing research, reaching out, asking questions. But even then, the complexity of the process means professional guidance is essential.
Investors tend to be a bit more tuned in, but many still treat multiplexes as a niche opportunity rather than a mainstream one.
Yes — we’re working with clients who are exploring multiplex options. And in almost every case, the motivation is profitability. Whether they want to live in one unit or not, the goal is the same: maximize the number of units and make the numbers work.
Most commonly, we’re seeing interest in 4- to 6-unit projects, depending on what the lot allows. Eight-plexes are still largely out of reach for smaller clients due to complexity and the need for affordable housing registration and CMHC involvement.
So what will it take to unlock the full potential of multiplex housing in Vancouver?
Time. Successful case studies. Normalization.
Once a few well-executed projects make it through the pipeline, others will follow. Of course, early adopters will benefit the most — latecomers may face rising costs and limited builder availability. But as confidence grows, so will momentum.
For now, education and realistic planning are key. We’re here to help guide homeowners and investors through that process — turning complex opportunities into livable, profitable homes.
Explore our Multiplex Development Services in Vancouver, or reach out to us directly for a consultation. We’ll help you evaluate the opportunity and plan your next step with clarity.
