Build a Multiplex in Burnaby: Your SSMUH Journey
A Burnaby homeowner's guide to going from "I wonder if my lot qualifies" to keys in hand on a completed multiplex. Here is what the journey actually looks like.
Your Burnaby SSMUH journey in three stages
Stage 1: Can I do this? (Weeks 1-6)
The exploration stage. You check if your Burnaby R1 lot qualifies for SSMUH, learn your unit tier (3, 4, or 6 units), and run preliminary numbers. This stage should cost you nothing — VanPlex's free tool and a conversation with Burnaby planning give you the answer.
Key milestone: You have a feasibility number showing your lot can support X units with Y expected profit or Z monthly rental income.
Stage 2: Making it real (Months 2-8)
You engage your team (architect, builder, financing) and begin the design and permit process. This is where your vision takes shape on paper. You choose unit layouts, finishes, and your financial strategy. The permit process requires patience but your team handles the heavy lifting.
Key milestone: Development Permit approved — you have official permission to build.
Stage 3: Building and completing (Months 8-18)
Construction begins and you watch your multiplex take shape. Regular inspections, progress milestones, and final completion. Then: occupancy, tenant placement or unit sales, and the financial outcome you planned for.
Key milestone: Occupancy permit in hand. Units rented or sold. Financial goal achieved.
What Burnaby homeowners need to know
- You do not need development experience. Your architect, builder, and project manager handle the technical work. Your role is making key decisions and approving progress.
- Temporary housing: Budget $2,000-$3,500/month for 12-16 months during construction. Many Burnaby owners stay nearby to monitor progress.
- Burnaby's SSMUH process is newer than Vancouver's multiplex framework, which means fewer competing applications and potentially faster permit processing.
- Your neighbourhood stays the same. You remain in the community you know and love, in a brand-new home, with additional units generating income or value.
Burnaby SSMUH financial outcomes
Typical 4-Unit SSMUH Project — Burnaby Heights
Sell all units
Net profit: $400K-$700K
Buy new home + retirement capital
Keep + rent all
Rental income: $8,000-$10,000/mo
Net after mortgage: $3,500-$5,000/mo
Hybrid (keep 1, sell 3)
Lump sum: $300K-$500K
Plus: new home, no mortgage
FAQs
How do I know if my Burnaby property qualifies?
Check your zoning on Burnaby's online map. Most R1 zones qualify. Use VanPlex's free tool or contact Burnaby planning for confirmation.
How long does a Burnaby SSMUH project take?
Plan for 16-20 months: 2-3 months design, 5-8 months permits, 10-12 months construction.
What is the minimum budget?
Cash outlay beyond land equity: $150K-$350K. Total project costs for 4 units: $3.5M-$4.5M including land, with financing covering most of it.
Start your Burnaby SSMUH journey
Enter your Burnaby address for a free eligibility check and preliminary financial scenario.