The Complete Guide to Choosing the Right Property Type in Edmonton for Maximum Cash Flow

By Wayne Hillier, Real Estate Investing Masters

August 11, 2025 | Edmonton, Alberta

Choosing the right property type is one of the most important decisions you’ll make as a real estate investor in Edmonton. The wrong choice can leave you with low returns, high turnover, and constant headaches. The right choice, however, can set you up with stable income, steady appreciation, and a portfolio that’s storm-ready for years to come.

In this guide, I’ll break down the pros, cons, and cash flow potential of Edmonton’s most common investment property types and help you decide which one fits your goals.

Single-Family Homes

Pros:

• Lower tenant turnover compared to multi-family

• Attracts long-term, stable families

• Simpler property management

Cons:

• Typically lower cash flow compared to multi-unit properties

• Tends to have more maintenance/repair costs

Cash Flow Outlook in Edmonton:

Single-family homes often appeal to higher-quality tenants who treat the property like their own. While cash flow margins are slimmer, they can still meet the 5% Rule™ in the right neighborhoods with proper screening and management.

Duplexes & Triplexes

Pros:

• Multiple income streams from one property

• Easier to scale cash flow

• Tenants help cover operating costs even with partial vacancy

Cons:

• Higher purchase price than single-family homes

• Shared walls can create tenant conflicts

Cash Flow Outlook in Edmonton:

These properties shine when you want to build scale quickly. Edmonton’s duplex market remains affordable compared to other Canadian cities, making it easier to find deals that cash flow on day one.

Legal Basement Suites

Pros:

• Increased rental income from one property

• Ideal for affordable housing demand in Edmonton

Cons:

• Renovation and permitting costs can be high

• Shared walls can create tenant conflicts

Cash Flow Outlook in Edmonton:

When purchased or created strategically, legal basement suites can supercharge your returns. They’re a proven way to hit and often exceed the 5% Rule™, while providing flexibility if you ever want to house-hack.

Townhouses

Pros:

• Lower purchase price than detached homes

• Good balance between affordability and tenant stability

• Attractive to young professionals and small families

Cons:

• Condo/HOA fees cut into cash flow

• Limited control over exterior maintenance and improvements

Cash Flow Outlook in Edmonton:

With entry prices often under $250K in certain areas, townhouses can deliver strong cash-on-cash returns, especially in Edmonton’s growing suburban communities.

Garden & Laneway Suites

Pros:

• High rental demand in infill-friendly neighborhoods

• New construction means low maintenance in early years

• Diversifies income on an existing property

Cons:

• High upfront construction costs

• Requires careful zoning and permitting navigation

Cash Flow Outlook in Edmonton:

Garden and laneway suites are one of Edmonton’s most exciting opportunities for investors. Population growth, municipal support for infill, and rising rental rates make these a solid long-term play.

Which Property Type Wins for Cash Flow?

The truth is, there’s no one-size-fits-all answer. The best property type for you depends on your budget, goals, and risk tolerance. When combined with the 5% Rule™ – The Real Estate Cash Flow Test, you can confidently choose properties that perform well in Edmonton’s market — and protect yourself from avoidable risks.

Listen to Today’s Episode:

Real Estate Investing Morning Show – Hosted by Wayne & Gabby Hillier

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Wayne Hillier - Alberta Real Estate Investing Expert

About the Author

Wayne Hillier is one of Canada’s trusted experts in real estate investing education, specializing in Alberta’s thriving markets. Based in Edmonton, Wayne has over a decade of experience building a high-performing rental portfolio and coaching investors to achieve strong cash flow, sustainable wealth, and creative financing success. As co-founder of Real Estate Investing Masters, Wayne is a respected real estate investing coach and mentor, dedicated to helping Canadian investors confidently scale their portfolios. He is also the host of The Real Estate Investing Morning Show, Canada’s #1 daily podcast.