Dartmouth's ER3 zoning opens up opportunities for property owners to build multi-unit rental properties that address Nova Scotia's housing demands. Helio offers a fixed-price construction model at $160,000 per unit, which simplifies the process, ensures cost predictability, and guarantees a 6-month completion timeline. Key benefits include:
- Transparent costs: No budget overruns or hidden fees.
- Guaranteed timelines: $1,000/day penalty for delays.
- Rental-ready features: Includes energy-efficient heat pumps, triple-pane windows, quartz countertops, and more.
- Strong returns: Monthly rents between $1,950 and $2,100, with potential annual ROI of 12–20%.
- Upgrade options: CMHC MLI Select package for 95% financing and premium rental-ready packages.
With Halifax facing a housing shortage and rental demand surging, this model offers a practical way for property owners to maximize returns while avoiding typical construction headaches.
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What $160,000 Per Unit Includes
Helio offers a fixed-price model that simplifies rental property construction while ensuring consistent quality. This approach covers everything needed to deliver rental-ready units in Dartmouth's ER3 zones, making the process predictable and efficient. Here's a closer look at what each $160,000 unit includes.
Standard Features Included in the Fixed Price
Helio's $160,000 price per unit provides a well-rounded package designed to meet the demands of rental properties. Each unit comes equipped with ductless heat pumps, offering energy-efficient climate control that's perfect for Nova Scotia's changing seasons. These systems provide year-round comfort without the upkeep challenges of traditional HVAC setups.
Triple-pane windows are standard, boosting energy efficiency and reducing noise - a huge draw for tenants. These windows help cut heating costs during harsh Maritime winters while creating quieter living spaces, which can justify higher rents in Dartmouth's competitive market.
Inside, the focus is on durable and attractive finishes. Quartz countertops lend a sleek, modern look while standing up to heavy use, and engineered hardwood flooring combines the warmth of wood with the durability needed for high-traffic rental spaces. Smartly designed custom millwork and built-in storage solutions optimize space, making these units even more appealing to tenants.
Helio also takes care of all the behind-the-scenes work, including design, permitting, and inspections, saving property owners the hassle of navigating Halifax Regional Municipality's planning process. Their expertise in local regulations across Dartmouth, Halifax, Bedford, and surrounding areas ensures a smooth approval process, avoiding delays that often plague traditional construction methods.
By using proven designs refined through numerous projects, Helio avoids the pitfalls of custom architectural work. This streamlined approach delivers consistent results while keeping the construction timeline to just six months.
Add-On Options and Upgrades
For those looking to enhance their investment, Helio offers optional upgrades. The CMHC MLI Select package, priced at $200,000 per unit, includes all standard features plus construction that meets energy efficiency standards 40% higher than building codes. This upgrade provides access to 95% financing through CMHC programs, requiring only a 5% down payment instead of the usual 20-25%. Additionally, property owners benefit from 50-year amortization periods, significantly lowering monthly mortgage payments and improving cash flow.
If you want units fully tenant-ready upon completion, the Premium Rental Ready Package is available for an additional $15,000 per unit. This add-on includes a full suite of Energy Star appliances - fridge, stove, dishwasher, microwave, washer, and dryer - along with smart home features like keyless entry, programmable thermostats, and doorbell cameras. It also covers window blinds and bathroom accessories. Helio's bulk purchasing saves property owners over $3,000 per unit compared to retail costs, while eliminating the typical 60-day delay for furnishing units post-construction.
No Hidden Costs or Surprises
Helio's fixed-price model promises total transparency. Once the project scope is set, construction costs are locked in, protecting property owners from budget overruns that are common in traditional projects, where costs can exceed estimates by 30-60%.
This pricing structure includes all essentials, such as site coordination, permits, inspections, and compliance, sparing property owners the headache of managing multiple contractors and consultants. With a single invoice covering everything, there are no unexpected expenses.
Given that typical rents in Dartmouth range between $1,950 and $2,100 per month per unit, construction delays can lead to significant revenue losses. Helio's guaranteed delivery model ensures projects stay on track, helping property owners avoid these costly setbacks.
How Helio's Single-Contract Approach Works
When it comes to building multi-unit rental properties, the traditional process can feel like juggling too many balls at once. Property owners often find themselves managing multiple specialists - each with their own schedules, priorities, and responsibilities. Helio flips the script with its integrated design-build model, streamlining construction by bringing everything under one contract. This approach simplifies the process, ensuring predictable outcomes for Dartmouth ER3 developments.
Single Contract vs. Multiple Contractors
In the traditional model, property owners essentially become project managers, coordinating between designers, builders, and specialty contractors. This fragmented setup often leads to communication breakdowns, scheduling conflicts, and disputes over accountability. When something goes wrong - and it usually does - contractors point fingers at each other, leaving the property owner to deal with delays and extra costs.
Helio’s single-contract model changes all that. By uniting design, engineering, and construction teams under one agreement, the process becomes seamless. With a single point of accountability, communication flows better, decisions are made faster, and problems are solved internally - without dragging the property owner into the mix.
The benefits are clear. Property owners save an average of $47,000 in coordination-related costs compared to traditional methods. Miscommunication and scheduling conflicts, which typically inflate budgets, are virtually eliminated. Take the Dartmouth ER3 project as an example: Helio’s integrated approach allowed it to finish two weeks ahead of schedule and within budget, even amid supply chain challenges that disrupted other local projects. The property owner praised the smooth, stress-free process, with no surprise costs and clear communication throughout.
Fixed Budget and 6-Month Timeline Guarantee
Helio’s single-contract model doesn’t just simplify construction - it also locks in financial and timeline guarantees. With a fixed budget and a six-month completion promise, Helio ensures there are no nasty surprises. If delays happen, Helio pays penalties of up to $1,000 per day. The $160,000 per unit fixed price is set before construction begins, so you won’t see the 30–60% cost overruns that are common with traditional builds.
For property owners, this level of predictability is a game-changer. With Dartmouth rental units fetching $1,950 to $2,100 per month, construction delays on a four-unit building could mean $8,800 in lost monthly income. Helio’s guaranteed delivery model keeps projects on track, so owners can start collecting rent as planned.
Even when unexpected challenges arise during the build, Helio absorbs the costs internally, sparing the property owner from extra expenses. This kind of cost certainty is something traditional methods simply can’t offer.
Daily Photo Updates and Project Tracking
Construction projects often leave property owners in the dark, wondering what’s happening between site visits. Helio solves this problem with daily photo updates and a real-time project portal, giving owners full visibility into their investment from anywhere.
The project tracking system goes beyond just photos. It documents milestones, tracks progress, and flags potential issues early, keeping everyone informed and the project running smoothly. Owners can see exactly what’s been done each day and what’s coming next, reducing the need for constant site visits or status meetings.
This transparency builds trust and ensures every stage of the project moves forward without delays. With Helio’s approach, property owners can focus on the end goal: getting their units rented out on time and maximizing their return on investment. For Dartmouth property owners, this means fewer headaches, tighter cost control, and faster paths to rental income.
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Rental Income and ROI in Dartmouth ER3 Properties
Dartmouth's ER3 zoning brings a unique opportunity for property owners, combining predictable construction costs with steady rental income. With Helio's fixed-price model set at C$160,000 per unit, calculating potential returns becomes straightforward - and the numbers are promising.
Dartmouth Rental Rates and Market Demand
Dartmouth's rental market is thriving, offering strong fundamentals for property investors. The average rent in Dartmouth sits at C$1,615 per month, which is slightly below Halifax's average of C$1,807 [2]. Nova Scotia as a whole has seen rental prices climb by more than 11% in the past year, with a housing shortage nearing 20,000 units as of 2023 [3]. Adding to this, the region's vacancy rate has remained at a low 1.0% for three consecutive years [3]. For landlords, this translates to a market where well-maintained units are in high demand and can command premium rents.
In Dartmouth's ER3 zones, newly constructed two-bedroom units can fetch rental rates of around C$1,950 to C$2,100 per month. This is competitive, considering the provincial average for a two-bedroom apartment is approximately C$2,184 per month [2]. Properties located near transit corridors or other amenities tend to perform even better. The flexibility offered by ER3 zoning further enhances the appeal, allowing property owners to meet market demand effectively.
ER3 Zoning Rules and Density Options
ER3 zoning is designed to balance income potential with neighbourhood aesthetics. It permits a range of housing types, enabling property owners to make the most of their land based on lot size and market needs.
Typically, ER3 zones are strategically located along major transit routes or in areas previously designated for townhomes [1]. This positioning ensures strong rental demand. The Centre Plan also supports this growth by aiming for up to 40% of the region's projected expansion - approximately 18,000 new residential units and 33,000 new residents over the next 10–15 years [1]. By using ER3's density allowances to construct fourplexes or larger multi-unit properties, owners can achieve substantially higher returns compared to single-family homes.
ROI Examples: 4-Unit vs 8-Unit Buildings
Helio's fixed-price construction model highlights the financial benefits of scaling up projects:
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Four-Unit Building Example:
A four-unit building, constructed at Helio's fixed price of C$160,000 per unit, costs C$640,000. This property can generate C$7,800 in monthly rental income, or C$93,600 annually. After accounting for approximately 35% in operating expenses, the net operating income (NOI) comes to about C$60,840, leading to an annual ROI of 12–15%. -
Eight-Unit Building Example:
An eight-unit building costs C$1,280,000 at the same fixed price per unit. This larger property can bring in C$15,600 in monthly rent, totalling C$187,200 per year. With similar operating expense ratios, the NOI reaches around C$121,680 annually. Thanks to shared utilities and management efficiencies, the ROI for an eight-unit project typically increases to 15–20%.
Helio's fixed-price model eliminates the risk of unexpected cost overruns, which can often erode returns. This single-contract approach ensures that the financial projections remain intact.
For property owners exploring CMHC MLI Select financing, the numbers become even more appealing. Helio's CMHC-qualified construction costs of C$200,000 per unit allow for 95% financing with a 50-year amortization. Under this financing structure, a four-unit building would require just an C$80,000 down payment instead of the usual C$320,000. This significantly boosts cash-on-cash returns while maintaining strong rental income.
Helio also offers a six-month construction guarantee, backed by penalties of up to C$1,000 per day for delays. For a four-unit building, a delay could mean losing approximately C$7,800 in monthly rental income. With Helio's timeline guarantee, property owners can rest assured that their rental operations will begin on schedule, further safeguarding their ROI and making ER3 developments a compelling choice.
Real Dartmouth ER3 Projects Built by Helio
Helio’s fixed-price construction model has delivered real-world results for property owners in Dartmouth’s ER3 zones. With 31 units currently under construction and 131 more in the planning stages across Nova Scotia, the company has shown how a streamlined construction process can sidestep the usual headaches of multi-unit development.
Project Results and Owner Outcomes
Helio’s approach to ER3 construction offers fixed pricing at C$160,000 per unit, a six-month completion timeline, and predictable results. By combining design and construction into one seamless contract, Helio eliminates the coordination issues that often stretch timelines and inflate budgets.
For property owners, this means avoiding the industry’s typical cost overruns, which can range between 30–60% on multi-unit projects. Helio’s integration of planners, architects, engineers, and construction teams has enabled them to deliver completed projects with zero cost overruns - a rare achievement in the field.
The timeline guarantee is another standout feature. While traditional multi-unit construction often drags on for 12–18 months, Helio consistently completes buildings in just six months. This reliability allows property owners to plan their rental marketing with confidence, knowing exactly when their units will be ready. By eliminating the uncertainty that often plagues construction projects, Helio sets a new standard for efficiency and transparency.
How Fixed-Price Construction Solves Common Problems
Helio’s success lies in its ability to tackle the core challenges that typically delay ER3 projects. Multi-unit construction in Dartmouth’s ER3 zones often faces three major hurdles: coordination issues, budget unpredictability, and timeline delays. Helio’s integrated approach directly addresses each of these.
Coordination Issues:
Managing multiple contractors is a common pain point for property owners. Miscommunication and divided responsibilities can lead to delays and inefficiencies. Helio solves this by consolidating all expertise - designers, engineers, and builders - under one roof. This ensures smooth communication and a single point of accountability throughout the project.
Budget Unpredictability:
Traditional builders often rely on cost-plus contracts or provide rough estimates, leaving property owners exposed to fluctuating material prices and unexpected expenses. Helio’s fixed-price model eliminates this uncertainty by locking in costs before construction begins. This allows owners to calculate their ROI with confidence and secure financing without worrying about mid-project surprises.
Timeline Delays:
For rental property owners, every month of delay means lost income. Many traditional schedules fail to properly account for trade dependencies or weather-related setbacks. Helio’s optimized timeline, developed by co-founder Yuan He, addresses these challenges head-on. To keep projects on track, Helio enforces financial penalties of up to C$1,000 per day for late completion, ensuring that rental income starts as planned.
To ensure quality, Helio employs a detailed verification process. A Professional Engineer conducts five separate inspections during construction, and property owners can choose the final inspector. This thorough approach, combined with a two-year warranty, gives owners peace of mind that their ER3 buildings will meet both municipal standards and the expectations of renters.
Why Helio's Fixed-Price Model Works for Dartmouth Property Owners
Helio’s fixed-price construction model addresses three major headaches in the construction world: unpredictable costs, project delays, and coordination chaos. By combining design, engineering, and construction into one seamless process, Helio eliminates the usual fragmented approach that often leads to budget overruns and delays stretching anywhere from eight months to well over a year. This integrated setup turns common construction challenges into manageable, predictable results.
The cost certainty of Helio’s C$160,000 per unit pricing is a game-changer for property owners. It allows them to confidently secure financing and accurately project their return on investment. With Helio’s fixed-price guarantee, there are no surprise invoices or unexpected budget changes mid-project - a crucial advantage in today’s unpredictable construction market, where material costs can fluctuate wildly.
Helio also guarantees project completion in just six months. Plus, if delays happen, they’ll pay a C$1,000 per day penalty. This commitment ensures rental income starts on time, making the entire process efficient and financially reliable.
The integrated approach is another standout feature. Property owners deal with just one point of contact throughout the project, avoiding the hassle of juggling multiple contractors and vendors. This streamlined communication eliminates the blame game and accountability issues that often plague traditional construction projects.
Helio doesn’t just stop at cost and timeline guarantees - it also delivers top-tier quality assurance. A Professional Engineer conducts five separate inspections during the construction phase, and property owners get to choose their own final inspector. This level of oversight goes beyond what most builders offer. On top of that, Helio provides a two-year warranty and daily photo updates, giving owners peace of mind that their investment is being built to the highest standards. These rigorous quality checks reflect Helio’s commitment to delivering consistent, high-quality results.
For Dartmouth property owners aiming to maximize rental income in ER3 zones, Helio’s fixed-price model takes the stress out of construction, turning it into a predictable and profitable business opportunity.
FAQs
What makes Helio’s fixed-price model more predictable than traditional construction methods?
Helio’s fixed-price construction model brings clarity and control by locking in a guaranteed cost of $160,000 per unit. This approach removes the guesswork, minimizes the risk of budget overruns, and ensures projects stay on schedule.
Traditional construction methods, on the other hand, often come with multiple contracts and unpredictable costs. These can result in delays and unexpected expenses. Helio’s efficient, structured process offers property owners confidence and consistency, delivering results that align with their specific goals.
What are the advantages of using the CMHC MLI Select program for building ER3 rental properties in Dartmouth?
The CMHC MLI Select program offers compelling benefits for investors developing multi-unit rental properties in Dartmouth. With up to 95% loan-to-value financing, it significantly reduces the upfront capital required, making it easier to get projects off the ground while improving cash flow. On top of that, the program allows for amortization periods of up to 50 years, which can lower monthly mortgage payments and enhance long-term profitability.
These features simplify financing for rental projects, reduce financial risks, and increase the potential for steady rental income. For those planning developments under Dartmouth's ER3 zoning, this program provides much-needed financial flexibility and stability, helping investors navigate their projects with greater confidence.
How does Helio’s single-contract approach ensure quality and accountability during construction?
Helio simplifies the construction process with its single-contract approach, ensuring both quality and accountability. Instead of managing multiple contracts and coordinating with various contractors, property owners collaborate with one dedicated partner who takes charge of the entire project.
This unified method removes confusion, minimizes disputes, and ensures that all subcontractors and teams work towards the same high standards. By centralizing management, Helio maintains consistent quality, adheres to deadlines, and offers property owners a smoother, more reliable construction experience.
